Learn more about Jay S. Levy and his work at www.JaySLevy.com
Co-creating Psychological Safety in Services: Insights from Jay S. Levy
In the complex world of homelessness outreach and support, creating environments that truly foster psychological safety and empowerment is critical. Drawing from over three decades of frontline experience, Jay S. Levy has pioneered innovative trauma-informed approaches that connect deeply with individuals long before traditional services begin. His work has influenced Housing First models and emphasized the importance of co-creating services with people who have lived experience of homelessness. This article explores key themes around psychologically informed environments, cultural sensitivity, and genuine engagement that truly work for those we aim to support.
Understanding Psychologically Informed Environments (PIEs)
Psychologically Informed Environments (PIEs) are more than just spaces where services are delivered—they are dynamic, evolving ecosystems designed to support the whole person. Jay emphasizes that PIEs incorporate three essential elements:
- The physical environment: The tangible space where people feel safe and comfortable.
- The social environment: The relationships and interactions that create a sense of belonging and trust.
- The psychological model: The trauma-informed approach that guides how services are delivered and how people are engaged.
At the heart of PIEs is the understanding that relationships are central to effective support. It’s not enough to simply offer services; the environment must nurture ongoing connection, safety, and respect.
The Role of Lived Experience in Co-Creation
A key insight Jay shares is the transformative power of co-creating services with people who have experienced homelessness firsthand. Often, service providers design programs based on assumptions about what clients need, which can miss critical nuances. By involving peers and those with lived experience in the design and evaluation of environments, programs become more responsive and authentic.
Jay recounts engaging with people living outdoors, asking them directly, “What’s working? What’s not working? What could we do differently?” This simple but powerful approach ensures that services adapt to real needs, such as providing secure storage for personal belongings—something often overlooked but deeply significant.
Respecting Autonomy and Safety: Lessons from the Field
One striking example Jay shares is the story of Butch, a man living in a campsite by the river, who saw his site as sacred ground—a memorial to a lost friend named Jeremy. This connection to place and memory was central to Butch’s identity and priorities, and initially, Jay’s offers of housing felt out of sync with what Butch valued.
“I was giving him my program language, but I really wasn’t speaking exactly to his values or where he was coming from.”
By listening deeply and meeting Butch where he was, Jay was able to shift the conversation. He asked, “If things got really bad this winter, what would Jeremy want for you?” This question bridged the gap between Jay’s service offers and Butch’s lived reality, opening space for trust, grief, and meaningful dialogue.
Meeting People Where They Are
Jay and his colleagues stress the importance of meeting individuals “where they are,” not where we think they should be. This means engaging without judgment, without imposing professional jargon or expectations, and honoring each person’s unique story and values.
As Jay puts it, effective engagement involves:
- Understanding and respecting that you are entering someone’s world.
- Recognizing that the person is in charge of the language and communication styles in that interaction.
- Being ready to adapt and reframe conversations to avoid triggering or alienating the person.
- Maintaining a stance of awe and wonder about how individuals survive and navigate their lives.
This approach dismantles traditional power dynamics and creates a space where dialogue is truly collaborative.
The Power of Consistency and Situational Awareness
Consistency in outreach and relationship-building is another cornerstone of creating psychological safety. Jay highlights the importance of returning to the same places, engaging repeatedly, and building trust over time—even in challenging environments like the woods or streets.
Situational risk awareness also plays a critical role. Observing the environment and tuning into subtle cues helps tailor conversations to what resonates with the person at that moment. This attentiveness is vital for connecting with the individual’s narrative and fostering authentic engagement.
Grieving and Honoring Individual Priorities
Jay’s story about Butch also illustrates the profound role of grief in the lives of people experiencing homelessness. Recognizing and respecting the grieving process is essential in supporting someone’s journey without rushing or overriding their priorities.
As one contributor reflects, “There’s a priority of need for that person as an individual,” which may not always align with program outcomes but must be honored to build trust and meaningful support.
Conclusion: Toward Trauma-Informed, Person-Centered Services
Creating psychologically safe environments in homelessness services requires more than good intentions—it demands humility, patience, and a commitment to co-creation with those who know the experience best. Jay S. Levy’s work reminds us that:
- Relationships and trust are the foundation of effective support.
- Listening to and involving people with lived experience leads to more relevant and respectful services.
- Meeting people where they are honors their autonomy and unique stories.
- Consistency, situational awareness, and respect for grief are crucial elements of engagement.
By embracing these principles, service providers can foster environments that truly empower individuals on their path toward independence and healing.
