Trauma Informed Care Modules – Advanced

This training is a 5 week, 5 session course. All sessions/modules must be completed for Stars credit.

Our understanding of trauma continues to evolve. Integrating current research on brain development, human development, social work, and physical and mental health, and acknowledging that we live in a patriarchal and racist society, even our definition of trauma continues to evolve. Put simply, we might define trauma as an overwhelming threat (actual or perceived) that we don’t know how to deal with. As Dr. Gabor Maté says in the 2021 film The Wisdom of Trauma, “Trauma is not the bad things that happen to you, but what happens inside you as a result of what happens to you.” A trauma informed approach involves realizing the wide prevalence of trauma; recognizing how trauma affects individuals, families, generations, and communities; and responding by putting this knowledge into practice. Informing ourselves about trauma and its effects requires study and self-reflection. It can be a challenging and painful process. It can also be inspirational and liberating. Over time, developing a trauma informed perspective can change the way we think about ourselves and our lives and help us feel greater compassion for ourselves and others. The Trauma Informed Care modules prepare participants to adopt a trauma informed perspective in their own lives and in their work with children and families. This training discusses how to work with children and caregivers who have been through difficult life experiences. Such conversations can remind us of things that have been painful or upsetting in our own lives. If you feel like now is not a good time to take this training, it’s okay to take the training at another time. And, if you do feel upset while taking the training, please step away as needed to take care of yourself. It’s important to remember, too, that healing from trauma happens in relationships, so you are also encouraged to reach out to a friend or a colleague for support. This is a series of four modules, delivered in a hybrid format. Participants and trainer meet online 5 times for discussion and community-building. Participants are responsible for 10-12 hours of reading, watching video, and self-reflecting during independent time. Some may take more or less time to complete this independent work. Access to reliable internet, or the ability to print the course content, is required.

Trainers: Charlotte Zissel, Urvasi Graham and Jodi Escalante

Stars: 27 hours

Core Competencies: Child Growth and Development Level 4-5: Families and Community Partner Level 4-5 : Professional Development Level 4-5 : Interactions, Level 3