Trauma Impacts

A systems-oriented look at how unhealed trauma can prevent optimal functioning—and what to do about it

Trauma Impacts: Repercussions of Individual and Collective Trauma explores the many ways that traumatic experiences affect people from diverse backgrounds, as individuals and in groups. In chapters contributed by experts in their fields, this book offers a systemic overview of how trauma impacts all humans, then delves into the manifestations of trauma in specific populations like BIPOC communities, neurodivergent children, and those in helping professions. The book's third and final section looks at emerging modalities for working with trauma and implications for the future of trauma-focused therapy.

Ideal for anyone who works closely with individuals who have experienced trauma—therapists, educators, social workers, and beyond—Trauma Impacts will benefit from a thorough understanding on how trauma continues to influence lives, even long after the fact. Trauma can interfere with meeting basic needs, forming healthy relationships, and finding fulfillment in the pursuit of individual and collective goals. When we conceptualize these impacts, we become empowered to help people process their traumatic experiences, integrate the pain they have experienced, and lead more satisfying lives.

• Understand the intersectional effects of trauma on individuals and systems
• Discover hope for healing through real-world voices and current research
• Consider how collective trauma manifests in the lives of individuals
• Gain insights that can help you work more effectively with clients

Jessica Stone, PhD, RPT-S, is a licensed psychologist working in a private practice setting. She has been a practitioner, professor, presenter, mentor, and author for more than 30 years. Dr. Stone’s interest in therapeutic digital tools, specifically using virtual reality, tablets, and consoles, has culminated in clinical mental health use and research for mental health, medical, and crisis settings. She is the co-creator of the Virtual Sandtray App for iPad (VSA) and the Virtual Sandtray for Virtual Reality (VSA-VR). Dr. Stone is the past Chief Psychology Officer for AscendantVR, is a member of various boards, and serves as an affiliate of the East Carolina University College of Education Neurocognition Science Laboratory.

Robert Jason Grant, EdD, RPT-S, is the creator of AutPlay®Therapy. He is a therapist, supervisor, and consultant and utilizes several years of advanced training and his own lived neurodivergent experience to provide affirming services to children and their families. He is an international trainer and keynote presenter and multi-published author of several articles and books. He is currently serving on the board of directors for the Association for Play Therapy.

Clair Mellenthin, LCSW, RPT-S, is a renowned clinical supervisor, international speaker, and acclaimed play therapist. As the author of best-selling book Attachment Centered Play Therapy, she brings unparalleled expertise to the field. With a wealth of experience as a play therapist and professor, Clair has significantly impacted the lives of numerous children and families. Recognized for her contributions, she is a sought-after expert in media, frequently sharing insights on children and family issues at both local and national levels. Clair’s commitment to advancing the understanding and practice of play therapy has positioned her as an influential figure, shaping contemporary therapeutic approaches for children and leaving an enduring mark on the field.