Highlighting Mikayla Girelli's Book on Fostering Post-traumatic Growth in Children
In a world where children are increasingly exposed to traumatic experiences, finding effective ways to support their healing and growth is crucial. Mikayla Girelli, PsyD, a postdoctoral fellow at IMPACT, has taken on this challenge with her innovative and compassionate approach. Her activity book, "Unleashing Your Superpowers: An Activity Book to Foster Posttraumatic Growth," is designed for children ages 8-12 and aims to promote resilience and recovery. This blog explores the creation and impact of Mikayla's work, her background, and the importance of fostering posttraumatic growth in children.
About the Author: Mikayla Girelli, PsyD
Mikayla is a postdoctoral fellow at IMPACT who enjoys working with children, adolescents, adults, and families. She collaborates with clients to increase their self-awareness and self-compassion and effectively navigate their own journeys, drawing from past experiences to inform future pathways to fulfillment. With extensive training in various trauma modalities, including the Attachment, Regulation, and Competency (ARC) framework and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mikayla has equipped herself with the tools needed to make a significant impact in the lives of young trauma survivors.
Mikayla strives to create a strong therapeutic relationship based on trust, connection, and empathy. She has specialized training in numerous trauma-informed modalities and utilizes a strength-based approach in her work. Along with her work on the book, she has developed an adolescent group therapy curriculum to help individuals recover from and find meaning following traumatic experiences.
She earned her doctorate from the Graduate Institute of Professional Psychology at the University of Hartford and completed her internship at the Child Guidance Center of Southern Connecticut.
The Genesis of "Unleashing Your Superpowers"
"Unleashing Your Superpowers" is not just an activity book; it is the culmination of Mikayla's extensive research and clinical experience. Created as part of her dissertation, this book is a testament to her commitment to promoting posttraumatic growth in children. The activity book is specifically designed for children aged 8-12, a critical developmental stage where the right interventions can make a lasting difference.
Mikayla's approach is rooted in the belief that every child has the potential to harness their inner strengths and resilience, even in the face of adversity. The activity book provides a structured yet engaging way for children and caregivers to explore their feelings, understand their experiences, and build coping skills. By presenting therapeutic concepts in a child-friendly manner, Mikayla has made it fun and accessible for children to embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery.
Key Features of the Activity Book
Engaging Activities
The activity book is filled with a variety of engaging activities that cater to different learning styles and preferences. These activities are designed to be both fun and therapeutic, encouraging children to express themselves creatively while working through their emotions. From drawing and coloring to journaling and puzzles, each activity is carefully crafted to promote emotional regulation, self-reflection, and resilience.
Superhero Theme
One of the standout features of the book is its superhero theme. Children are invited to see themselves as superheroes, with unique superpowers that can help them overcome challenges. This theme is not only appealing but also empowering, as it helps children reframe their experiences and see their strengths in a positive light. By identifying with superhero characters, children can develop a sense of agency and confidence in their ability to navigate difficult situations.
Posttraumatic Growth Focus
At the heart of the activity book is the concept of posttraumatic growth. This is the idea that individuals can experience positive psychological changes as a result of struggling with highly challenging life circumstances. The activities in the book are designed to help children recognize and build on these positive changes, fostering a sense of hope and possibility for the future. Through guided exercises, children learn to identify personal strengths, set goals, and cultivate a growth mindset.
Parental and Caregiver Involvement
Recognizing the important role that parents and caregivers play in a child's healing journey, Mikayla has included sections in the book that encourage their involvement. These sections provide guidance on how to support children through the activities, fostering open communication and a supportive environment. By engaging parents and caregivers, the book ensures a holistic approach to healing that extends beyond the individual child.
The Importance of Fostering Posttraumatic Growth
Posttraumatic growth is a relatively new concept in the field of psychology, but its significance cannot be overstated. For children who have experienced trauma, the journey to recovery can be long and complex. While traditional therapeutic approaches focus on alleviating symptoms and restoring a sense of normalcy, fostering posttraumatic growth goes a step further. It encourages children to find meaning in their experiences, develop new strengths, and build a more resilient and fulfilling future.
Mikayla's activity book is a pioneering effort in this direction. By providing children with the tools and guidance they need to navigate their emotions and experiences, she is helping to create a foundation for lasting growth and well-being. The book's focus on empowerment, resilience, and positive change aligns with the broader goals of trauma-informed care, which seeks to not only heal but also transform.
Conclusion
"Unleashing Your Superpowers: An Activity Book to Foster Posttraumatic Growth" is more than just a book; it is a beacon of hope for children who have faced adversity. Mikayla Girelli's dedication to her field and her innovative approach to trauma work have resulted in a resource that is both effective and inspiring. By empowering children to recognize their strengths and foster their growth, this activity book is paving the way for a brighter, more resilient future.
As Mikayla continues her journey in the field of psychology, her work with trauma survivors will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact. Her commitment to promoting posttraumatic growth and her passion for helping children heal are evident in every page of this activity book. We are so happy she is a part of the IMPACT family, and for parents, caregivers, and professionals seeking a meaningful way to support children through trauma, "Unleashing Your Superpowers" can be a vital resource.
If you are interested in learning more about "Unleashing Your Superpowers" or would like support for your child after a traumatic event, please contact us. Together, we can help children unleash their inner superpowers and foster a future filled with resilience and growth.
At IMPACT, we are committed to supporting your mental health and well-being. Our experienced team of professionals are here to help you navigate life's challenges and achieve your goals. If you found this blog helpful and are interested in learning more about how we can assist you on your journey, please don't hesitate to reach out. Take the first step towards a healthier, happier you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.