10/14/2026
🎓 20 Participants Completed a Full Day of Training on Trauma, ACEs, and Survival Mode!
Today, Begin Anew was proud to bring together 20 dedicated individuals for a full-day training facilitated by Doxa Strategies (Jason Valleen), focusing on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), trauma, and survival mode among justice-involved individuals.
For many people impacted by the criminal justice system, trauma has played a significant role in shaping their experiences, behaviors, relationships, and responses to stressful situations. Understanding how trauma affects the brain and body, and how survival mode can influence decision-making, is essential when working with individuals navigating recovery, incarceration, and reentry.
Throughout the day, participants explored the connection between childhood adversity, trauma responses, and the challenges justice-involved individuals may face. More importantly, the training encouraged us to look beyond behaviors and better understand the experiences that may be driving them.
When we begin asking "What happened to this person?" instead of "What's wrong with this person?" we create opportunities for understanding, connection, and meaningful support.
A huge thank-you to Doxa Strategies for sharing their knowledge and expertise, and to all 20 participants who invested their time in strengthening their skills and expanding their understanding of trauma-informed approaches.
At Begin Anew, we believe that education is one of the most powerful tools we have to improve how we serve individuals impacted by substance use and the justice system.
The more we understand trauma, the better equipped we are to support healing, recovery, and successful reentry.
💙 Turning Struggles Into Strengths!
