The University of Indianapolis launched a new Behavioral Health Trauma Certificate program, the first of its kind in Indiana.
The program is designed to help mental health providers be better prepared and includes training for mental health professions in areas like complex, childhood, and racial trauma, and methods for supporting marginalized groups.
“Hoosiers are experiencing higher rates of trauma-related symptoms than ever,” said Rachel Feldwisch, psychologist and associate dean of UIndy’s College of Education and Behavioral Science. “Communities need mental health providers trained to address both individual and societal trauma. The University of Indianapolis is proud to be leading the way in preparing those professionals.”
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 1.1 million Hoosier adults have a mental health condition, and 90,000 teens between the ages of 12 and 17 live with depression.
“This training can make a huge difference in helping children and teens open up after they have been abused or experienced other trauma,” Feldwisch said. “If a parent is looking for help for a child who has experienced trauma, they can trust that graduates of this program will have the specialized training to address trauma symptoms both conscientiously and effectively. Far too often, trained social workers, counselors and psychologists don’t have the specialized training they need to treat trauma effectively.”
The program consists of three classes of three credits each: trauma counseling, resilience and growth in marginalized communities and adverse childhood experiences and trauma. Students of UIndy and community members are open to apply but must possess a bachelor’s degree with a minimum of one master’s level course in professional counseling, psychotherapy or clinical social work.
“I am so excited to think about what this certification might mean for the community,” Feldwisch said. “With each passing year, the ranks of trauma-certified counselors will continue to grow — making it easier for families and adults to find someone to help in their time of need. Graduates will be equipped from day one as trauma specialists, ready to provide the care that so many people in our community urgently need.”
For more information, visit uindy.edu/traumacert.
This reporting is made possible by a grant from the Indianapolis African-American Quality of Life Initiative, empowering our community with essential health insights. https://iaaqli.org/
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Contact Health & Environmental Reporter Hanna Rauworth at 317-762-7854 or follow her on Instagram at @hanna.rauworth.
