Q: How long have you been an Ukeru trainer?
A: 2 Years
Q: What population do you work with? What inspired you to get into this field?
A: I work with all stakeholders (students, staff, and families) with a vested connection in the Severely Cognitively Impaired (SCI) and Severely Emotionally Impaired (SEI) programs at a center-based school in Michigan, focusing on creating a safe and supportive environment to foster their academic growth and independence. I was inspired by the profound impact education can have on empowering individuals with unique challenges, helping them achieve their full potential and lead fulfilling lives. My passion lies in creating opportunities where every learner feels valued, safe, and capable of success. Felt safety is the foundation to great outcomes of all types!
Q: What part of Ukeru do you enjoy teaching the most and why?
A: I enjoy teaching the proactive and preventative strategies of Ukeru the most because they emphasize creating a safe, respectful environment that reduces the need for physical intervention. These strategies are rooted in neuroscience, focusing on understanding how trauma impacts the brain and using this knowledge to promote regulation and trust. Empowering staff with these tools helps foster strong relationships and positive outcomes for both students and adults.
Q: What would you say to someone who is unsure about using Ukeru?
A: I would explain that Ukeru is grounded in the principles of felt safety and recognizing that behavior is a form of communication. By focusing on de-escalation and strengthening relational capacity, we create an environment that supports healing and growth for students, especially those with trauma histories. Everyone has experienced some level of trauma, and Ukeru provides a compassionate, effective approach to fostering trust, safety, and resilience.
Q: What advice or tip would you give to a new Ukeru trainer?
A: My advice to a new Ukeru trainer is to integrate Ukeru principles into your daily life and embrace them as a natural part of your interactions. Confidence will grow with experience, so take time to debrief with colleagues and consistently connect with the work to stay grounded in the philosophy. The staff at Grafton are incredibly supportive—never hesitate to reach out with questions, as trainers are always just a phone call away and eager to assist.
Q: How has Ukeru impacted your life?
A: Ukeru has profoundly supported our trauma-informed mission, ensuring that dignity and safety remain at the core of how we serve our students. It has also enhanced staff safety and understanding, fostering growth through meaningful and reflective conversations during training. This approach has strengthened our commitment to creating a compassionate and supportive school environment.
Q: What is your favorite quote or a motto that you like to live by?
A: Even when the process is messy, there are benefits.
Q: What three words would you use to describe Ukeru?
A: Relational, Neuroscience, Televisable, Dignity
