When Kristin Beasley was finishing her clinical PHD, she chose the title “The Hand that Rocks the Cradle, Rules the World ” for her dissertation (Her committee voted on a longer, more scholarly title.) Since then, Dr. Beasley has been researching, working, and training in the area of ACEs, trauma-informed care, child development, resilience, and attachment. More than 25 years later and the research behind her original title still rings true. 

Throughout her professional career, Dr. B has trained community-based professionals to work with vulnerable populations both effectively and compassionately. She has taught early childhood education to thousands of people. She trains educators, medical and mental health advocates, and law enforcement professionals across the country. Her passion for what she does is inspiring. “Just one simple shift can change the entire way people perceive and participate in life on a personal and professional level” says Dr. B. 

 Discouraged by her dyslexia, she never intended to go to college, but three degrees and many years later, she still is an avid learner and researcher. She views the world through the eyes of children all the time, and especially enjoys doing this through the eyes of her granddaughter!  

 Dr. B wants to know what children see, hear, and observe in the world around them. What makes them tick, and what helps them become more resilient and invincible. As a Parent-Infant Mental Health Specialist, she also has the ability to see through the eyes of parents.  

 Dr. B illustrates the importance of looking back, as well as ahead, three generations for trauma. It is in this way that we are able to see the connection and current of both trauma and resilience. 

  As a mom she realized that parenting takes a lot of luck, with good and bad things happening around us all the time.  So, what saves us? Dr. B believes that it is our resilience that saves us. The ability to overcome adversity and still take care of each other and heal.  “It’s all about relationships: this is the heart of life”, says Dr. B.

  Whether you are listening to Dr. B’s podcast, Delusional Optimism, working on certifications through her online Leave a Lifeprint Academy, or listening to her speak at the 7th Annual Community Resilience Conference this June, you are sure to leave with a greater understanding of trauma and the power of resilience in our lives. Need to be inspired? We’ll save you a seat!