The Hidden Impact of Childhood Trauma on the Brain: Roundtable Discussion

A groundbreaking study from Amen Clinics has revealed the profound impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) on brain function, offering actionable insights for mental health care. Published in Frontiers in Psychiatry, this is the largest brain-imaging study ever conducted on ACEs. 

What the Study Found 

• Over 7,000 participants underwent brain SPECT imaging and clinical evaluations. 
• Higher ACE scores were closely linked to increased risk of PTSD, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, fibromyalgia, and chronic migraines. 
• Abnormal activity was detected in brain areas critical to emotional regulation and decision-making, such as the anterior cingulate and thalamus. 

“These findings are a game changer,” said Dr. Daniel Amen, founder of Amen Clinics. “By identifying how childhood trauma rewires the brain, we can create brain-focused treatment plans that offer real hope for healing.” 

What This Means for Your Practice 
Understanding the connection between trauma, brain function, and mental health empowers you to better serve your patients. Incorporating trauma-informed approaches can: 

• Improve treatment outcomes. 

• Build trust with trauma-affected patients. 

• Address underlying issues that may be resistant to traditional therapies. 

Don't miss this special Virtual Roundtable Discussion with Dr. Vernon Johnson and Dr. Peter Sangra! RSVP to save your spot today.

For the past 25 years, Dr. Vernon Johnson has provided comprehensive mental health care to the people of North and East Texas. Dr. Johnson completed his undergraduate education at Rice University prior to attending the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston, Texas. Following medical school, Dr. Johnson completed a pediatric internship at The University of Texas Health Science Center in Houston, a residency in psychiatry and behavioral health at The University of Texas Medical Branch, and a fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry. 

Dr. Johnson now specializes in the treatment of Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Autism Spectrum, Behavioral Disorders, Substance Use Disorders, Delusional Disorders, Disorders of Adult Personality and Behavior, Mood and Anxiety Disorders, and Mental Disorders due to primary medical illnesses. 

Dr. Peter Sangra is a Child Adolescent Psychiatrist, that recently joined Amen Clinic in Dallas, Texas. He comes as a practicing psychiatrist at Peak Behavioral Health in New Mexico where he worked for several years and is the outpatient Medical Director and helped create a flourishing Partial Hospitalization Program that served the needs of adolescents throughout the entire State. He also became the Medical Director of adult psychiatric hospital and substance abuse unit and crisis Triage Center for the community. During his time there, he achieved the Outstanding Preceptor of the Year Award for mentoring and teaching medical students.  Prior to Medicine, Dr Sangra completed Occupational therapy degree and worked for as an Occupational Therapist for several years in Canada. During his time in Canada, Dr Sangra was the Head Coach for Para-Olympic Sledge Ice-Hockey for five years. His greatest achievements are his strong faith and his marriage and two children. He has served on various Christian Organizations and Charities in the USA and in Canada. When not working, he is either involved in Faith based projects and/or with his family. On his days off, you will find him playing and interacting with his kids at their level, teaching, guiding and loving them as they are.    

Host or Publisher Lisa Marie Shaughnessy