Could Be Better: Supporting Marginalized Employees in Challenging Times
This session is offered as part of Collaborate Consulting’s Grounded Leadership series: workshops that sit at the intersections of professional development and mental health.
Trauma-informed leadership for HR professionals and people managers
From rising anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and racialized violence to relentless news cycles and political uncertainty, the emotional toll of today’s world weighs especially heavy on employees with marginalized identities. Many organizations want to do more—but are unsure of what real, tangible support looks like in the face of such complex and ongoing harm.
Could Be Better is a timely, deeply compassionate training designed for HR professionals, people leaders, and organizational decision-makers who recognize that their duty of care must evolve to meet this moment. Drawing on Trystan Reese’s extensive coaching and consulting work across sectors and Jonathan Boland’s clinical expertise in trauma, mental health, and resilience, this session offers a powerful blend of strategic guidance and human-centered insight.
Participants will:
Understand how systemic oppression manifests in the workplace, especially during times of cultural unrest.
Learn trauma-informed principles that create safer environments for all employees, particularly those navigating chronic or acute marginalization.
Explore proactive systems of organizational care, including communication strategies, employee resource groups (ERGs), mental health supports, and inclusive policy development.
Develop reactive response tools for addressing harm as it arises—including what to say (and not say) in the moment, how to triage support, and when to escalate with care.
This session is ideal for organizations that want to move beyond statements of solidarity and into sustainable practices that foster trust, safety, and belonging—not just for some, but for everyone.
