Parent Resources BLog

There's a simple yet powerful tool that can transform your parent-child relationship—play. In this article, we explore the profound impact of dedicating just 5 minutes a day to play with your child and how this small investment can lead to significant changes in your connection and understanding. Quality over Quantity: In our busy lives, finding extended periods for play can be challenging. The beauty of dedicating 5 minutes a day is that it's manageable and achievable. The key is to make those 5 minutes count by being fully present and engaged. Quality interactions build trust and connection more effectively than the duration of time spent. A Window into Their World: Play provides a unique window into your child's world. Those 5 minutes allow you to step into their imagination, interests, and emotions. Whether it's playing with toys, drawing, or engaging in imaginative play, you gain insights into their thoughts and feelings, strengthening your understanding of who they are. Trust and Security: Consistent, short bursts of playtime create a sense of routine and predictability for your child. This routine fosters a feeling of security and trust, as your child knows they can count on this dedicated time with you. Trust is the foundation of any healthy relationship, and these 5 minutes contribute significantly to building that trust. Communication: Play is a universal language for children. By engaging in play, you open up channels of communication that might be challenging to access through conversation alone. Those 5 minutes become a space for your child to express themselves, share their joys and concerns, and feel heard. Improving Behavior: Play is not just about having fun; it's a powerful tool for behavior management. By dedicating focused playtime, you reinforce positive behaviors, teach social skills, and provide an opportunity for your child to learn and practice self-regulation. Emotional Intelligence: Play is a natural arena for emotional expression. Whether it's acting out scenarios, creating stories, or playing games, your child learns to navigate and express their emotions in a safe and supportive environment. These brief play sessions contribute to the development of your child's emotional intelligence. Lasting Memories: The simplicity of 5 minutes a day can lead to the creation of lasting memories. These shared moments become part of your child's childhood narrative, reinforcing the idea that they are loved, valued, and cherished. Such positive memories contribute to a strong sense of self-worth. In the grand scheme of things, 5 minutes may seem insignificant, but the consistency and intentionality of this small investment in play can lead to transformative changes in your parent-child relationship. It's not about the quantity of time spent but the quality of the connection forged during those precious minutes. Embrace the power of play, and watch as 5 minutes a day becomes the foundation for a lifetime of love, understanding, and shared joy between you and your child. Find a PCIT Therapist Near You

How PCIT Works Our primary goal with Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) is to improve your relationship with your child and address behavioral issues that stem from emotional dysregulation and limited communication skills. PCIT with families is designed to achieve specific and individualized goals that will benefit you through a lifetime. We work to help you create a more positive and nurturing family environment to enjoy for years to come. Specifically, PCIT works to: Enhance the Parent-Child Relationship: PCIT aims to strengthen the bond between parents and their children. By providing parents with the skills to engage in positive interactions and communication, the therapy fosters a secure attachment and emotional connection. Improve Communication Skills: PCIT focuses on enhancing communication between parents and children. Through guided play and interactions, parents learn effective communication techniques, such as using descriptive language, active listening, and expressing emotions in a constructive manner. Address Behavioral Issues: PCIT targets specific behavioral challenges exhibited by children. This may include issues such as defiance, aggression, tantrums, or other disruptive behaviors. The therapy equips parents with evidence-based strategies to manage and reduce these challenging behaviors. Teach Positive Parenting Techniques: The goal is to teach parents positive and effective parenting techniques. This includes using praise, reinforcement, and appropriate consequences to encourage desired behaviors while discouraging unwanted behaviors. PCIT emphasizes the importance of consistent and positive parenting practices. Promote Emotional Regulation: PCIT helps children develop emotional regulation skills by providing a supportive environment where they can express and manage their emotions appropriately. This is achieved through play therapy and coaching parents on how to respond to their child's emotional cues. Build Confidence in Parents: By providing live coaching and feedback during therapy sessions, PCIT aims to build parents' confidence in their parenting abilities. As parents become more proficient in applying the skills learned in therapy, they gain a sense of competence and empowerment. Facilitate Generalization of Skills: PCIT seeks to ensure that the skills learned in therapy are generalized to various settings, including home, school, and community. The goal is for parents to apply the techniques consistently in everyday life, promoting sustained positive interactions with their children. Create a Positive Family Environment: Ultimately, PCIT aims to create a positive and supportive family environment where both parents and children feel understood, valued, and connected. This contributes to the overall well-being of the family unit. Prevent Future Behavioral Issues: By addressing behavioral issues early on and equipping parents with effective parenting strategies, PCIT has the additional goal of preventing the escalation of behavioral problems in the future. This proactive approach can contribute to long-term positive outcomes for the child and the family. In summary, our goal is to empower you with the tools and skills necessary to build a strong, positive, and mutually satisfying relationship with your children, in an environment conducive to the child's emotional and behavioral well-being. Find a PCIT Therapist Near You

How PCIT Works Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) is an evidence-based therapeutic intervention designed to improve the parent-child relationship and address behavioral issues in children. It typically involves a structured, short-term treatment program that combines play therapy and behavioral therapy techniques. Here's an overview of how PCIT works: Assessment and Orientation: The first step in PCIT involves an initial assessment to understand the dynamics of the parent-child relationship and identify specific behavioral concerns. Parents also receive an orientation to the PCIT process, helping them understand the goals and structure of the therapy. Two Phases of PCIT: PCIT consists of two main phases, each targeting different aspects of the parent-child relationship. a. Child-Directed Interaction (CDI): The first phase focuses on enhancing the positive aspects of the parent-child relationship. Parents learn specific skills to engage in child-directed play, where the child takes the lead in choosing activities. The therapist observes and coaches parents in real-time, providing feedback on their interactions. b. Parent-Directed Interaction (PDI): In the second phase, parents are taught effective behavior management techniques. They learn how to set limits, use praise and consequences appropriately, and improve communication with their child. The therapist continues to provide live coaching during parent-child interactions to reinforce these skills. Use of In-Session Coaching: A unique feature of PCIT is the use of in-session coaching. Parents and children participate in play activities while the therapist observes through a one-way mirror or live video feed. The therapist provides real-time guidance, coaching parents on specific interaction techniques and reinforcing positive behaviors. Communication Enhancement: PCIT emphasizes improving communication between parents and children. Through play and guided interactions, parents learn to communicate effectively, use descriptive language, and express emotions in a constructive manner. This helps build a secure attachment and fosters a positive emotional environment. At Home Continuation: Parents are given specific ideas for how to practice the skills learned during therapy sessions at home. This is a great way to reinforce positive behaviors and integrate new communication techniques into everyday interactions. Gradual Transition to Independence: As parents become more proficient in using the skills taught in PCIT, the therapist gradually reduces the level of coaching. This transition allows parents to gain confidence in independently applying the strategies they have learned. Maintenance and Follow-Up: Once the primary goals of PCIT are achieved, families may engage in maintenance sessions to reinforce skills and address any new challenges that may arise. Follow-up sessions ensure continued support and monitor the long-term effectiveness of the intervention. Generalization of Skills: PCIT aims to help parents generalize the skills learned in therapy to various real-life situations. This includes applying effective communication and behavior management techniques in different settings, such as home, school, and community. Overall, PCIT works by empowering parents with the knowledge and skills needed to strengthen the parent-child relationship, improve communication, and address behavioral challenges, leading to long-term positive outcomes for both parents and children. Find a PCIT Therapist Near You

Parenting is a rewarding yet challenging journey, and sometimes, understanding how to connect with your child on a deeper level can be the key to fostering a healthy parent-child relationship. One effective approach that has gained popularity is Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), offered at Behavioral Health Services of Arkansas. In this blog post, we will delve into the significance of imitating your child's play and how it plays a crucial role in PCIT. Understanding Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT): PCIT is a evidence-based therapeutic intervention designed to enhance the parent-child relationship. It focuses on improving communication, reducing behavioral issu es, and building a secure attachment between parents and their children. One of the unique and impactful aspects of PCIT is the emphasis on imitating your child's play. The Importance of Imitating Play: Building Connection: Imitating your child's play allows you to enter their world, creating a sense of connection and understanding. It communicates to your child that you value and respect their choices, fostering a stronger bond between you. Enhancing Communication: Children often express themselves through play. By imitating their play, you open a channel for communication without the need for words. This can be especially beneficial for children who may find it challenging to express their feelings verbally. Promoting Emotional Development: Play is a powerful tool for emotional expression and regulation. When parents imitate their child's play, it encourages emotional development by validating their emotions and helping them learn to navigate and express feelings in a healthy way. Instilling Confidence: Being actively involved in your child's play sends a positive message that their actions and choices are important. This affirmation contributes to building your child's self-esteem and confidence. How to Immerse Yourself in Your Child's Play During PCIT: Observe and Imitate: Take the time to observe your child's play, paying attention to their actions, choices, and expressions. Once you've observed, try imitating their play to establish a sense of connection. Use Descriptive Praise: Acknowledge and praise your child's play by using descriptive language. This positive reinforcement reinforces their sense of self-worth and strengthens the bond between you. Be Present and Engaged: Put away distractions and be fully present during play sessions. Your active engagement demonstrates to your child that you are invested in their world. Playing with your child is not just a fun and enjoyable activity; it's also a powerful way to improve parent-child interactions. For in-session coaching on play, attachment, interaction, discipline, and more - give us a call or visit our PCIT therapy page!

What is PTSD? PTSD stands for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. It is a mental health condition that can develop in individuals who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. Traumatic events that can trigger PTSD include but are not limited to: Combat exposure: Military personnel who have been in combat situations. Physical or sexual assault: Experiencing or witnessing a violent assault. Accidents: Involvement in a serious accident, such as a car crash. Natural disasters: Surviving events like earthquakes, floods, or hurricanes. Sudden loss: The unexpected death of a loved one. Childhood trauma: Persistent abuse, neglect, or adverse experiences during childhood. DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria for PTSD | How to Know If You May Have PTSD The key feature of PTSD is the presence of symptoms that persist for at least a month and significantly impact daily functioning. The following criteria apply to adults, adolescents, and children older than 6 years. Exposure to actual or threatened death, serious injury, or sexual violence in one (or more) of the following ways: Directly experiencing the traumatic event(s). Witnessing, in person, the event(s) as it occurred to others. Learning that the traumatic event(s) occurred to a close family member or close friend. In cases of actual or threatened death of a family member or friend, the event(s) must have been violent or accidental. Experiencing repeated or extreme exposure to aversive details of the traumatic event(s) (e.g., first responders collecting human remains; police officers repeatedly exposed to details of child abuse). Note: Criterion A4 does not apply to exposure through electronic media, television, movies, or pictures, unless this exposure is work related. Presence of one (or more) of the following intrusion symptoms associated with the traumatic event(s), beginning after the traumatic event(s) occurred: Recurrent, involuntary, and intrusive distressing memories of the traumatic event(s). Note: In children older than 6 years, repetitive play may occur in which themes or aspects of the traumatic event(s) are expressed. Recurrent distressing dreams in which the content and/or affect of the dream are related to the traumatic event(s). Note: In children, there may be frightening dreams without recognizable content. Dissociative reactions (e.g., flashbacks) in which the individual feels or acts as if the traumatic event(s) were recurring. (Such reactions may occur on a continuum, with the most extreme expression being a complete loss of awareness of present surroundings.) Note: In children, trauma-specific reenactment may occur in play. Intense or prolonged psychological distress at exposure to internal or external cues that symbolize or resemble an aspect of the traumatic event(s). Marked physiological reactions to internal or external cues that symbolize or resemble an aspect of the traumatic event(s). Persistent avoidance of stimuli associated with the traumatic event(s), beginning after the traumatic event(s) occurred, as evidenced by one or both of the following: Avoidance of or efforts to avoid distressing memories, thoughts, or feelings about or closely associated with the traumatic event(s). Avoidance of or efforts to avoid external reminders (people, places, conversations, activities, objects, situations) that arouse distressing memories, thoughts, or feelings about or closely associated with the traumatic event(s). Negative alterations in cognitions and mood associated with the traumatic event(s), beginning or worsening after the traumatic event(s) occurred, as evidenced by two (or more) of the following: Inability to remember an important aspect of the traumatic event(s) (typically due to dissociative amnesia, and not to other factors such as head injury, alcohol, or drugs). Persistent and exaggerated negative beliefs or expectations about oneself, others, or the world (e.g., “I am bad,” “No one can be trusted,” “The world is completely dangerous,” “My whole nervous system is permanently ruined”). Persistent, distorted cognitions about the cause or consequences of the traumatic event(s) that lead the individual to blame himself/herself or others. Persistent negative emotional state (e.g., fear, horror, anger, guilt, or shame). Markedly diminished interest or participation in significant activities. Feelings of detachment or estrangement from others. Persistent inability to experience positive emotions (e.g., inability to experience happiness, satisfaction, or loving feelings). Marked alterations in arousal and reactivity associated with the traumatic event(s), beginning or worsening after the traumatic event(s) occurred, as evidenced by two (or more) of the following: Irritable behavior and angry outbursts (with little or no provocation), typically expressed as verbal or physical aggression toward people or objects. Reckless or self-destructive behavior. Hypervigilance. Exaggerated startle response. Problems with concentration. Sleep disturbance (e.g., difficulty falling or staying asleep or restless sleep). Duration of the disturbance (Criteria B, C, D and E) is more than 1 month. The disturbance causes clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. The disturbance is not attributable to the physiological effects of a substance (e.g., medication, alcohol) or another medical condition. Therapy is always an option to consider when you are struggling with symptoms related to PTSD. PTSD can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. The severity of symptoms can vary, and not everyone who experiences trauma develops PTSD. Timely intervention and appropriate treatment, which may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both, can significantly improve symptoms and help individuals regain a sense of control and well-being. If you or someone you know is struggling with symptoms related to trauma, it's important to seek professional help. 

Recognizing the Impact of Trauma and PTSD First off, we just want to say that if you're here, then you must care about your child's well being and future. Being a parent is one rollercoaster of a ride, right? Sometimes, life throws our kids a curveball we never saw coming. It's tough to watch our children grapple with stuff that's way beyond their years—especially trauma. Let's get real for a minute. It's totally okay to feel lost or worried, wondering how to help your child through all of this. But here's the thing: you're not alone. Many parents have struggled through the same circumstance. In fact, it is estimated that around 70% of adults have experienced at least one traumatic event in their lives. Those adults were once children with parents who really felt guilty and worried about them. And the best news yet - there are evidence-based treatments available to help reintroduce a higher quality of life to your child. So, what exactly happens when our kids face trauma? Well, let's break it down. Trauma, whether it's from abuse, witnessing violence, accidents, or other distressing events, can leave a lasting impact. For children, these experiences can shape how they see the world, themselves, and others. As parents, it's crucial to recognize these signs and understand that trauma can impact every aspect of our child's life. It affects their relationships, school performance, and overall well-being. DSM-5 Diagnostic Criteria for PTSD The following criteria apply to adults, adolescents, and children older than 6 years. Exposure to actual or threatened death, serious injury, or sexual violence in one (or more) of the following ways: Directly experiencing the traumatic event(s). Witnessing, in person, the event(s) as it occurred to others. Learning that the traumatic event(s) occurred to a close family member or close friend. In cases of actual or threatened death of a family member or friend, the event(s) must have been violent or accidental. Experiencing repeated or extreme exposure to aversive details of the traumatic event(s) (e.g., first responders collecting human remains; police officers repeatedly exposed to details of child abuse). Note: Criterion A4 does not apply to exposure through electronic media, television, movies, or pictures, unless this exposure is work related. Presence of one (or more) of the following intrusion symptoms associated with the traumatic event(s), beginning after the traumatic event(s) occurred: Recurrent, involuntary, and intrusive distressing memories of the traumatic event(s). Note: In children older than 6 years, repetitive play may occur in which themes or aspects of the traumatic event(s) are expressed. Recurrent distressing dreams in which the content and/or affect of the dream are related to the traumatic event(s). Note: In children, there may be frightening dreams without recognizable content. Dissociative reactions (e.g., flashbacks) in which the individual feels or acts as if the traumatic event(s) were recurring. (Such reactions may occur on a continuum, with the most extreme expression being a complete loss of awareness of present surroundings.) Note: In children, trauma-specific reenactment may occur in play. Intense or prolonged psychological distress at exposure to internal or external cues that symbolize or resemble an aspect of the traumatic event(s). Marked physiological reactions to internal or external cues that symbolize or resemble an aspect of the traumatic event(s). Persistent avoidance of stimuli associated with the traumatic event(s), beginning after the traumatic event(s) occurred, as evidenced by one or both of the following: Avoidance of or efforts to avoid distressing memories, thoughts, or feelings about or closely associated with the traumatic event(s). Avoidance of or efforts to avoid external reminders (people, places, conversations, activities, objects, situations) that arouse distressing memories, thoughts, or feelings about or closely associated with the traumatic event(s). Negative alterations in cognitions and mood associated with the traumatic event(s), beginning or worsening after the traumatic event(s) occurred, as evidenced by two (or more) of the following: Inability to remember an important aspect of the traumatic event(s) (typically due to dissociative amnesia, and not to other factors such as head injury, alcohol, or drugs). Persistent and exaggerated negative beliefs or expectations about oneself, others, or the world (e.g., “I am bad,” “No one can be trusted,” “The world is completely dangerous,” “My whole nervous system is permanently ruined”). Persistent, distorted cognitions about the cause or consequences of the traumatic event(s) that lead the individual to blame himself/herself or others. Persistent negative emotional state (e.g., fear, horror, anger, guilt, or shame). Markedly diminished interest or participation in significant activities. Feelings of detachment or estrangement from others. Persistent inability to experience positive emotions (e.g., inability to experience happiness, satisfaction, or loving feelings). Marked alterations in arousal and reactivity associated with the traumatic event(s), beginning or worsening after the traumatic event(s) occurred, as evidenced by two (or more) of the following: Irritable behavior and angry outbursts (with little or no provocation), typically expressed as verbal or physical aggression toward people or objects. Reckless or self-destructive behavior. Hypervigilance. Exaggerated startle response. Problems with concentration. Sleep disturbance (e.g., difficulty falling or staying asleep or restless sleep). Duration of the disturbance (Criteria B, C, D and E) is more than 1 month. The disturbance causes clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. The disturbance is not attributable to the physiological effects of a substance (e.g., medication, alcohol) or another medical condition. Therapy is always an option to consider for a child who is struggling with symptoms related to PTSD. Therapy offers a safe space for your child to process their experiences, learn healthy coping skills, and gradually work through the effects of trauma. A therapist specializing in PTSD can provide evidence-based strategies to address your child's unique needs, guiding them toward recovery and a healthier, more resilient future. Seeking help for your child is a courageous and proactive decision that can make a world of difference in their well-being. --- Family Therapy If your child's symptoms are negatively affecting your entire family, it may help to consider family therapy. The family is a system , much like the human body. Just as the entire body suffers when one of its parts dysfunctions or fails to work with the rest of the body, the entire family suffers when one of its members suffers or is "out of sync." Although family therapy isn’t a new concept, it’s one that many of our clients aren’t familiar with. The idea of sharing one’s personal thoughts and feelings with other people can sometimes seem awkward or uncomfortable. We find that when our clients experience healing and work through challenges together, they often find that the discomfort and awkward feelings are worth the renewed sense of togetherness and peace that comes from sharing.

Engaging in trauma-informed activities as a family can be a meaningful way to foster connection, healing, and resilience. We've compiled a list of activities to enjoy with your family to promote the principles of Trauma Informed Care (including things like empowerment and safety): Storytelling and Journaling : Encourage family members to share their personal stories, experiences, or feelings through storytelling or journaling. This can help promote empathy and understanding among family members. Mindfulness and Breathing Exercises : Practice mindfulness and deep breathing exercises as a family. Guided meditations or deep-breathing sessions can help everyone relax and manage stress. Art and Creativity : Engage in creative activities such as art, drawing, painting, or crafting. This provides an outlet for self-expression and can be therapeutic. Nature Walks : Spend time in nature together. Nature walks, hikes, or simply being outdoors can have a calming and grounding effect on everyone. Cooking and Baking Together : Cooking or baking as a family can be a fun and bonding activity. It also provides an opportunity to talk and work together while creating something delicious. Family Games and Play : Play board games, card games, or physical activities together. Games promote laughter, collaboration, and can be a great stress reliever. Family Read-Aloud : Choose a book that everyone can enjoy and take turns reading chapters aloud. This can spark discussions and strengthen the family bond. Family Movie Nights : Plan regular movie nights with family-friendly films that encourage discussion afterward. This can be a great way to explore emotions and themes in a safe context. Gratitude Journals : Keep individual or family gratitude journals. Each day, write down things you are thankful for. This practice can shift the focus towards positivity and resilience. Random Acts of Kindness : Encourage family members to perform random acts of kindness for each other and for others outside the family. This helps create a culture of compassion and support. Family Volunteer Opportunities : Engage in volunteer work as a family. Contributing to the community can be fulfilling and help children and adults build self-esteem. Sensory Activities : Create sensory-friendly activities, like making sensory bins with items like sand, rice, or beads. These can help children regulate their sensory experiences. Family Rituals : Establish meaningful family rituals, such as a weekly family meal, Sunday outings, or monthly celebrations to strengthen the sense of belonging and stability. DIY Stress Balls : Make stress balls as a family using balloons and flour, rice, or playdough. These can serve as tools for stress relief. Stress-Free Zones : Designate areas in your home as "stress-free zones" where everyone can retreat when they need a moment of calm and solitude. Music and Dance : Put on some music and have a family dance party. Dancing and singing can be an excellent way to release tension and express emotions. Feelings Chart : Create a family feelings chart or poster where everyone can use sticky notes or magnets to indicate how they are feeling at any given moment. Remember that trauma-informed activities should be adaptable to each family member's comfort level and needs. The goal is to create a safe and nurturing environment that promotes healing and connection while respecting everyone's boundaries and preferences. --- Family Therapy T he family is a system , much like the human body. Just as the entire body suffers when one of its parts dysfunctions or fails to work with the rest of the body, the entire family suffers when one of its members suffers or is "out of sync." Although family therapy isn’t a new concept, it’s one that many of our clients aren’t familiar with. The idea of sharing one’s personal thoughts and feelings with other people can sometimes seem awkward or uncomfortable. We find that when our clients experience healing and work through challenges together, they often find that the discomfort and awkward feelings are worth the renewed sense of togetherness and peace that comes from sharing. 

At Behavioral Health Services of Arkansas, your well-being is our top priority. We understand that navigating the complexities of the healthcare system, especially when it comes to behavioral health services, can be overwhelming. For those seeking support in the realm of behavioral health, quick and convenient resources can make a significant difference in their well-being. That's why we're eager to share the MyARMedicaid App. What is the MyARMedicaid App? The MyARMedicaid App is a mobile app designed to give you quick access to vital resources, information, and support in the realm of behavioral health - promptly. Key Features and Benefits Let's delve into some of the key features and benefits that the MyARMedicaid App brings to your fingertips: Easy Navigation: The app is user-friendly, making it simple to find the information and resources you need. Resource Library: Access a wealth of information, articles, and guides related to behavioral health, substance abuse prevention, therapy options, and more. Provider Search: Quickly locate qualified behavioral health service providers in your area, ensuring that you're just a click away from the support you require. Appointment Scheduling: Schedule appointments with your chosen provider with ease, eliminating the hassle of lengthy phone calls or paperwork. Medicaid Assistance: Stay updated on your Medicaid status and benefits, making it simpler to understand your coverage and access the services you're entitled to. Notifications: Receive timely reminders for appointments and important updates related to your Medicaid coverage. Crisis Support: Access crisis helplines and resources when you need immediate assistance or support. Why Use the MyARMedicaid App? Behavioral Health Services of Arkansas is committed to ensuring that you receive the best possible care and support. Here's why you should consider using the MyARMedicaid App: Accessibility: Whether you're at home or on the go, the app ensures that crucial information and assistance are always within reach. Empowerment: The app puts you in control of your mental health journey, helping you make informed decisions. Efficiency: Say goodbye to long waits and paperwork. The MyARMedicaid App streamlines the process, saving you time and effort. Support: We are here for you every step of the way. If you have questions or need assistance, our team is just a message or call away. How to Get Started Getting started with the MyARMedicaid App is easy: Download: Simply download the app from your device's app store. It's available for both iOS and Android. Register: Create an account, or log in if you're already a Behavioral Health Services of Arkansas user. Explore: Start exploring the app's features and discover a world of behavioral health resources at your disposal. We are excited to bring the MyARMedicaid App to your fingertips, and we believe it will be a valuable tool in your journey toward better mental and emotional health. Your well-being is our mission, and this app is just one way we're striving to make that mission a reality.

We know that social risk factors and traumatic experiences like abuse, neglect, and witnessing violent take a serious toll on the developing mind of a child - promoting poor health outcomes that can last a lifetime. Traumatic stress in childhood is correlated with drastic increase in the likelihood of unplanned pregnancy, incarceration, dropping out of school, attempted suicide, mental illness, and chronic disease. Researchers have performed ample studies in the hopes of finding a solution - both to prevent the heartache of trauma to begin with, and provide a clear process of healing for those affected. Successful treatments have been developed to aid in alleviating the symptoms related to trauma in the lives of many families. See Residential Treatment , Trauma Informed Care , or Trauma Focused CBT Therapy for examples. But there is also a solution that is readily available to all families, regardless of social or economic status, culture, or religion: