The University of Indianapolis (UIndy) has introduced a new Behavioral Health Trauma Certificate aimed at mental health professionals who wish to specialize in trauma counseling. This certificate is unique in Indiana, marking the first program of its kind at the state’s universities.
Program Overview
The Behavioral Health Trauma Certificate is designed for professionals in the mental health field, offering specialized training in trauma counseling. The program consists of three courses, each worth three credits, for a total of nine credit hours. The courses are:
- Trauma Counseling
- Resilience and Growth in Marginalized Communities
- Adverse Childhood Experiences and Trauma
These courses can be taken in any order, and each class is offered once per year. The first two courses are in-person, with the first course starting in January and the second in May. The third course is fully online and asynchronous, completing the certificate after a student finishes the first two courses. This structure allows for a comprehensive understanding of trauma counseling over the span of several months.
A Response to Growing Community Needs
Rachel Feldwisch, psychologist and Associate Dean of UIndy’s College of Education and Behavioral Science, emphasized the increasing need for mental health professionals in Indiana. “Hoosiers are experiencing higher rates of trauma-related symptoms than ever. Communities need mental health providers trained to address both individual and societal trauma,” she said. The program is designed to meet the state’s urgent demand for mental health care, with a special focus on trauma-informed counseling techniques.
Admission Requirements and Program Benefits
To enroll, applicants need a bachelor’s degree and must have completed at least one master’s level course in professional counseling, psychotherapy, or clinical social work. UIndy officials noted the significant shortage of mental health clinicians in Indiana, citing a recent survey in which 56% of residents reported unmet mental health care needs. This new certificate program is intended to help bridge that gap by training qualified professionals to address a wide range of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and trauma-related disorders.
The certificate also offers an opportunity for students like Andrea Garcia Estrada, a current UIndy student, who shared that the trauma-informed training can have a profound impact on helping children and teens who have experienced abuse or other forms of trauma.
Cultural Relevance and International Impact
The program also attracted students from diverse backgrounds, such as Mohamad Almakky, an international student from Saudi Arabia, who expressed the importance of gaining expertise in trauma counseling to help break the stigma around mental health in his home country. This global perspective adds valuable insight into the broader societal impact of trauma and mental health care.
Application and Financial Aid
The application deadline for the spring term is December 5. In addition, UIndy is offering a one-time opportunity for community members to apply for a grant that covers the full tuition for the program, with priority given to individuals from historically underserved backgrounds through a partnership with the Indianapolis Urban League.
Conclusion
The University of Indianapolis’ new Behavioral Health Trauma Certificate is poised to address the growing need for skilled mental health professionals who are equipped to handle trauma-related challenges in both individual and community contexts. With specialized training and an emphasis on culturally competent care, the program is set to make a significant impact in Indiana and beyond, supporting mental health professionals in their mission to help those affected by trauma.
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