Module 3

Trauma Psychobiology

Module 3

Trauma Psychobiology

“Traumatized people chronically feel unsafe inside their bodies: The past is alive in the form of gnawing interior discomfort. Their bodies are constantly bombarded by visceral warning signs, and, in an attempt to control these processes, they often become expert at ignoring their gut feelings and in numbing awareness of what is played out inside. They learn to hide from themselves.”

–van der Kolk (2014, p. 97)

Module Description

We will begin this module by focusing on trauma, especially complex trauma, and important competencies and knowledge required for a trauma lens to psychedelic therapy and psychedelic-assisted therapy.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the course, you will be able to:

  1. Incorporate an understanding of the autonomic nervous system as it applies to trauma case conceptualization and the delivery of care.

  2. Differentiate between PTSD and other types of trauma.

  3. Describe and apply trauma-specific skills.

  4. Identify the framework and spectrum of structural dissociation from primary to tertiary.

  5. Explain polyvagal theory and self-regulation as they relate to trauma.

  6. Differentiate between trauma therapy and other types of therapy.

References

van der Kolk, B. (2014). The body keeps the score: brain, mind, and body in the healing of trauma. Viking.