Children and adolescents
Study complex trauma and prepare to apply Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with children, adolescents and caregivers.
Evidence Based Trauma Treatment
Trauma-informed clinical practice
Move evidence-based trauma treatment from training to practice.
The Evidence-Based Trauma Treatment Certificate prepares Clinical Practice students to work with trauma survivors through focused coursework, model-specific training, consultation and a specialized field placement.
Eligible studentsClinical Practice only
CourseworkTwo electives, four credits
Minimum grade3.0
Practice pathways
Choose a population focus and a treatment model.
Relationship violence and sexual assault
Prepare to support adolescent and adult survivors through Cognitive Processing Therapy and related trauma-responsive practice.
Application timing: Students may apply upon admission to the MSW program. Information sessions are held in early fall and applications typically close at the end of September. Full-time Advanced Standing students are encouraged to use the early application opportunity.
Program components
Build competence through a sequenced training experience.
- 01
Core Concepts in Trauma
Complete the foundational elective during spring, summer or early fall before the final field experience.
- 02
Treatment Applications in Trauma
Complete the advanced treatment elective. Together, the two electives total four credits.
- 03
Model-specific training
Complete a two- or three-day training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or Cognitive Processing Therapy.
- 04
Specialized field placement
Complete an approved trauma-focused placement and participate in consultation and certificate seminars.
Field planning: Placement availability varies. Identify certificate interest on the field application so coordinators can assess options early.
Certificate contact
Cheryl Williams-Hecksel, LMSW · will1534@msu.edu
Faculty and trainers
Learn with experienced trauma practitioners.
Field partners
Practice in specialized community settings.
Partner sites have included child advocacy centers, community mental health agencies, schools, family service organizations and survivor support programs across Michigan. Examples include CARE House of Oakland County, HAVEN, La Casa, Small Talk Children’s Advocacy Center, MSU Center for Survivors and Voices for Children.
Program history
A decade of trauma education and field innovation.
The certificate began as a 2010 pilot through the National Center for Social Work Trauma Education with support connected to SAMHSA and the National Child Traumatic Stress Network. More than 150 students participated during its first ten years. The program expanded in 2018 and continues to integrate the NCTSN Core Curriculum, field seminars and training in TF-CBT and CPT.
Is the certificate optional?
Yes. It is an optional focused experience within the Clinical Practice concentration.
Does it provide formal TF-CBT or CPT certification?
No. It provides foundational training and supervised practice; it does not itself confer model certification.
Can it be combined with another certificate?
Sometimes. Combinations with Child Welfare or Chance at Childhood may be possible, but placement requirements must be approved and non-Advanced Standing students may need two placements.
Will it appear on the transcript or diploma?
No. It is an internal School of Social Work certificate.