About the Course

Research indicates that many individuals coping with mental illnesses and disorders have experienced past traumas (48%-98%), and a significant number suffer from post-traumatic symptoms (26%-40%), which can impact rehabilitation and recovery processes (Mueser et al., 2004; 1998). Nevertheless, studies also demonstrate that post-traumatic growth, fostering meaning in life, and enhancing coping abilities are all achievable processes in mental health, alongside the potential for recovery (Mazor, Gelkopf, Roe, 2018; Mazor, Gelkopf, Roe & Mueser, 2016). These processes are influenced by diverse factors related to the individual, their environment, and the rehabilitation professional, as well as the trauma-sensitive rehabilitation practices they facilitate and promote. The individual's capacity to define themselves beyond their mental health challenges and to recognize their growth through various means, in addition to their recovery, forms the core foundation of this course.

The course will focus on various aspects related to mental health and potential encounters with trauma-related phenomena, including coping with symptoms of mental illness alongside stress and crisis, processes of searching for meaning, coping styles, and growth. Additionally, there will be an emphasis on the connection between theory and practice, an introduction to trauma-informed work models and tools adapted for rehabilitation, and unique rehabilitation processes. Special attention will be given to sexual trauma, the rehabilitation-treatment continuum, and lived experience.

The course is based on case studies from the students' field experience, their analysis, active class discussion, practice, and finally, a workshop-style guidance process at the end of each day.

Course Objectives:

• Students will be able to identify, connect, and highlight trauma theories and their relevance to rehabilitation and recovery processes within the community. 
• Students will be able to explain, identify, assess, and implement trauma-sensitive processes in mental health rehabilitation, utilizing evidence-based tools commonly used in community rehabilitation (e.g., rehabilitation programs, etc.).
• Students will be able to describe, explain, and examine the treatment-rehabilitation continuum in mental health. They will be able to detail and articulate the connection between theoretical learning and experiential knowledge, and its application in their field of work (for example: how to work effectively by referring to expert treatment providers while maintaining a rehabilitation continuum).

Course Structure:

The course includes 12 sessions, each lasting 6 academic hours, with a guidance workshop held in two groups during the last two hours.

Participants:

The course is designed for up to 30 professionals and individuals with experiential knowledge from various disciplines: social workers, psychologists, occupational therapists, art therapists, psychotherapists, etc., who work in community rehabilitation settings.

Course Requirements:

• Mandatory attendance in 90% of classes.
• Active participation in lessons, discussions, the training group, and classroom exercises
• Submission of a final assignment.

Admission Requirements

• A professional working for at least six months in a rehabilitation framework, in any of the areas within the community mental health rehabilitation system
• The number of participants in the course is limited, so register soon.