New Trauma Minor at ETSU Department of Counseling and Human Service, by Dr. Audrey Besch

In fall of 2021, the Department of Counseling and Human Service began offering a minor in trauma and resilience at East Tennessee State University. The minor gives students a theoretical and practical understanding of trauma and its treatment. Students study the impact of trauma on an individual, their family system, as well as the societal impact of adversity. The program consists of six courses and compliments a diversity of fields i.e., Human Services, Psychology, Counseling, Education, Social Work, Nursing, Criminal Justice, Sociology, Military Science, and Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies. The trauma and resilience minor is designed to prepare students for entry level careers or graduate studies in work with traumatized populations. 

While students study the impacts of trauma and significant stress, emphasis is placed on important determinants of resilience. Any student who is interested in learning about trauma and resilience science is encouraged to take our entry level course on interpersonal trauma informed skills. This course introduces students to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), how to manage interpersonal conflict, and how to develop interpersonal collaboration skills. 

The minor is available 100% online and options for on-ground or online synchronous are also available. Presently, there are 54 students enrolled in the program from various majors across ETSU’s campus. As we enter the second semester of offering the minor, we are looking into creating trauma focused field experience opportunities within the community and possibilities for continued growth. For anyone interested in learning more or if you have any questions, you may contact the advisor for the minor, Audrey Besch at bescha@etsu.edu.