Professional Diploma in Traumatology and PTSD

1. Introduction to the trauma course; history of trauma theory (Janets’ phases, DSM inclusion) and treatment. Complex-PTSD and emerging issues (culture, labelling, legal implications, controversies).
2. Theories and models of trauma; the body and trauma, impact on the brain and memory, Polyvagal Theory
3. Theories and models of trauma II; Rothschild, Levine, Le Doux, Terr, Herman, Van der Kolk, Ogden, Fisher.
4. Trauma symptomatology: dissociation, memory loss, depression, anxiety, arousal, activation.
5. Assessment and measurement: instruments and debate about relevance and value.
6. Retraumatisation considerations.
7. Treatment approaches and considerations, contra-indications, working with the body and breath. Importance of safety. Prosody. Relationship with a therapist.
8. Treatment approaches and considerations: flashbacks, nightmares and sleep. Evidence and controversies
9. Trauma; traumatic deaths, recognising traumatic reactions in adults and children, PTSD, secondary trauma, inter-generational trauma, societal trauma.
10. Promoting resilience and post-traumatic growth, what works for trauma survivors.
11. Self-care; compassion fatigue, vicarious trauma – how to recognise and manage.

*Course content is subject to review after each intake and may be updated in line with industry standards.

Students must attend at least 80% of the Trauma course classes to graduate with either the Diploma or Certificate of Attendance unless a serious and verifiable reason for further absence is provided.

If completing this Trauma course online, students’ attendance and participation in the live or recorded classes are tracked through Moodle.

A pass grade on the written assignment will be required for awarding the Diploma.

The assignment/project must be handed in on the due date unless a sound reason for lateness is provided. In such instances, an extension may be awarded at the discretion of the lecturer.

This Trauma course is suitable for;

• social workers
• psychotherapists
• psychologists
• psychiatrists
• GPs
• nurses
• Gardai
• emergency responders
• teachers
• anyone whose job brings them into contact with individuals dealing with trauma and PTSD

For existing practitioners, this Trauma course will provide a basis for developing skills used in responding to traumatic presentations.

This Trauma course is approved for CPD credits for members of the Psychological Society of Ireland.

CPD Credits
14 CPD credits for members of the Psychological Society of Ireland.

A City College Dublin’s Professional Diploma Course is a focused, practical programme designed and delivered by an industry practitioner, that consolidates, upskills or reskills learners in a professional area. They are stand-alone qualifications that indicate that you have been trained in a particular area or specific subject matter.

City College Dublin Diplomas are suitable for career minded learners wishing to advance their professional skills and prospects. They are widely accepted by employers and many students are sponsored to study here by their organisation.

In addition to our scheduled Professional Diploma courses, City College Dublin can provide bespoke training over 3 – 4 days, please contact [email protected] for further details.