The career of a trauma therapist is very similar to that of a psychologist or counselor, with unique and unusual rewards. Trauma therapy is an exciting and rewarding field that is critically linked to psychology.
What Does a Trauma Therapist Do?
Trauma therapists work with clients that have recently experienced trauma. Some of the common issues that trauma therapists deal with include the following:
Many people undergoing trauma find their symptoms and feelings so distressing that they must turn to substances to help numb their emotions and feel better. These crutches can easily become a habit. Still others begin taking unnecessary risks and engaging in activities that are considered “high-risk.” These may include engaging in reckless behavior that may result in a personal accident.
Trauma therapists focus on the specific symptoms that their client is having. They have appropriate training in identifying post-traumatic stress symptoms. Trauma therapists may engage in a specific plan of action to relieve symptoms of trauma. Therapy may be shorter than therapy for other types of disorders.
Where Does a Trauma Therapist Work?
The work environment for most trauma therapists vary. Some will work in healthcare facilities, many in hospitals, others in outpatient clinics or rehabilitation centers. Trauma therapists may have their own specialty practice as well.
What are the Requirements to Become a Trauma Therapist?
Education
Most trauma therapists will need to acquire abachelor degreeminimum to work in the field, with specialization courses in psychology and related fields. Most will go on to receive advance training, which will include amaster degreein their field of specialty.
Some work environments including hospitals or other healthcare facilities may not hire an individual without a master degree, and a minimum of two years’ experience in the field. A master degree as a trauma therapist may require an internship and practicum as well, to provide hands on training in the field.
Licensure
Each state has specific requirements for the education and licensure of mental health professionals. You will be required to complete a graduate degree program, pass a licensing test and complete a supervised practicum or internship. Most states require between 2,000 to 3,000 hours of supervised experience working as a counselor.
Skills and Qualities
To be successful in the field, trauma therapists must have characteristics, skill sets and personality traits that engage trauma therapists, helping each to work well in an emergency-type environment. Some of the more common characteristics of trauma therapists include the following:
Trauma therapists may also do well and excel in their field when they have the ability to work with patients or clients that have undergone much stress and pressure. Thus, the ability to work in stressful environments, and remain calm without interfering with one’s work ability will help the trauma therapist excel in his or her field.
