Georgia Conference on Child Abuse Prevention

Professionals who support children and families involved in the child welfare system are often front-line witnesses to the most extreme and traumatic events occurring in modern society today. As human beings, whether we realize it or not, this work affects us — especially as societal trends increasingly jeopardize the stability of the family and healthy interpersonal relationships.

In this context, what does hope look like in today’s world? How can we hold hope from both a place of authenticity and radical acceptance of reality? This presentation aims to connect advances in relational neurobiology and trauma-informed care to the concept of hope, echoing the lessons and wisdom from previous generations that found ways to thrive and flourish together amidst climates of uncertainty and instability.