Introduction to Trauma

Introduction to Trauma explores how stress and overwhelm shape the body, mind, and relationships -
and how healing begins with understanding.

You’ll learn what trauma really is, how it shows up in the nervous system, and practical ways to bring safety, awareness, and regulation into everyday life - for yourself and the people you support.

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What’s This Course About?

Trauma isn’t just something that happens to “other people.” It’s part of the human experience. We all carry stress, overwhelm, and painful moments that shape how our bodies and minds respond to the world. This course helps you understand what trauma really is - how it works, how it shows up, and how healing happens.

You’ll learn what’s happening in the nervous system when someone shuts down, gets triggered, or seems “overreactive.” We’ll talk about how trauma lives in the body, why connection is essential to healing, and how regulation - both self and co-regulation - creates safety. You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of the somatic side of trauma and how the body holds, expresses, and releases past experiences.

Why It Matters

You don’t have to be a therapist or be in crisis to benefit from learning about trauma. Understanding trauma helps you relate more compassionately - to yourself, your loved ones, your coworkers, and your community. When you can recognize nervous system patterns instead of labeling behavior as “difficult” or “irrational,” you create space for empathy and change.

This course will teach you how the body tries to protect us, and how we can support that process instead of fighting against it.

Who It’s For

This course is for anyone who wants to better understand human behavior and emotion, especially when things feel “too much.” It’s a great fit for caregivers, educators, community leaders, helpers, and anyone curious about how stress and safety shape our lives.

By the end, you’ll have a clear picture of how trauma affects the brain and body, and practical ways to respond with steadiness and care. You’ll start to notice the signs of stress and regulation - in yourself and others - and have tools to bring more calm, safety, and connection into the spaces you share.

About Your Teacher

Elizabeth Suárez-Hernandez brings years of experience supporting people through moments of deep distress and transformation. As a trainer for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and other crisis networks, she has prepared responders to meet callers facing trauma from abuse, discrimination, migration, depression, and more.

Ely’s work centers on understanding trauma through both science and lived experience. With a background in neuroscience and mental health, she studies how trauma shapes the brain, body, and nervous system—and how regulation and connection can restore balance. She has led and coached trauma support groups for women worldwide, helping participants reconnect with their bodies and rediscover safety through presence and compassion.

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