Last reviewed March 9, 2024
Written by Alyssa Roberts
Alyssa Roberts
MA in Counseling and Psychological Services, BS in Psychology.

Trauma Counseling Degree Programs

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University Program Admissions
Maryville University Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
The online BA in Psychology from Maryville University will prepare you with a strong foundation in the theoretical frameworks of modern psychology. No SAT or ACT scores required.
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Methodist University Online Bachelor of Science in Psychology
Gain the skills for diagnosis, clinical interview procedures, behavior analysis, and more.
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Butler University Online Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling
Cover topics like fundamental counseling theory, trauma and crisis response, and psychopharmacology. No GRE Required.
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Prepare to Become a Trauma Counselor

People that have experienced trauma can have significant symptoms of trauma. Symptoms of depression, anxiety, or grief are common. Those who have experienced trauma often need support from professionals. Trauma counselors have trained experience to help support those who have experienced trauma.

There a number of psychology programs to choose from in both the online and traditional setting. You will want to find the degree that best suits your goals. In addition, be sure to check your state for specific licensure requirements to practice as a trauma counselor.

Who Should Pursue a Degree in Trauma Counseling?

With a Trauma Counseling degree, you can work with people to heal from traumatic events. This type of psychology degree includes identifying traumatic events, finding methods of acceptance for their past experiences, and developing healthy coping mechanisms that can be beneficial for future health. Trauma counselors work with individuals of all ages and backgrounds. Trauma counselors help identify traumatic events, process trauma, and find healing in trauma. Professionals within this setting provide healing for individuals who have experienced trauma.

Trauma Counseling Degree Programs

Each of these options can allow you to explore the field of Trauma Counseling from an intuitive perspective, which allows for further learning and understanding along the way.

There are different options towards earning a Trauma Counseling degree. Earning a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and later specializing in Trauma is a common route. It is often required for Trauma Counselors to obtain a master's degree. Some professionals choose to initially pursue a general Masters in Counseling program and pursue certification later, while others located Masters in Counseling Psychology programs with focus in Trauma Counseling from the beginning. You may have a plan in mind that can set you on track for success. Regardless of which route you choose, you should gain the same level of experience within both areas along the way.

Bachelors in Counseling

Bachelor's degree programs in counseling are ideal for new students interested in learning the foundation of psychology. In these undergraduate programs, students can expect to learn about the history of psychology. Foundations of psychology are also discussed during program coursework. General education courses are also required through Trauma Counseling Bachelor's programs.

Master's Degree in Trauma Counseling

At the masters-level, students can choose to pursue a general Master's in Counseling. Students can also choose a more specific Master's in Trauma Counseling program. The Master's in Counseling program includes a wide range of coursework in psychology. Trauma Counseling programs focus on coursework specific to trauma. Trauma Counseling and Counseling programs both prepare students to become Trauma Counselors. Students can also take part in supervised internships as part of their masters program specific to their interests.

PhD/Doctorate in Trauma Counseling

Students that desire more education in counseling may find Ph.D. or Doctoral programs in Counseling more attractive. The Ph.D. program is for students interested in changing Trauma Counseling from a research or educational perspective, while the Doctorate in Trauma Counseling may focus primarily on the practical aspects of counseling services within the specialization.

Certification Programs in Trauma Counseling

If you already have a degree in Counseling or Psychology, certificate programs are available. Trauma Counseling certificate programs extend one's capabilities as a professional in this field. Courses within these programs focus on trauma and its interference with mental well-being. Certificate programs are shorter in duration than degree programs. They can also add more expertise to your professional resume.

Trauma Counseling certification programs typically require students to have a Master's Degree. These programs are often 1-2 years, and about 12 to 15 semester credits. Many programs offer an online format. Students have the flexibility to choose part-time or full-time student status.

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University Program Admissions
University of West Alabama Online Psychology and Counseling Degrees
Multiple programs: Bachelors in Psychology, Master's in Experimental Psychology (Clinical, Healht & Sports Psych), Family Counseling, Guidance and Counseling, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and more.
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Maryville University Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
The online BA in Psychology from Maryville University will prepare you with a strong foundation in the theoretical frameworks of modern psychology. No SAT or ACT scores required.
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Pepperdine University Online Master of Psychology
Choose your path at Pepperdine: pursue licensure as either an LMFT or LPC and serve diverse clients with our online master’s in clinical psychology.
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Methodist University Online Bachelor of Science in Psychology
Gain the skills for diagnosis, clinical interview procedures, behavior analysis, and more.
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University of Texas Permian Basin Online BA in Psychology
Program provides a broad foundation of psychological science knowledge and emphasizes vital written communication and research skills that can inform and assist you in helping professions.
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Specialized Courses in Trauma Studies

Degree programs for Trauma Counseling contain elements of counseling, as well as trauma courses. Students learn about the impact trauma can have on the human body. Trauma Counseling coursework consists of many specialized courses. A few examples of specialized courses are listed below.

Trauma counselors work with those who have experienced any traumatic event. Specialized knowledge is important for trauma counselors to provide effective support. Specialized knowledge helps provide treatment to individuals struggling with the effects of trauma.

Accreditation to Look Out For

Accreditation in Trauma Counseling programs is important. Many state licensure requirements include obtaining a counseling degree from an accredited program. One of the largest accreditation organizations is CACREP. Council for the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) provides accreditation to many programs. You can search for program accreditation on their website BLS.

Scholarships for Trauma Counseling Degrees2

There are scholarships available for students who are apart of a Trauma Counseling program. Scholarships are available at the Bachelor’s, Master’s, and doctoral level. The American Psychological Association (APA) offers scholarship options for students. You can find those options here BLS.

There are more options from top organizations including The American Psychological Foundation (APF). You can find more scholarship details, and the link to apply here BLS.

Earning Potential of a Trauma Counselor

Trauma Counselors assist people when they are in vulnerable positions. This meaningful career can influence the quality of life for the individuals seeking support. It is also important to learn about earning potential within Trauma Counseling.

Earnings for Trauma Counselors depend on many factors. Factors such as location, setting, and experience may impact earning potential. The information provided below was gathered from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This information is representative of real counselors currently working throughout the United States.

Career Outlook for Trauma Counselors

Professionals learn more about the effects of trauma on mental and emotional development. The effects of trauma impact all ages, and research is progressing each year on trauma and the human body. This knowledge can help shape how Trauma Counselors engage in their everyday work. The need for Trauma Counselors is an ongoing need. The growth rate for Counseling and Mental Health is 23%, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics BLS.

In the future, you may see an increase in demand for professionals in this field. More people acknowledge their own traumas and search for relevant supports. Trauma Counselors are integrated into fields that influence personal development. Fields such as medical settings and educational facilities seek out Trauma Counselors.

Trauma Counselor’s Working Environment

Trauma Counseling may be rewarding for students interested in making a profound difference. The work performed in the field can be life-changing for people seeking mental health support. Responsibilities of Trauma Counselors may look different depending on location and position. The end result of each position is often similar if not the same.

Trauma Counselors help clients identify traumatic events. These events have often shaped their thinking, responses, and emotions. Acceptance and healing are two important goals that are often worked on during trauma counseling. A wide range of techniques are used to achieve this goal. Students in Trauma Counseling programs learn theories and techniques specialized for trauma therapy.

Counselors within this degree specialization can work in many settings. Social service agencies, retirement homes, schools, medical facilities, and non-profit organizations are included. Specific groups can be sought out by Trauma Counselors as well. If you are interested in working with a specific group, it may be helpful to research if your group of interest is looking for Trauma Counselors.

Skills and Attributes Preferred in Trauma Counselors

Working with clients that have experienced trauma may require a unique set of skills. Working with survivors of trauma can be challenging. You may want to ensure that you ready to manage the challenges and emotions that come with trauma work.

We’ve listed some of the well-known characteristics of Trauma Counselors. These can be beneficial for those interested in being a part of this field. See if any of these traits are similar to how you would describe yourself.

Steps to Becoming Licensed in Trauma Counseling

Licensing in Trauma Counseling can be a long and time consuming process. Each state has their own expectations for counseling licensure. It is important to review what your state requires before making educational decisions. The steps to achieve your license contain little room for modification.

The degree level required for licensing in counseling is a Master’s degree. Listed below are some of the most common steps for getting licensed in Trauma Counseling. You may want to think about accreditation and experience requirements within each step. This may help you make the right decision about your path to success.

Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

Earning a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Counseling, or Trauma Counseling is important. This first step will provide students with a foundation for advanced degrees later on. A Bachelor’s degree is also required to earn a Master’s degree. This step not only educates students on the foundation of psychology, but provides a wide range of coursework.

Step 2: Earn a Master’s or Doctoral Degree

The Masters in Counseling is the general minimum standard for professionals interested in becoming licensed in their future. Whether its 2-3 years in a masters program or 3-5 in a doctoral program, you can use your degree to find meaningful careers in counseling after completion. There are plenty of doctoral programs that can also help you gain the skills necessary for success in the field, so the degree program you choose is really a matter of preference. You should be sure to check the accreditation status of your program since this is often required for licensure in each state.

Step 3: Take Part in Field Training

During and after your degree program, you can expect to take part in a supervised work experience requirement to help extend your capabilities as a professional Trauma Counselor. These requirements can also vary depending on which state you live in, with most states requiring 3,000 – 4,000 supervised hours under a licensed counselor. This can translate to around 2-3 years for most students.

Step 4: Successfully Pass the Exam

Before you apply for your license, you must receive proper certification. After applying for your certification, you can take the National Counselor Examination in order to test your abilities and knowledge in the field. When you pass this examination, you can move forward to apply for a counseling license in your state.

Step 5: Apply for Your License

Each state may have varying processes for becoming licensed. In general, you submit an application with proof of degree completion, supervised experience, and certifications to your state’s licensing office. Some states also implement a short and standard law examination prior to approving your for practice in their state.

Professional Organizations for Trauma Counselors

The American Counseling Association

Finding support as a new Trauma Counselor can be best achieved by joining professional agencies such as the American Counseling Association. This organization can be great for counselors interested in learning about advancements in their field, new technologies, and methods for success with diverse groups.

The American Mental Health Counselors Association

Mental health organizations could be an option for you to consider when working as a Trauma Counselor. The American Mental Health Counselors Association brings together Counseling professionals.  Counselors from diverse settings work together to coordinate new methods for working with people from all age groups, group activities to assist with networking, and partnerships for field advancement.

The National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC)

If you want to make sure that you are taking all of the right steps as a student in Trauma Counseling, you should seek out information from the NBCC. This credentialing agency sets the standard for upcoming counseling professionals interested in becoming licensed in the future.

Counseling Specialization

Many counselors focus their practice on a specific population or need. Below you will find details about different counseling specializations and degree programs within that specialization.

List of Programs

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University Level Program Admissions
Maryville University
Bachelor Bachelor of Arts in Psychology Website
Methodist University
Bachelor Online Bachelor of Science in Psychology Website
Butler University
Master Online Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling Website
Pepperdine University
Master Online Master's in Clinical Psychology Website
University of New Haven
Master Online Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling Website
Concordia University - Saint Paul
Bachelor M.A. in Human Services with an emphasis in Trauma, Resilience, and Self-Care Strategies Website
Our Lady of the Lake University
Master Master of Arts - Clinical Rehabilitation Counseling Website
Our Lady of the Lake University
Master Master of Arts - School Counseling Website
Our Lady of the Lake University
Master Master of Arts in Counseling Website
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