In this advanced practice course students will increase their abilities in their analytical and critical thinking skills related to policy analysis. Students will recognize the impact of trauma as a result of oppressive policy practices that limit access to basic human rights. Students will learn policy practice theories and skills to assist them in obtaining experience in policy advocacy at the local, state, and/or federal level. Students will explore policy change processes that will help to better meet the needs of those who have experienced trauma at the micro, mezzo, and/or macro level. Students will build and practice skills in advocating for client needs and overall well-being in order to create change at the policy level within communities, agencies and/or society. Students will also demonstrate skill in empowering oppressed client populations in advocating for their own needs. This course will focus on social, economic and environmental justice and their impact on the provision of services to all client populations.
Prerequisite(s): SOCWK 5300 Nature of Trauma and Traumatic Experience, SOCWK 5330 Assessment and Treatment of Trauma.
SOCWK 5300 Nature of Trauma and Traumatic Experience (3 hours)
In this advanced course students will be introduced to the different types of traumatic experiences ranging from private terrors to public traumas, creating an understanding that the impact of trauma is experienced both collectively and individually, historically and racially. Additionally, the role of affect regulation as a key component to understanding our thinking and our body based responses to our biases and perceptions in the treatment of trauma. Students will gain an in-depth understanding of neuroscience and how experiences shape the developing, embodied brain.
SOCWK 5330 Assessment and Treatment of Trauma (3 hours)
In this advanced practice course students will learn to assess the type of traumatic event and intensity of exposure in order to effectively treat the symptoms of trauma. Students will be introduced to instruments utilized to evaluate the impact of traumatic events and the elements of trauma treatment which include establishing a sense of safety, manage emotions and develop coping strategies. Students will further be introduced to well established practice models to treat trauma as well as how to apply the most recent research on resilience as applied to a variety of clients and practice settings. Students will work in a simulation setting to engage, assess, and intervene with individuals and families and evaluate their own practice behavior. Students will apply ethical decision-making practices that demonstrate and understanding of trauma and well-being. Students will practice self-reflection to identify vicarious trauma and possible self-care strategies used to address it.
Prerequisite(s): SOCWK 5300 Nature of Trauma and Traumatic Experience, SOCWK 5310 Advanced Social Work Interventions.
