Training Programs at TREC DC

At the Trauma Resilience and Education Center of Greater Washington, D.C. (TREC DC), we are committed to advancing trauma-informed care through comprehensive training programs. Our offerings are designed for individuals at all stages of their careers, from undergraduate students to seasoned mental health professionals. Our programs emphasize evidence-based practices, cultural humility, and a social justice framework, ensuring that trainees are well-equipped to address the complexities of trauma in diverse populations.

Whether you are just beginning your journey in mental health care or seeking advanced training in trauma-focused interventions, TREC DC provides the resources, supervision, and professional development opportunities you need to excel.

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Trauma-Focused Postdoctoral Fellowship

Our one-year Trauma-Focused Postdoctoral Fellowship is an exceptional opportunity for recent graduates seeking to deepen their expertise in trauma-informed care. Fellows receive comprehensive training in evidence-based psychotherapies, such as Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), all within a cultural humility and social justice framework. Training in these therapies is subject to supervisor availability.

Program Highlights:

  • Flexible Start Dates: Begin your fellowship when it best suits your schedule.
  • Supervision: Accumulate supervision hours to become license-eligible in the state of their choosing within one year.
  • Didactic Training & Consultation: Participate in weekly consultations and specialized training sessions.
  • Telehealth Opportunities: Gain experience in telehealth and telework, a crucial skill in today’s mental health landscape.
  • Customized Experience: Tailor your fellowship experience to your professional interests, whether that’s leading support groups, engaging in community outreach, or developing training programs.

Application Process:

Strong candidates will have demonstrated interest and experience in working with trauma survivors, including proficiency in evidence-based therapies for PTSD. To apply, please submit your CV, cover letter, and two letters of reference.

Note: We are not currently accepting applications for the ’24-’25 training year. Please check back in Winter 2024 for application details for the following year.

Supervision

Our supervision program ensures that trainees gain the necessary hours for licensure in D.C. the state of their choosing, typically within one year. Supervision is provided through a mix of individual and group sessions, offering a well-rounded experience.

Client Referrals

We support trainees in building a diverse caseload, providing a broad spectrum of clinical experiences. This exposure helps trainees develop a strong foundation in trauma-informed care.

Professional Development & Mentorship
 

We guide trainees through the licensure process in D.C., Maryland, Virginia, and other jurisdictions. Our support extends to career planning, including assistance with creating a professional website, interview preparation, and networking with industry leaders.

Trauma-Specific Training

Our trauma-specific training programs cover a wide range of topics, including the latest evidence-based therapies, trauma-focused supervision techniques, and culturally responsive interventions. These sessions are tailored to meet the needs of both early-career and experienced professionals.

Logistical Support

TREC DC provides all trainees with access to comprehensive electronic medical records (Jane) and Microsoft 365 for seamless communication and record-keeping. We ensure that you have the tools necessary for effective and HIPAA-compliant practice management.

Culturally Humble Approach

Our training emphasizes the importance of cultural humility in trauma-informed care. We offer case consultations and didactic sessions that focus on empowering and affirming individual and cultural identities.

Customized Fellowship Experience

We aim to provide the best possible experience for each fellow. This includes flexible start dates, customizable work schedules, and opportunities to engage in various TREC DC activities, such as community outreach, group facilitation, and program development.

Trauma-Focused Externship

Our Trauma-Focused Externship is designed for students pursuing an advanced clinical degree (PhD or PsyD) who have completed at least two years of direct clinical experience. This externship provides hands-on training in trauma-focused therapy, with opportunities to co-lead groups and workshops.

Externship Features:

  • Individual therapy: Externs will carry a caseload of individual clients and receive supervision from a TREC DC staff member
  • Groups and Workshops: Create and/or co-lead groups or assist with preparation and delivery of community workshops (based on interest and availability)
  • Team Consultation & Training: Participate in weekly consultations and monthly training sessions.
  • Community Partnerships: Engage with social service organizations in the D.C. area to expand your practical experience.
  • Cultural Humility & Social Justice Framework: Train within a framework that emphasizes cultural humility and social justice in trauma care.
 

Application Process:

To apply, please send your cover letter, CV, and two letters of recommendation to admin@trecdcpsychotherapy.org.

Note: We are not currently accepting applications for the ’24-’25 externship. Please check back in Winter 2024 for details on applying for the next training year.

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Other Student Training Opportunities

TREC DC provides tailored training opportunities for students at all academic levels, from high school through graduate school. These opportunities include:

  • Clinical Interactions: Participate in phone screenings, clinical intakes, and team consultation meetings.
  • Research & Presentations: Engage in research presentations and community outreach initiatives.
  • Workshops & Mentorship: Lead workshops and receive mentorship on clinical career development.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Professional &
Community Trainings

TREC DC is dedicated to expanding trauma-informed care through professional and community training workshops. These trainings are designed to meet the needs of mental health professionals and community organizations:

  • Career Professionals: Workshops cover evidence-based trauma therapies, such as CPT, EMDR, and PE, as well as trauma-focused supervision and mindfulness practices.
  • Community Groups: We offer training on trauma-related topics, including typical responses to trauma, accessing mental health care, and self-care practices.

Interested in Training Opportunities?

Please contact us to discuss how our training programs can support your professional growth or enhance your community’s trauma-informed care practices.

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