Overview

Trauma is a pervasive and complex issue that affects individuals across the lifespan and has significant implications for mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Understanding the multifaceted nature of trauma is crucial for effective diagnosis, intervention, and long-term care.

This eLearning activity aims to equip you with the foundational knowledge and practical tools to navigate the complexities of trauma-related psychological issues. 

By the end of the activity, you should have gained a sound understanding of trauma from both theoretical and applied perspectives. You will be informed in the assessment and treatment of trauma, and equipped to respond to clients with a nuanced, empathetic approach that respects the individuality of each client's experience. Whether you are a seasoned psychologist looking to expand your skill set or new to the field, this activity aims to enhance your professional practice in a manner that is both scientifically rigorous and deeply compassionate. 

Note: This activity features recordings of select sessions from the 2021 APS Members' Choice Virtual Symposium Unpacking Trauma.  

Level of Learning

Foundational. This activity is targeted to those new to the topic.

Related activites

Additional activities in this series that build on and extends your knowledge include:

• Foundations in trauma: Perinatal trauma
• Foundations in trauma: Trauma and the digital world 

Duration of access

Access to this eLearning activity is for 6 months from the date of confirmed registration.

APS CPD-Approved

This activity has been assessed against the APS Standards for CPD activities and approved for its education quality. Learn more about the APS CPD Approval process.

CPD Frequently Asked Questions

Refer to the APS CPD Frequently Asked Questions for general and technical information when undertaking APS Professional development activities.

Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of this eLearning activity, participants should be able to:

• clearly articulate the definition of trauma and distinguish between different types of trauma, including acute, chronic, and complex trauma,

• list diagnostic criteria and tools to effectively to assess and diagnose trauma disorders,

• describe the aetiology and phenomenology of PTSD,

• identify current evidence-based strategies for the prevention of PTSD,

• outline principles of trauma informed practice, and

• recognise the risk of vicarious traumatisation and need for self-care.

Notes

Contributors:
The APS gratefully acknowledges the significant contributions, in time and expertise of Alexina Baldini, Dr Darryl Wade, Chris Hayes, Professor David Forbes, Dr Erin Holloway, Lilia Szarski and Professor Mark Creamer.