Working with Traumatized Children

Level: Advanced Practice – Lineworkers

Credits: 6

Intended Audience: New and experienced child welfare workers

Intended Objectives:

• To define and describe trauma and the impact it has on the physical, emotional, cognitive and spiritual development of children
• To identify post-traumatic stages experienced by traumatized children
• To describe the effects of trauma on memory
• To provide guidelines for professionals and caretakers working with traumatized children
• To learn best practice therapeutic interventions with traumatized children
• To describe and identify ‘vicarious trauma’ or secondary trauma for professional working with traumatized children
• To offer self-care strategies for combating secondary trauma

Topics:

• Characteristics of Trauma
• Trauma diagnosis
• Trauma Models/Theories
• Trauma and Gender
• Intervention Techniques
• Professionals’ Issues in Working with Traumatized Children
• Vicarious Trauma/Secondary Trauma to Professionals Working with Traumatized Children

CalSWEC Competencies Addressed:

3.1 Student demonstrates understanding of the stages, processes, and milestones of physical, cognitive, social and emotional development of children.

4.10 Student is aware of potential stress factors in the organizational environment and work-related activities and is able to develop self-care and other strategies to render them harmless.

7.5 Student demonstrates understanding of the dynamics of trauma resulting from family conflict, divorce, and family violence.