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Understanding Trauma

Learn about the impact of trauma and how it may affect you or someone you know.

About the seminar

Confused by symptoms of trauma? Worried about someone who has experienced trauma? This two-hour seminar provides an overview of different types of trauma and how it can affect people. Dr. Shona Adams, a Registered Psychologist working in SFU’s Health and Counselling Services (HCS), will help you understand these symptoms and equip you with some basic self-help strategies. She will also give you information about how to access further support.

To be accessible, this seminar is available in person at the Surrey campus or through Zoom.

Pre-recorded seminar - Available anytime

Please click the link below to enrol in the Canvas course and access resources and information about the Understanding Trauma seminar.

Watch the seminar

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In-person seminar (also available via Zoom)

This is a two-hour practical and informative seminar for anyone interested in learning more about trauma. You can attend in person on campus or via Zoom.

What will I learn?

  • Learn about the wide range of trauma symptoms, including triggers, flashbacks, nightmares, different types of freeze responses, dissociation, and fawning (please and appease response).
  • Understand the symptoms of trauma and their adaptive functions.
  • Learn strategies to manage and respond to symptoms and help process trauma.
  • Get access to resources for those wanting further help or support.

During the seminar, there will be a Live Chat via Zoom, offering participants the opportunity to ask questions in real-time, discuss the content, and interact with the presenter. The Live Chat will be facilitated by HCS staff.

Please be aware that some of the content may be triggering. It’s important to take care of yourself, so feel free to pause or lower the volume if needed. Additionally, consider planning something enjoyable or spending time with others afterward. Here are some 24/7 crisis lines you can contact for support:

  • The Canadian mental health crisis line at 9-8-8
  • The Vancouver crisis line at 604-872-3311
  • MySSP at 1-833-768-2188
  • The BC suicide line at 1-800-784-2433.

Register today

Summer 2026 Schedule

Tuesday, July 28 | 1:30 - 3:30 PM

*Room location and Zoom link will be provided upon registration.

About the facilitator

Dr. Shona Adams

Licensed Psychologist
#1014804

Shona is a Licensed Psychologist who trained as a Clinical Psychologist in Oxford, U.K.. She is a dual citizen who immigrated to Canada when she was 10 years old, previously living in South Africa, Thailand and Malaysia. She predominantly uses a Human Givens and a CBT approach and is a specialist in treating traumas and complex mental health disorders. She uses a strength-based solution-focused model, working collaboratively to help people understand their difficulties and learn different strategies to interact with them. She is humbly aware of her white privilege and is passionate with facilitating people to reach their full potential within a caring and empowering environment.

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