Trauma Psychology

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the nature and impact of psychological trauma.
• Learn about different types of trauma and their psychological effects.
• Examine theories and models of trauma and post-traumatic stress.
• Explore assessment techniques and diagnostic criteria for trauma-related disorders.
• Evaluate evidence-based treatments and interventions.
• Discuss cultural, developmental, and societal perspectives on trauma.
• Apply ethical considerations in trauma-informed care.

Module 1: Introduction to Trauma Psychology

• Definition and scope of trauma psychology
• Historical perspectives on trauma and its recognition
• Overview of psychological and physiological responses to trauma
• Impact of trauma on individuals, families, and communities
• Differences between acute trauma, chronic trauma, and complex trauma

Module 2: Types of Trauma

• Natural disasters (earthquakes, hurricanes, wildfires)
• Interpersonal trauma (abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault)
• Childhood trauma and adverse childhood experiences (ACEs)
• Combat and war-related trauma (PTSD in veterans, refugee trauma)
• Medical trauma (serious illnesses, surgeries)
• Vicarious trauma and secondary traumatic stress in professionals

Module 3: Theoretical Perspectives on Trauma

• Psychodynamic theories (Freudian and object relations perspectives)
• Cognitive-behavioral theories (CBT and trauma-related cognitions)
• Biological and neurobiological perspectives (brain and nervous system responses)
• Attachment theory and its role in trauma processing
• Resilience and post-traumatic growth models

Module 4: Trauma-related Stress Disorders

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Symptoms, diagnosis, and subtypes
• Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) and differences from PTSD
• Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) and developmental trauma disorder
• Dissociative disorders related to trauma (Dissociative Identity Disorder, Depersonalization)
• Comorbid conditions: Depression, anxiety, substance use disorders
• Neurobiological and physiological changes in trauma-related stress disorders

Module 5: Trauma Assessment and Diagnosis

• Screening tools and clinical interviews for trauma
• Standardized assessment instruments (PCL-5, CAPS-5, TSCC)
• Psychological testing and differential diagnosis
• Ethical and cultural considerations in trauma assessment
• Assessing risk factors for re-traumatization

Module 6: Evidence-Based Trauma Treatments

• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy for PTSD (CBT, Trauma-Focused CBT)
• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
• Exposure therapy and Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE)
• Mindfulness-based interventions and Somatic therapies
• Pharmacological treatments for trauma-related disorders
• Alternative and integrative treatments (yoga, expressive arts, animal-assisted therapy)

Module 7: Trauma-Informed Care and Interventions

• Principles of trauma-informed care
• Creating safe and supportive environments for trauma survivors
• Strategies for preventing re-traumatization in therapeutic settings
• Self-care and burnout prevention for mental health professionals
• Trauma-informed approaches in schools, workplaces, and healthcare

Module 8: Cultural and Societal Considerations in Trauma Psychology

• The role of culture in shaping trauma responses and coping mechanisms
• Collective trauma (genocide, slavery, historical trauma)
• The impact of racism, discrimination, and oppression on trauma experiences
• Gender and trauma (violence against women, LGBTQ+ trauma experiences)
• Global perspectives on trauma and mental health interventions

Module 9: Special Topics in Trauma Psychology

• Neuroplasticity and trauma recovery
• The impact of trauma on memory and cognition
• Trauma in first responders and military personnel
• The role of spirituality and faith in trauma healing
• Emerging research and future directions in trauma psychology

Recommended Books

• Van der Kolk, B. A. (2014). The body keeps the score: Brain, mind, and body in the healing of trauma. Viking.
• Levine, P. A. (2008). Healing trauma: A pioneering program for restoring the wisdom of your body. Sounds True.
• Osofsky, J. D. (Ed.). (2004). Young children and trauma: Intervention and treatment. Guilford Press.
• Malchiodi, C. A. (Ed.). (2021). Creative interventions with traumatized children(2nd ed.). Guilford Press.
• Gold, S. N. (2017). Contextual trauma therapy: Overcoming traumatization and reaching full potential. American Psychological Association.

• Mental health professionals;
• Educators and researchers;
• Law enforcement and first responders;
• Community and humanitarian workers;
• Legal and Forensic Professionals

Entry Requirements:

This course is open to everyone, and you don’t need any previous knowledge or experience of the subject to attend.

Course Dates:

July 01 to August 30, 2025

(this course will be entirely online)

Apply by: June 15, 2025

Course Duration:

6-8 weeks, depending on your pace

Subject:

Mental Health & Well-being

Course Language:

English

Difficulty:

Introductory

Cost:

$240

What’s included:

• Access your courses anytime, anywhere, with a computer, tablet or smartphone.
• Digital certificate on successful completion of the course

Participants come from across the globe, including United States and Canada as well as from Europe, Africa, South and Central America, Oceania, South Asia, and the Middle East.