Rationale for Trauma Informed Therapy

A recent national study into Trauma, PTSD and complex PTSD in the Republic of Ireland found that 82.3% of respondence had lifetime exposure to one or more traumatic events, with almost 68% reporting two or more traumatic events (Hyland et al, 2021). Likewise, in a global context, research has indicated that 70% of people have been exposed to a traumatic event (Benjet et al, 2015). The overwhelming evidence of the ubiquitous nature of trauma exposure tells us that mental help professionals need to be trauma informed.

Trauma informed therapy is a way of working with clients that recognises how traumatic experiences can impact on all domains of being across human development, including behavioural, physical, mental, emotional, spiritual. Trauma can impact relational styles, attachment styles, and both family systems and social structures, through the influences of culture and the environment. At the same time, human beings experience complex intrapersonal and interpersonal relational dynamics, childhood difficulties, as well as sociocultural and economic disadvantages that are problematic, but which are not traumatising. Therefore, the objective in training in Trauma Informed Practices is to understand what trauma is, and what it is not. The purpose of the IICP College Trauma Informed module is to support learners in increasing their understanding of trauma through theoretical knowledge, practice based experiential exercises, and group work.

Entry Requirements

Applicants will hold a Level 8 Degree in the helping professions (counselling, psychotherapy, social care, social work, psychology, psych nursing, mental health, addiction etc.). Those who hold a Level 7 Degree in the helping professions, plus appropriate relevant work experience may be eligible to apply under RPL.