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 an 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 5270 Generalist Field Practicum, SOCWK 5300 Nature of Trauma and Traumatic Experience, SOCWK 5310 Theories for Advanced Social Work Practice.
SOCWK 5270 Generalist Field Practicum (3 hours)
This course provides students with supervised learning experiences in selected social work agencies. The experience introduces a variety of social work practice roles and enables the student to apply social work knowledge, skills, and values in a real practice situation. Students will be required to complete 400 hours of practicum. The Field Director will place students in area agencies.
Prerequisite(s): SOCWK 5000 History and Philosophy of Social Work in the United States and permission of Field Director.
SOCWK 5300 Nature of Trauma and Traumatic Experience (3 hours)
In this advanced course students will be introduced to different types of traumatic events and the variety of social contexts these traumatic events take place. Students will gain a basic understanding of concepts associated with the neurobiology of trauma and recognize the importance of the social context in which trauma occurs. Students will learn how this knowledge informs one's social work practice. Students will evaluate how diversity and difference impact the experiences of trauma and resilience on clients at the micro and mezzo levels. Specifically, students will understand the impact of systemic oppression, discrimination, and the abuse of power and authority on individuals, families, and generations of individuals living within cultures over time. Students will understand trauma is an experience of disconnection from self and others. Students will value the role of affect regulation and self-awareness as key to experiencing connection to oneself and others.
SOCWK 5310 Theories for Advanced Social Work Practice (3 hours)
In this advanced practice course, you will learn theories that social workers use with individuals and families to guide ethical and professional behavior. This learning will give you foundational knowledge of theoretical orientations as well as practice in applying theories to the process of engagement, assessment, and intervention across diverse populations.
Pre or Corequisite(s): SOCWK 5300 Nature of Trauma and Traumatic Experience.
