Trauma Informed Social Work Practice with Children & Families

Catalog description

This course builds on foundation direct practice courses and focuses specifically on children, adolescents and families affected by trauma. It uses both a developmental and an ecological systems perspective recognizing that in order to successfully treat trauma, it is important to not only focus on the individual but also on the family and the larger community environment of which the child or adolescent is a part. It is designed to foster an understanding of the neurobiology of trauma as well as to develop specific skills in interviewing children, child assessment including case formulation, selection of appropriate interventions, and using specific intervention strategies at different levels of the trauma system. Rather than teaching one specific intervention model, students will develop an understanding the importance of using the empirical literature, critical thinking skills, and clinical judgment to determine how to best intervene. The issues of ethically and culturally competent practice are emphasized throughout the course in each content area. Finally, the impact of secondary trauma on the practitioner is acknowledged and students develop plans for self-care. Prereq: Advanced Standing or (SASS 502 and SASS 504 and SASS 508 and SASS 509 ).