Why Trauma Can Look Like Bad Behavior in Kids Ministry | Adrienne Gibson, LPC

What if the child you’re struggling with the most is actually the child who needs your ministry the most? In this episode, I’m talking with Adrienne Gibson, a licensed professional counselor, clinical supervisor, and co-author of *Traumatized Church*, about what trauma-informed ministry can look like when we apply it specifically to kids. Adrienne and I talk about how trauma can affect the way children behave, why some of the kids we label as “difficult” may actually be struggling to feel safe, and how our churches can become places where kids experience healthy relationships, stability, and healing. We also talk about: • What trauma-informed ministry actually means • Why safety has to come first • How boundaries and power dynamics matter in kids ministry • Why the “problem child” may need community the most • How to actively listen to parents instead of making assumptions • The difference between a coping skill and a maladaptive behavior • Why kids ministry leaders should never diagnose children • How we can create emotionally safe environments for kids • Why healing happens in community • Practical steps you can take in your kids ministry this weekend Adrienne brings together her professional counseling experience, her work with children and families, and her faith to help us think differently about how we respond to kids who have experienced trauma. If you lead, volunteer, or serve in kids ministry, I think this conversation will give you a lot to think about—and some practical things you can start doing right away. Adrienne Gibson is a licensed professional counselor, clinical supervisor for the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners, and the owner of Valor Counseling. She has more than two decades of experience working with children, families, and adults and is the co-author of 📖 TRAUMATIZED CHURCH: https://a.co/d/04e1Vdgp VALOR COUNSELING: https://www.valorcounselingaz.com/adrienne-gibson-lpc-1 STUFF I MENTIONED IN THE VIDEO: Health Audit Video: Coming soon, love! Thanks for being here and for the work you’re doing to help kids know and experience the love of Jesus.