AIM June 2024 Issue : simplebooklet.com

AlwaysDear Readers, June is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness month , and Authentic InsiderMagazine has the stories and resources to help you navigate PTSD whether you or someone youknow struggles with this disorder.Our Prosecutor’s POV contributor Kathryn Marsh, discusses the link between PTSD andDomestic Abuse. Our Psychedelic POV contributor Jennifer Chesak explains how psychedelictreatments could be the answer to sexual assault-related PTSD. Trauma Educator Karen Grossdissects the idea of Conscious Ignorance and Subconscious Knowing especially when it comesto abuse. Last month we discussed Toxic Abuse Relationships or TAR and you’re invited to the Scars toStars Summit where you’ll hear from experts and survivors of abuse and toxic relationships.Want to know more? check out the details here. When it comes to parenting, how do we handle the feelings that come with our kids’ BIGEMOTIONS? Children’s Book Author, Elizabeth Morse gives us examples. And what do you do if,as parents, our emotions get the best of us when dealing with our children? Parenting POVContributor Tina Hamilton discusses the importance of apologizing while helping ourselves heal.Developmental Disability Advocate and Author, Lisa Toth, shares her passion to givedifferently-abled people equal respect in the workplace. Find out how giving them anopportunity to thrive could be a big win for businesses. And as in every issue, we have our monthly AIM Playlist focused on PTSD Awareness, alongwith my picks for children and adult books about mental health. Plus, check out Joy Larkin'sTwin Flame Reading to see what's in store for you this June Happy Reading!Lorilee BinstockAuthentic Insider | Page 02editor's noteLorilee BinstockEditor in Chief

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Internal Family Systems (IFS) Informed Psychedelic Assisted Therapy https://moxieschool.com/the-art-of-transformation/www.moxieschool.comheather@moxieschool.comConnect: The IFS Model (Internal Family Systems) is one of the fastest growing and most popularinterventions for working with psychedelics. Why? Because it's such a natural and effectivepairing for the material that expanded states naturally elicit. Fast track your opportunity to learn IFS by joining The Moxie School in this wildly exciting niche! If you want to learn IFS as it applies to expanded states, The Art of Transformation courseteaches effective methods to deeply anchor transformation in your clients. No matter whatstage of the process you are working: preparation, guiding, or integration, an IFS Informedapproach is key to supporting your clients in lasting transformational change. Lots of courses teach “about” psychedelic assisted therapy, this course teaches you the “how to” of doing interventions throughout psychedelic transformational work.Whether you are a therapist, coach, or guide - a medical professional, mental healthprofessional, or a mid-life career transition person - you are welcome! Bring your curiosity for IFS and your love for working with expanded states!LEARN MORETHE ART OFTRANSFORMAIONAll the detailsAuthentic Insider | Page 08

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C H I L D R E NC H I L D R E NNow, time for an exercise. I want you topicture yourself as a three-year-old child,sitting in the middle of the classroombuilding a whole town from blocks, animals,and people. You have made it through lunch,nap time, and a craft, just waiting until theafternoon when it’s free play- your favoritetime of the day.You are lying on the ground immersed in yourtown when a friend comes over and kicks yourwhole town apart. You scream and cry at thetop of your lungs. You get up and startrunning after your friend when your teachersteps in front of you to see what happened. In that moment, you are feeling so much atonce, but you can’t put words together, soyou just scream. It’s too hard to calm downand listen to what your teacher is saying.That scene you were building meanseverything to you and now it’s gone. It’s hardfor you, as a child, to figure out whatemotions you are feeling, how to handle them,and how to make yourself feel better. This may seem like ‘not a big deal’ to anadult, but when something like this happensto a child, it means everything to them andfeels like their entire world is falling apart.Remember, at this age they think that theworld revolves around them and only them.By: Liz MorseNAVIGATE THE FEELINGS THAT COME WITH BIG EMOTIONSEXERCISEAs someone who deals with many issues likechronic pain, autoimmune diseases, stomachissues, and complications after back surgery,I learned that masking my emotions wouldonly hurt myself and decided to speak upabout the struggles that I was going through. I took this thinking and brought it into myclassroom and couldn’t believe the results. Ihave always wanted to be a teacher, and evendressed up as one for career day in thirdgrade. I went to college and received myteaching certificate in 2012. Between thenand now, so many things have changed exceptmy views on speaking up for yourself when itcomes to your mental health and emotions.During my time as a teacher, I had manyparents who didn’t believe that their childcould feel the same emotions as them. I was apreschool teacher dealing with a lot of‘threenagers’ who had very big emotions andparents who had no idea how to handle them.I explained it as easy as, they feel all thesame emotions as we do, but don’t know howto identify, explain, and deal with these emotions. Authentic Insider | Page 10

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When something like this happened in myclassroom, I had certain ‘tools’ that I used fora big emotional moment. If the child was toooverwhelmed and dealing with something likethe scene I described, I had a ‘cool out corner’where there were toys and gadgets that thechild could focus on to calm down. I made surethat the children understood that this wasn’t a‘bad’ corner where you only go to when you arein trouble. After the child calmed down, we would sit andhave a conversation about what happened andthe big emotion(s). Some things that I focusedon were what happened, why they reacted thatway, what emotions they were feeling, and whatwould make them feel better. Once I started sitting down and talking withthe child through their emotion, I realized howmuch it was helping. It became more likefriends talking instead of teacher/student, andthis is the point in time where I started callingmy students ‘friends’ instead of ‘students’ andemotions weren’t looked at as “good” or “bad”but rather just emotions or “big emotions”.TOOLSCOOLdownCHILDREN NAVIGATE THE FEELINGS THAT COME WITH BIG EMOTIONS

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CHILDREN NAVIGATE THE FEELINGS THAT COME WITH BIG EMOTIONSIn my first book, I wanted to write about an emotion thatwas close to my heart after years of battling illnessesand my disabilities- struggling! I wanted to write a bookthat could be used as a tool in people’s lives, and mymain character, The Emotional Bus, or E.B., could belooked at as a friend and a teacher, just like I was.Struggling doesn’t have to be looked at as ‘bad’, butrather just like any emotion. Being able to identify,showing what it may look or feel like, how to helpyourself, or when to ask for help is now my mission inlife. Can you imagine a child walking up to you andsaying, “I’m struggling today because of…” and startingthat open conversation about their day and big emotions.Mental health and these big emotions in children need tobe talked about more, and I’m hoping I’m paving the wayto help open the minds of adults and how we need to talkabout emotions rather than hide them. We’re all in thistogether.I ended up having to leave teachingin 2017 and it was one of the hardestdecisions I had to make. I felt like Iwas a shell of myself because of thetoll on my body from teaching and mydisabilities. I decided to take all ofthe years of experience in teaching,babysitting, working with kids, and myown emotions, and write a book aboutsomething that mattered and washard to talk about: those bigemotions! Authentic Insider | Page 12

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Repairingwhen you blew itAPOLOGIZING TO YOUR KIDS, WHY IT’S IMPORTANT, HOW ITSUPPORTS AND ENCOURAGES HEALING. Would you apologize to your children ifyou messed up? Years ago, I would have said no. I was of themind that to apologize to a child would meanthat they would begin to question myauthority. Besides, I don’t remember adultsever apologizing to me when I was a child.Consider for a moment, however, what itwould feel like to have received an apologyfrom a parent–for a parent to have said, “Iwas out of line and said some hurtful things.You don’t deserve that, and I am so sorry.”As a parent of young children (or eventeenagers), there are going to be momentswhen you don’t show up as your best self.Moments when the frustration and anger getthe better of you, and you snap, perhapssaying something you don’t mean or beingoverly aggressive. After these moments–or even during them–you may have an overwhelming sense ofguilt. You may have thoughts such as:“I am a horrible parent.”“I am ruining my children.”BY TINA HAMILTONAuthentic Insider | Page 14

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The Repairan apology is NOT:The guilt and shame that you feelwhen you yell at your child is natural,however, it can cause you to ignore animportant part of parenting:Here’s the thing. You are human. You arecapable of feeling a full spectrum ofhuman emotions, and can sometimesbecome so overcome with an emotion,that you forget that your children are tinyhumans, new to this world.You are the adult with more experience. Iwon’t tell you that you should know andact better, because the truth is that youroverwhelming emotions are an indicatorthat something is not in alignment withyour values or your desires. Sometimes your emotions get thebest of you, and that’s OK.When this does happen, though, it isimportant to own up to your mistake.Apologizing to your child sets an example.You show your children that even adultsmake mistakes–that you are human andcan sometimes react without thinking, andcause hurt or pain in another. By apologizing, you demonstrate to yourchild the importance of owning yourmistake and making amends. You alsoshow your child how to appropriatelyapologize for hurting someone else, animportant life skill. Finally, the follow-thru allows your childto observe change and growth in others,and they will learn to expect this fromfuture partners and friends. Ignoring the need for an apology.It is a common leftover belief from earliergenerations that adults never apologize tochildren. The belief that adults are alwaysright or know better than children fuelsthis idea and can lead you to believe thatyou don’t owe your children an apology.Gaslighting.The first experience children have withgaslighting often comes from the adultsaround them. When a child recalls amoment that may or may not havehappened the way they remember, it isimportant to validate their experience,rather than tell them that the way theyremember it happening is inaccurate. “I’m sorry, but …”This is not an apology, this is an excuse.Take ownership over your response to astimulus. Your child may have brokenyour favorite vase or lied about sleepingat a friend’s house before you lost yourcool, but their behavior doesn’t dictateyour reaction.Silent treatment.Similar to ignoring the need for anapology, the silent treatment is avoidingtalking about the situation or evenaddressing your child for an extendedperiod of time. Before we get into how to make arepair with your child after anincident, let’s first decide what is notan apology.Authentic Insider | Page 15

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Own your mistakes.Admit you messed up andare working to do better. Reconnect.Sit with your child.Acknowledge their feelings.Let them be seen. Reflect.Take time to consider yourbehavior and what emotionsmight have been at the rootof your reaction. Acknowledgethe impact you had, even if itwas unintended.“I'm sorry I hurt you.”“I was having big feelings earlier and said/didsome things that I did not mean (ownership).That was probably really scary for you(reconnect/validation). I am sorry that I hurtyou. It is never your fault when I yell like that(acknowledge). I will do better next time.”So how do you make aproper apology?An apology to a younger child mightsound like this:An apology has four components:The reflection part of an apology is separate from yourapology. This is where you work to understand thetrigger and what emotion it brought up in you, and thechildhood message or pattern that lies underneath soyou can heal the wound that the trigger exposed. Apologizing to your children is an importantcomponent of your child’s emotional intelligence. Itteaches your child that people take responsibility fortheir actions, and helps them to build trust that peoplewill do the right thing. It also will support your child’sunderstanding of their own emotions by validating theirexperience, allowing them to develop self-trust.It’s never easy to take accountability when you makea mistake, but like anything else in life, the more youdo it, the easier it becomes. If you’re looking for more support to understand yourtriggers and how to work with the underlying messages,I’ve got you covered. Check out my UnderstandingTriggers Masterclass. Use code AIMJUNE24 for 25% offbefore June 30.Authentic Insider | Page 16

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So, whatis PTSD?June is PTSD Awareness Month. Approximately 7% of people will develop PTSD intheir lifetime, and approximately 12 millionpeople are living with PTSD in the UnitedStates. It is important that we take time tounderstand the symptoms and supportindividuals diagnosed with Post-traumatic StressDisorder, especially those whosediagnosis is directly linked to the domesticviolence they have suffered.PTSD symptoms…PTSD is a mental healthdiagnosis that individuals candevelop after experiencing orwitnessing a traumatic or life-threatening event.can vary from person to person,however four main symptoms of PTSDinvolve:Experiencing unwanted memories(nightmares or flashbacks); Avoidance (avoiding reminders ortriggers; avoiding crowds, avoidingformer activities; detachment orestrangement from others; or simplystaying busy);Negative thoughts and feelings(feeling guilt or shame, feeling thateverything is dangerous; not beingable to trust others); and Feeling on Edge (Persistent fear;trouble sleeping, jittery, quick toanger). While these are four main symptoms, Iencourage everyone to use theresources below or articles linked inthe endnotes to learn more.234Authentic Insider | Page 20

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Link between PTSDand Domestic ViolenceThere is a proven and established link between PTSDand domestic violence, and it’s not a link for theabuser, but rather the victim. Domestic violence mayinclude physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotionalabuse, as well as verbal or psychological abuse.Domestic violence may occur once or repeatedly overa significant period of time and may be the traumaticor triggering event for PTSD. Victims of domesticviolence may experience an increased likelihood ofdeveloping PTSD if they sustain physical injury, lack ofa support system, or have a history or mental illness oraddiction. Studies in the UK found that two thirds of domesticviolence survivors experience PTSD. In the USresearch has shown that between 31%-84% ofdomestic violence survivors will develop PTSD. Butdomestic violence trauma doesn’t just impact theintimate partner.Support SystemChildren who witness domestic violence alsoexperience trauma. 13% of youth who wereexposed to intimate partner violence in thehome meet the diagnostic criteria for PTSD. There should be no shame or guilt for beingdiagnosed with PTSD. PTSD is a direct result ofthe trauma inflicted on, or witnessed by, theindividual. In cases of domestic violence, PTSDis just as much of an injury as a broken bone orscar. In fact, courts have recognized thepsychological injury of a domestic violencevictim when calculating sentencing guidelinesfor the abuser.One of the most important steps a victim ofdomestic violence or child witness of domesticviolence can do is develop a support system. Thisincludes an emotional support system which maybe family, friends, counselors or a domesticviolence shelter, or program. While it may seem easy to establish a supportsystem, victims of domestic violence who havePTSD may struggle with the concept of trustingothers or accepting help. “I know that the world is not my abuser. It’s a muchkinder, more open place. But it’s a paralyzingconflict. I adore people, but I find myself feelingmore and more like an outsider, which causesfeelings of anxiety and self-consciousness.” saysMelanie. Melanie’s quote highlights why it is even moreimportant for those who care for victims ofdomestic violence to understand the symptoms ofPTSD and be patient with survivors on theirhealing journey.56789Authentic Insider | Page 21

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Believe Victims . . .the first timeIn the past couple of weeks many have viewed thevideo of Sean “Diddy” Combs abusing Cassandra“Cassie” Ventura in 2016. At the time of the abuse,Combs was quick to deny the violence, and manysupported Combs in the immediate aftermath ofCassie’s report. With the video coming to lightCassie has acknowledged the impact domesticviolence has had on her life - breaking her downto someone she never thought she would be, whilealso acknowledging that she will always berecovering from the abuse. As we recognize June as PTSD Awareness Month. Iurge everyone to follow the words of Cassie whenit comes to survivors of domestic violence. “My onlyask is that EVERYONE open your heart to believingvictims the first time. It takes a lot of heart to tellthe truth out of a situation that you were powerlessin. I offer my hand to those that are still living infear. Reach out to your people, don’t cut them off.No one should carry this weight alone. This healingjourney is never ending, but this support meanseverything to me.” PTSD Resources for Survivorsand Friends and FamilyNational Center for PTSD:https://www.ptsd.va.gov/publications/subscribe.aspUnderstanding PTSD: A Guide for Family andFriends -https://www.ptsd.va.gov/publications/print/understandingptsd_family_booklet.pdfPTSD Family Coach App -https://www.ptsd.va.gov/appvid/mobile/familycoach_app.aspPrimary Care PTSD Screen (This is a preliminary at home screening tool onlyand not a diagnosis) -https://www.ptsd.va.gov/screen/PTSD Coach online -https://www.ptsd.va.gov/apps/ptsdcoachonline/default.htm1 Thompson, Zahara “What it’s Like to Live With PTSD After EscapingDomestic Violence” SELF, April 19, 2018https://www.self.com/story/ptsd-domestic-violence2 Source: Kreesler, R.C. Sonnega, A., Bromet, E., Hughes, M., &Nelson, C.B. (1995). Posttraumatic stress disorder inthe national comorbidity survey. Archives of General Psychiatry, 52(12),1048-10603 Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD); Anxiety & DepressionAssociation of America.https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/posttraumatic-stress-disorder-ptsd4 National Center for PTSD, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder: Overview,Treatment and Resources, Veterans HealthAdministration PPT January 20225 The Connection Between Domestic Violence and PTSD, BeaufortMemorial Hospital, November 2021,https://www.bmhsc.org/blog/the-connection-between-domestic-violence-and-ptsd6 Causes of PTSD: Domestic Violence, PTSDUK,https://www.ptsduk.org/what-is-ptsd/causes-of-ptsd/domesticabuse/7 Linking PTSD and Domestic Violence; Connections for Abused Womenand Their Children; March 8, 2023.https://www.cawc.org/news/linking-ptsd-and-domestic-violence/8 Causes of PTSD: Domestic Violence, PTSDUK9 Thompson, Zahara10 Rountree, Cheyenne and Dillon, Nancy “Cassie Breaks Silence AfterSean Combs Attack Video: ‘Believe Victims the First Time’ Rolling Stone,May 23, 2024 https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/cassie-breaks-silence-sean-combs-hotel-attack-video-1235023671/References1011

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Founded by Dr. Jamie Huysman, arenowned expert in the field, the TARNetwork is a 501(c)(3) non-profitorganization committed to addressingthe impact of toxic relationshipsthrough global awareness andtargeted interventions. The Scars toSTARs Summit is one of theNetwork’s key initiatives, offering aplatform for healing, learning, andpersonal growth.The Importance of theScars to STARs SummitThe TAR Network is thrilled to announce the upcoming Scars to STARs Summit 2024,a groundbreaking online event dedicated to empowering survivors of toxic andabusive relationships. This pivotal virtual summit, scheduled for May 31, 2024,promises to provide invaluable insights and tools for those seeking to overcome thechallenges posed by narcissistic abuse and reclaim their lives.What is aSTAR?A STAR is a Survivor of a Toxic AbusiveRelationship. The journey from enduringscars inflicted by toxic relationships tobecoming a STAR is profound andtransformative. It’s about recognizingone’s strength, reclaiming one’s story, andemerging resilient and empowered.Dr. Jamie Huysman coined the name of theSummit from “Scars to STARS”; many years ago.He believes that all therapists and their clientsenter the energy of the healing process throughthe scars accumulated throughout life’s journey.It is through these scars that we become self-aware, transform, and find self-love. By leaning into this process with self-awareness,much like NIKE, the Goddess of Victory, wereparent ourselves and always remember to“Just Do It,” realizing that we are not the trauma-bonded, beaten-down victims of an emotionallyabusive person. No, today we realize that we areSTARs—Survivors of Toxic AbusiveRelationships.Authentic Insider | Page 24

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A POWERFUL MESSAGE FOR ALL SURVIVORS: NEVER FORGET . . . ● HOW FAR YOU HAVE COME. ● EVERYTHING YOU HAVE GOTTEN THROUGH. ● ALL THE TIMES YOU PUSHED ON EVEN WHEN YOU FELT YOU COULDN’T. ● ALL THE MORNINGS YOU GOT OUT OF BED NO MATTER HOW HARD IT WAS. ● ALL THE TIMES YOU WANTED TO GIVE UP BUT GOT THROUGH ANOTHER DAY. ● NEVER FORGET HOW MUCH STRENGTH YOU HAVE LEARNED AND DEVELOPED ALONG THE WAY.For anyone who has experienced the trauma of a toxic, abusive relationship, thepath to healing can feel overwhelming and isolating. The Scars to STARs Summitis designed to provide a supportive, understanding environment where survivorscan find the resources, encouragement, and community they need to reclaim theirlives. This summit is a beacon of hope and empowerment, emphasizing that everystep towards healing is a triumph of the spirit.Attendees will gain access to strategies and support systems designed to fostereffective healing and recovery. The summit features talks and panel discussions ledby leading experts who specialize in understanding and treating narcissisticbehavior. These sessions aim to educate, empower, and energize participants ontheir recovery journey.A Message from Dr. Jamie & the TAR Network ™ TeamOn your healing path, always remember that YOU are a STAR!Embrace this journey and join us at the Scars to STARs Summitto connect, learn, and transform together.DATE: May 31, 2024TIME: Starting at 10 AM EDTOnline Registration: Free (click here)Why This Summit Matters

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This summit is a unique opportunity for survivors to find community,support, and the tools they need to heal. It is a space where your experiencesare understood, your strength is recognized, and your journey is celebrated.How to RegisterParticipants can register for FREE by visiting the provided link.Contact Information: For more information or press inquiries, please contactDr.Jamie Huysman at drjamie@tarnetwork.org.Embrace Your Journey from Scars to STARsIf you or someone you know has suffered from narcissistic abuse, don’t missthis chance to start the healing process. Sign up today and take the first steptowards turning your scars into stars. Embrace your inner strength, celebrateyour journey, and join a community that understands and supports you.Remember, YOU are a STAR—a Survivor of a Toxic Abusive Relationship.Authentic Insider | Page 26

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JOIN TAR NETWORK INTHE LAUNCH OF TAR ANONTAR Anon™ is an international fellowship of survivors who bring theirexperience, strength, and hope by sharing their personal truths. In doing so,they help others recover from the emotional battlefield stemming from TAR(Toxic Abusive Relationships).Our meetings take place in neurologically-safe settings and follow aprescribed recovery program of self-awareness and developing essentialself-love. TAR Anon’s trauma-informed path of emotional regulationtransforms lives in a healthy, co-regulated, non-judgmental way – helpingothers in the process.TAR Anon is powered by TAR Network™ – a 501(c)(3) charity with globalreach. Facilitated by trained TAR Mentors both online and in person, wepresent research-based Topics, Steps and Promises in each meeting. TARAnon is the only supportive and accessible program helping TAR survivorscome out of the fog and into the light.Powered by:tarnetwork.orgcontact@tarnetwork.org

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Post-traumatic stress disorder can affect any personof any gender. In fact, it affects about 6% of peopleduring their lifetime. But as the author of ThePsilocybin Handbook for Women and an advocatefor improved healthcare for women and gendernonbinary folks, I want to point out that thoseassigned female at birth are two to three times morelikely to develop the condition. That’s according toresearch published in 2017 by the European Journalof Psychotraumatology. The prevalence for womenis 10%.One reason for the high prevalence in women mightbe the high rates of sexual assault among thoseassigned female at birth. The events mostassociated with PTSD in women are sexual assaultand childhood sexual abuse, according to olderresearch published in the journal American FamilyPhysician. A meta-analysis, published in Trauma,Violence, and Abuse in 2023 found that of more than2,000 survivors of sexual assault nearly 75% met thecriteria for a PTSD diagnosis within the first monthafter the assault. The therapeutic use of psilocybinmay be able to help. I explain after unpacking a bitabout sexual assault and PTSD.Looking at the statistics, half of women and onethird of men in the United States will experiencesome type of sexual violence in their lifetime,according to the Centers for Disease Control andPrevention. The Trevor Project reports that nearlyhalf of transgender women, men, and nonbinarypeople who participated in a recent survey reportedexperiences of sexual assault. Again, sexual assaulthappens to all genders. And although itdisproportionately affects women, we know thatsexual assault is also likely under reported ineveryone. The bottom line is that it can lead to PTSD.W R I T T E N B Y J E N N I F E R C H E S A K , A U T H O R O F T H E P S I L O C Y B I N H A N D B O O K F O R W O M E NPTSD is a serious mental health condition that canoccur in people who have directly experienced orwitnessed a traumatic event. According to the NationalInstitutes of Mental Health, for a diagnosis, symptomsmust last longer than a month. Symptoms includereexperiencing (such as having flashbacks), avoidance(such as avoiding thinking about the traumatic event),reactivity (such as being on edge), and cognition andmood issues (such as difficulty remembering theevent).PTSD is a chronic condition that can be hard to treat.Only about one-third of patients recover within a year,according to research published in the journal Cureus in2022, and one-third remain symptomatic a decadeafter the trauma exposure. More than that, estimatesshow that up to half of people with PTSD who seektreatment do not have an adequate response toconventional treatments.Although more research is needed, researchers reportthat traumatic stress may impact those assignedfemale at birth differently than those assigned male atbirth. While males may have a more “physiologicalhyperarousal system,” females may have a moresensitized hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis,at least according to animal models. This informationwas reported in the European Journal ofPsychotraumatology.The HPA axis is concerned with how we respond tostress. For example, when faced with a threat, oursenses—often sight and sound—send a message to ourbrain’s amygdala. The amygdala sends a message tothe hypothalamus, also in the brain. The hypothalamusthen jolts our sympathetic nervous system into action,causing the release of stress hormones to help meetthe demands of the threat. Thus, we experience ourfight-flight-freeze response.Authentic Insider | Page 32

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But not every threat we experience is an actual threat.Think about those times when you see your coat rack outof the corner of your eye and think, just for a second, thatit’s a person who’s broken into your place. In response toa threat, the amygdala is prone to acting quickly to floodyour system with adrenaline if needed. But thankfully wealso have our more rational frontal lobes located in thecerebral cortex. The frontal lobes assess the threat. If it’snot really a threat—as in “Hey, it’s just a coat rack”—youcan quickly calm yourself down.The clincher is that we also store our fear in theamygdala, and therefore when we experience triggers,something that reminds us of a past threat, such assexual assault, we can experience what’s called“amygdala hijack.” During an amygdala hijack, yourfrontal lobes don’t get a chance to assess the threat; theamygdala puts fight-flight-freeze into motion no matterwhat. Amygdala hijack is common in PTSD, which ischaracterized by amygdala hyperactivity. Therefore,even threats that aren’t really threats can activate ourstress response, leading us to have an outsized emotionalreaction to something minor that’s not really a threat. Forexample, if you were sexually assaulted, you might feelabsolute panic if someone accidentally brushes againstyour arm. Your triggers will be different from the nextperson’s.Talk therapy is one tool we can use to navigate traumaand try to retrain our brains to better assess threats. Butone issue with talk therapy alone is that any thoughts ofthe original trauma, of the sexual assault or otherwise,can trigger the fight-flight-freeze response, impedingprogress. Talk therapy does work for some people, butcertainly not all.So here’s where I discuss the potential of magicmushrooms. Psilocybin down regulates our response tofearful stimuli, decreasing that hyperactivity. In therapythen, note the authors of the study published in Cureus,possibly people with PTSD are more able to processtrauma without having a trauma response. In a previous installment of my column for AuthenticInsider Magazine, I wrote about a concept called the“helioscope effect,” a term coined by researcher GregorHasler, MD. A helioscope is an instrument scientists useto safely look at the sun. Well, when we’re on apsychedelic, we view trauma through a safe lens aswell, often seeing it with more detail but without theoverwhelming triggers. This can allow us to reprocessour trauma and reduce the psychological effects of it.At the same time, psilocybin may boost mood, helpingto reduce negative thoughts, note the authors of theCureus article. Additionally, the researchers discuss thedefault mode network. The DMN is a network of brainregions that work together to form our sense of self oridentity, autobiographical memories, and more. Anunderactive DMN, the researchers say, is linked to theavoidance symptom that is characteristic of PTSD.Psilocybin temporarily alters DMN connectivity, whichmay have beneficial effects for PTSD.I do hope that research progresses on how therapeuticuse of psilocybin, under supervision of a mental healthprofessional, and therapy afterward, may be able tohelp people with PTSD, because an overwhelmingnumber of people are dealing with the condition—manyof them women—often stemming from sexual assault.When we’re on a psychedelic, we viewtrauma through a safe lens as well,often seeing it with more detail butwithout the overwhelming triggers. Authentic Insider | Page 33

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know? While many answer that question in the negative,I have a different question. Might it be wise to reframethe question to ask: Should you have known? That canbe applied to parents, bosses, co-workers, & partners.When bad things happen, should we have foreseen theseevents or happenings?In other words, we may not have known certain thingsconsciously but the better, more probing question seemsto be one that posits a different obligation: an obligationto inquire, to be vigilant, to be aware, to be context-sensitive, to be wise or to be curious or to believe in one’scapacity to ferret out the truth. One could be self-reflective too. Other items can be added to encouragingcertain inquiring behavior.Let me explain.Two recently articles in PUCK got me thinking about thissituation in the context of Leon Black. Then, the mediastorm about gambling and Shohei Ohtani’s translatoradded to my queries. Here is a summary of theseexamples stated most simply.KNEW ORSHOULD HAVEKNOWN: A Question thatArises Far TooFrequentlyStories take on a life of their own. And, over the passage oftime, stories can take new twists and turns. Memories get lostor sharpened (sometimes with help from PR or legal orpsychological professionals). And, to be sure, we know thateven the same experience can be remembered differently bydifferent people, as aptly described in a recent article aboutSophia and Simone Elliott appearing on NPR on April 13, 2024.Each remembered their childhood and molestationdifferently.We are repeatedly confronted with reported instances orinstances we actually personally encounter that shock us,surprise us, leave us asking questions. We look at humanbehavior and ask whether we are the outsiders and the worldis behaving in ways we simply do not recognize. We ask: whatis going on in the world writ large?And, in the midst of all this, I want to share two examples ofsituations where folks are in a position to answer and didanswer: “I did not know.” These are usually situations involvingsomething untoward or gossipy or unusual or even criminal. Inthese situations, one is often asked this question: Did you Written By Karen Gross, Trauma Educator & AuthorAuthentic Insider | Page 36

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Just asking. Your thoughts are welcomed.Now, the number of missing dollars from Shohei Ohtani’saccounts were smaller: only $16 million. And yes, thebaseball player trusted his interpreter who used themoney — it seems — to make and pay off his own (theinterpreter’s) gambling debts. And, it seems the interpreterhad control of the baseball player’s bank accounts, with orwithout permission. So, at least the argument goes thatOhtani actually did not know. He was ignorant.But here’s my question: might one want to take a glance atone’s own personal bank account statements periodically?Might one want to peruse where one’s money was going?Might one want to question certain payouts? If the answeris yes, then the question is about whether Ohtani shouldhave known. Might one’s accountants have askedquestions? Yes, CEO’s of big and small businesses do notlook at each bank statement for sure; instead they rely ontheir CFO’s and their auditors.And both of these situations (Black and Ohtani) raise “trust”questions: not as in trusts to protect money from taxes buttrust in others to be doing the right things. Black seems tohave trusted Epstein. Beats me why. Ohtani seems to havetrusted his translator. Makes more sense.CONSCIOUSIGNORANCE IS ONETHING. BUT, HOWABOUT THESUBCONSCIOUSKNOWING? OR HOWABOUT SIMPLYDECIDING NOT TOKNOW?Leon Black paid some $158 million to the nowdeceased convicted pedophile Jeffrey Epstein. Blackclaims that he had no idea how much he had paidEpstein over time. In essence, Black’s claim is that theamount of $158 million was a mere rounding error andnot noteworthy given his (Black’s) enormous wealth.He simply did not know or care how much he paidEpstein.Now, we are not asking in the abstract what $158million could buy to improve the world. We are askingwhat exactly did that $158 million buy for Leon Black?Leon Black claims it was for “trust” advice from Epsteinto save taxes upon Black’s death. Perhaps. Might ithave been for added things like access andopportunity of a wide ranging sort? Might it have beenfor friendship? Who even knows? One of the parties isdead. The other is surrounded by advisors.Here’s what I think. Give this idea a whirl. Maybe LeonBlack did not know how much he gave Jeffrey Epstein,a convicted pedophile. That might just be true. I’d askthis question instead: Should he have known?I understand that the wealthy act differently. Moneyhas different meaning to those worth billions. Butsurely, $158 million paid to a pedophile is worthy ofadded scrutiny by the giver. Might one actually want toask oneself whether paying such a sum made anysense in some objective, moral sense? Some situationscall for us to ask for questions, to probe possiblemeanings, to reflect on perceptions of one’s family,one’s workplace, one’s own identity. At the time, Blackwas having an affair, his wife was recovering fromcancer and investigations of Epstein abounded. Mightany of that make one pause and ask and reflect?Ignorance is Leon’s Black’ defense. Of course, thatdepends on how one defines ignorance. “Knew” or“should have known” are not the same. Consciousignorance is one thing. But, how about thesubconscious knowing? Or how about simply decidingnot to know?Authentic Insider | Page 37

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Distance does give us remarkable insight as does thepassage of time. And our minds allow us to give flex andleeway when it suits us or when we have trust.So What Does All this Mean and Not Just for Black andOhtani?I think I come at this from a reverse angle. I wonderabout some people who are abusers and do not notice orconsider their behavior. These people proceed along as ifall is well. And even if others (their children or families orco-workers) wonder about them, they proceed withconscious ignorance. They are oblivious to their behaviorand its impact on others. They just behave and treat theirbehavior as perfectly normal.I wonder. I wonder why folks are not more self-reflective.I guess I am really wondering why people do what theydo, or don’t do, or what they should do. Forget Epsteinfor a moment. Might Leon Black have reflected on howhis behavior in many realms affected those in his familyand business? Might Ohtani have liked being isolatedfrom his peers by having an interpreter and neverthought about the consequences? Might he have beenso focused on his athletic success that he let himself betotally bamboozled?I wonder about parents who abuse children and spouseswho abuse each other or one abuses the other.Is the excuse: I did not know? I wonder whether theyshould have known. Lots of folks should have knowntheir behavior would affect others. Perhaps we shouldconsider that question — the shift from I did not know toI should have known.Might it make all of us pause where we did not pausebefore? Might it encourage us all to think more beforewe act? Just saying: we can look inward and in so doing,might we just come up with different answers andbehaviors?Other Situations and the DilemmaThere are many situations where ignorance is bliss andour faulty memory can help us achieve that state. Wedon’t remember how we treat people — when we treatthem badly. We don’t remember quirks that mighthave seemed strange but we didn’t pause to ponder orprobe them. We have a habit of ignoring red flags,even those flying right in front of us. Maybe we don’tsee them or maybe we don’t want to see them.But, should we see them? Should we be distrustful?Should we question and be concerned about oddsituations and odd individual relationships?How often do we ask, AFTER bad things happen, didn’tthe person see this coming? And, with 20–20hindsight, we offer the advice that what washappening was clear to everyone except the persons inquestion.Of course, we can be hoodwinked. Of course, we canbe deceived. Of course, we can be living with an abuseror a thief or just a bad person and not see it at thetime. We can be dealing with a psychopath and theFBI even have trouble detecting their lies.DISTANCE DOES GIVEUS REMARKABLEINSIGHT AS DOES THEPASSAGE OF TIME.AND OUR MINDSALLOW US TO GIVEFLEX AND LEEWAYWHEN IT SUITS US ORWHEN WE HAVE TRUST.Authentic Insider | Page 38

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DevelopmentalDisabilityAdvocacyBY LISA TOTHFrom the very beginning, my goal and path were clear:in the WorkplaceAs the author of ”The Secrets of theHidden Workforce,” it is both excitingand an honor to share with you thetransformative journey I haveembarked on throughout my lifeuncovering the positive impact peoplewith different abilities bring to theworkforce. This book is a culminationof my passion for diversity, inclusion,and the untapped potential that lieswithin the hidden workforce. Again, toemphasize credit where credit is due,my book and life’s work would notexist if it were not for the amazingcommunity I have the joy of servingalmost every day- people who livewith different abilities. They are thedriving force behind my passion,advocacy, and purpose.I wanted to challenge the existing status quo, perceptions, and biases surrounding peoplewho live with different abilities in the workplace as well as in society and culture as awhole. Through my personal stories, in-depth research, and practical insights, I truly aimto shine a spotlight on the unique strengths, experiences, and contributions of individualswith different abilities. Any platform I have a chance to share their stories and experiences,I will share and advocate for them.Authentic Insider | Page 40

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Developmental Disability Advocacyi n t h e W o r k p l a c eThe differently-abled community has a diverserange of abilities and can have a profoundinfluence on team dynamics, innovation, andproductivity. Through inspiring stories andreal-world examples, I illustrate howindividuals with different abilities can thrive invarious professional settings and drive positivechange within organizations.An important and central theme I do my bestto emphasize throughout my book is the valueof creating an inclusive and supportive workenvironment that provides opportunity and anaccommodating space for people who livewith different abilities. By fostering a culture ofacceptance, understanding, and empathy, wecan unlock the full potential of this hiddenworkforce and empower individuals withdifferent abilities to flourish as well asempower companies and organizations to beinclusive employers.I am particularly passionate about highlighting thebenefits of embracing this unique and diversecommunity in the workplace. By recognizing thespecialized strengths and skills that individualswith conditions such as Autism, ADHD, DownSyndrome, Dyslexia, and more bring to the table,we can create a more inclusive and innovative workenvironment that fosters diversity and valuescreativity. A way I like to think about this, forexample, is how most companies have a set routinefor how they approach a process of accomplishinga project. When we bring diverse team memberswho live with different abilities into theconversation who see the world differently andwho approach problem-solving from a fresh anddifferent angle, this is a natural start to invention,innovation, and progress. I like to posture to thecompanies I work with, “What if the way they see itor how they approach solving the problem is thebetter way?” Many of the companies who take thechance to hire this community usually have notconsidered this perspective and are pleasantlysurprised by how it positively impacts their workproductivity, the atmosphere of their workenvironment, and company culture.Authentic Insider | Page 41

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Through practical guidance and best practices,I provide actionable strategies for companiesand organizations to tap into the valuabletalent pool of individuals with differentabilities. From recruitment and onboarding totraining and accommodations, I offer insightsto help create a more inclusive and supportiveworkplace culture that empowers allemployees to reach their full potential.I also address common misconceptions andstereotypes surrounding individuals with different abilities, urging readers tochallenge their preconceived notions andbiases. By promoting awareness, education,and advocacy, I encourage readers toembrace diversity and celebrate the uniquetalents and perspectives that individuals withdifferent abilities bring to the workforce andthe world around them. I want to be anactive part of breaking the stigmas andshattering the glass ceilings that have beenplaced over the differently abled communityfor far too long.Developmental Disability Advocacyi n t h e W o r k p l a c e“What if the way they see it or how they approach solving theproblem is the better way?” Authentic Insider | Page 42

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As the mental health crisis reaches devastating levels post pandemic, more and more people arelooking for ways to manage their mental health. How does a childhood sexual abuse survivor, a veteran struggling with PTSD and an athletesuffering from Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI), trauma, and addiction find effective healing andrelief? Psychedelics. A treatment that was studied and used as effective treatment for mental health disorders until itwas banned and categorized as a schedule I drug in the 1970s, psychedelics have providedmuch needed relief for thousands of people suffering from trauma and mental health issues.Regardless of the laws banning these treatments, the people who understood the power of thesemedicines feel more empowered to find ways to help others find healing through them. On thefollowing page click on the graphic to view the Proof of Concept for "Our Own PersonalRealities." An Upcoming Documentary about the Fight toBring Psychedelic Healing Back into the LightAuthentic Insider | Page 44

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“Shake It Out” By Florence + The Machine“Survivor” By Destiny’s Child“Who’s Afraid of Little Old Me” By Taylor Swift“Silence” By Marshello feat. Khalid“Blackbird” By Beyoncé“Resilient” By Katy Perry“The Climb” By Miley Cyrus“Fight Song” By Rachel Platten“Rise” By Katy Perry“Move Along” By The All-American Rejects “Stronger” By Kelly Clarkson“I Won’t Back Down” Tom Petty“Fucking Perfect” By P!ink“Drops of Jupiter” By Train“Safe and Sound” By Taylor SwiftLET THE MUSIC FLOWNearly most of the world’spopulation has suffered from traumain their life. Whether it be majortraumas or micro traumas, or eventransgenerational trauma thatmanifests in other mental illnessesor struggles, music has been used asa therapeutic tool to ease symptoms,anxiety and depression. Here aresome of my picks for songs that helpme feel like I can overcome andthrive.PTSD Awareness MonthPTSD Awareness MonthMUSICMUSICMUSICMUSIC

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Authentic Insider | Page 48Do you know what STRUGGLING means? Emotional Bus, betterknown as E.B., faces a challenge that many of us encounter―makingfriends. E.B. is struggling to make friends, but no matter how manydifferent ways E.B. tries, nothing works. Lucas, who is also strugglingin his own ways, runs into E.B. in a chance meeting while playing onthe playground. It is through their stories that they realize they areboth facing similar problems. Will they be able to work through theirstruggles and end up becoming friends?*I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.Kids, like adults, go through a wide range of emotions. They mayexperience boredom, anxiety, sadness, disappointment,embarrassment, and fear, to mention a few emotions. While mostof us experience a variety of emotions daily, we are not alwaystaught how to deal with or manage them.Children must learn how to handle their emotions healthily. It'scritical to teach children coping techniques that will enable them toface their concerns, relax, and cheer themselves up.Do you know how I feel when I hear NO?Kids hate the word “no”! It can make them feel mad and sad,turning them into a dragon that breathes fire, a mischievouswizard, and a raging volcano. It can make them want to destroyeverything in their path. With a parent’s help, together they canfind the best way to turn a NO into a YES.

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If you are a person of color who has experienced repeated trauma—such asdiscrimination, race-related verbal assault, racial stigmatization, poverty, sexualtrauma, or interpersonal violence—you may struggle with intense feelings ofanger, mistrust, or shame. You may feel unsafe or uncomfortable in your ownbody, or struggle with building and keeping close relationships. Sometimes youmay feel very alone in your pain. But you are not alone. This groundbreakingwork illuminates the phenomena of complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD) as it is uniquely experienced by people of color, and provides a much-needed path to health and wholeness.MENTAL HEALTHBOOKS (FOR ADULTS)Child psychiatrist Dr. Bruce D. Perry has helped children faced with unimaginablehorror: genocide survivors, murder witnesses, kidnapped teenagers, and victims offamily violence. In the classic The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog, Dr. Perry tells theirstories of trauma and transformation and shares their lessons of courage,humanity, and hope. Deftly combining unforgettable case histories with his owncompassionate, insightful strategies for rehabilitation, Perry explains what happensto children’s brains when they are exposed to extreme stress—and reveals theunexpected measures that can be taken to ease such pain and help them grow intohealthy adults. Only when we understand the science of the mind and the power oflove and nurturing can we hope to heal the spirit of even the most wounded child.In The Secrets of the Hidden Workforce, Lisa Toth tells readers her story offalling in love with a population of people often overlooked and under valued.Toth not only saw value in the differently-abled, but also their potential tobring something society needed to the table. Always one to root for theunderdog, she saw a way she could help by identifying the right jobs and findonramps for them to join the workforce. Toth created a staffing agency to dojust this - help this gifted group of people find work that they can be proud ofand find fufilling.*I am a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.Authentic Insider | Page 49

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For the month of June, I’m seeing some victories. One card that appeared was theenvy card. I'm seeing that you could have a lot of that around you at the moment.However, the good thing is, I don’t see it affecting you. Many of you will just be focusing on yourself and self-care. I see a lot of youspending time alone. This is a chance to get more sleep, rest, breathe andrecharge. Try doing something nice for yourself this month. Be careful of peoplebeing hostile towards you as well. Don't feel the need to openly trust anyone. Allowpeople to show you their true colors.I see finances are going to be looking good this month. New opportunities andpromotions are coming towards many of you. I also see gratitude coming fromothers but most importantly, from within. But some of you might have some anxietyabout finances. Due to some unexpected expenses, there could stress. All of thiswill pass and things will get better. Understand that everything you’re dealing with in your life will ebb and flow. Justknow that on the other side of challenges, there is growth. Just trust theuniverse.Travel could be in the future. But again, please be careful of the peopleyou surround yourself with. Other than that, I see June being a great month for all.Keep up the awesome work!Monthly Collective ReadingsMonthly Collective Readings for All Signsfor All SignsJoy is a Narcissistic AbuseSurvivor who has made it her life'swork to help others through lifecoaching. She is also a healer,earth angel and psychic medium.If you would like coaching servicesfrom Joy and/or get your ownpersonal reading, please scan thebarcode below with yoursmartphone camera.READINGSPersonalINFOCoachingAuthentic Insider | Page 50