SW-530: Trauma Informed Care

This course prepares the advanced social work practitioner to be trauma responsive across all levels of practice. Students will analyze various theoretical frameworks for understanding trauma, including psychophysical, socio-cultural, the neuroscience of trauma, types of trauma, history of traumatology, and the impact of trauma on individuals, family, groups, communities, and organizations. Within a framework focusing on strengths and resiliency, the course focuses on the development of knowledge and skills related to developing and conducting trauma sensitive assessments and utilizing trauma informed evidence-based treatments across the lifespan and across all levels of practice. The course gives attention to how various aspects of diversity and difference impact understanding and working with survivors of trauma. Students will also examine strategies of self-care to reduce the risk of secondary traumatization on themselves, colleagues, agencies, and communities. Prerequisite: SW 515 or Admission to Advanced Standing MSW Program.