Trauma is described as an emotional response to a terrible event. Today’s guest, Dr. Paula Madrid, is a forensic and clinical psychologist, and an expert in the field of trauma. She shares how witnessing trauma growing up in Columbia has given her greater empathy and resilience, before giving us her definition of trauma, and explains how significant behavioral changes through therapy can lead to changes in brain functioning. We discuss the differences between processing trauma from a disaster versus an abuse, and why interpersonal trauma comes with unique challenges. Dr. Madrid weighs in on the complex case of the American gymnast’s assault case and touches on how everyday traumatic situations can lead to PTSD without there being a specific traumatic event. She walks us through the three steps of trauma treatment, and introduces us to the concept of post-traumatic growth. We hope you join us to hear a wealth of wisdom from this expert in the field today.