A two-part lecture series is to explore the effects of trauma and violence in the community.

The forums, hosted by the Bermuda Counsellors Association and the Ministry of National Security, will also explore healing from trauma.

The first session will see certified clinical trauma professional Revital Goodman speak to mental health professionals about the connection between trauma, emotional intelligence and substance use disorders.

Dr Goodman will also speak about Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing — an evidenced-based practice for healing from trauma and disturbing memories.

The presentation will conclude with hands-on practice aimed at enhancing skills for emotional regulation.

A community forum on Saturday will cover the most common negative childhood experiences and community traumas, as well as their impact on young people.

A ministry spokeswoman said: “The ministry’s gang reduction coordinator, Pastor Leroy Bean will address those in attendance at the discussion sessions, which will zero in on the effects of trauma on the person, the role of substance abuse, generational trauma and the traumatised community.

“The Ministry of National Security and the BCA encourages all interested persons who wish to learn more to attend the workshops.”

She added that Wayne Caines, the Minister of National Security, previously said the Government hoped to partner with “all aspects of the community to address multi-generational unaddressed trauma and to put long-term solutions in place”.

He said: “We are determined to change the narrative to reflect an approach that does not solely target the proven risk population but develops a cultural shift that supports all of the young men and women in Bermuda.”

Friday’s presentation will be held at O’Hara House on Bermudiana Road from 9.30am to 12.30pm.

The community forum will take place at the Pavilion at the National Sports Centre from 6pm to 8.30pm on Saturday.

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