VII
Mind Matters Overview
Mind Matters |Six Major Topics
The evidence-based materials in this program build on research in neuroscience and on the work of
the leaders in trauma care. The curriculum focuses on six major topics: Self-Soothing, Developing an
Observing Self, Relationship Skills, Self-Compassion, Self-Care, and Intentionality.
1. Self-Soothing
Class begins with the Marshmallow Test for participants to understand the importance of intentionality. This
light-hearted lesson includes four different self-soothing and emotional regulation skills.
2. Developing an Observing Self
Developing an Observing Self allows us to observe and monitor events and processes, thoughts and
emotions of our internal world. This observing capacity is a valuable personal tool and skill, providing a
space-in-time between an event and response. This space-in-time provides an extra moment to decide how
to respond to a given life event. With such tools, people are better equipped to observe, learn, and make
wise choices.
Participants will learn to do a Body Scan, identify emotions, distinguish thoughts from emotions, and create
an Internal Journal. For many, this will be their first experience with self-study.
3. Relationship Skills
Supportive relationships are key to recovery from trauma. The ability to build relationships is essential.
Participants will learn to listen deeply, develop compassion and understanding for others, build a support
system, and ask for help effectively.
4. Self-Compassion
Most participants in this program have experienced trauma during childhood. These adverse experiences
can have lasting effects on how a person thinks, feels, and relates to others. Healing from trauma starts with
understanding how it changes the brain—emotionally, cognitively, and interpersonally.
Throughout Mind Matters, participants learn a wide range of practical skills to manage stress, build
emotional strength, and support healing. We emphasize the importance of daily practice, which over time
can reshape the brain and build lasting resilience.
Mind Matters is a curriculum grounded in science—and rooted in hope.
Mind Matters Overview
Mind Matters |Six Major Topics
The evidence-based materials in this program build on research in neuroscience and on the work of
the leaders in trauma care. The curriculum focuses on six major topics: Self-Soothing, Developing an
Observing Self, Relationship Skills, Self-Compassion, Self-Care, and Intentionality.
1. Self-Soothing
Class begins with the Marshmallow Test for participants to understand the importance of intentionality. This
light-hearted lesson includes four different self-soothing and emotional regulation skills.
2. Developing an Observing Self
Developing an Observing Self allows us to observe and monitor events and processes, thoughts and
emotions of our internal world. This observing capacity is a valuable personal tool and skill, providing a
space-in-time between an event and response. This space-in-time provides an extra moment to decide how
to respond to a given life event. With such tools, people are better equipped to observe, learn, and make
wise choices.
Participants will learn to do a Body Scan, identify emotions, distinguish thoughts from emotions, and create
an Internal Journal. For many, this will be their first experience with self-study.
3. Relationship Skills
Supportive relationships are key to recovery from trauma. The ability to build relationships is essential.
Participants will learn to listen deeply, develop compassion and understanding for others, build a support
system, and ask for help effectively.
4. Self-Compassion
Most participants in this program have experienced trauma during childhood. These adverse experiences
can have lasting effects on how a person thinks, feels, and relates to others. Healing from trauma starts with
understanding how it changes the brain—emotionally, cognitively, and interpersonally.
Throughout Mind Matters, participants learn a wide range of practical skills to manage stress, build
emotional strength, and support healing. We emphasize the importance of daily practice, which over time
can reshape the brain and build lasting resilience.
Mind Matters is a curriculum grounded in science—and rooted in hope.
