A trauma-sensitive approach is a way of thinking and acting that recognizes the impact of trauma and aims to reduce the likelihood of re-traumatization. Trauma-sensitive approaches include recognizing the trauma, responding effectively, preventing re-traumatization, and considering the whole person. This course provides a framework for incorporating mindfulness into therapy in a trauma-sensitive way. Participants will explore the risks of mindfulness for those who have experienced trauma and learn how to adapt practices to ensure safety and emotional regulation.
Upon completion of this training, participants will be able to
- Recognize the risks of using mindfulness with clients who have experienced trauma.
- Explain the principles of trauma-sensitive mindfulness.
- Apply trauma-sensitive mindfulness techniques in therapeutic settings.
- Assess the safety and appropriateness of mindfulness practices for clients with trauma backgrounds.
Syllabus:
Objective #1: Understanding Mindfulness in Clinical Settings
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Definition and myths about mindfulness
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Uses in CBT, DBT, ACT, and other clinical frameworks
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Trauma-informed considerations for mindfulness implementation
Objective #2: How Trauma Affects Present-Moment Awareness
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Neurobiology of trauma and mindfulness
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Hyper- and hypo-arousal and the window of tolerance
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Common risks of misattuned mindfulness practices
Objective #3: Core Concepts of Trauma-Sensitive Mindfulness
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Foundations: Safety, Agency, Power Awareness, and Presence
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The 4 R’s (Realize, Recognize, Respond, Resist Re-traumatization)
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Therapeutic co-regulation and attunement
Objective #4: Clinical Adaptations and Interventions
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Pendulation, titration, orienting, and grounding
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Movement-based and nature-based mindfulness techniques
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Culturally responsive and inclusive mindfulness adaptations
Objective #5: Assessing Readiness and Ethical Considerations
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Trauma-sensitive readiness checklist and worksheet
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Contraindications for mindfulness (crisis, dissociation, psychosis)
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Ongoing consent, client safety plans, and scope of competence
Social workers completing this course receive 3 Clinical asynchronous continuing education credits.
For other board approvals, this course qualifies for 3 Clinical continuing education training.
Instructor: Kristin Whiting-Davis, LCSW-C
Recording Date: May 17, 2025
CEUS On-Demand, LLC, provider #2274, is approved as an ACE provider to offer social work continuing education by the Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) Approved Continuing Education (ACE) program. Regulatory boards are the final authority on courses accepted for continuing education credit. ACE provider approval period: 08/7/2026 - 08/6/2027. Social workers completing this course receive 3hrs Clinical continuing education credits.
CEUs On-Demand, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7091. Programs that do not qualify for NBCC credit are clearly identified. CEUs On-Demand, LLC is solely responsible for all aspects of the programs.
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Request for Special Accommodations: Learners can request special accommodations by contacting the administrative team at admin@ceus-ondemand.com