We just completed our first book study group supervision in our residency program, focusing on Dr. Bruce Perry and Maia Szalavitz’s "The Boy Who Was Raised as a Dog." I selected this book to help our newer clinicians understand the profound impact early experiences and relationships have on children's development. Just as early years lay the foundation for brain development, residency helps shape the identity of clinicians. One of our missions in the residency program is to instill awareness and knowledge of the impact of early trauma and neglect on the brain and body.
The clinicians shared several key takeaways, including a deeper understanding of how early experiences affect learning and development. They appreciated Dr. Perry's candid reflections on the conflicts between his training and his instincts about human relationships. The play therapists were particularly struck by his willingness to engage in activities like coloring with children, recognizing in some of his stories how children process trauma through play until they can make the memories manageable. This helped underscore how neuroscience explains the importance of play and how play therapy is helpful.
The book highlighted both the triumphs over and the devastating effects of early neglect and trauma, fostering a greater appreciation among our clinicians for what their clients might have experienced. They now feel better prepared to support their clients on their healing journeys.
Our next book is Deb Dana’s "Polyvagal Practices," which will delve into Polyvagal Theory and its application in therapy. I am looking forward to this read, as it will be my first time exploring this book, though it was my fourth time reading Dr. Perry’s book.
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