SWK 300 - Trauma-Informed Practice with Children and Adolescents

This course is designed to develop trauma-informed generalist practitioners who are able to apply a trauma conceptual framework to interventions at the micro, mezzo and macro levels. This BSW social work elective will introduce students to the Core Concepts of trauma-informed generalist social work practice. Using a problem-based learning (PBL) approach, it will deepen students’ understanding of and ability to work with individuals, families and communities impacted by traumatic events. Trauma is broadly defined, and includes children and adolescents exposed to traumatic events including, but not limited to: natural disasters, community violence, war, abuse and neglect, medical treatment and witnessing interpersonal crime (e.g. domestic violence). Emphasis will be placed on developing the knowledge, values and skills needed for trauma-informed BSW level practice as advocates, brokers, community change agents, counselors and mediators. Students will learn to assess and effectively intervene and collaborate with systems BSW level social worker professionals commonly work in and with, including: schools, health care settings, mental health facilities and child protective services. Client-centered trauma-informed care will be emphasized throughout the course as will the skills required to effectively assess and intervene to help children, families and communities impacted by trauma. The role that development, culture and empirical evidence play in working with children, adolescents and families who have experienced trauma will be highlighted throughout the course.