ABSTRACT
Listening to traumatized children and witnessing the power of emotionally supportive relationships inspired development of Real Life Heroes (RLH), 1 a resiliency-focused treatment for traumatic stress. Children and caregivers showed me how development of emotionally supportive relationships and the capacity to manage stressors can enable children to grow stronger than the monsters and nightmares in their lives. RLH helps children and caregivers develop the capacity to use their minds and bodies to share what had been “unspeakable,” to tell the story of who they are with their whole hearts, and to develop self and co-regulation skills. In Real Life Heroes, courage means telling the story of one’s life including strengths and vulnerabilities, good times and tough times, successes and failures, proud moments and feelings of guilt for hurting others. Chapter by chapter, children build skills and stronger identities. Sharing experiences in a safe way reduces the power of shame and frees children (and caregivers) to develop their potential, transforming traumatized children into tomorrow’s heroes who give back to others.
