Training Plan: Group Work and Trauma Counseling
Duration: 8 hours (4 sessions of 2 hours each) Participants: Up to 15 Delivery Format: In-person Tone: Interactive and conversational Standards Aligned: CACREP and ASGW Assessment: Simple multiple-choice questions Cultural/Ethical Considerations: Understanding diverse cultural responses to trauma Visual Aids/Resources: Slides, handouts, relevant websites, and online videos
Duration: 8 hours (4 sessions of 2 hours each) Participants: Up to 15 Delivery Format: In-person Tone: Interactive and conversational Standards Aligned: CACREP and ASGW Assessment: Simple multiple-choice questions Cultural/Ethical Considerations: Understanding diverse cultural responses to trauma Visual Aids/Resources: Slides, handouts, relevant websites, and online videos
Agenda
Session 1: Foundations of Trauma and Group Work
- 0:00–0:15 — Welcome and introductions
- Icebreaker activity to build rapport
- 0:15–0:45 — Understanding trauma: Definitions and types
- Discussion on acute, chronic, and complex trauma
- Resource: SAMHSA's Concept of Trauma and Guidance for a Trauma-Informed Approach Phoenix Trauma Center+2SAMHSA Library+2SAMHSA Library+2
- 0:45–1:15 — Principles of trauma-informed care
- Exploring safety, trustworthiness, peer support, collaboration, empowerment, and cultural issues
- Resource: Trauma-Informed Care in Behavioral Health Services NCBI
- 1:15–1:45 — Group work fundamentals
- Stages of group development: Forming, storming, norming, performing, adjourning
- Resource: ASGW Best Practice Guidelines
- 1:45–2:00 — Q&A and reflection
- 2:00–2:30 — Recognizing trauma responses in group settings
- Identifying signs of trauma among group members
- Resource: National Child Traumatic Stress Network NCTSN
- 2:30–3:00 — Strategies for creating a safe group environment
- Establishing ground rules and promoting inclusivity
- Resource: Crisis and Trauma Resource Institute Crisis & Trauma Resource Institute+1Crisis & Trauma Resource Institute+1
- 3:00–3:30 — Facilitating trauma-informed group sessions
- Techniques for managing disclosures and emotional reactions
- Resource: SAMHSA's TIP 57: Trauma-Informed Care in Behavioral Health Services SAMHSA Library
- 3:30–4:00 — Role-play activity: Implementing trauma-informed techniques
- Participants practice facilitating a group session with trauma considerations
- 4:00–4:15 — Q&A and reflection
- 4:15–4:45 — Understanding cultural perspectives on trauma
- How different cultures perceive and respond to trauma
- Resource: Culturally-Sensitive Trauma-Informed Care Healthcare Toolbox+1Bridge to Balance Inc+1
- 4:45–5:15 — Addressing cultural biases and assumptions
- Self-assessment and group discussion
- Resource: Improving Cultural Competence Quick Guide for Clinicians SAMHSA Library+1SAMHSA Library+1
- 5:15–5:45 — Incorporating cultural humility into group work
- Strategies for being culturally responsive and respectful
- Resource: Trauma-Informed Care and Cultural Humility PMC+1Wikipedia+1
- 5:45–6:15 — Case study analysis: Cultural considerations in group scenarios
- Small group discussions on provided case studies
- 6:15–6:30 — Q&A and reflection
- 6:30–7:00 — Developing trauma-informed group facilitation skills
- Active listening, empathy, and managing group dynamics
- Resource: Trauma-Informed Care Training Modules Trauma Informed Oregon
- 7:00–7:30 — Implementing self-care strategies for counselors
- Recognizing and preventing secondary traumatic stress
- Resource: Secondary Traumatic Stress: A Fact Sheet for Child-Serving Professionals
- 7:30–8:00 — Assessment and feedback
- Multiple-choice quiz covering key concepts
- Group discussion on key takeaways and areas for further learning
Goals of the Training
- Integrate Trauma-Informed Counseling into Group Work
- Participants will learn to apply trauma-informed principles within group counseling settings to foster safety and trust among group members.
- Identify Trauma Indicators in Group Members
- Participants will develop the ability to recognize signs and symptoms of trauma in individuals within a group context, enhancing their responsiveness and support strategies.
- Develop Practical Trauma-Informed Facilitation Skills
- Participants will acquire and demonstrate a set of practical skills tailored to effectively facilitate group sessions that are sensitive to the needs of trauma-affected individuals.
Instructional Methods
- Lectures and Presentations
- Utilize slides and handouts to convey foundational knowledge.
- Group Discussions
- Encourage sharing of experiences and collaborative learning.
- Role-Playing
- Simulate group scenarios to practice trauma-informed techniques.
- Case Studies
- Analyze real-world situations to apply cultural considerations.
- Interactive Activities
- Engage in exercises that promote self-awareness and skill-building.