New Britain Library to Host “Community Conversation” on Understanding Trauma

The New Britain Public Library will host “Understanding Trauma — A Community Conversation,” an educational event designed to address “one of the most important topics of our time.”

The Library says the workshop features Kara Fairchild, LMFT, and Gretchen Hale-West, LPC, from Well Life Therapy, who will “discuss, educate, and unpack what trauma is and its impact on individuals, families, neighborhoods and communities.” The session is specifically “intended for adults who wish to gain a deeper understanding of trauma and explore local options for healing and resilience.”

According to the Library, the conversation is grounded in the local reality that many residents face socioeconomic challenges. These factors include “financial stress and poverty,” “housing instability and homelessness,” and “community and family violence,” which the Library says “significantly impacts youth and can perpetuate cycles of trauma.”

The presentation will also explore “intergenerational trauma,” which the Library says “involves patterns of stress and adversity carried through families and cultural narratives.” By focusing on these realities, the Library says the workshop ensures “relevance for people living in urban and nearby communities where poverty, instability, and limited access to (and knowledge of) services add to the burden of trauma.”

The event is to be April 21 at 6:00pm in the Library’s Community Room. The Library says the event, “intended for adults and older teenagers (16+), educators, caregivers, and community members.”

The Library says that participants will leave the session with a “clear understanding of what trauma is and how it can affect mental, physical, and relational health,” as well as “knowledge of treatment and support resources available locally.”

A Q&A session will follow the presentation to allow for community engagement. Admission is free and open to the public.