Meet the expert: Dr Talya Greene

The UCL Faculty of Brain Sciences has introduced a new postgraduate course  ‘Psychology and Trauma’. This online programme, taught by leading academics from Anna Freud and the UCL Division of Psychology and Languages Sciences, explores the psychological impact of trauma through the latest research and applied practice.  Students can study full or part-time, at PG Certificate, PG Diploma or Master’s level and specialise in either Adult or Child and Adolescent routes.

We spoke to the co-course director for the Adult route, Dr Talya Greene, to discover more about what the course has to offer.

What inspired you to go into psychology, specialising in stress?

I always wanted a job that could make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Growing up, I reflected on the lasting impact of trauma and loss, particularly through the experiences of my grandparents who were refugees. This sparked my interesting in understanding how individuals and communities recover from adversity. Much of my research has focused on identifying those most at risk of developing mental health difficulties after traumatic events and exploring the mechanisms that contribute to resilience and recovery.

How does trauma impact the mental health of adults?

Experiencing trauma can have a profound and lasting effect on mental health. Common early responses to trauma exposure include difficulties with sleep and negative mood and thoughts. Whilst many people recover with support from family and friends, a significant minority develop mental health conditions such as post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression or anxiety. The severity of the impact depends on factors such as the nature of the trauma, previous traumatic experiences, and available support systems. These disorders can be very debilitating and distressing and have a detrimental impact on people’s functioning. Identifying those in need of additional support is crucial to ensuring timely intervention and care.

What are some common symptoms that adults might experience after trauma?

After experiencing trauma, adults might feel constantly on edge, have intrusive repetitive thoughts about the event, struggle with sleep, or experience low mood and negative thinking. Many also try to avoid reminders of the trauma. While these can be normal reactions, persistent distress that interferes with daily life might indicate a mental health condition. Additionally, some individuals may turn to alcohol or substances as a way of coping.

What inspired the creation of this MSc Psychology and Trauma (Adult) programme?

Given the widespread exposure to traumatic events across the globe, we recognised the urgent need for a programme that equips students with the skills to understand how trauma can impact individuals, and what can be done to support them. Our aim was to provide a high-quality, research-informed education for students in the UK and internationally, preparing them to support individuals, organisations, and communities affected by trauma. The programme integrates the latest research on trauma recovery and intervention. There is a great deal of trauma-related expertise at UCL, and we feel very privileged to have the opportunity to share this knowledge.

One of the key features of this MSc is that it is fully remote, allowing students from all over the world to access the course without the need to relocate. This flexibility means that students can engage with most of the learning at times that suit their personal and professional commitments. Additionally, the online format fosters a diverse and global learning community, enabling students to connect with peers from different cultural and professional backgrounds. This international perspective enriches discussions and deepens understanding of trauma’s impact across various global contexts.

Can you describe the modules that students will cover on this course and how the course integrates current research and developments in the field of trauma psychology?

The programme provides an evidence-based understanding of how trauma impacts mental health and wellbeing throughout adulthood. Taught by world-leading experts at UCL and with guest lecturers from the UK and across the globe, students will engage with cutting-edge research and practical applications of trauma psychology.

In the first term, students take a foundational module introducing key theories and models in trauma studies. The module explores the impact of trauma throughout the lifespan, considering cognitive, systemic, psychoanalytic, and neuroscience perspectives. Students will examine how trauma and adversity shape mental health, with an emphasis on risk, resilience, and cultural contexts. During the first term students will also take modules that examine how trauma affects individuals within societal and systemic contexts, and explore how trauma-informed care is implemented across healthcare, social care, and other settings.

In the second term, students will take a module that focuses on how trauma intersects with mental health problems, including psychosis, depression and anxiety. Another module explores the impact of trauma on physical health and wellbeing. Students will also study a core module about evidence-based therapeutic approaches for PTSD and trauma-related problems in adults. Finally, they will take a module focusing on research methods and skills, preparing them for their dissertation.

In the final term, students will complete a systematic review dissertation, critically evaluating research on a trauma-related topic of their choice. This allows them to develop strong research skills and contribute to the growing body of knowledge in the field.

What career opportunities are there for graduates of the Psychology and Trauma postgraduate programme?

Graduates of the MSc Psychology and Trauma (Adult) route at UCL will be well-prepared for careers in mental health, social care, public health, and non-governmental and humanitarian organisations, as well as corporate environments that are increasingly adopting trauma-informed policies.  

Opportunities exist in trauma-informed policy development, advocacy, and research, where graduates can influence practice at systemic levels. The programme’s strong emphasis on communication and cross-cultural awareness makes it particularly valuable for those working in global or diverse community settings.

Students can choose to study at MSc, PGDip or PGCert level depending on their professional goals. While this programme does not provide clinical training, it offers a strong foundation for those interested in further qualifications in psychotherapy, psychology, or counselling. Additionally, the MSc serves as an excellent stepping stone for those considering a PhD in psychology, mental health, or trauma-related fields.

Related

• Studying Psychology and Trauma
• Dr Talya Greene’s academic profile

Biography

Dr Talya Greene specialises in the mental health consequences of exposure to traumatic events, combining psychological and public health expertise. Her work has provided important insights into the prevention and treatment of PTSD following mass trauma. She has extensive experience advising community groups, faith leaders, health and social care workers and policy makers on trauma-informed practice, mental health, and moral injury.