As a leader, some ways to help encourage an STS-informed MDT culture for CAC leaders and supervisors may include the following actions:
- Regularly check in with your staff around concerns about MDT interactions. It is essential to appropriately address these concerns. While you may not be able to influence supervision policies of partner agencies, CACs can cultivate an atmosphere during the MDT meetings that allows team members to gain insight and awareness of the effects of this work.
- Provide training and information about STS to MDT leaders and supervisors.
- Have a “check in” time at the beginning or end of each meeting to show that it is okay to talk about how the work is impacting you.
- Have an STS “moment” in each meeting. Share a small piece of information about STS or coping strategy that can be useful.
- Schedule regular formal training for the MDT.
- Allow time for team members to share what strategies work for them to maintain their well-being.
- Set ground rules around how information is shared in the meeting and attempt to limit graphic details that are not necessary to include as part of the case discussion.
- Make everyone on the MDT is accountable for following the ground rules established for meetings. Be clear that it is the responsibility of each team member to hold each other accountable.
- Provide training for the team on conflict and healthy conflict resolution.
- Express value and appreciation for the work of the professionals on the MDT.
- Define success and develop celebration rituals.
- Remind MDT members that our individual and collective well-being is a priority because kids need our best selves.