Institute for Trauma Treatment in Schools (ITTS)

ITTS will provide the opportunity for children in grades K-12 to receive trauma-informed care from school-based professionals and pre-service interns, since schools are where they spend most of their time away from home. In order to provide training to the widest audience possible, ITTS offers online evidence-informed training to MSW students (pre-service) through Simmons University, and to current practitioners (in-service) through AIP staff and consultants.

The in-service course is presented asynchronously in two parts; foundations and practical applications for professional practice. CEUs are available for each session, and a training certificate is awarded to those who complete each part of the course.

The project also provides training in several evidence-based treatments for childhood trauma, including Cognitive Behavioral Intervention for Trauma in Schools (CBITS) and Bounce Back for younger students, Supporting Transition Resilience of Newcomer Groups (STRONG) for newcomers, Trauma Systems Therapy, Core Concepts of Childhood Trauma, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Exposure for Trauma-Related Anxiety, and Professional Resilience and
Mindfulness. Recruitment strategies aim to reach school-based practitioners in rural and under-served communities with the goal of providing training to those who serve children who may not otherwise receive adequate care. Training of current school-based practitioners will be reinforced through professional support networks. To determine the effectiveness of ITTS training, participants complete skill-based knowledge tests, assessments of self-efficacy, standardized assessments, and satisfaction surveys. ITTS is funded through the Substance
Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) in collaboration with the National Child Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN).

AIP’s is a National Center for Trauma Care in Schools, as designated by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. Our partnership with the National Childhood Traumatic Stress Network (NCTSN) provides us with resources such as the NCTSN) Framework for a Trauma-Informed School.

AIP also has experience supporting school staff in developing mindfulness programs including our Mindful Moments Rooms. Schools that implement Mindful Moments Rooms receive training on developing students’ self-awareness and self-regulation skills.