Trauma doesn’t just fade with time—it changes the way we see ourselves, others, and the world. In this powerful conversation, Dr. Maria Innocencia-Amarante, trauma survivor and therapist, shares her personal story of growing up in poverty, violence, and secrecy while navigating depression and trauma.
From witnessing domestic violence to becoming the first in her family to earn a doctorate, Dr. Amarante describes how breaking cycles of silence and abuse opened the door to healing—for herself, her family, and those she now counsels.
Listeners will hear practical insights on how trauma shapes mental health, why recovery is possible, and how even one supportive person can make a life-changing difference.
If you’ve ever wondered how childhood trauma impacts depression—or how to begin reclaiming hope—this episode is for you.
Primary Topics Covered:
Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction to episode and hosts
01:35 - Defining trauma and its impact on worldview
02:53 - Trauma recovery explained through the “elevator” metaphor
03:41 - Why telling your story is key to healing
04:48 - Growing up in poverty, gangs, and violence
05:26 - Witnessing domestic violence in childhood
06:11 - Witnessing a murder outside her home
07:24 - Effects of childhood traumatic stress on lifelong mental health
08:15 - Siblings’ different responses: addiction, policing, survival
09:52 - Education as a pathway out of trauma
10:22 - Learning resilience from her father despite abuse
11:05 - Becoming first in family to earn a doctorate
12:08 - Breaking cycles of silence and abuse
13:16 - What influences how people respond to trauma
14:24 - How therapy and safe relationships foster recovery
15:42 - What to do if you don’t have access to support
16:38 - Recovery and healing from trauma is possible
17:58 - Final reflections on being seen, heard, and supported
19:12 - Closing thoughts and gratitude
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