Track 1: Overcoming Trauma and Adversity

ComplexTrauma.org: a curated repository of information and resources on complex trauma for consumers and professionals. This comprehensive website was developed by the Foundation Trust to benefit anyone affected by complex trauma, directly or indirectly, and everyone who cares about them.

Among other featured topics, resources include discussions of complex trauma as it pertains to:

• Youth
• Race
• Trauma-informed Residential Services
• Schools
• Treatment and Intervention Models

A November 30, 2022 event at the Greater Boston Stage Company featured 2022 Foundation Trust Emerging Artist Stephanie Couchell, as she highlighted a journey from trauma to recovery though ten unique looks. Take a virtual tour of the show here:

Thanks to a grant from the Foundation Trust, the Medford Public Library has a specially furnished counseling room that can be reserved for use by community providers.

“The counseling room at the Medford Library provides a unique opportunity for community providers to meet their clients ‘where they are’ in a private, accessible space," explained Foundation Trust Executive Director Dr. Joseph Spinazzola. "Our hope is that this dedicated room will provide a welcoming and healing respite, and we are grateful to the Medford Public Library for integrating the idea into their beautiful new space.”

Those interested in reserving the Spinazzola Family Counseling Room can do so by calling (781) 395-7950 or visiting the Information Desk at the Medford Public Library, located at 111 High Street in Medford.

A discussion with Nancy M. Nealious, Psy.D. about racial trauma and its reverberating impact on both individuals and communities. Presented as part of the 2022 Foundation Trust Speaker Series in partnership with the Melrose Human Rights Commission. View video of the event below.

The Foundation Trust’s Training and Resource Development Associate, Kaitlyn Marie Wilson, offers a thought-provoking reflection on the impact of the emergence of her biracial identity in the workplace.

• A Simple Statement about a Complex Thing: The Emergence of My Biracial Identity in the Workplace

Coping with the Added Burden of the Pandemic During the Holidays, December 2, 2020

Current events can trigger complicated and painful responses for adults and youth, particularly for those with prior experiences of trauma or life adversity. Given the ongoing nature of the pandemic into the holiday season, individuals and families may be feeling cumulative distress: lost time with loved ones and disrupted routines and annual traditions. In this recorded webinar, we discuss strategies for sustained coping during the holiday season, with a focus on how to build and maintain a sense of safety and connection during uncertain times. Presented as part of the Foundation Trust Speaker Series

These resources, developed by trauma experts Drs. Jana Pressley and Joseph Spinazzola, clarify how past complex trauma is relevant to current events and suggest several strategies to cope with the stressors of the COVID-19 pandemic.

ADULTS

• English version: Coping Strategies for Complex Trauma Survivors Contending with the COVID-19 Pandemic
• Versión en español: Estrategias de Afrontamiento Para Sobrevivientes de Trauma Complejo Luchando Contra la Pademia de Coronavirus (COVID-19)
• Version en français: Stratégies d’adaptation destinées aux survivants d’un traumatisme complexe qui doivent faire face à la pandémie de la maladie à coronavirus (COVID 19)

YOUTH

• English version: COVID-19 Pandemic Coping Strategies for Youth with a History of Complex Trauma
• Versión en español: Pandemia de Coronavirus (COVID-19) Estrategias se Afrontamiento Para Jovenes con un Historial de Trauma Complejo
• Version en français: Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandémie Stratégies d’adaptation pour les jeunes avec une histoire de traumatisme complexe