Trauma changes the brain, but it doesn’t have to define the future.
This lecture explores the cutting-edge science behind how the brain responds to trauma and the pathways that lead not only to recovery but to growth. We’ll examine the neurobiology of stress and resilience, the role of protective factors, and evidence-based strategies that foster healing and transformation. Participants will gain insights into the mission of CU Marcus Institute for Brain Health, how trauma impacts brain health and cognitive function, mechanisms of resilience and adaptive coping, and the emerging science of posttraumatic growth—how adversity can catalyze strength, meaning, and purpose.
Join us for an inspiring and practical session that blends neuroscience, psychology, and lived experience to illuminate how individuals and communities can move beyond survival toward thriving.
Dr. Kathleen Flarity is the Executive Director for the CU Marcus Institute for Brain Health (MIBH), Co-Founder/Deputy Director of the CU Center for COMBAT Research, and Professor of Emergency Medicine. MIBH is a clinical care and research institute for traumatic brain injury (TBI) and psychological health (PH) conditions such as post-traumatic stress. She is an experienced researcher, nurse practitioner, and emergency and critical care flight nurse. She has over 41 years of military service from Army combat medic to Air Force General. Her service includes multiple deployments and commands. Dr. Flarity's passion for treatment and research is in TBI, PTSD, brain health, and resiliency for our nation’s heroes. She has provided her resiliency intervention “Passion in Practice” (grounded in positive psychology, neuroscience, cognitive psychology, and human performance science) to over 30K military and civilian heroes.
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Virtual lecture full title: Transforming Trauma: Brain Health, Resilience, and The Science of Posttraumatic Growth