Course Professional Diploma in Trauma-Informed Counselling & Intervention

The Professional Diploma in Trauma-Informed Counselling & Intervention is designed for practitioners who wish to deepen their understanding of psychological trauma and develop compassionate, practical skills for supporting survivors. The course provides a solid foundation in the neuroscience and psychology of trauma, including how overwhelming experiences affect the brain, body, emotions, relationships, and sense of self over time.

You will explore different types of trauma, such as single-incident events, complex and developmental trauma, attachment-related difficulties, and intergenerational trauma. Particular attention is given to how trauma may present in everyday settings, including anxiety, depression, dissociation, self-harm, substance use, relational difficulties, and physical health complaints. Throughout, you will be encouraged to view behaviour through a trauma-informed lens: asking “what happened?” rather than “what is wrong?”.

The programme emphasises safety, stabilisation, and empowerment. You will learn practical techniques for grounding, emotional regulation, and building resources, as well as principles for pacing, boundaries, and managing triggers. The course also introduces key therapeutic approaches used in trauma work, such as person-centred, cognitive-behavioural, somatic, and relational perspectives, helping you understand where your role begins and ends and when to refer on.

Teaching methods typically include lectures, experiential exercises, reflective practice, skills training, and case discussion. You will be supported to apply learning to your own context, whether that is counselling, social care, education, youth work, health, community or voluntary services.

This diploma is suitable for those already working in helping roles who wish to work more safely and effectively with people impacted by trauma. By the end of the course, you will have increased confidence in recognising trauma responses, responding in a grounded and attuned way, and contributing to trauma-informed environments and services. You will also be encouraged to prioritise self-care and vicarious trauma awareness, supporting your own wellbeing as you support others.