About Bridge to Connection
Bridge to Connection is a trauma-informed consulting and professional development practice that helps schools, organizations, and leaders build emotionally intelligent, connected, and resilient cultures. Founded by Stephen Wagner, MSW, LCSW, RPT, CCTP, the work is grounded in over 20 years of clinical experience, organizational leadership, and human-centered coaching.
We partner with educators, caregivers, nonprofit teams, and mission-driven professionals to shift work culture from reactive to restorative, placing relational safety, trust, and emotional intelligence at the center of how people lead and learn.
Our belief is simple: every relationship has the power to heal, and when we lead with insight and empathy, we create environments where both people and purpose thrive.
Our Goals
What We Do
Bridge to Connection provides customized workshops, leadership training, and organizational consulting in three core areas:
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Cultivating Connection:
Trauma-informed team development and emotional intelligence training -
Lead with Insight:
Strengths-based leadership coaching and professional growth journeys -
Navigating Conflict with Compassion:
Communication and relationship repair strategies for teams and leaders
Whether you're addressing staff burnout, supporting student needs, or building a more inclusive culture, we bring the tools, structure, and perspective to help you lead with compassion and purpose.
Why It Matters
Imagine a place where everyone feels safe, seen, and valued. Relationships have built trust and fostered a sense of security and support. Stress and trauma can disrupt this harmony, but with the right approach, you can restore it. Many teams today are overwhelmed, disconnected, or struggling to meet the emotional needs of those they serve. Bridge to Connection helps you pause, reflect, and rebuild; with strategies rooted in neuroscience, trauma-responsive care, and relational leadership. Because when your people feel seen, heard, and valued, your entire culture changes. Our expertise in trauma-informed practices helps you build an environment where healing and growth are possible for all.
Meet the Founder
Steve Wagner is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Registered Play Therapist, and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with decades of experience across behavioral health, youth services, education systems, and executive leadership. His strength lies in translating complex emotional challenges into practical, actionable strategies that build stronger, more connected teams.
Stephen is a certified Gallup CliftonStrengths coach and a sought-after speaker and facilitator who brings warmth, insight, and deep expertise to every client relationship.
