Have you experienced some kind of freeze response, or dissociation, or shutdown, in response to trauma? These responses are part of your survival gear, “normal responses to abnormal situations.” Be glad that you survived the trauma.

Each of us has mental images of medical trauma. These images may include flashing lights, ambulances, and emergency rooms. But what does psychological trauma look like? The symptoms are diverse. Most are not visible. But psychological trauma can be just as life-changing as medical trauma. And like medical trauma, psychological trauma can heal.

There are dozens of evidence-based approaches, and a myriad of helpful resources, to guide parents in their all-important role of raising children. One classic approach is “Common Sense Parenting,” developed by Boys Town. Founded in 1917 by Father Edward Flanagan, Boys Town has transformed into a diverse, nonprofit organization whose mission statement is “Changing the way America cares for children and families.”

“EMDR is a powerful form of therapy that gives deep healing. For me it is a great privilege to assist in my clients’ natural healing process. I am often in awe as I witness the beautiful way in which my clients’ brains achieve healing, wholeness, and peace.”

“The most important thing to remember about your loved one who has dementia is that he or she has the same value, dignity, and worth as you and I do… In order to relate to your loved one, you may need to learn new skills… If you make the effort to relate to a person with dementia, you will be rewarded in unexpected ways.”

“Would you like a tool to help you understand yourself and others? I highly recommend the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI)… This tool is a way of appreciating your unique gifts, and the gifts of those around you.”

“We experience grief not only when a loved one dies, but also when we lose anything that is important to us, such as our health, a job, or a treasured relationship. If you are grieving, it would be my honor to share your journey with you. Grief is too hard a journey to travel alone.”

“Being a caregiver was the hardest job I ever did… Being a caregiver was the most fulfilling job I ever did… Being a caregiver led to my new career.”