Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Cancer

This powerful 90-minute session provides a comprehensive exploration of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and their long-term impact on health and well-being. Offered as an individualized session or in a small group (up to 10 participants), this program is designed for those who wish to deepen their understanding of how early adversity affects the body and mind—and how to promote healing across the lifespan.

Offering Structure

This session is held by direct request or once per month. A mutually convenient day and time will be determined by the host and participant(s). If no one requests the session in a given month, it will not be held.

What to Expect

Participants will learn how ACEs—such as abuse, neglect, and household dysfunction—affect brain development, immune response, stress regulation systems, and behavioral patterns, ultimately influencing lifelong health outcomes. This session will:

• Define ACEs and explore their prevalence across populations
• Examine the science behind how early adversity affects the brain and body, including changes to the nervous system, hormonal balance, inflammation, and gene expression
• Present emerging evidence connecting ACEs to chronic illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and cancer—including breast and lung cancers and others
• Explore behavioral responses (e.g., smoking, substance use) that may serve as coping mechanisms and further elevate health risks

Participants will also be introduced to key healing modalities and prevention strategies, including:

• Trauma-informed care principles
• Somatic and mind-body therapies
• Resilience-building and nervous system regulation tools
• Public health approaches to reducing the prevalence and impact of ACEs

This offering empowers individuals to better understand the hidden connections between childhood trauma and adult disease, while also providing tools to begin the healing process—individually, within families, and across communities.

Who Should Attend

This session is ideal for:

• Those who have experienced childhood adversity and want to understand its lasting effects
• Individuals seeking trauma-informed approaches to healing
• Cancer patients, thrivers, caregivers, and advocates who want to explore the role ACEs may play in health and illness
• Providers, educators, and community members seeking to foster resilience and reduce risk factors

Please reach out to request a session or to express interest in a 1:1 session or in joining a small group.