Healing Young Hearts: Toni Bankston on Trauma and Mind-Body Medicine
We've got to really look a little deeper at what's going on with our kids and what they've been exposed to, and understand that prevention really is key and that when we're looking at a child- and if adverse experiences are pretty common- and they are, that's what the research tells us- then we need to really do more work that is actually trauma-focused versus just focusing on symptoms.
Imagine growing up surrounded by violence and trauma. How does that shape a child’s mind and body? In this episode of 'Whole Body Mental Health Radio', Dr. Jose Calderon-Abbo sits down with Toni Bankston, LCSW, BACS, to explore this very question. Toni, the Clinical Director of the Baton Rouge Children's Advocacy Center, has dedicated her career to developing trauma-focused programs for children affected by violent crime.
With over 27 years of experience as a child and family therapist, Toni offers a wealth of knowledge on how trauma impacts young minds and the innovative ways mind-body medicine can aid in their healing journey. The conversation dives into the neuroscience behind trauma and its behavioral effects, making complex concepts accessible and relevant. Toni emphasizes the importance of educating both clients and families about trauma, shedding light on the ripple effects it has on communities.
The episode also touches on the cultural challenges of implementing mind-body practices and underscores the significance of preventative measures. By the end, listeners gain a profound understanding of how adverse childhood experiences can lead to health issues in adulthood and the vital role of mind-body medicine in mitigating these effects. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of mental health, trauma, and holistic healing.