Professional Diploma in Traumatology: Advanced PTSD & Trauma Studies in Ireland

Traumatology is the advanced study of psychological trauma — its origins, mechanisms, presentations, and treatment. For counsellors and psychotherapists who already hold a foundation in trauma-informed practice, the Professional Diploma in Traumatology at ICPS College offers a deeper, more rigorous engagement with the field. This course explores the science of trauma, the complexity of post-traumatic presentations, and the evolving evidence base for trauma-focused therapeutic approaches.

Delivered live online over ten weeks, the Traumatology diploma is designed for practitioners who wish to develop expert-level knowledge of PTSD, complex trauma, and the broader landscape of traumatology as a clinical and academic discipline.

What the Professional Diploma in Traumatology Covers

Ten structured modules explore:

• Advanced trauma neuroscience: polyvagal theory, window of tolerance, and nervous system regulation

• Differential diagnosis: PTSD, complex PTSD, dissociative disorders, and related conditions

• Historical and theoretical development of traumatology as a discipline

• Mass trauma, collective trauma, and intergenerational transmission of trauma

• Moral injury and occupational trauma in professional contexts

• Advanced case formulation for complex and chronic trauma presentations

• Comparative analysis of trauma treatment modalities and their clinical application

• Resilience, post-traumatic growth, and recovery-oriented frameworks

• Research methods in traumatology and the current evidence base

• Supervision, self-care, and the ethics of advanced trauma practice

Who Is This Course For?

• Experienced counsellors and psychotherapists seeking advanced trauma CPD

• Mental health professionals with an existing interest in PTSD and complex trauma

• Clinical supervisors and educators who support practitioners in trauma work

• Researchers and academics with a professional interest in traumatology

• Practitioners seeking to develop specialist expertise in trauma studies

Participants should have some prior engagement with trauma-informed practice, though a specific prior qualification is not required to enrol.

Delivery Format and Duration

Delivered live online via Zoom over ten weeks, with one session per week. Teaching is in real time from specialist lecturers, supported by advanced reading and reflective tasks between sessions. On successful completion, participants receive 60 CPD credits.

Accreditation and CPD Credits

Accredited by the Professional Development Consortium and the CPD Standards Office, this course provides 60 CPD credits and a Professional Diploma in Traumatology. Credits are suitable for submission to IACP, IAHIP, BACP, and other professional bodies.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does this differ from the Professional Diploma in Trauma & PTSD?

The Trauma & PTSD diploma provides a comprehensive foundation in trauma counselling practice. The Traumatology diploma takes a more advanced, research-informed perspective, exploring trauma science, differential diagnosis, and the evolving evidence base in greater depth. Many practitioners complete both courses to build a comprehensive specialist profile.

Is prior experience in trauma work required?

Some prior engagement with trauma-informed practice is beneficial, though not formally required. The course is most valuable for practitioners who already have a working understanding of trauma and wish to advance their expertise significantly.

Can I claim CPD credits with my professional body?

Yes. The course is accredited and provides 60 CPD credits. Participants should confirm recognition requirements with their own professional association, as requirements vary between bodies.

Enrol in the Professional Diploma in Traumatology

View full course details and enrolment information on the Professional Diploma in Traumatology course page. You may also be interested in the Professional Diploma in Trauma & PTSD, Professional Diploma in Complex Trauma, and Integrative EMDR course. For enquiries, visit the ICPS College contact page.