This course is designed to help students not only learn about what trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress are, but specifically how they impact one's everyday functioning. We will explore the biological/biochemical, psychological, and social impacts of trauma on the body, brain, and mind. Finally, we will look at ways to effectively treat traumatic stress, many of which are rooted in natural means.
By the end of the course, the participants will be able to: 1) describe at least two theoretical approaches to trauma; 2) employ at least two trauma-related techniques in treatment; 3) explain how approaches differ when applied to the physiological changes that occur within trauma; 4) demonstrate a technique for applying interventions to trauma specific events; 5) compare the differences between the DSM-V and previous DSM manuals; and 5) have the opportunity to practice at least one technique by the end of the course.
Dr. Damon Silas, Psy.D., CH is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist as well as a Consulting Hypnotist. He is the co-founder of Tipping Point Wellness, a holistic mind-body health and wellness company designed to remix the way we look at and approach overall wellbeing. He has extensive and diverse experience, ranging from working with children and adolescents on the autistic spectrum and those with emotional disturbances, to working with the military population. Dr. Silas specializes in loss, grief, trauma and PTSD. While working with the PTSD and Traumatic Brain Injury initiative through the military, Dr. Silas discovered Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT, or “tapping”), and has since become an EFT practitioner. He recognizes its effectiveness in helping people recover not only through their trauma, but any other life experiences. Stressing the link and interplay between mind, body and spirit is critical in his work. He especially likes working with adolescents through adults, men, professionals, as well as minorities or those in marginalized groups. Dr. Silas has written a book entitled From Mourning To Knight: Overcoming Loss chronicling the losses he has experienced in his life, how he has worked through these losses, and how he has helped his patients through their own struggles and difficulties. He also has a follow-up eBook entitled What's Your ACTION Plan? 6 Powerful Ways To Get Unstuck in Your Life Now!, which details six ways to help those who feel stuck in their lives in taking their next steps forward. He received his BS from Howard University, and obtained his Doctoral degree from The George Washington University. He completed his internship at the Children's Psychiatric Center in Miami, FL.
