Designing for All with Trauma - Informed Design

Pamela Scholten is the founder and Principal Interior Designer of Scholten Designs L.L.C., based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where she specializes in human‑centered, trauma‑informed design for commercial environments. With a background in social work, lived experience with trauma, and more than a decade of study in the psychology and neurobiology of trauma, she brings a rare interdisciplinary lens to the built environment, where her work spans corporate workplace, healthcare, worship, community, and institutional spaces. Pamela holds the Trauma Research Foundation’s Certificate in Traumatic Stress Studies and will be featured as a Spotlight Professional in the forthcoming scholarly book, Building Trauma‑Informed Workplaces, highlighting her leadership in this emerging field. With a deep understanding of the high prevalence of trauma and the power of the built environment on individual and community well‑being, Pamela approaches design from a place of social responsibility. She translates research and human‑behavior insights into dignified, psychologically supportive environments, ensuring spaces promote safety, regulation, empowerment, and belonging for all. As a speaker, trainer, and consultant, she equips teams with the knowledge and tools to rethink how design influences human experience. Pamela is a natural advocate for trauma healing and actively seeks opportunities to shift perspectives and advance a more empathetic, inclusive world. For NeoCon, Pamela will present Designing for All with Trauma‑Informed Design, offering research‑grounded insights on trauma and practical, actionable strategies for creating more inclusive, supportive, and human‑centered environments.