Program Overview

Certificate in Traumatic Stress Studies and Intervention

The Certificate in Traumatic Stress Studies and Intervention is designed for professionals who wish to broaden and deepen their understanding of psychological trauma, its history, impact on individual and societal well-being, and effective intervention responses. This certificate is particularly useful for those working with individuals or groups of children, adolescents, or adults with histories of trauma.

Curriculum

The curriculum for the Certificate in Traumatic Stress Studies and Intervention includes the following core courses:

• Psychology of Trauma in Adulthood: Theory, Intervention, and Cultural and Social Justice Perspectives: This course focuses on the biopsychosocial aspects of traumatic stress, including the psychological sequelae of various types of trauma across diverse adult populations. Assessment and clinical and community-based interventions concerning traumatic stress are discussed with attention to cultural and linguistic diversity. Social justice and human rights in the context of interpersonal and collective violence are also examined. (3 credits)
• Psychology of Trauma in Childhood and Adolescence: Theory, Intervention, and Cultural and Social Justice Perspectives: This course focuses on the neuro-developmental and psychosocial aspects of traumatic stress, including an exploration of the psychological sequelae of exposure to various types of trauma in childhood and adolescence. Assessment and clinical and community-based interventions concerning traumatic stress are discussed with attention to cultural and linguistic diversity. Social justice and human rights in the context of interpersonal and collective violence are also examined. (3 credits)
• Psychological Responses to Humanitarian Crisis: This course develops a critical framework for understanding the psychological and social effects of selected natural and unnatural disasters and current responses to them. Course goals include the development of a critical understanding of gendered oppression in contexts of war and humanitarian crises, an analysis of selected psychosocial interventions in the context of development and humanitarian aid, a critical analysis of international human rights as potential resources, and the formulation of programmatic responses for mental health and human rights workers seeking to creatively respond to women and child survivors in collaboration with community-based indigenous workers and advocates. (3 credits)
• Disaster Mental Health: Community-Based Trauma & Intervention: Disasters are increasing in their prevalence and severity. This seminar explores the impact of disasters on communities, identifies systemic barriers, health inequities, and psychosocial needs that impact disaster responses, explores and practices effective and culturally-responsive ways to intervene with communities post-disaster, and learns about international humanitarian relief efforts. (3 credits)

Requirements

• Courses: 4
• Credits: 12

Faculty

The faculty for the Certificate in Traumatic Stress Studies and Intervention includes:

• Penny Haney, Professor of the Practice, with expertise in Cognitive and Social Development, Equity and Social Justice, Gender & Sexual Orientation, Health and Well Being, and Social & Emotional Development.
• Betty Lai, Professor, with expertise in Health and Well Being, Social & Emotional Development, and Research Methods, Evaluation & Psychometrics.
• Treniece Lewis Harris, Program Director, Mental Health Counseling, M.A., with expertise in Equity and Social Justice, Health and Well Being, and Social & Emotional Development.
• Lisa Goodman, Professor, with expertise in Equity and Social Justice and Health and Well Being.

Application and Deadlines

The certificate program admissions operate on a rolling basis. The application closes one month before the start of classes for each entrance term.

Application Requirements

• Resume: In addition to academic history and relevant work experience.
• Personal Statement: To be uploaded to the online Application Form. In 1,000-1,500 words, describe academic and professional goals, any experience relevant to this program, and future plans, expectations, and aspirations.
• Transcripts: All official undergraduate and graduate transcripts must be sent to the office. Only official sealed (unopened) transcripts are acceptable. Official electronic transcripts are accepted when sent directly from the institution.