This winter has certainly been colder than any in recent memory! As we all look for ways to stay warm, frigid temperatures force us to do more activities indoors. One typical place for a family outing is a local mall. Warm, with aesthetically pleasing and creative window dressings, a smorgasbord of fun foods and pleasing smells, and plenty of opportunities for social connection, malls are typically a good place to escape the winter doldrums. How tragic then, that an environment that should feel safe and comforting becomes yet another place where innocent people get terrorized and lives are lost to senseless violence. The recent shooting at the Columbia, Maryland Mall reminds us of how vulnerable we can be in the world. These traumatic events often lead to acute stress disorder, a diagnosis we explore in this month's newsletter.

Just a reminder, that our Spring semester resumes in March. If you are interested in the Certificate Programs in Advanced Trauma Treatment, now is the time to register! In addition, please check out our wonderful new workshop offerings, stay warm, and I look forward to seeing you for more personal and professional growth!