This training introduces attendees to the Adverse Childhood Experiences study that was done in the late 1990s. Attendees will learn how two doctors came to findings of the study, and what they were able to conclude due to the study. This training will explore a deeper understanding of brain development, and what types of stress impact healthy brain development. Attendees will learn how adverse childhood experiences impact lifelong physical and mental health. The conclusion of this training will focus on resilience, and how building resilience can negate the negative impacts of adverse childhood experiences.

• Presenter: Amber Anderson, PCA-Illinois

• Amber Anderson has completed at least 250 hours in trainings dedicated to trauma-informed work including trainings on “Paper Tigers”, resiliency, foster care PRIDE trainings, monthly trauma-informed trainings provided by Caritas, Poverty and Trauma trainings with BCC, and 40 hours of domestic violence education. Amber has been in her current role as Prevention Specialist with Prevent Child Abuse Illinois since August 2020. While in this role, Amber has delivered approximately 25 hours of training and prevention education to community partners, providers and other stakeholders on topics such as childhood trauma, domestic violence, child sexual abuse prevention, poverty and trauma, and secondary trauma. Prior to this role, Amber was the Volunteer Coordinator for the Egyptian Area Agency on Aging where she worked closely with PCA-Illinois to train grandparents on issues regarding foster care and childhood trauma. Finally, Amber has been a foster parent to two young children for 2 years and has had several short-term placements as well.

CEUs

• Professional Counselor CE License No. 197.000263. Amount of CEU hours: 1.5
• Nurse CE Sponsor License No. 236.000184 . Amount of CEU hours: 1.5

Training Objectives

1. Identify common adverse childhood experiences
2. Increase knowledge of adverse childhood experiences, resiliency, and protective factors
3. Discuss the role of protective factors in increasing resiliency
4. Increase knowledge of resources for ACEs
5. Increase knowledge of ACEs related to wellness

Who is the audience for this training?

• Community members, educators, medical staff, clinical staff, stakeholders

Why attend?

• This training will discuss adverse childhood experiences and provide practical information on how these experiences can impact individuals’ wellness throughout the lifespan. This training will provide information regarding risk factors associated with ACEs and the role of protective factors.