Program Description
The Trauma Services Concentration, within the International Psychology Ph.D. program, provides students with the skills and understanding to assist individuals and organizations in developing prevention and preparedness training, in designing sustainable support services in the aftermath of traumatic events, and in facilitating culturally sensitive programs to address mental health issues related to traumatic experience in a variety of contexts.
The first Ph.D. in international psychology in the world, the program empowers students and faculty to assume leadership roles in international psychology initiatives. Students develop advanced research and program evaluation skills that are crucial to making a difference in how individuals and groups are impacted by global events, and that enable them to serve as consultants in a variety of international organizations and settings. Graduates are prepared to apply psychological principles in the development of policy, to assist individuals and organizations with working with diverse cultural populations and all levels of international organizations and functional systems, to and design and evaluate the efficacy of international programs.
Department
International Psychology
Concentrations
Licensure
Total Credits
60
Fieldwork Requirements
Two international field experiences with a focus on service learning, shadowing and cultural immersion experiences. o In Year 2, a 9-14 day immersion and service-learning trip to an international TCSPP- approved site. o In Year 3, a 3-8 week service-learning experience at an organization with an international focus or mission; may be tailored to a specific area of study.
Sample Courses
Self-Care Strategies in Humanitarian Efforts
Examines the self-care strategies and issues that inform the processes of maintaining one's psychological well-being while working in traumatic settings or on missions. Topics include a variety of self-care strategies, preparation strategies, aftermath strategies, and incorporating lessons learned for future missions.
Assessment of Psychosocial and Mental Health Reactions to Traumatic Stress
Focuses on the various methods used to conduct psychological mental health assessments. Topics include assessing physical and psychological stress, psychopathology, isolation, and physical and social functioning.
Mental Health Interventions
Examines the principle intervention strategies likely to be used in an international trauma setting. Topics include evidence-based systems, the effects of local context, coping strategies, and strategies for those with medically unexplained somatic pain.
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