The Trauma-Informed Pediatric Practice: A Resilience-Based Roadmap to Foster Early Relational Health

In this approachable book, a pediatrician (Gillespie) and a psychologist (King) walk step by step through the transformational process of creating a trauma-informed practice. They address the debate over ＂ACE screening,＂ and share how to prepare an organization for change, assess risks to relational health, support caregivers, use resilience-based interventions, and finally how to sustain a trauma-responsive practice. In the hands of Gillespie and King, what may seem like an overwhelming undertaking becomes one that we can--and must--undertake to fully support the health and wellbeing of children.

R.J. Gillespie, MD, MHPE, FAAP, is a pediatrician in private practice in Portland, Oregon. He has a particular interest in exploring the impacts of parent and caregiver trauma on health and wellness in early childhood, with the intention of supporting all families to be the best versions of themselves. Dr. Gillespie does consultation on practice-based quality improvement, particularly in the areas of screening and assessments that support early relational health, and has participated in multiple national and statewide screening initiatives through the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Oregon Pediatric Society, and the Children’s Health Alliance, amongst others. He provides guidance for state and regional initiatives on trauma-informed care and strives to make the science of toxic stress, childhood adversity, and resilience accessible and meaningful to practicing clinicians as well as all the families under his care.

Amy King, PhD, is a licensed psychologist who provides training, consultation, and education to professionals and organizations. She specializes in trauma-informed work and resilience building. Dr. King advises organizations around wellness, staff vitality, and creating trauma-responsive spaces. Her specialties include working with professionals to help create resilient children, patients, and thriving families, guiding them to heal their stress and trauma through connected relationships. Dr. King has served as a statewide trainer for the Oregon Department of Human Services, Child Welfare, and as a subject matter expert to promote child wellness in pediatric settings on behalf of Children’s Health Alliance. Her current work is promoting resilience by training professionals who work with children and families, through partnership and collaboration. Dr. Amy & her team serve folks who aim to be champions in connected spaces. When she’s not working to promote resilience, you can find her with her family on their small hobby farm in Newberg, Oregon.