Trauma-informed Counselling

Unit code:APT5006Study level:Postgraduate

Credit points

12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)

Location

City Campus
Online Real Time

Prerequisites

(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Co-requisites
(Corequisite units must be studied concurrently with this unit)

Overview

The aim of this unit of study is to provide a framework for trauma informed counselling with specific reference to family violence and sexual assault. While the focus is on survivors of trauma related events, consideration is also given to the societal context in which family violence and sexual assault occur. Theories of trauma are covered as part of understanding ways to work therapeutically with survivors of traumatic events. Emphasis is placed on developing the self-awareness of the counsellor in response to indicators of family violence and sexual assault and the impact of working with trauma-related issues.

This unit has a focus on practical learning that can be applied in workplace, community and placement settings. In addition to presentations and discussion regarding the application of knowledge and skills, a range of prevention, assessment and intervention skills will be introduced.

Students will be able to demonstrate awareness of the political, social, family and personal contexts in which violence and sexual assault occur, understanding of the impact of family violence and sexual assault, key underpinnings of trauma-focused counselling for survivors and strategies for prevention and skills for responding to violence in the community.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

Critically review the processes involved in prevention, identification, assessment, and intervention in cases involving trauma;
Investigate and consider social and cultural factors in relation to traumatic experiences and trauma informed treatments;
Appraise theories and frameworks relevant to trauma-informed counselling practice; and
Exemplify trauma informed counselling skills.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Report | Grade: 30%

Develop a trauma informed and culturally sensitive formulation and intervention plan for a case study provided, including referral options for trauma support services (1500 words)

Assessment type: Test | Grade: 20%

In class short answer test of trauma related theories and interventions (60 mins)

Assessment type: Practical Demonstration | Grade: 50%

Role play demonstration of a trauma informed counselling session, including non-scripted client interactions (15 mins)

To pass this unit students need to meet the attendance requirement below:

Face to face and ORT workshops in this unit require mandatory attendance of at least 80%, except under extenuating circumstances. This is due to this unit containing a significant skills-based competency component, enabling students to foster their development of counselling skills under in-class supervision. The knowledge and skills developed in this unit are important for safe counselling practice both whilst on placement and as graduate counselling practitioners.