As a parent, I’ve faced the challenges of raising children who’ve experienced trauma firsthand. When my wife and I adopted our two children, we quickly realized that our instincts, though well-meaning, weren’t always what they needed to heal and thrive. This realization set me on a journey of discovery, leading to the creation of the PSR (Positive Safe Relationships) Approach—a framework that fosters healing, trust, and growth. This approach has not only helped our children but has also proven to be a valuable tool for parents everywhere, especially those supporting children through trauma.

For a deeper dive into my journey and insights on trauma-informed parenting, listen to my episode on Through the Trauma Podcast. In this insightful conversation, I discuss the challenges of adopting children who have experienced trauma, the importance of relationship-based parenting, and how trauma impacts a child’s brain and behavior. We explore key topics, including:

  • The emotional and behavioral effects of trauma on children.
  • Creating a safe and supportive environment to promote healing.
  • The influence of nutrition on children’s behavior and mental health.
  • Practical advice for parents dealing with rebellious behavior in the context of trauma.

Through this conversation, I share lessons learned from my own experiences and offer practical advice for parents navigating trauma with their children. We also emphasize the vital role of community support in helping children feel safe in schools, churches, and social settings, and the importance of effective co-parenting in a trauma-informed approach.