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Post-Qualifying Diploma in Trauma

A unique combination of theory, trauma informed skills practice sessions, and personal development.

Based on the framework of Judith Herman’s 3-phase trauma model, and with a keen focus on, and integration of neurobiology, attachment theory and dissociation, the postgraduate trauma diploma course seeks to equip qualified practitioners to expand their knowledge with the intent to provide effective and appropriate clinical interventions in their practice.

Venue:

The Willows Centre, Willows Counselling & Training, Swindon SN1 3LQ

Delivery format:

Face to Face

Course fees:

£2650

Course Information

The Diploma in Trauma Counselling is recognised as an Advanced Specialist training course (Level 6 Equivalent) by The National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS).

The course approach combines theoretical study, practical skills training, self-awareness and personal development work.

This course has been designed to equip counsellors to recognise, assess and work with trauma more effectively in their clinical practice, including single, complex and developmental trauma, and the effect of attachment injury. Students will be taught a range of trauma theory and associated skills based on Herman's Three Phase Trauma Model. The course will provide opportunities to learn and develop skills using an integrative model of trauma, including working somatically and with dissociation.

Additional themes covered in the course will be; somatic work and neurobiology, attachment theory, flashbacks, dissociation, symptom reduction, shame, diversity, risk, rupture & repair, supervision, resilience and self-care.

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What the course involves

  • Attending the training session each month
  • Maintaining a reflective journal of progress and self- awareness
  • Attending two tutorials with a personal tutor
  • Completing a range of assignments including a case study and a
    viva presentation.
  • Reading the books from the required reading list
  • Completion of a portfolio of written work
  • Completion of a minimum of 30 hrs of supervised clinical
    practice with trauma clients
  • Completion of 20 hours of trauma informed personal
    counselling / psychotherapy

Entry Requirements

This course is for qualified Counsellors / Psychotherapists who are looking to enhance their knowledge and clinical application in the field of trauma.

  • Prior completion of a recognised Level 4 Counselling
  • Diploma course or higher - with a min 420 guided learning hours (GLH)
  • Currently be in clinical practice
  • Member of a professional body
  • Full completion of the course application form (available on request)
  • Write a pre-course essay on your clinical experience and your motivation for applying for this course. (1500 words)
  • You will be invited to attend a pre course interview

It is recommended that applicants have established themselves clinical practice and gained post qualification experience before embarking on this training.

Dates

The course is delivered on 2 consecutive days per month over 11 months.

Dates – 11th September 2026 – 17th July 2027 

Day & Time - Friday, 11:00am - 6:00pm

Saturday, 9:30am - 5:00pm.

Application Pack

The course leaflet, letter to prospective students and application form can be downloaded below.  Please send completed applications via email to training-coordinator@willowscounselling.org.uk.

Course Leaflet Letter to Prospective Students Post-Qualifying Diploma in Trauma Application Form

Hear from past students

The trauma course without doubt has been the most significant part of my learning journey so far. From both a personal and professional perspective, my learning has been has felt considerably enriched as a result of the 12 months spent studying with Willows.

Previous Student

The content of the course was both fascinating and stretching (in equal measures sometimes!)

Previous Student

The tutors were fantastic, they were so generous in sharing their experiences and experiencing and it was clear from the first weekend that we were in safe hands for this journey.

Previous Student

I joined the trauma course as I was looking to become more competent with working with trauma, having had no training around this subject in my level 5. The course has helped me change as a person, and as a counsellor. I not only feel competent, but I also have the passion to take this further.

Previous Student

This course is absolutely brilliant!

Previous Student

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