Negar Ghaderi

Date of Completion

5-31-2025

Document Type

Open Access Capstone

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

First Advisor

Robert Ricketts

Second Advisor

Jeremy Szteiter

Abstract

This action research pilot project explores how trauma-informed, life skills workshops grounded in critical and creative thinking methods can support Housing First (HF) residents transitioning from homelessness to permanent housing. The study is based on the understanding that addressing homelessness requires more than housing provision—it demands attention to the cognitive and emotional impacts of trauma through co-created, resident-centered interventions. Using iterative cycles of planning, acting, observing, and reflecting, the project engages a small, fluctuating group of 4–5 participants from a diverse community of 60 HF residents. The pilot program includes six workshops, one focus group discussion, and individual interviews over two action research cycles. thinking tools such as Six Thinking Hats and 5 Whys effectively engage residents in low-stakes, relatable problem-solving. Key lessons highlight the importance of offering choice, relevance to personal experiences, and using trauma-sensitive facilitation practices. While challenges such as low attendance, substance use, and time limitations constrain outcomes, some residents apply learned strategies to manage conflicts and daily stress. Future directions include expanding the curriculum based on resident input, adapting session formats to be smaller and more flexible, and developing improved tools to evaluate skill application in daily life. This research contributes to understanding how trauma-informed and critical thinking approaches can be integrated to support long-term stability for HF residents, emphasizing that meaningful change is most likely when interventions are resident-driven, flexible, and responsive to lived experience.

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