Trauma and Post Traumatic Growth Factors

District: Fresno

Presenter: Herman J. Barretto, LCSW, ACSW

About the presenter: Mr. Herman J. Barretto, LCSW, ACSW, obtained a MSW from California State University, Fresno in May 1992.  Herman’s thesis was entitled: “The Impact of Pre-Service, In-Service, and Post-Service Grief on the Vietnam Veteran and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder.”  

From 1981 to 1990, Herman served in the pastoral ministry, having attained a BA from St. John’s College and a M. Div. from St. John’s Theological Seminary, Camarillo, CA.  From January to December of 1991, Herman completed his internship for his MSW degree at the Fresno Vet Center.  Herman served at the Fresno Vet Center from May 1992 to February 2017 as a Readjustment Counselor for Combat Veterans.  In February 2017, Herman was appointed the Director of the Center. 

For several years, Herman assisted in presenting at the Advanced Practice Seminar on Trauma and Abuse offered by California State University, Fresno, to its MSW second year candidates.  Since the fall of 2005, Herman has taught the course with the same title.  Through the years, Herman has presented on the nature and impact of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder to several groups and organizations.  Herman remains committed to serving creation as a social worker.

Goals:

1. To appreciate the stages of trauma recovery – Victim, Survivor, Thriver.
   
2. To understand Post Traumatic Growth (PTG).
   
3. To appreciate the researched variables that foster the Thriver stage. 
   

The Objectives of the Course:

1. Participants will be able to articulate the stages that a traumatized individual experiences.
   
2. Participants will be able to articulate the seven main variables that enhance Post Traumatic Growth.
   
3. Participants will be able to appreciate the use of song and reflection in finding meaning to life’s challenges.
   

CEUs: 2.0 hours

CONTACT: Eleanor Speakes | espeakes41@gmail.com (Fresno District Coordinator)