About this course
This course equips Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) and caregivers with the knowledge and practical skills to recognize, understand, and support individuals experiencing PTSD across diverse populations. Learners will explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and support strategies for PTSD, with special attention to trauma-informed care and the unique needs of children, teens, elderly, and people with developmental or intellectual disabilities.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
- Define PTSD and distinguish it from normal trauma responses
- Identify common causes and risk factors for developing PTSD
- Recognize the main symptom categories of PTSD and how they present across different age groups and abilities
- Understand the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for PTSD
- Describe the impact of PTSD on mental, physical, and social health
- Explain current evidence-based treatment options and self-help strategies for PTSD
- Apply trauma-informed care principles when supporting individuals with PTSD