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“The author knows caregivers need understanding and guidance to navigate the murky waters of trauma in children. She takes readers by the hand and guides with questions and observations that help turn thoughts into action plans. This book is written at an adult parent/caregiver level, with no prior knowledge of trauma needed. In addition, most professionals in child services would benefit from having this book in their office as a handout to all newcomers to the world of childhood trauma. ****!”

—Doody's Review Service


“My four-year-old stayed very calm during our recent car accident, but later he didn't want to drive with me and had terrible nightmares. I was heartbroken and had no idea how to help him until I dove into this book. I learned that trauma, when handled properly, can build resilience in kids. Once I knew what to do and look for, I could stop panicking and focus. I am so grateful to Dr. Goldberg Mintz!”

—Jenn C., Houston, Texas


“This book empowers you to recognize changes in your child after a traumatic experience, help them handle strong feelings, and be an advocate for their mental health. Dr. Goldberg Mintz gives you concrete suggestions for what to do and say. Learn how your unique bond with your child can promote healing, and if needed, how you can partner effectively with a therapist. A tremendous tool for parents.”

—Mollie Gordon, MD, Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine


“Speaking from the heart, Dr. Goldberg Mintz uses her years of training, experience, and clinical wisdom to teach you how to support your child’s healing process after a stressful or traumatic experience. Her concrete examples and recommendations provide skills you can use right away. This is a book that will soon have many dog-eared pages!”

—Jennifer B. Hughes, PhD, author of PSTD Recovery Workbook


“In this era of exposure to violence of all types, this book represents a critical step forward in equipping parents to recognize the signs and symptoms of trauma. It also guides parents to develop a step-by-step approach for helping their child recover. A welcome, important contribution for parents worldwide.”

—Terence M. Keane, PhD, Professor and Assistant Dean for Research, Boston University School of Medicine


“An experienced, effective therapist explains the 'what' and 'why' of how children deal with potentially traumatic events—and how you can help your own child cope. What sets this book apart from others is how Dr. Goldberg Mintz writes in an extraordinarily accessible way without sacrificing the science.”

—Ron Acierno, PhD, Faillace Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston


“If you were drawn in by the title of this book, you have come to the right place.…Reading this book, you will see that you are not alone, and you can benefit from Dr. Goldberg Mintz’s experience and abundant examples of parents’ struggles and successes.”

—from the Foreword by Jon G. Allen, PhD, Menninger Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baylor College of Medicine

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Table of Contents

Foreword, Jon G. Allen

Introduction

I. Understanding Trauma

1. What Is Trauma?

2. Has Your Child Been Traumatized?

3. You Are the Key to Helping Your Child Heal

II. Knowing What to Expect

4. Understanding Changes in Your Child’s Behavior

5. Recognizing and Responding to Trauma Triggers

III. Responding to Behavioral Changes

6. What to Do When Your Child Becomes More Emotional and Less Mature

7. How to Respond to Minor Misbehavior

8. Handling Withdrawal and Avoidance

9. Dealing with Major Misbehavior

10. Responding to Self-Harm and Impulsive Behaviors

IV. Parenting Plus

11. Seeking Professional Help

12. Looking Ahead

Resources

Index

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About the Author

Melissa Goldberg Mintz, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist in private practice in Houston, Texas, and Clinical Assistant Professor at Baylor College of Medicine. Dr. Goldberg Mintz is passionate about providing evidence-based care to children, adolescents, and adults who have experienced trauma.

• Author's website

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Audience

Parents of preschoolers through teens; also of interest to mental health professionals for recommendation to clients.