For your final assignment, you will compose a systemic case conceptualization using the trauma-informed approach and a systemic MFT theory of your choice. Introduce the case by providing relevant information and background about the individual(s) or family. Discuss the case identifying foundational theoretical assumptions, ideas, and expectations for short-term and long-term outcomes. You will identify and develop goals for treatment based on these theoretical aspects, coping skills, resources for trauma survivors, support groups, and ethical practices. You will also incorporate one local resource in your own community you have identified that supports trauma survivors. If you are unable to locate a local resource, then locate one available online and incorporate this resource into the assignment. Be sure to describe ethical, legal, and safety considerations and how they are addressed within your conceptualization of the case. Include diversity considerations, as well.
Length: 12-15 pages, without title page and reference pages
References: Include a minimum of 5 scholarly resources.
Your plan should demonstrate thoughtful consideration of the ideas and concepts presented in the course and provide new thoughts and insights relating directly to this topic. Your response should reflect scholarly writing and current APA standards.
Systemic Trauma-Informed Theoretical Conceptualization
Throughout this course, you have explored the key influencers in how you have come to understand trauma such as historical trauma theorists Jean-Martin Charcot, Pierre Janet, Joseph Wolpe, Sigmund Freud, Bessel Van der Kolk, Peter Levine, and their contributions to Trauma-Informed Care such as Somatic Experiencing, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Traumatic Stress, and other psychological traumas (Van der Kolk, 2014). You have reflected upon your own biases and assumptions about trauma and identified tips and strategies for self-care in order to avoid burnout, secondary trauma, or compassion fatigue (Lum, 2002).
You have also focused on the Trauma-Informed Care (TIC) approach and theoretical applications of what it means to demonstrate a trauma-informed stance in addition to how the TIC framework fits with Family Therapy and specific models like Solution-Focused Brief Therapy and Bowen Family Systems Theory. When developing a treatment plan, some theorists like Dr. Van der Kolk (2014) explore the usefulness of mindfulness, meditation, and yoga in the relief of trauma symptoms combined with other treatment modalities. For example, you have an understanding of how the discovery of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) was significant in alleviating the distress that is associated with traumatic memories (Van der Kolk, 2014). This treatment modality can be used in conjunction with a TIC approach and Family Therapy approach to experience relief from disturbing memories (Van der Kolk, 2014). The integration of theoretical and clinical applications you have reviewed throughout this course will be instrumental in your creation of a systemic trauma-informed treatment plan.
Be sure to review this week’s resources carefully. You are expected to apply the information from these resources when you prepare your assignments.
References
Lum, W. (2002). The use of self of the therapist. Contemporary Family Therapy: An International Journal 24, 181-197.
Van der Kolk, B. A. (2014). The body keeps the score: Brain, mind, and body in the healing of trauma. New York, NY: Viking Penguin.
Download
————————————————————————————————————————————————-
Fraser, B., McKay, L, & Pease, L. (2010). Interview with Michael Kerr. Australian and New Zealand Journal of Family Therapy, 31(1), 100-109.
Link
Klinic Community Mental Health Centre. (2013). The trauma-informed toolkit. Retrieved from Klinic Community Mental Health Centre website.
Link
Krause, D. J., Green, S. A., Koury, S. P., & Hales, T. W. (2017). Solution- Focused Trauma-Informed Care (SF-TIC): An integration of models…
Link
Papero, D.V. (2005) Bowen systems theory. In F. M. Dattillo & L. J. Bevilacqua (Eds.), Relationship dysfunction: A practitioner’s guide…
Link
Papero, D.V. (2017) Trauma and the family: A systems-oriented approach. Australian and New Zealand Journal of Family Therapy, 38, 582–594.
Link
SAMHSA. (2014, July). SAMHSA’s concept of trauma and guidance for a trauma-informed approach. Retrieved from Substance Abuse and Mental Health…
Link
SAMHSA. (2014). TIP 57: Trauma-informed care in behavioral health services. Retrieved from Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Association…
Link
SFBT Treatment Manual
PDF document
Sweeney, A., & Taggart, D. (2018). (Mis)understanding trauma-informed approaches in mental health. Journal of Mental Health, 27(5), 383–387.
Link
The Bowen Center for the Study of the Family. (n.d.)
Link
The body keeps the score: Brain, mind, and body in the healing of trauma.
External Learning Tool
