Pastor Deborah Schleich: Healing Through Faith and Trauma-Informed Care
Babies are born addicted to drugs in and from huh in the baby, whatever's in the mother's system. But what happened was the mothers wanted to sleep, so they'd give the baby some alcohol.
Ever wondered how faith and professional expertise can intertwine to aid in the recovery from childhood trauma? In this enlightening episode of 'Stop Child Abuse Now' (SCAN), Pastor Deborah Schleich shares her journey from a turbulent upbringing in a military family to becoming a beacon of hope and support for others. Growing up with a mentally ill mother, Pastor Deborah faced her own set of challenges, which she now uses to guide others through their healing processes.
Currently residing in Pensacola, Florida, she is not just a pastor but also a trained mental health professional and social worker, bringing a unique blend of spiritual and psychological insights to the table. Throughout the episode, Pastor Deborah answers listener questions and discusses the significance of trauma-informed care. She emphasizes that understanding the profound impact of trauma and responding with empathy is crucial for recovery.
Her approach includes recognizing that children dealing with abuse often face complex trauma with long-lasting effects on their mental and emotional well-being. The conversation also delves into the role of parents and caregivers in preventing child abuse. Pastor Deborah highlights the importance of teaching children about self-protection, promoting healthy boundaries, and being vigilant about signs of abuse.
She doesn’t shy away from discussing the influence of culture and religion, acknowledging that some institutions have historically covered up abuse or endorsed harmful practices. Challenging these norms is essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of children. Moreover, Pastor Deborah underscores the importance of self-care for survivors. She talks about setting boundaries, practicing mindfulness, and seeking support as vital steps in the healing journey.
She also advocates for societal changes, pushing for better education, resources, and policies to protect children and support survivors. This episode offers valuable insights into child abuse prevention, intervention, and recovery, blending personal experience with professional expertise. Tune in to hear Pastor Deborah's compelling story and gain a deeper understanding of trauma-informed care.