In my last blog I commented on the concept of resilience and some of the issues about it based on my own observations that were beautifully validated in What Happened to You? Conversations on Trauma, Resilience and Healing by Dr. Bruce Perry and Opera Winfrey. I shared how Dr. Perry explained what is behind this […]

In recent years we have seen a rise in promoting the idea that we need to focus on resilience when we talk about trauma. As someone who has battled the many symptoms of unresolved trauma, this has not set well with me because it often can induce a kind of guilt: by now should I […]

We know that students have had a great deal of stress and consequences due to the pandemic that has engulfed our nation. Truly this pandemic has been unprecedented in the impact to our school environments. One issue that often escapes us is the mental health consequences that are so prevalent among teachers. They too have […]

I was questioned recently about the idea that if all the staff in an organization were trauma-informed and knowledgeable, would that change the organizational culture?  I quickly answered, “not if the staff is not safe!” Time and time again I have spoken with professionals who have worked with trauma-impacted individuals. In our discussions they have […]

There were many inspirational moments at the 4th Annual Philadelphia Trauma Conference this past weekend sponsored by Thomas Jefferson University. We learned some great ideas for understanding trauma and helping those heal who have been trauma-impacted. Part of the most recognized aspects of healing trauma are the power of relationships and the importance of the […]

One of the most amazing gifts we all receive as human beings is our ability to experience and grow in our relationships. It is through our relationships that we learn, grow, and become able to experience love and a sense of connection with others. Without our relationships we would die, even if we were still […]

I have been deeply moved by a documentary entitled The Wisdom of Trauma by world-renowned author and speaker Dr. Gabor Maté that was briefly available for free online. In it he offered viewers opportunities to appreciate the depth of pain, loss and desperation that are hallmark symptoms of trauma. His compassion was especially moving towards […]

Many people assume a person overwhelmed by unresolved trauma would welcome opportunities to heal that trauma. Here’s some surprising news that can also explain why it can be challenging to deal with someone who is experiencing the many difficult symptoms of PTSD but is resistant to doing what is needed to help them heal and […]

It is more than alarming to view the news and see how many adults and children are being shot every day in America. Just this evening I saw that 20 individuals, some teenagers were shot in Philadelphia in one weekend. We also just heard of the 6 individuals who were shot at a birthday party […]