Understand PTSD and its related symptoms
PTSD and trauma studies aims to provide students with an understanding of the theory and treatment of trauma and PTSD related symptoms. It presents historical and emerging research and theory related to trauma and PTSD, with a focus on clinical treatment and practical responses to symptoms.
Students will explore a range of theoretical frameworks for understanding trauma, and what factors influence recovery and post-traumatic growth. Complex-PTSD will also be explored and the emerging literature around this concept will be explored.
Therapeutic interventions will be discussed using empirical research and evidence-based practice. A practical clinically-focused account of cases and clinical experience of working with severely traumatised individuals will also form part of the programme.
Trauma studies is suitable for; social workers, psychotherapists, psychologists, psychiatrists, GPs, nurses, Gardai, emergency responders, teachers, and anyone whose job brings them into contact with individuals dealing with trauma and PTSD. For existing practitioners, this programme will provide a basis for developing skills used in responding to traumatic presentations.
CPD Credits
9 CPD credits for members of the Psychological Society of Ireland
Course Content
1. Introduction to the course; history of trauma theory (Janets’ phases, DSM inclusion) and treatment. Complex-PTSD and emerging issues (culture, labelling, legal implications, controversies)
2. Theories and models of trauma; the body and trauma, impact on the brain and memory, Polyvagal Theory
3. Theories and models of trauma II; Rothschild, Levine, Le Doux, Terr, Herman, Van der Kolk, Ogden, Fisher
4. Trauma symptomatology: dissociation, memory loss, depression, anxiety, arousal, activation
5. Assessment and measurement: instruments and debate about relevance and value. Retraumatisation considerations
6. Treatment approaches and considerations, contra-indications, working with the body and breath. Importance of safety. Prosody. Relationship with therapist.
7. Treatment approaches and considerations: flashbacks, nightmares and sleep. Evidence and controversies
8. Trauma; traumatic deaths, recognizing traumatic reactions in adults and children, PTSD, secondary trauma, inter-generational trauma, societal trauma
9. Promoting resilience and post traumatic growth, what works for trauma survivors
10. Self-care; compassion fatigue, vicarious trauma – how to recognize and manage
Course Fee
Classroom-based: €995
(€1,095 if paying in instalments)
Online course: €895
(€995 if paying in instalments)
Non-EU Students: Call +353 1 4160034
Assessment
Students must attend at least 80% of classes to graduate with either the Diploma or Certificate of Attendance unless a serious and verifiable reason for further absence is provided.
If completing the course online, attendance and participation is tracked through Moodle.
A pass grade on the written assignment will be required for awarding of the Diploma.
The assignment/project must be handed in on the due date unless a sound reason for lateness is provided. In such instances, an extension may be awarded at the discretion of the lecturer.
Lecturer
Dr. Finian Fallon
Dr. Finian Fallon is a Chartered Psychologist and holds a Doctorate in Psychotherapy from DCU. In addition to providing a range of counselling services, his past work experience includes providing online and face to face therapy for clients with PTSD, survivors of childhood abuse and survivors of torture. In 2018 he completed a widely reported survey of over 2,000 Irish Police exploring trauma prevalence and wellbeing issues among frontline police in Ireland. His doctoral dissertation explored the future of psychotherapy in Ireland.
Finian has a number of other academic works to his credit, including presenting at the BACP research conference. He is interested in developing research that provides practical clinical benefits, to bring together the science and art of psychotherapy. He is Dean of Psychology at City Colleges and is delivering and developing psychology courses that are relevant to the challenges of living today.
Why City Colleges?
- Courses for students who are passionate about their subject, delivered by leaders in their field.
- Live lectures which are also streamed live on Moodle and recorded for review
- City centre location in South Great George’s Street, convenient for bus, LUAS, DART
- Southside Dublin location in Dundrum
- Study rooms and library in our City Centre location
- Limited class size
- Parking
City Colleges 
Ashfield College
Progressive College
City Language School