Description
Complex Developmental Trauma & Complex PTSD
"Trauma" refers to an event that causes intense and prolonged stress beyond what is considered normal and is exceptionally distressing. Unfortunately, children in foster care often experience such events. This module provides a comprehensive understanding of the signs and symptoms of PTSD, which distinguish it from other trauma-related injuries. We will also explore the reasons why PTSD is frequently undiagnosed and the estimated percentages for children in care.
This training draws inspiration from the latest trauma research to reframe the behaviour of troubled children. By viewing their needs through the Developmental Trauma lens, we can identify complex difficulties that impact their sensory systems, attachment, dissociative responses, cognitive abilities, regulation, and identity. Participants will learn to recognise Developmental Trauma, engage with dysregulated children, and develop a trauma-informed support plan. Consequently, they will feel hopeful and empowered to create positive change for traumatised children.
Learning Aims:
- Common Responses to Trauma
- Brief focus on the neurobiology of Trauma in children
- What is Trauma, and how does developmental Trauma present itself?
- Recognising complex PTSD
- How does it differ from generalised PTSD and how common is it?
- Who is most at risk?
- What treatments are effective?
- Practice considerations: How we can help (across systems)
- Rethinking behaviour and zero tolerance Relationship
- Assisting the child in calming the body/brain & supporting emotional regulation
- Implications for trauma-informed practice and healing trauma
This course is for Foster Carers, Adopters, Supervising Social Workers as well as Residential Child Care Workers (RCCW) and residential team managers from mainstream, short-breaks and outreach services.
Format: This is a live training session through the platform "Zoom". It includes taught sections, small group work, work in pairs, and whole group discussions.
Hand-outs & Certificates: Downloadable course notes and certificates of attendance are provided.