Neuroscience for Social Work

Catalog description

This course will look at the applications of neuroscience in the field of Social Work. It will review the basics of brain and nervous system physiology, including a review of the components of the brain, the functions of each region, brain plasticity, neurotransmitters, the fight-flight-freeze responses, and the polyvagal theory. It will also include a review of the neurobiological underpinnings of empathy, memory, attachment, and emotion, as well as childhood development, trauma, and addiction. It will also focus on specific clinical applications of this knowledge when working with clients who have experienced trauma in its many forms. Prer., Graduate Social Work students only.