Understanding Generational Trauma

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Breaking the Chains of Generational Trauma

You may have heard the term trauma-informed in recent years, and while it’s become a buzzword in education, social work, and ministry, its impact is anything but surface-level.

For me, it’s not just a framework, it’s personal.

As a mom raising two boys who came to me through adoption, both carrying the invisible weight of early trauma, I’ve seen firsthand how deep those wounds can run, not just in individuals, but through families and generations. That experience sent me on a journey of learning, prayer, and eventually, coaching and advocacy rooted in healing.

Trauma-informed care is based on research like the ACEs study (Adverse Childhood Experiences), which revealed how childhood trauma affects brain development, physical health, and emotional well-being over a lifetime. But beyond the science, what I’ve come to believe is this: healing is holy work. And generational trauma passed through families and even embedded in systems is something we’re called to confront with compassion, courage, and faith.

Generational trauma can come from abuse, neglect, addiction, poverty, systemic racism, and so many other painful legacies. Left unaddressed, it shapes how we parent, how we relate, how we view ourselves and others. But with awareness, tools, and grace, we can begin to break those chains for ourselves and for the generations that follow.

This work isn’t easy. But you don’t have to do it alone.
You can listen to more of my story on the podcasts below, or reach out if you’re looking for…

You’re not broken. You’re not too far gone. There’s always a way forward, and I’d be honored to walk with you.

A personal story about trauma-informed care below

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