AOTA

Instructors:

Sharon M. McCloskey, EdD, MBA, OT/L, CTP

Fairfield University

Fairfield, CT

Meghan Suman, OTD, OTR/L, BCP, SCSS

School Based Practitioner

Credit:   .1 AOTA CEU (1 contact hour; 1.25 NBCOT PDU)

Description:

The word trauma comes from the Greek word for wounding--trauma is therefore a type of wound.

However, trauma is not an event itself, but rather a response to one or more overwhelmingly stressful events where the ability to cope is dramatically undermined.  Each person’s response is unique and independent of those around them; a traumatic event for one individual may or may not prompt a trauma response in another person, even if the experiences seem similar. Trauma and its impact may go unnoticed for a time, even by the individual experiencing it.

There is a growing awareness of the prevalence and impact of childhood trauma. National and state data estimates that one in four of all children at school have been exposed to overwhelming experiences, adversities, and/or trauma which can lead to a cascade of social, emotional, and academic difficulties.

The purpose of this course is to familiarize you with the typical response to trauma in the brain, and sequelae of experiences and behaviors that can occur when the thinking brain is deactivated, and the emotion brain takes the lead in response to future perceived threats. Also discussed is the need to address trauma through the inclusion of trauma-informed approaches within the school and school system.

Learning Objectives:

Following this course, the learner will be able to…

• Examine trauma in a broad and inclusive way
• Identify how the brain and body respond to stress and trauma
• Recognize the effects of trauma on students, staff, and schools

• Discuss trauma as it pertains to daily work as a school occupational therapist 

Audience:  Occupational Therapy Practitioners

Level of Difficulty:  Intermediate