Mental Health KC Presents…
Mental Health KC Presents is a series of free webinars intended to extend the education and training provided by the Mental Health KC Conference.
The views and opinions presented are those of the speaker and do not necessarily represent the views and opinions of Metro Council.
Mental health professionals: Join us for the live webinar in order to receive a one-hour certificate of attendance. Certificates will not be offered for watching replays.
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Title: Post-Trauma Exposure and Psychosis: Linkages and Current Trends
Presenter: Dr. Terri Cooley-Bennett
Thursday September 24, 2026 from 12-1pm Central Time (US and Canada)
Abstract/description: There is growing research that confirms linkages between trauma
exposure and the prevalence of psychosis. Researchers have described this relationship as “complex and multifaceted.” Several theories and investigative studies propose to explain the correlation. Typically, trauma begins during childhood and escalates into psychosis. In one study of four thousand children, 83.8% of children with psychotic symptoms had trauma histories compared to 62.6% of children who did not have psychotic symptoms. In addition, if the trauma experience was before the age of seventeen, the child was 2.91 times more likely to experience psychosis by the age of eighteen.
Researchers conclude that linkages between the two are evident. Individuals with recurring trauma or more devastating trauma are prone to have more severe symptoms. One author proposes that psychosis can be classified as part of the complex post-trauma experience.
There are recurring themes in how individuals experience psychosis following distinct types of traumas. It is important to understand these themes and their connection to trauma. Recognizing the prevalence of psychosis in those with trauma histories is essential to inform best practices for treatment and to give effective care.
This workshop will provide a summary of the current research which validates the connectedness between trauma and psychosis.
Learning objectives:
Summarize the DSM-5-TR Diagnostic Criteria for Schizophrenia Spectrum, Other Psychotic Disorders, and Trauma-and Stressor-Related Disorders, as well as examine common disorders in which psychosis may be present.
Explain the linkage between psychosis and trauma, and common themes, based on the growing research.
At the conclusion of this session, the attendee will be able to recognize signs of psychosis in clients with trauma histories, to inform and enhance treatment strategies.
Zoom Registration for this webinar:
REGISTER HERE »
Dr. Terri Cooley-Bennett holds a Doctor of Social Work (DSW) degree from Tulane University’s School of Social Work. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Missouri and Kansas and serves as a clinical supervisor. Dr. CooleyBennett is a trained National Association of Social Workers (NASW) Ethics Consultant and currently serves as Chairperson of the NASW Missouri Chapter Ethics Committee.
With more than 20 years of experience in education and professional speaking, she has also served as a Teaching Fellow at Tulane University’s School of Social Work. Her clinical and professional work has focused on supporting vulnerable populations, including individuals impacted by trauma, poverty, homelessness, mental illness, racial disparities, substance use disorders, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Dr. CooleyBennett is an Adult Outpatient Therapist at Swope Health, where she has worked for over 11 years in various roles. She is also an Adjunct Professor at City Vision University, where she teaches in the Addictions Counseling Program.
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Mental Health KC (Metro Council) hosts free educational webinars the 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month.
Would you like to be a presenter? We take webinar proposals on a rolling basis throughout the year.
These webinars are a great way to spread information or share research that helps educate either the general public or clinicians/therapists/social workers/others in mental health fields.
