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A U T H E N T I CI N S I D E RAutism, my Super Blessing Not so Stranger DangerRecovery One Year LaterA Personal EssayPhotos by Nicole ArslanagicStyled by American Eagle Outfitters

4Editor's Note16Gen Z POV: Stress Awareness MonthQ&A By Maggie Dungey 20 Your Self-Care To-Do List 24Cannabis TherapyBy Cali Binstock31Psychotherapists Making A DifferenceQ&A by Ricardo Kornegay39Sibling Sexual Abuseby Brad Watts47De-Stress Playlistby Maggie Dungey48 Recommended Books (Children & Adult)50Joy's ReadingsAUTHENTIC INSIDER28Autism, My SuperBlessingBy Antonio Myers9 Not So StrangerDangerBy Melissa Hoppmeyer& Kathryn Marsh34 Recovery One Year Later43The Rebirth ofPsilocybinBy Eric OsborneAuthentic Insider | Page 01

Jenna BarryLorilee BinstockEditor-in-chiefLynn BinstockCopy EditorRicardo KornegayCali BinstockArt DirectorMaggie DungeyContent Editor Content Editor Content Editor Authentic Insider | Page 02

Sydney MoyeContent EditorAntonio MyersContributorKathryn MarshContributorMelissa HoppmeyerContributorEric OsborneContributorBrad WattsContributorAuthentic Insider | Page 03

Lorilee BinstockEditor in Chiefeditor's noteDear Readers,The month of April hosts a plethora ofobservances to commemorate the importanceof several public health issues. And in thisissue of Authentic Insider, we delivered. This month's contributors provided incredibleperspectives to address, Childhood Abuse andPrevention, Stress Awareness, Sexual Assaultand Prevention, Autism Awareness, and muchmore.I also reflect on my first year of recovery fromchildhood sexual abuse: where I was,mentally, where I am now and where I want togo.It's hard to believe that at this time last year, Iwas leaving treatment as a new person, lighterand wiser, yet not completely free ofadversity.I find so much solace in the connections I havemade, in treatment, through the podcast, andin this magazine. Realizing I am not alone in mystruggles helps me each day, and I hope itdoes the same for you. Authentic Insider | Page 04

What were your goals goinginto the experience? I wanted to try alternativetherapies to heal fromtrauma, especially complex.I have done so much toaddress my childhoodsexual abuse and found theresearch for MDMA-assistedtherapy to be extremelyeffective for both. I alsowanted to wean off of myanti-depressants and it'sbeen so effective and I'mstill seeing positive shifts.Would you recommend thisexperience to others whostruggle with PTSD?Yes! However, as of now, it isillegal. MAPS.org is a greatplace for resources andactive studies. There arealso psychedelic societies inmajor cities across thecountry so I encouragepeople who are interestedto look there first.What would you say tosomeone who is skepticalof this method.I would suggest looking intothe research. MAPS.org. Ifit's still something you arenot comfortable with, thereare so many differentmodalities out there forhealing trauma and I thinkresearch in any of them isimportant.Your MDMA Questions AnsweredIf you missed my instagramstories Q&A, I wanted toshare the amazingquestions I received. If youhave more questions,please feel free to email meat lorilee@atstpodcast.com.And if you don't want tomiss the next instagramstory Q&A, please follow meat @trauma_survivor_thriverand sign up for my weeklynewsletter atwww.atstpodcast.comAuthentic Insider | Page 05

How did you first hearabout this and know thatyou were eligible?In my research, I found thatMAPS.org was doing a studyfor survivors of childhoodsexual abuse. But I actuallyfound someone from thepsychedelic undergroundwho provided this therapy.So I went the illegal routewhich I don't necessarilyencourage.About how long did thesession last? And was itmostly quiet? or did youtalk to your sitter?It was a 6.5-hour longtherapy session. There wascalming music playing andevery once in a while, Iwould feel the urge todescribe what washappening and the sittertook notes the whole time.At the end of it, I was leftwith seven pages of notesfront and back which wereinteresting to readafterward.What shifts did thisexperience allow you tomake in your parentingThrough trauma I realized Iwas a very reactive parent. Iraised my voice so muchand got upset so easily. Butafter the experience, Iinternalized how my parentsraised me and how theywere raised. I understoodthe cycle that I needed tobreak and almostsubconsciously startedmaking these changes.How did you feel after yourexperience compared tohow you felt before?Physically, I was worried I'dfeel hungover, but Itransitioned back easily. Iwas tired and made aneffort to rest. Mentally, I feltexhausted. I feel likeaddressing trauma throughthis experience was likecoming out of a successfulsurgery.Is this something that you'lldo multiple times or is it aone-time deal? Or differentfor everyone?For some people, they willonly need to do it once.For people withcompounded trauma, theymay need more than onesession. But researcherssuggest giving it at leastthree months betweensessions.Your MDMA Questions Answered(Continued)Something I never expectedwas to feel empathy for myabuser. Being able toliterally live his life within thisexperience was eye-opening. But not only that, Iwas able to see some of mybehaviors I adapted fromboth my parents and makeshifts in my own parenting.What has been yourfavorite part of yourexperience so far?!Authentic Insider | Page 06

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This April is Alcohol Awareness Month. Founded and sponsoredby the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence,Inc. (NCADD) since 1987, this year’s theme is: “Connecting theDots: Opportunities for Recovery.”No other substance is more widely used and abused byAmerica’s youth than alcohol, making alcoholism and alcohol-related problems the number one public health problem in theUnited States.It is important to connect the dots that lead to awareness andrecovery from underage alcohol and drug use. Fostering healthyand responsible attitudes, talking openly and honestly,encouraging supportive relationships, and showing children thattheir opinions and decisions matter, are all ways to help preventthe use of alcohol and drugs.It can be challenging to develop the communication skillsneeded to talk with your children about drinking and drugs, butit will be well worth the effort you put into it, as you get to knowyour children a little better and help them build the coping skillsthey need to handle the anger, stress, peer pressure, lonelinessand disappointment that are part of being an adolescent.Alcohol Awareness MonthAuthentic Insider | Page 08

Strangers arenot the (main)DangerAs adults, we all remember many conversations ourparents had with us about stranger danger. Don’tget into a car with someone you don’t know, whatto do if an adult stranger talks to us, or follows usaround the store. We all remember, what to yell,where we should meet up with our parents, orguardians. It was ingrained in each of us from ayoung age.But how many of us can remember being sat downand talked about what to do if a family member,close friend, or favorite teacher abused us? Sure,some of us were taught good touch, bad touch, butdid anyone talk to you about grooming? Beingexposed to child pornography? Being told someoneyou trust may lie to you about what love is, or tellyou that bad things will happen to you if you sharethe secret?Think about it. For generations, we have failed ourchildren, we put the emphasis of danger onstrangers and are silent about dangers that cancome from the people closest to us.We now know better. Here are the facts - Every 9minutes Child Protective Services (CPS)substantiates or finds evidence supporting a claimof child sexual abuse. For CPS to investigate a claimof child sexual abuse the alleged perpetrator mustbe a family member, household member, orsomeone who holds a position of trust with thechild. And when it comes to true danger, 93% ofall child sexual abuse perpetrators are known tothe child. (RAINN.com)We owe our children better, we owe our children aconversation about true dangers, and moreimportantly, we owe our children a conversationabout healthy relationships and body autonomy.When we teach our children from a very young agethat they have ownership over their bodies, thatthey get to decide who hugs them, when they wantto be tickled or roughhoused, they are less likely tobelieve a perpetrator's lies, and more likely toreport if someone touches them.When we talk to our children about their bodies, by Melissa Hoppmeyer & Kathryn MarshAuthentic Insider | Page 09

importantly, our children will know these behaviorsare wrong, that they can come to us, and we willbelieve them.And trust us, we get it, these conversations aren’teasy and it’s hard to know where to start. The goodnews is there are experts in this field for a reasonand many helpful books that can be incorporatedinto bedtime routine to educate our childrenwithout making it a painful or awkwardconversation. A couple of recommendations: “Don’tHug Doug (He Doesn’t Like It)” by Carrie Finison isa great early introduction to body autonomy. “It’sNot the Stork” by Robie Harris is geared forchildren ages 4 and up and talks about bodies,babies, families, and more. This book demystifiesprivate parts and instead breaks down the science.One of our favorite parts of this book, however, isthe section on Okay Touches, Not Okay Touches.There are two lines that we think should berepeated to children over and over again “If thefirst person you tell does not help you or believeyou, keep on telling people until someone believesyou. That person will do everything she or he canto help keep you safe and protect you and makethe “not okay touches” stop. This one section is soimportant for children to know because 1) it tellschildren that sometimes the first adult they tellmay not believe them. We know as Special VictimsProsecutors that often happens, and if a child isn’tinitially believed, they often never say anythingagain and the abuse continues. This section tellschildren that someone might not believe them but2) keep saying something and someone will believeyou. This is incredibly important as children needto know that someone will believe them and 3) Itmakes sure that children know someone will help (Continued on page 12)and demystify “private parts”, by calling them by theirproper names, and talk about proper uses, our childrenare less inclined to feel shame or be embarrassed aboutsomething that happens to their private parts and aretherefore more likely to talk about it.When we tell our children that bad touches,inappropriate behavior, and harm can come from anyone,and not just a stranger, children will know that groomingbehaviors and insidious touches are not love, are not aspecial game but are abuse. By having theseconversations early, we steal a perpetrator's power. More Authentic Insider | Page 10

This is a very deeply profound andcandid account of extraordinaryphysical, mental, and emotionalabuse. Ms. Griffin has found thestrength to open up about hertumultuous past, and appears tobe healing, getting stronger andfinding a purpose in her life.This book is an absolute mustread!! I loved everything aboutit from beginning to end and toknow that it was based off ofPatrices real life left mespeechless. Very powerful!! Ihighly recommend everyone toget this book!! PowerfulGet this BookAll proceeds from the saleof The UnconsciousCommunity will go toPatrice's Kids, Inc., a501(c)3. For more, check out Ep. 23 with Patriceof A Trauma Survivor Thriver's PodcastAuthentic Insider | Page 11

(Continued from page 10)them and make it stop. This encourages reporting,and provides comfort that the abuse can stop. Afew other books include “It’s So Amazing” and “It’sPerfectly Normal” also by Robie Williams.Finally, although we talk about sex, child abuse, andchild exploitation every day, it’s still hard as Moms,to know when to talk to our children about certaintopics. We don’t want to overshare, but we want tomake sure our children have the necessary tools forhealthy relationships and understanding consentand body autonomy. We highly recommend foradults “Birds + Bees + Your Kids” by Amy Lang, MA.Parenting is hard, but our kids need us to be theadults and have these conversations early andoften because education is prevention and thedanger very rarely comes from a stranger."EDUCATION ISPREVENTION, ANDTHE DANGER VERYRARELY COMESFROM ASTRANGER"The authors of this article, Melissa Hoppmeyer, and KathrynMarsh, are prosecutors in the special victims unit at PrinceGeorge's County in Maryland. They also host a weekly podcastcalled "No Grey Zone."Authentic Insider | Page 12

A Trauma SurvivorThriver's Podcastreceives Mom'sChoice AwardAuthentic Insider | Page 13

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So who exactly is Gen Z? Gen Z makes upmost of our youth and young adult populationbeing born after 1996 onward through 2012.Gen Z grew up in a very different era to thegenerations before them. Technology hasshaped their childhood as most had access tosmartphones from a very young age.Ultimately, that access to technology shapedtheir childhood differently from previousgenerations.In fact, older generations before them say thatsmartphones have negatively impacted theirmental health and stress-related issues. Is thistrue? Well, an annual U.S. survey on stress israising concern over mental healthdeterioration among teens and Gen Z reporting the highest stressed group out of allage groups. The report by the American PsychologicalAssociation noted that COVID-19 has made animpact on the generation specifically becauseof lockdown and isolation. About half of theGeneration Z respondents said they can’timagine planning for the next stage. Out of thesurvey, three-quarters of respondents said thatthey felt so exhausted that they “sat aroundand did nothing.” 73% felt that they could notconcentrate and 71% felt unhappy. While 87%of college-aged students reported that theirstress derives from their education. Stress Awareness Monthby Maggie DungeyIt is difficult to plan for the future within itself,but learning to adapt to a new worldenvironment has added more stress amongGen Z's teens and young adults.For stress awareness month, I sat down overZoom with Bethany Kim, 22, to discuss herpoint of view of why Gen Z is reportedly themost stressed generation. As a fourth-yearFamily, Youth and Community Science major atthe University of Florida, Kim had to adjust backin March 2020 when the university transitionedto online learning. With that came even morestress of meeting expectations withoutvalidation from in-person settings. "We become sowrapped up in allthese expectationsthat we forget totake care ofourselves likeeating a mealbefore noon."Authentic Insider | Page 16

From a Gen Z POV, why do you feel that ourgeneration is so stressed? What are somefactors at play? A large part of our generation being stressedstems from growing up with the instant gratificationgiven by our smartphones. Having enough likes,friends, followers, etc all adds pressure leading tostress. We constantly compare ourselves tomodels we see online that feed into our self-doubt,that we are not enough. Often we are met withunrealistic expectations that are thrown our waythat we have to look a certain way or be ahead ofothers career-wise. Academic stress adds togetting the perfect GPA, getting an internship orbeing noticed on LinkedIn. We become sowrapped up in all these expectations that we forgetto take care of ourselves like eating a meal beforenoon.Do you think that Gen Z is pressured toperform well? And thus why we are morestressed? Stress has increased for us because of thecompetitiveness and pressure to get into a gooduniversity and a good-paying job. The workplace isdefinitely more competitive and many are left withno job because some industries are rising morethan others like computer science or engineering.Especially to be a woman of color, it can be hardto make a name for yourself with the issue ofequality that ultimately causes more stress. In your opinion, what is Gen Z most knownfor?In my opinion, we are known for oversharing onsocial media and generally being on our Iphones all the time. We also tend to be a morevocal generation using social platforms tospeak up against injustices.Do you think Gen Z is more inclined to havemental illnesses than other generations?Why or why not?I don’t think necessarily that Gen Z is moreinclined to have a mental illness but rather wenormalize having one by speaking up. Forexample, if I mention a mental illness to myparents, they will simply deny my mental illnessand think I am being dramatic. Therefore, I hadto deal with it on my own. Growing up, thatentire process made me question myself,whether I had a mental illness that would makeit hard to get any help I needed.What does stress look like for you?Stress for me is procrastinating and going onsocial media. I tend to stop eating and sleepingand just focus on my work but get distractedalong the way. I tend to talk about it instead ofsitting down and actually tackling theassignment.Do you think Gen Z procrastinates moreleading to more stress or that we were nottaught to cope? (Continued on Page 19)Q & A "We are less afraid to go againstnorms and fight for moreequality for a better life." - KimAuthentic Insider | Page 17

Q & A (Continued from Page 17)Growing up, I was not taught in school how todo a lot of adult tasks like filing taxes, etc. Itmade it hard transitioning into adultresponsibilities because I was never taughtand was left to kind of figure it out myself. Iwas scared to ask because it was not alwayswelcomed or normalized. There definitelyneeds to be more resources to cope with thetransition which would decrease the amount ofuncertainty and stress that comes with justexisting. From your POV, what can be implementedat work or school that can help combatstress? At the University of Florida, taking away springbreak this year definitely took a toll on students'mental health because there was nothing tolook forward to. It caused a lot of stress andburnout among students. Mandated breaksshould be implemented in work and school toallow a breather from everything and to have aday of recharging. Also, having more mentalhealth counselors available, and not limiting thenumber of visits would help students cope withstress. It gets hard and frustrating when youcan't get the help you seek. Do you think normalizing stress and talkingabout it can help alleviate some pressure tobe okay all the time?Our generation is strong in that we can be openand vulnerable to friends about our feelings. Thisultimately reduces the sigma that comes withmental illnesses. It’s important to talk with othersbecause it creates a sense of validation or reliefthat you are not alone and that others your ageare also battling mental illnesses. Life is notalways perfect and often can feel like itscrumbling when you are alone. It is important totalk about these topics, especially to educatechildren from a young age, so they know when toseek help.Do you think Gen Z expects more than othergenerations? Equality, professional, etc? Doyou think we care more?For one, I think we do not expect more but ratherare more vocal and open about speaking up forwhat is right. We are less afraid to go againstnorms and fight for more equality for a better life.Many think we are a spoiled generation becausewe might be handed things, but in fact we arestressed, and we do work hard.Not all stress is bad, it can actually be goodand motivates us. Do you agree?I agree that not all stress is bad. When studyingfor a test or an important job interview, it serveswell for motivating us to excel and putting in theextra work to get the best results.For more on Gen Z and how they are shaping our future, Check outEpisode 19 of A Trauma Survivor Thriver's Podcast Authentic Insider | Page 19

I would say most of us have been there, trying to do all of the things until you'velost sight of all realistic expectations and hit a wall. What we really need to be doing is making self-care a part of our daily routine.Don't think you have the time? Let me paint you a picture.It's like when you don't take the time to charge your phone and then it shuts offon you at the most inopportune time. You have to find a charger, plug it in andwait for the phone to get enough juice to turn on. And even when it does turn on,you still have to wait until it finishes processing what it was last doing before itshut down. It takes more time and more energy to get it up and running again.And the same goes for humans. Your Self-care To-Do ListAdd one or all to your to-do list before you're forced toGot 5 minutes?5 Minutes of focusedbreathingWatch cute videos ofanimals or babies (Seepage 19)Step outside for fresh airand focus on your senses,Sight, Smell, Hear, TouchDrink a glass of waterTell yourself "I love you inthe mirrorAuthentic Insider | Page 20

A yoga sessionListen to A Trauma SurvivorThriver's PodcastPaint a pictureColor in a coloring bookWorkoutPut on a funny show Spend time with friendsCreate a vision boardPick up Authentic InsiderMagazineTake a napSoak in a tubTake a shower Go for a walkDo a short meditationWatch a funny YouTube clipWrite down positiveaffirmationsWrite in a journalStretchCall someone you loveTake a cat napRead a chapter in a bookGot 15 minutes?Got an hour or more??Authentic Insider | Page 21

De-Stress with some CutenessScience says that watching animal videos online can help boostproductivity, combat loneliness, improve memory functions,enhance relationships, lower stress levels, and increasehappiness! Try it out!Authentic Insider | Page 22

Since the pandemic, I've basically livedin workout clothes. And as someonewho is 5 feet tall, Fabletics offers high-quality leggings in 3 different lengths. With new styles dropping everymonth, you may want to up yourgame to a VIP membership.Feel Good in theClothes You're in Up your Athleisure styleLorilee is wearing Fabletics'Marley Seamless SportsBra in red Size S with the High-Waisted SeamlessStatic Legging - S / Short Get the LookAuthentic Insider | Page 23

Cannabis Therapy Authentic Insider | Page 24

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I believe cannabis to be a wonderful medicine whenused properly. After my children go to bed, I unwindwith a cup of tea in front of Netflix either on thecouch snuggling with my husband or creating art.Cleaning and organizing become fun. Decoratingand rearranging turn into happy little tasks that bringme joy. When I’m doing anything creative, I’m livingin my joy without judgment of my past or worryingabout my future. Spiritually, I feel more connectedto the energy of gratitude and love.This is a vulnerable subject to broach for me but Ifeel relief in sharing my experience. It is a stigma-engrossed subject although much less now.Unfortunately, people do have their opinions andpass their judgment. My hope is to let them be andrealize their opinion isn’t my business. Very grown-up, right? Whew, it’s not always easy. I belong to two different mom support groups,specifically for cannabis. Mothers Mary, a mom’sgroup that expands across the internet-connectedworld, led me to take cannabis classes andencouraged me to do mindfulness exercises andinner work. They’ve since left Facebook but continuemental health work for mothers within the group.My second group is much smaller but grew from amom group that I had taken my boys to as infants.Imagine new moms with cute, mostly bald-headedbabies sitting in a circle on cushions, sipping coffee,recovering, commiserating, asking for advice, feelingheard, seen, and supported. I am lucky to have thoseresources where I feel one of many instead of ‘other.’It’s a mindset shift, ridding myself of the stigma, andI couldn’t have gotten here without community. I believe you have to follow your own guidelineswith plant medicine rather than what’s suggestedwith traditional prescription drugs. I understandwhy people are unwilling to research suitablestrains. I get why people are reluctant to try itbecause they will feel too high or mayexperience anxiety or paranoia. However, all ofthat feels like phase one of the journey. Bysharing my experience, I hope to make it easierto understand the benefits. For me, the benefitswere enough for me to obtain a medical license.I am at ease knowing what my medicine is madeof, down to the terpenes and percentages ofTHC, CBD, and their variants. In my moments of depression and anxiety, I feellike a victim, stuck in one awful moment thatwon’t end. If I can draw a couple of inhales frommy vaporizer and then snap out of it, I get backto feeling value for myself and my life. Feelingworthy usually leads me to my art desk. Cannabis is a reset. A reminder to slow down, getcreative, go to sleep, meditate, read, journal,walk, whatever I need to get back to my center.Often, it’s as simple as it gives me the ability tojust FUNCTION; to just breathe and follow myinstinct because when I am aligned, I am more intune with what I need. Cannabis encourages meto be grateful for what I have, who I’m with, andwhat I can do in this moment. When I pair mindfulness with cannabis, it has agrounding effect. Meditation is heightened. Ifind my inner being to be a little louder andclearer and gratitude to come more easily. Yogaflows more effortlessly, and art becomes allabout discovery and the process. When I pair mindfulness with cannabis, it has agrounding effect. Meditation is heightenedAuthentic Insider | Page 26

“Everybody is a genius. But if youjudge a fish by its ability to climba tree, it will live its whole lifebelieving that it is stupid.” — Albert EinsteinAuthentic Insider | Page 27

AUTISM ISMY SUPERBLESSINGAs a child, other kids tossedepithets my way “out inpublic” during middle andhigh school, such as “dumb,”“stupid,” “lazy,” even“retarded.” Once, someonetold me that I should be“shut up in a basement.” Myfriends and I had to defendeach other with wordsseasoned with gracebecause of the cruelty. I amconsidered high-functioning on the Autismspectrum. I was unable tospeak until the age of fourwhen I was in kindergartenand said my first words:“Stop bullying my friend.” “Educational experts”compared me to avegetable and believed inthe worst in me. I wasdiagnosed with PervasiveDevelopmental Disorderand although I tried toattend my neighborhoodschools, “it wasn’t the bestfit.” Most schools in theAmerican education system and most jobs in theAmerican work force can’tservice me well because oftheir lack of understandingof gifted extraordinarypeople such as myself.In 1997, My parentssuccessfully sued the Districtof Columbia Public Schools(DCPS) because they failed tolive up to their promise toproperly educate me. DCPSwas required to pay for myprivate special educationuntil I graduated high school. I am a high schoolvaledictorian (4.0 in eleventhgrade), college graduate(bachelors in HumanServices and minor inPsychology, commencementspeaker at the ages of 14 and23, international traveler andI am a designated disabilityservices provider by the DCDepartment of DisabilityServices. Antonio Myers is a native Washingtonian born September 16th, 1993, and wasrecently appointed by DC Mayor MurielBowser to The District of Columbia StateRehabilitation Council Authentic Insider | Page 28

Even though I was labeled withdisabilities in math, I was a top-performing math student. Even though Iwas labeled with a speech and languageimpairment, I won oratorical contests.Even though I was labeled with a non-verbal learning disability, I read people'sbody language very well. Everybodyengages in self-stimulatory or “stimming”behavior such as rocking and hand-flapping, so why is "stimming" bad forthose with Autism? I was a straight-A student, winner of thecursive crown in sixth grade, seventh-grade secretary, and eighth-gradepresident. I won awards in basketball,Chemistry, English, track, and softball.Barack Obama signed my academichonors. I went to Hershey Park as mygraduation gift. I love the arts. I’m artsy! Iam also the life of the party! I have worked for many high-profileorganizations, including St. John’sCommunity Services, and was named aboard member at the age of 21. I alsovolunteer for my father’s philanthropicfoundation: The Brewer Foundation (a DCnon-profit dedicated to communityservices focused on education anddisability advocacy), which I inspired himto create.I was recently appointed by DC Mayor Muriel Bowserto The District of Columbia State RehabilitationCouncil or The SRC which advises DCRSA about theneeds of District residents with disabilities who receiveor are seeking, vocational services from DCRSA.I am living proof that labels are irrelevant. If I had livedby the short-sighted standards of others, I would be avegetable. But I didn’t and I am not. I am a thriver. I amredefining these labels. And while others are stillstruggling with the negative connotations of wordslike Autism, I consider it my super blessing." I A MR E D E F I N I N G L A B E L S " -MyersAuthentic Insider | Page 29

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PsychotherapistsMaking aDifferenceDr. Samantha SweeneyQ&AThere is so muchpotential for growthand it’s bothinteresting andfulfilling to watchthese young peoplegrow and to helpthem do so. Authentic Insider | Page 31

Q & A A N I N T E R V I E W W I T H D R . S A M A N T H A S W E E N E YB Y R I C A R D O K O R N E G A Y What made you want to focus on such awide age range?A: I take a more generalist approach that allowsme to assist many age groups with manydifferent issues. It’s especially interestingworking with early teens to early adults (15-20)because this age range is full of cognitive andphysical growth. Q: What inspired you to pursue this career?A: As an undergraduate, I worked with theWediko Children's Services summer program,where I learned how to communicate andassist children with emotional and behavioralissues. The bonds created and the skills Ilearned there helped me to become successfulin my career. Q: What impact does childhood trauma,specifically abuse, have on a child? A: Trauma, not treated, can cause depression,anxiety, difficulty concentrating in school self-harm, and suicidal ideation. However, whatmany aren’t aware of is that it’s more thanemotional-behavioral outcomes. Children canalso suffer physical outcomes. Heart diseaseand autoimmune diseases can impact childrenwell into adulthood. Q: What do you find to be the most challengingaspect in your field?A: In working with children and trauma, there isa fine line that you need to walk when gettingto the root of certain behavioral issues. Youdon’t want to ask them leading questions orpress them too hard. You do want to make According to the American Psychological Association, a traumatic event is one that threatens injury,death, or the physical integrity of self or others and also causes horror, terror, or helplessness at thetime it occurs. Traumatic events include sexual abuse, physical abuse, domestic violence,community and school violence, medical trauma, motor vehicle accidents, acts of terrorism, warexperiences, natural and human-made disasters, suicides, and other traumatic losses. As a psychology major with an interest in child psychology, I wanted to learn more about the fieldand the impact of trauma on children. I had the opportunity to talk with Dr. Samantha Sweeney, aWashington DC-based psychologist who works with a wide variety of age groups, from children asyoung as seven to adults in their forties and fifties. Authentic Insider | Page 32

them feel comfortable and create a safe space wherethey want to talk. Q: What do you find to be the most fulfilling?A: Because of the wide age range I work with, there is somuch potential for growth and it’s both interesting andfulfilling to watch these young people grow and to helpthem do so. Q: What methods do you use in addressing your client’sneeds?A: I use a multisystemic theoretical approach with anemphasis on collaboration and empowerment. Whetheryou are a parent dealing with the Terrible Twos, a child oradolescent who is struggling with school or friends, ayoung adult struggling with a quarter-life crisis, or anadult striving to better understand yourself and yourrelationships, I can provide support. At everydevelopmental stage there can be difficulties and Ibelieve that with a little bit of guidance, considerablegrowth can occur during these times. (End of Q&A)It was very intriguing and humbling to hear her story. Dr. Sweeney believes in the importance of sharingpsychological techniques and tools with others. She iscommitted to sharing her knowledge and expertise ina variety of forums.If you want to hear more from Dr. Sweeney,check out Episode 12 of A Trauma SurvivorThriver's Podcast.She is also co-author of the recently releasedbook, Working with Worry: A Workbook forParents on How to Support Anxious ChildrenShe can be contacted at ssweeney@fpsch.com.

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One Year inRecovery"No one tells you in treatment that recoverywill be easy. In fact, it’s quite the opposite.But I wasn’t being honest with myself."Authentic Insider | Page 35

I realized that the world I leftwhen I went into treatment wasnot the world I was steppinginto upon my return. Authentic Insider | Page 36

For a while, with the unwavering help of my in-laws, I successfully navigated my new normal.Unfortunately, about five months out ofresidential treatment, a sudden family emergency,compounded with my kids beginning virtualschool and losing my hair from myantidepressants, severely tested my newfoundmental “health.” Before this confluence of eventshad occurred, I had tirelessly kept up with mymedication, did daily yoga or other exercises andpracticed mindfulness, taking breaks when Ineeded them and carefully managing my stress.When it all came to a head, however, panic andshame immediately set in. I had relapsed. I hadfailed. I had disappointed everyone who put theirtime, effort and faith in me to get better.I kept telling myself that I was a fraud. How can Ibe the host of A Trauma Survivor Thriver’sPodcast, when in fact, I was not thriving?Eventually, my husband was able to help me putthings in perspective by saying, “ You have livedwith this trauma for more than 25 years, and it’sonly been less than six months since you wentinto treatment for it. This is a normal part of theprocess.” I also reached out to a friend I hadmade at Sierra Tucson. She reminded me thatonce you leave Sierra Tucson, you are consideredAlumni and continue to have access to manyfantastic resources, including daily processgroups. I wasn’t alone.In my first virtual process group, I met people whohad left Sierra Tucson months, years, and evendecades before me. They reminded me that I wasstill thriving because I reached out to them.Recovery is not a straight, paved road to healing.It’s filled with peaks and valleys, twists and turns;things that are impossible to anticipate. If youdon’t ride through the valley, how could you trulyappreciate the magnificent peak of the mountain.Today, I recognize that bad days are just baddays; not a bad life. Sometimes, depression canbe comforting, like a familiar blanket, especially ifdepression has accompanied you many timesbefore. Thriving, on the other hand, is rejectingthat familiar pull and making the effort to pivot; tohike your way up the strenuous terrain to enjoythe peak. It’s calling people, even if it’s the suicidehotline to step in and offer an understanding ear--even if (or, truthfully, especially when) it’suncomfortable. Find your support system, even ifit’s just me. I am rooting for you.If you or someone you know is struggling withmental health, please reach out to a mentalhealth professional. If you need someone to beyour cheerleader, I am here. Email me atlorilee@atstpodcast.com."I had relapsed. I had failed. I had disappointedeveryone who put their time, effort and faithin me to get better. "Gifts given by friends while in treatmentAuthentic Insider | Page 37

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By Brad Watts, LPC, CSOTPAuthentic Insider | Page 39

difference. It is important to focus on themotivation in the behavior. Is the motivationcuriosity or is it sexual gratification? Any use ofcoercion or manipulation is also a clear sign ofsexual abuse. One of the leading reasons that survivors donot come forward with their stories is becauseSSA is not being discussed in the media and isconsidered taboo by its lack of coverage. SSAhas entered into the mainstream news cycle inonly a few instances. This can reinforce thenotion that it does not happen that often andthat the families in which it does happen arerare or unusual, making those who experienceSSA feel even more alone. The most notableinstance in which SSA was discussed in themedia was in 2015, with the case of JoshDuggar. Duggar was on TLC’s popularThis is too important toallow our discomfort withthe subject to prevent usfrom addressing this criticalthreat to the well-being ofour nation’s children. television show 19 Kids and Counting. Itwas revealed in 2015 that he allegedlysexually abused two of his sisters and twoother girls in his neighborhood. Duggarreportedly snuck into his sisters’ rooms andmolested them while they were sleeping.This made national news and got peopletalking about SSA. However, in the weeksthat followed, the topic of SSA slid frompublic consciousness as the show lostpopularity. Another reason SSA is not discussed muchis that it creates a complex dynamic inwhich parents are reporting their childrenfor offenses committed in their homes. Thiscan cause divided loyalties in parents.Which child do they believe? Bleeding, bruises, or swelling in thegenital areaBloody, torn, or stained underclothesDifficulty walking or sittingFrequent urinary or yeast infectionsPain, itching, or burning in the genitalareaWhat are the warning signs?Child sexual abuse isn’t always easy to spot.The perpetrator could be someone you’veknown a long time or trust, which may makeit even harder to notice. Consider thefollowing warning signs:Physical signs:(Continued on page 37)Authentic Insider | Page 40

Did the abused child do something to contribute to theabuse? Might the child be mistaken or not rememberthe events accurately? These divided loyalties can cloudparents’ judgment concerning the abuse. Parents tendto believe their child more when the reported abuse iscommitted by an adult because it is easier to acceptthat abuse was committed by a person who is outsideof the family. The reality is that few parents will reportSSA. If the abuse is not reported, or if the parents have ahard time believing or accepting it, this makes it lesslikely that the general public will accept or talk about it. Another reason why parents may not report the abuseis that by admitting that SSA was committed, parentsare admitting that there is a high level of dysfunction intheir home and family. Often it is easier for them toback the offender or simply deny that sexual abusetook place. Parents may seek to keep the matter withinthe family.To protect countless children from falling prey tochildhood sexual abuse, there needs to be a nationaldiscourse on SSA. Adults must begin to talk about thesubject, recognize when it occurs, and take action toend it. This is too important to allow our discomfortwith the subject to prevent us from addressing thiscritical threat to the well-being of our nation’s children.Sibling sexual abuse is a problem that we cansuccessfully combat, but we must start talking about it.We need to encourage questions about SSA in townhall meetings; in editorials, in coverage from thenational and local media; on social media; and inconversations with our friends, families, and coworkers.By taking this problem out of the shadows and shininga light on it, then, and only then will we see thisepidemic defeated. Until we do take stronger actionand engage in ongoing national conversation, SSA willcontinue to proliferate until it ravages our families, ourcommunities, and our nation. Changes in hygiene, such as refusingto bathe or bathing excessivelyDevelops phobiasExhibits signs of depression or post-traumatic stress disorderExpresses suicidal thoughts,especially in adolescentsHas trouble in school, such asabsences or drops in gradesInappropriate sexual knowledge orbehaviorsNightmares or bed-wettingOverly protective and concerned forsiblings, or assumes a caretaker roleReturns to regressive behaviors, suchas thumb suckingRuns away from home or schoolSelf-harmsShrinks away or seems threatened byphysical contact(Continued on page 36)Behavioral signs:Source: RAINN.orgAuthentic Insider | Page 41To hear more from Brad Watts, listen toEpisode 26 of A Trauma SurvivorThriver's Podcastor Purchase his book, here

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digital art byCali B.

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Stress Awareness Months Books (Children)The books on this list have been recommended by experts and trauma survivors to help childrennavigate the sometimes scary world that we live in. These books are fun and light but are written to helpparents tackle heavy subjects.Join a diverse group of kids on abusy school day as they discoverso many different ways to speakup and make their voices heard!From shouting out gratitude for aspecial treat to challenging a rulethat isn’t fair, these young studentsshow that simple, everyday actionscan help people and make theworld a better place.Magic is serious business, but allunicorns do is frolic around, havetea parties, and leave glitter all overthe place! They’re nothing likegoblins—practical and hard-working, who can put magic to gooduse! Unicorns aren’t helpful at all.Or are they?Young children are curiousabout almost everything,especially their bodies. Andyoung children are not afraid toask questions. What makes mea girl? What makes me a boy?Why are some parts of girls' andboys' bodies the same and whyare some parts different? Howwas I made? Where do babiescome from? Is it true that astork brings babies tomommies and daddies?When young people havequestions about sex, realanswers can be hard to find.Providing accurate, unbiasedanswers to nearly everyimaginable question, fromconception and puberty to birthcontrol and AIDS, It's PerfectlyNormal offers young people theinformation they need to makeresponsible decisions.Doug doesn't like hugs. Hethinks hugs are too squeezy, toosquashy, too squooshy, toosmooshy. He'd much rather givea high five--or a low five, a sidefive, a double five, or a spinnyfive. Yup, some people lovehugs; other people don't.Everybody gets to decide forthemselves whether they want ahug or not.*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 48

Mental Health & Emotional Support Books(Adult)Surely you're familiar with the Golden Rule: "Treat others the way you want to betreated." While this seems like a good mantra to live by, in reality, placing all yourfocus on others may be exactly what's holding you back. In The New Golden Rule,professional certified coach Emily Golden explains how to close the gap betweenwhere you are and where you want to be, simply by putting yourself first. Once called Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Ryan Harland wasdiagnosed with the condition as an adult after a lifetime of struggles. Afterfacing many traumatic events – including the loss of his beloved brother,Kevin, and a sexual assault by his father – Ryan finally understood why he feltand behaved in the way that he did. And then, with the support of his devotedmother, he started his fight in this bold and brave memoir, Ryan takes us on ajourney of rage and revelation, anger and acceptance, love and betrayal.Survivors of sexual assault are often faced with PTSD, depression, anxiety,suicidal thoughts and substance abuse. Jacquelyn Weis, a Holistic Healer andsexual abuse survivor, understands the shame-plagued brokenness thatresults. She also knows what it's like to be on the other side of true healing tomove forward freely in life with love and compassion.*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

Monthly Collective Readings for All Signswith Joy Larkin (April 1 - April 30, 2021) About JoyJoy is a Narcissistic Abuse Survivorwho has made it her life's work tohelp others through life coaching. Sheis also a healer, earth angel andpsychic medium. If you would likecoaching services from Joy and/or getyour own personal reading, pleasescan the barcode below with yoursmartphone camera.Personal ReadingsCoaching InfoFor April’s readings, many of you are waiting for an opportunity to come. This could bework, love, or finances and will come in the near future. Keep the faith and don't give upon yourself. For others, you may be questioning whether what you have been doing orare doing now is leading you down the right path. Prayer and mediation will be veryhelpful for a lot of you during this time. There is something that most of you need to let go of, something in your life that is nolonger serving you. Others are trying to manifest something big in your life. You areprobably working hard to manifest more abundance, success, or even love. But rightnow is not the time. There is a need to be patient. You may need to do some morehealing of the past or just do some introspection. I think a lot of you are wanting to besuccessful, but there is always divine timing for that.Others may need to be clear and assertive to yourself or others about what you aretrying to manifest. Get clear, write down your goals, dreams and aspirations. Don't giveup too soon, if you are not seeing results. This could just be a test from the universe.Also, there could be more lessons for you to learn before you get what it is you’reseeking. Stay strong, no matter what.In relationships and in love, there is a tower moment coming for someone. I feelsomeone is thinking heavily about the past in regrets about how they treated a person.Some could be experiencing a lot of financial constraints and as a result, may not wantto ask for help, potentially suffering in silence. Few could be suffering because someonefrom the past misses you or vice versa, but you are moving on with your life.Singles, you may want to manifest your soulmate or you may have done so already.You will be extremely happy with this person and you will be with them for a while. Thiswill be a spiritual union, like your soulmate. If you are newly single, don't let it get to youtoo much, Everything happens for a reason and you are meant to grow and evolve as aspiritual being. If whoever you were dealing doesn't want to grow, wish them well andforgive them.Couples, I see much for you . I think you are just solid in your foundation and havemuch love for each other. People may have tried to interfere with your connection but Ithink that has brought you closer.A good lot of you are in the progress of transforming your life for the better. But again Iam seeing a need to be patient and plan for the present and future events to come.Don't force it, what is meant to be, will always happen!In conclusion, my advice to leave with you is to know that the key to success is tobelieve in yourself. A group of you may have been doubting your skills and talents, dueto lack of confidence or fear of what others may think. Don't fear, but trust in yourselfand God or the universe. Understand that there is a plan for your life. Life is a mysteryso you may not know all the answers but in due time, everything will work itself out.There are some people who could have been stressed about finances but know there ismore than enough to go around. Try to work on having an abundance mindset. Allthings are possible for those who believe.Authentic Insider | Page 50