Building resilience in children exposed to trauma

Trauma is defined as “an event or circumstance resulting in physical harm, emotional harm, and/or life-threatening harm” (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 2024, para. 1). Trauma experienced in childhood such as sexual, emotional, or physical abuse; exposure to natural disasters; or a witness to violence can lead to adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) (Lynch & Mahler, 2021). This article highlights the importance of a strengths-based and trauma-informed approach to emotional regulation in children with ACEs, offering strategies for occupational therapy practitioners (OTPs) to foster resilience, self-regulation, and posttraumatic growth in therapeutic settings.