Neuroscience, Trauma, and the Path to Resilience with Rick Griffin

Join me for this episode of By Their Side as I have an insightful conversation with Rick Griffin, a renowned expert in trauma-informed care and the neuroscience behind resilience. Rick shares some truly fascinating insights that have completely shifted my perspective. I had always thought of resilience as simply the ability to "bounce back" from adversity, but Rick explains that it's so much more complex than that; it's about the delicate balance of the brain's reward system and how trauma can tip that balance off-center. The way that he breaks down the role of hormones like dopamine, serotonin, and oxytocin is truly eye-opening.

These "feel-good chemicals" are so important for helping the brain and body regulate after a stressful event, but for kids who have experienced trauma, their brains can become "sticky,” or overly sensitive to certain triggers that send them spiraling back into that stress response, and Rick stresses the power of relationships in helping to restore that balance. Having someone who knows your unique triggers and can intentionally stimulate those feel-good hormones can really make all the difference! Even simple things like a familiar smell or touch can be incredibly grounding for a child in distress.

As CASAs, it's important for us to realize how critical it is for us to be that for them. It's not about applying a one-size-fits-all approach but rather about learning their unique neurology so that we can support them in the ways that are most helpful, and Rick's insights have left me feeling both humbled and empowered. Tune in for a better understanding of the incredible complexity of the human brain and how we can use that knowledge to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the children whom we serve!


Highlights:

[1:39] - Hear how Rick founded the Neuro Leadership Academy after discovering brain-based methods improve trauma interventions dramatically.

[4:34] - Resilience, to Rick, is the brain's way of balancing threat detection with resource pursuit.

[7:38] - Rather than just “bouncing back,” resilience involves chemicals that support balance and survival.

[8:07] - Through evolution, Rick explains, our brains have learned to seek safety and resources, forming the roots of resilience.

[11:46] - Too much cortisol harms us, so the brain rewards regulation with feel-good neurochemicals.

[12:41] - Rick explains resilience in biological terms: survival depends on more than just threat avoidance.

[15:17] - Rick argues that pursuing what nourishes us is just as important to resilience as avoiding danger.

[17:48] - Trust begins when consistent care links physical needs to emotional safety.

[21:08] - Rick points out how brains differ in plasticity; some require repeated efforts, but healing still remains entirely possible.

[22:05] - Hear Rick's student story illustrating how quickly meaningful therapeutic shifts can occur.

[24:47] - Being a “stress detective” means observing triggers to reduce harm and help build resilience.

[26:22] - Recognizing and regulating your own responses can foster calm.

[28:21] - Rick points out that observing social, sensory, and value-based triggers helps reduce stress and support resilience.

[31:49] - Even small triggers can cause trauma responses, so it's important to respond with curiosity rather than judgment.

[34:33] - Understanding everyone’s unique brain wiring, Rick stresses, can help improve mental health support.

[36:29] - Rick explains how everyone has unique brain sensitivities, so we should normalize differences instead of judging them.

[38:32] - Understanding others' unique mental experiences can lead to connection and prevent feelings of isolation.

[41:12] - Having caring relationships provides lasting emotional support through all stages of life.

[43:36] - Recognizing personal triggers such as voice pitch can improve communication and family dynamics.

Links & Resources:

Voices for CASA Children - Website

National CASA/ GAL Association for Children

Neuro Leadership Academy - Website