WMSA Podcast Blog:Healing Trauma and Building Community: A Conversation with Dr. Kasi Howard

Welcome to the latest installment of the Working Moms of San Antonio podcast where we navigate the multifaceted world of working motherhood. In this week’s episode, we had the unique opportunity to sit down with our first in-person guest, Dr. Kasi Howard from Innova Recovery Center. Dr. Howard shared invaluable insights into trauma, PTSD, and the impact these issues have on women, particularly those balancing careers and entrepreneurship.

Dr. Kasi Howard leads Inova Recovery Center, a trauma and PTSD treatment facility. While PTSD is often associated with veterans, Dr. Howard emphasizes that over half of PTSD cases derive from childhood abuse—be it physical, sexual, or emotional. Her center primarily treats these individuals, who often carry the burden of their past into adulthood, manifesting in a range of challenging symptoms.

Understanding Trauma in Women and Business

A significant portion of our discussion was dedicated to how trauma affects women in business. Dr. Howard noted that many women, even as they build successful careers and businesses, are quietly struggling with significant trauma histories. These women often juggle trauma symptoms while maintaining family and business responsibilities. As more women navigate entrepreneurship, understanding and addressing these unspoken issues become crucial for holistic well-being.

Recognizing and Addressing Trauma Symptoms

During the conversation, Erika and Marie explored how trauma subtly yet severely impacts daily life. Dr. Howard provided examples of typical symptoms, such as heightened anxiety around children’s safety or intimacy struggles in relationships. The takeaway was clear: women often downplay their trauma, not seeking help until symptoms disrupt everyday life.

A common theme was the tendency to compare personal trauma to others'. Many women dismiss their experiences as insignificant, which discourages seeking help. Dr. Howard encourages women to recognize that any form of trauma is valid and deserving of attention and support.

Support for Teens and Young Adults

Dr. Howard’s work is not limited to adults. Inova offers comprehensive programs for teenagers dealing with trauma, anxiety, and behavioral issues like self-harm. These programs blend therapy with education, allowing teens to receive help while maintaining their academic pursuits. This dual approach prevents educational setbacks—a common concern among parents.

Community Involvement and Seeking Help

Our conversation touched upon the importance of community support and how societal attitudes toward mental health often hinder help-seeking. Dr. Howard advocates for a community-driven approach where individuals are more proactive in checking in on one another. It’s vital to recognize signs of distress and step in just as we would for someone with a physical ailment.

Navigating Grief and Loss

Grief, as another layer of trauma, was a poignant topic. Dr. Howard highlighted that there’s no specific timeline for grief, emphasizing that it ebbs and flows unpredictably. It’s essential to offer ongoing support to those grieving, even long after the loss occurs. Community has a vital role in making sure individuals do not feel isolated in their grief journey.

Practical Tips for Coping

Towards the end of our conversation, Dr. Howard shared practical techniques for dealing with daily stress and trauma. Gratitude journaling stood out as an effective but often underrated tool. By focusing on gratitude, individuals can shift their mindset, fostering a more positive outlook amidst adversity.

Conclusion and Resources

Dr. Howard’s commitment to supporting those affected by trauma extends beyond her practice. Inova Recovery Center is a resourceful hub, offering a range of services from individual therapy to educational support for teens, all tailored to meet the unique needs of their clients. For anyone in need, Inova is not just a service provider but a community partner eager to help guide and support you through your healing journey.

We wrapped up the episode with Dr. Howard, expressing gratitude for her insights into trauma and healing. Her work is both vital and inspiring, offering hope and practical solutions to those silently battling trauma. To learn more about Dr. Howard's work and Inova Recovery Center, visit their website or contact them directly to explore the supportive resources available.

For more episodes, stories, and insights, continue tuning into the Working Moms of San Antonio podcast. Your community is here to support you every step of the way. Catch us next week for more engaging discussions and uplifting stories from the heart of San Antonio’s working moms.

Find Dr. Howard at https://www.innovarecoverycenter.com/team/dr-kasi-howard

Find more of our podcasts at www.workingmomsofsanantonio/podcasts 

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