FAM: Families in Crisis

Catalog description

The purpose of this course is to examine the experiences of individuals and families when crises occur. The course is designed to introduce you to traumatic stress from both individual and systemic theoretical perspectives. It will introduce and review the theoretical and historical beginnings of the concept of trauma, which includes the acceptance of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a diagnosis in the DSM IV. This course will discuss various trauma reactions, effects of stressful events, as well as the treatment of trauma, stress and crises. Resilience and transcendence of trauma will be outlined, with an emphasis on the importance of self-care for helping professionals working in this area. A particular focus will be placed in understanding the common and unique experiences of individuals and families affected by grief and loss, addictions and substance abuse, violence, child abuse and neglect, and suicidal ideation based on various contextual factors. The course will include discussion of evidence-based prevention and treatment options as well as community resources for individuals and families affected by stress, trauma, and crises.