The Racial Trauma Handbook for Teens - (The Instant Help Social Justice) by Támara Hill (Paperback)

About the Book

Racial trauma can reverberate for generations, and lead to anxiety, irritability, anger, rage, depression, low self-esteem, shame, and guilt. Teens are especially vulnerable to racial trauma, as they are still developing a sense of self and identity. The Racial Trauma Handbook for Teens provides readers with evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) skills to heal the wounds of personal and intergenerational trauma, increase self-awareness, and build confidence.

Book Synopsis

Break the cycle of racial trauma, build confidence, and thrive with this practical handbook just for teens.

If you or someone in your family has experienced racism or racial trauma--such as discrimination or racial violence--you may feel like the experience has made you different from other teens. You may see the world as a scary or unjust place. And you may struggle with negative thoughts, sadness, anger, resentment, or shame. Over time, these negative thoughts and feelings can get in the way of school, friendships, and being your best. But there are ways you can move forward and start living the life you deserve. This handbook will help.

The Racial Trauma Handbook for Teens presents evidence-based cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) skills to help you overcome personal and intergenerational trauma, increase self-awareness, and build lasting confidence. You'll learn how trauma can change the way you see yourself, and how you can break this cycle by learning more about your culture or heritage. Most importantly, you'll find tools to help you balance your emotions, and put a stop to unwanted thoughts and memories associated with trauma, so you can find lasting peace of mind.

Racial trauma doesn't need to define who you are. With this book as your guide, you can heal from the past, discover your own hidden strengths, and cultivate a sense of pride in your identity and your place in the world.

Review Quotes

"The Racial Trauma Handbook for Teens is a powerful book for Black and mixed-race teens, and for parents or guardians raising a Black or mixed-race child. The reflection activities and self-care strategies Támara Hill provides helps teens process racialized experiences and heal from racial trauma. It is heartbreaking that our children experience such trauma; however, this book will help guide them through these moments and develop confidence and self-love."
--Kaii Marie Robertson, restorative therapeutic yoga instructor and wellness educator, and cofounder of The Behavioral Health and Mind Body Economy--Kaii Marie Robertson

"Infused with the heartfelt struggles of growing up as a multiethnic child, Támara Hill takes Black and mixed-race teens on a journey to explore their personal experiences with racism and intergenerational trauma, and models healthy, compassionate self-reflection tools and coping skills that empower teens to heal from the impacts of racial trauma in a positive way. A must-read for educators, as most trauma-informed teaching practices are viewed through a narrow lens that does NOT include race-based stress and trauma."
--Lori Maldonado, professional development coordinator at www.simplek12.com, education technology trainer, national conference speaker, and secondary science instructor--Lori Maldonado

"Támara Hill has produced a book worthy of both clinician and casual reader. As such, it contains helpful and practical information that can jump-start a long-overdue conversation regarding the often taboo subject of race and mental health in our country. What I admire most about this book, however, is Hill's hopefulness and her ability to convey empathy in a refreshing and insightful fashion."
--Don Laird, NCC, LPC, DCC, psychotherapist; and founder of eTalkTherapy, LLC--Don Laird, NCC, LPC, DCC

"Támara Hill has provided a powerful overview of a challenging and relevant topic. The insight and practical tools make this book a must-read! Resiliency, grit, mindfulness, post-traumatic growth, antifragility...it's all in here. When someone's personal experience fuels the passion for hard work and dedication to the community, you get a resource like this. This book will be on every contemporary therapist's shelf."
--Anat Samid, LCSW, emotional intelligence life coach and psychotherapist--Anat Samid, LCSW

"This phenomenal handbook fills a crucial resource gap with its relevance and responsiveness to the needs of Black and multiracial teenagers. The content is clinically sound, culturally respectful, and developmentally appropriate. Teen readers will appreciate how the book offers clarity for complex emotions, and provides relatable examples along with activities that bring concepts to life. Bravo, Támara Hill! This handbook holds countless keys to intergenerational wellness."
--LaVerne Hanes Collins, PhD, LCMHC, LPC, counselor educator; diversity trainer; and owner/CEO of New Seasons Counseling, Training and Consulting, LLC--LaVerne Hanes Collins, PhD, LCMHC, LPC

About the Author

Támara Hill, LPC, is a licensed clinical child and family therapist, and an internationally/board-certified trauma therapist who specializes in treating children, adolescents, and families who suffer from mood disorders, unresolved trauma, and disruptive behavioral disorders. She also provides international consultations and works with young and older adults struggling with grief and loss or life transitions. Hill strives to help clients to realize and actualize their strengths in their home environments and in their relationships within the community. She is internationally recognized for corresponding literary works, as well as appearances on radio and other media platforms. She is an international and keynote speaker, family consultant, and founder of Anchored Child & Family Counseling in Pittsburgh, PA.

Foreword writer Erlanger A. Turner, PhD, is a clinical psychologist, and assistant professor of psychology at Pepperdine University in Los Angeles, CA. Turner is a member of the American Psychological Association and The Association of Black Psychologists. He is also past president of the Society for Child and Family Policy and Practice, and served on the board of directors for the Society of Clinical Child and Adolescent Psychology. Recently, Turner founded Therapy for Black Kids to help promote resilience and healthy emotional development. Finally, Turner is a member of the advisory board for the Sesame Street racial justice initiative. You can find out more about Turner at www.drerlangerturner.com.