DVAC practice forum

When trauma shapes the brain: SV, DFV and executive functioning

DVAC’s next quarterly practice forum is being held online on the 22nd October 2026 as part of Sexual Violence Awareness Month. This practice forum is facilitated by our Ipswich Specialist Sexual Violence Services Team.

Session Theme

When Trauma Shapes the Brain: SV, DFV & Executive Functioning
Why can a client know what they need to do—but still struggle to do it? Why does organising appointments, making decisions, regulating emotions, remembering information, or following through suddenly feel impossible?

This interactive practice session explores the powerful connection between trauma, domestic and family violence (DFV), sexual violence (SV), and executive functioning.

We’ll unpack what executive functioning is and explore the neurobiology of trauma—including what happens in the brain when survival takes priority over planning, organisation, and problem-solving.

Together, we’ll map the amygdala shift, emotional regulation demands, and the shame–trigger–executive function loop, exploring how prolonged exposure to DFV/SV can make survival mode the brain’s default setting.

Most importantly, this session moves beyond “Why can’t they just…?” to “What is happening in the brain, and what support might help?”.

You’ll leave with practical, trauma-informed strategies you can use immediately, including co-regulation tools, shame-reducing language, cognitive supports, and therapeutic approaches that work with the traumatised brain rather than against it.

DVAC Practice Forums are held quarterly and delivered by our team of specialist practitioners. They aim to support the professional development and learning of those in the health and community services sector responding to domestic, family, and sexual violence.

Details

DATE: Thursday 22 October 2026
TIME: 10:15am – 1pm (with breaks)
LOCATION: Online via zoom
REGISTRATION: Click here to register
COST: Free!