Traumatic events can overwhelm the brain, hijack the body and distort one’s sense of self. Psychologists often address these responses through techniques that aim to integrate the traumatic memories, promote personal insight, and deepen one’s understanding of the event. However, the latest stress and trauma research has shown us that there are genetic, epigenetic, neurological, and hormonal mechanisms at play, and that understanding and integrating what has happened may not be enough to treat the symptoms. So are we permanently damaged by trauma? Or is there resilience inherent in our very bodies, in our biology? Our guests Bessel van der Kolk, author of the NYTimes best selling book The Body Keeps the Score, and Rachel Yehuda, a pioneer in the epigenetics of trauma, are experts in the latest scientific research informing innovative trauma treatments, including the use of psychedelics and body-integrated therapies.
Kari worked with the PW science team to curate the event to accompany Liz Magic Laser’s installation Convulsive States, book the guests, research and script the conversation, and produce the sold-out event.
Guests:
Bessel van der Kolk — Psychiatrist and trauma research pioneer
Rachel Yehuda—Trauma researcher focused on epigenetics and resilience
Host:
Janna Levin—Theoretical Physicist and Founding Director of Sciences at Pioneer Works
