Kathleen Flinton, an assistant professor of practice who co-chairs the Trauma Integration Initiative, teaches a class of MSW students. Photo by Caitlin Cunningham, 亚色影库 Photography.
As the number of Americans seeking treatment for mental health issues , the Boston College School of Social Work is preparing students to improve the well-being of individuals, families, and communities.
叠颁厂厂奥鈥檚 Trauma-Informed Mental Health field of practice鈥攐ne of the school鈥檚 six academic pathways that include specialized coursework and field placements鈥攖rains future practitioners to deliver evidence-based interventions, design policies for vulnerable populations, champion those in need, and more.聽
Clinical students develop strong assessment skills and learn how to integrate evidence-based interventions into their work with clients in behavioral health settings. Macro students develop policy, planning, and management skills to become effective advocates at the local, state, and national levels.聽
We asked Scott Easton, an associate professor who chairs the Trauma-Informed Mental Health field of practice, to give prospective students a rundown of the program.
A few years ago, 亚色影库SSW launched the Trauma Integration Initiative, a holistic program that prepares students to help clients cope with trauma while guarding themselves against its effects. How will students who choose this field of practice benefit from the School鈥檚 trauma-informed approach to social work?聽
The mental health field of practice was the initial curricular home for TII initiatives, which is natural because trauma is inextricably linked with emotional and behavioral health. Classes are built on cutting-edge empirical and theoretical approaches to trauma, including neurobiological and ecological frameworks. They are taught by experienced practitioners who bring trauma theories and treatment modalities to life. Beyond the classroom, students benefit from the trauma-focused lens used in field placement matching, advising, and supervision.聽
Students can also take advantage of learning opportunities and events sponsored by TII, including speakers on topics that intersect with mental health, such as racial trauma or interpersonal violence. Finally, students learn from each other in practicing self-care techniques via trauma learning communities.聽聽聽聽
Clinical students who choose this field of practice are required to take Adult Psychological Trauma. Macro students who choose this field of practice are required to take Planning for Health and Mental Health Services. What are three skills that students will learn from each of these courses?
After completing Adult Psychological Trauma, students will have specialized knowledge and skills to effectively work in various settings with clients who have trauma histories. Combined with other courses in our program, students will be able to conduct trauma-informed