Certification in War Trauma

A traumatic event is a shocking, scary, or dangerous experience that affects you emotionally. During war, people can be exposed to many different traumatic events. That raises the chances of developing mental health problems—like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression—and poorer life outcomes as adults.

According to the National Center for PTSD during war, military Servicemembers are exposed to a number of potentially traumatic events. In addition to life threatening combat situations, Servicemembers may witness injury and death, be involved in serious motor vehicle accidents, or may handle human remains. Research has shown a strong link between level of combat stress and PTSD.

According the WarRelatedIllness 5% of men and 10% of women will experience PTSD at some point in their life. In contrast, 30% of Vietnam Veterans, 10% of Gulf War Veterans, and 15% of Operation Enduring Freedom/Operation Iraqi Freedom Veterans have been diagnosed with PTSD.

Certification in War Trauma is based on an applicant's knowledge, experience, education and training related to war trauma and its impact on social, emotional, behavioral and cognitive functioning. The Certification in War Trauma falls under the Academy's Certification Programs in Traumatic Stress Specialities. Resumes should include relevant information regarding the applicant's knowledge, experience, education and training and supporting documentation should be included with each application.