About this course
This course synthesizes empirical evidence from multiple studies on mental health disparities among American Indian communities, focusing on historical trauma, contemporary adversity, and their clinical implications. It provides clinicians with a multilevel, culturally embedded framework guiding assessment, diagnosis, formulation, treatment planning, and ethical practice tailored to American Indian populations. The course includes detailed discussion of trauma mechanisms, psychological and physiological pathways, community context, cultural connection, and suicide risk assessment, illustrated with case vignettes and evidence-based, culturally responsive practice recommendations.
Who this course is for
Licensed Psychologists
Graduate-Level Clinicians
Mental Health Professionals
Clinical Social Workers
Counselors
Program objectives
- Describe 4 key components of historical trauma and its psychological impact in American Indian communities
- Identify 3 multilevel risk and protective factors influencing mental health outcomes in American Indian populations
- Assess historical loss and contemporary trauma exposures using validated instruments appropriate for American Indian clients
- Develop integrated, culturally responsive clinical formulations and treatment plans that include individual, family, community, and historical factors