Trauma therapists often focus on the emotional and somatic aspects of healing, but neglect the impact of trauma on brain processes. However, understanding trauma's effects on the brain can dramatically improve our ability to do safe, effective clinical work. In this workshop, we'll explore how recent discoveries about neuroplasticity can directly inform treatment methods. We'll translate this new knowledge about the brain into concrete strategies designed to activate left- and right-brain functioning and increase safety, containment, and grounding. We'll look at ways to improve experiences of attachment, affect regulation, and enhanced self-esteem, and discuss specific techniques for undoing destructive behaviors, managing arousal, and preventing flooding and flashbacks. (The session will continue with Workshop 504.)