University of Indianapolis launches first-of-its-kind program to address need for trauma-specialized mental health providers in Central Indiana

The University of Indianapolis is proud to announce the launch of a new Behavioral Health Trauma Certificate program—the first of its kind in Indiana—to help mental health providers be better prepared to counsel survivors of trauma. The certificate includes training for mental health professionals in areas like complex trauma, childhood trauma, racial trauma and methods for supporting marginalized communities and groups.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 1.1 million Hoosier adults have a mental health condition—that’s more than the population of Indianapolis. Nonprofit KFF found that nearly 1 in 3 Hoosier men and women had symptoms of anxiety and/or depression during a 13-day period last year.

“Hoosiers are experiencing higher rates of trauma-related symptoms than ever,” said Rachel Feldwisch, psychologist and associate dean of UIndy’s College of Education and Behavioral Science. “Communities need mental health providers trained to address both individual and societal trauma. The University of Indianapolis is proud to be leading the way in preparing those professionals.”

It’s not just adults with mental health needs. NAMI estimates 90,000 Indiana teens between the ages of 12 and 17 live with depression. Feldwisch, who has a PhD in Counseling Psychology, is also a licensed mental health counselor and a board-certified art therapist. 

“This training can make a huge difference in helping children and teens open up after they have been abused or experienced other trauma,” said Feldwisch. “If a parent is looking for help for a child who has experienced trauma, they can trust that graduates of this program will have the specialized training to address trauma symptoms both conscientiously and effectively. Far too often, trained social workers, counselors and psychologists don’t have the specialized training they need to treat trauma effectively.”

The new Behavioral Health Trauma Certificate consists of three classes of three credits each: Trauma Counseling, Resilience and Growth in Marginalized Communities, and Adverse Childhood Experiences and Trauma. Each class is offered once per year and can be taken in any sequence. For more information, visit: uindy.edu/traumacert.

The program is designed to certify both current Greyhound students as well as community members without any previous ties to the University of Indianapolis. To be considered for admission, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree with a minimum of one master’s level course in professional counseling, psychotherapy or clinical social work.

The deadline to apply for the spring term is Dec. 5. Any applicant who misses the deadline is encouraged to apply and begin the program in either the summer or fall term. There is also an additional one-time opportunity for community members to apply for a grant to fully cover their tuition costs through the Indianapolis Urban League, with priority given to people from historically underserved backgrounds.

“I am so excited to think about what this certification might mean for the community,” said Feldwisch. “With each passing year, the ranks of trauma-certified counselors will continue to grow—making it easier for families and adults to find someone to help in their time of need. Graduates will be equipped from day one as trauma specialists, ready to provide the care that so many people in our community urgently need.”