The course equips you with the relevant knowledge, skills and values to identify clients exposed to traumatic events and provide trauma support services in the immediate aftermath of traumatic events, under supervision of an appropriately trained/registered mental health professional. Through this training, you will come to understand concepts of First Aid, the principles of trauma recovery sessions, and effective treatments for people suffering from PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder).

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Understand the different types of trauma and their impact on individuals.
2. Recognize the signs and symptoms of trauma in clients.
3. Apply trauma-informed approaches in counseling and support sessions.
4. Implement evidence-based therapeutic techniques for trauma counseling.
5. Develop crisis intervention skills to provide immediate support to individuals in distress.
6. Foster resilience and post-traumatic growth in trauma survivors.
7. Practice self-care strategies to prevent burnout and vicarious trauma.
8. Ethically navigate the challenges involved in trauma counseling.
9. Collaborate with other professionals and organizations to create a supportive network for trauma survivors.
10. Stay updated on the latest research and developments in the field of trauma support and counseling.

1. Enhanced Employee Well-being: The course equips employees with the skills to cope with workplace stressors and trauma, leading to improved mental health and overall well-being.
2. Improved Team Dynamics: Employees trained in trauma support and counseling develop empathy and active listening skills, enhancing communication and collaboration within teams.
3. Reduced Absenteeism: By promoting mental health and providing support mechanisms, the course can help reduce absenteeism related to stress and trauma-related issues.
4. Increased Productivity: Employees who feel supported and psychologically safe are more likely to be engaged and productive, contributing positively to the organization’s overall output.
5. Enhanced Organizational Culture: Implementing trauma-informed practices fosters a supportive and empathetic organizational culture, attracting and retaining top talent.
6. Positive Public Image: Organizations that invest in employee well-being and community support, as evidenced by offering trauma support and counseling courses, enhance their reputation among clients, customers, and the community.
7. Reduced Workplace Conflict: Employees trained in trauma support are better equipped to handle conflicts empathetically, leading to a decrease in workplace disputes and tension.
8. Effective Crisis Management: Trained employees can effectively manage crises within the organization, providing immediate support to colleagues during difficult situations.
9. Compliance with Regulations: In certain industries, having employees trained in trauma support and counseling ensures compliance with regulations related to mental health and employee well-being.
10. Talent Attraction and Retention: Offering comprehensive training programs like trauma support and counseling can attract employees who are socially conscious and dedicated to making a positive impact, thus aiding in talent retention and recruitment efforts.

• Mental health professionals (psychologists, counselors, social workers)
• Trauma support workers
• Crisis hotline volunteers
• Healthcare professionals (nurses, doctors) dealing with trauma patients
• Social service workers and advocates
• Law enforcement and emergency response professionals

5 – 10 days

Module 1: Understanding Trauma

• Definition and types of trauma
• Impact of trauma on the brain and body
• Developmental and cultural aspects of trauma

Module 2: Trauma-Informed Care

• Principles of trauma-informed care
• Creating safe and supportive environments
• Trauma-sensitive communication and language

Module 3: Recognizing and Assessing Trauma

• Signs and symptoms of trauma
• Trauma screening and assessment tools
• Cultural considerations in trauma assessment

Module 4: Evidence-Based Therapeutic Approaches

• Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for trauma
• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
• Narrative therapy and trauma storytelling

Module 5: Crisis Intervention and Immediate Support

• Crisis intervention techniques
• Suicide risk assessment and prevention
• Supporting individuals during acute trauma situations

Module 6: Resilience and Post-Traumatic Growth

• Building resilience in trauma survivors
• Facilitating post-traumatic growth
• Positive psychology approaches in trauma counseling

Module 7: Ethical Considerations and Boundaries

• Ethical guidelines in trauma counseling
• Boundary issues and self-disclosure
• Confidentiality and reporting obligations

Module 8: Self-Care for Trauma Counselors

• Preventing burnout and compassion fatigue
• Self-care strategies for mental health professionals
• Seeking supervision and support

Module 9: Collaboration and Advocacy

• Collaborating with other professionals and agencies
• Advocacy for trauma survivors’ rights and support services
• Creating trauma-informed communities

Module 10: Staying Informed and Continuing Education

• Keeping up with the latest research in trauma support
• Professional development opportunities and resources
• Lifelong learning in trauma counseling