The Voice of Hope with Dr. Ken Huey
Join Dr. Ken Huey on The Voice of Hope, where real stories and expert insights meet to inspire healing and transformation. With decades of experience in behavioral health and trauma therapy, Dr. Huey draws from his personal journey and professional expertise to offer practical advice for families, adoptees, and anyone seeking growth. Discover strategies to navigate trauma, build stronger relationships, and embrace hope in every episode. Tune in for thoughtful conversations that uplift and empower.
The Voice of Hope with Dr. Ken Huey
Julie Beem - Healing Childhood Trauma Through Attachment & Advocacy
In this episode of The Voice of Hope, Dr. Ken Huey welcomes Julie Beem, Executive Director of the Attachment & Trauma Network (ATN), for a deep and moving conversation about childhood trauma, attachment disorders, and what it really takes to foster healing. Julie shares her personal journey from adoptive mother to national advocate, reveals the transformative power of regulation and relationship, and unpacks the myths and realities of trauma-informed care.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by a child’s behavior, confused by conflicting diagnoses, or unsure of how to help kids who’ve experienced deep emotional wounds - this episode is for you.
Learn:
- The difference between trauma-informed, trauma-sensitive, and trauma-responsive care
- What gives Julie hope — even in the hardest stories
- Why healing is possible, even if it's non-linear
- How parents, educators, and professionals can become agents of healing
Connect with Julie at attachedtrauma.org
00:00 - Introduction
Dr. Ken Huey introduces Julie Beem, Executive Director of the Attachment & Trauma Network.
00:43 - Dr. Ken Huey: What is your “why” for starting this journey in trauma and advocacy?
Julie shares her personal adoption story and the traumatic struggles that shaped her mission.
02:56 - Dr. Ken Huey: How did you come into your leadership role at ATN?
She outlines ATN’s beginnings and her path from volunteer to Executive Director.
04:12 - Dr. Ken Huey: How has the trauma and attachment landscape changed since you started?
Julie reflects on the improvements in support networks and the lingering challenges around diagnosis and awareness.
06:36 - Dr. Ken Huey: Why is diagnosing attachment disorders so complex?
She explains the misinformation, stigma, and confusion surrounding RAD and related diagnoses.
09:03 - Dr. Ken Huey: What does “trauma-informed” actually mean today?
Julie breaks it down into three levels: informed, sensitive, and responsive — highlighting the evolution of the concept.
11:22 - Dr. Ken Huey: How important is the ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences) study to your work?
Julie connects ACEs research to broader trauma advocacy and the importance of positive experiences.
13:00 - Dr. Ken Huey: So… how do you heal trauma?
Julie gives a simple, powerful answer: “Regulated and Relational.” She unpacks the core healing levers.
14:08 - Dr. Ken Huey: What gives you hope about building safe relationships?
She describes how young parents today are rewriting the playbook with conscious, connected parenting.
16:11 - Dr. Ken Huey: Can healing happen later in life — even after decades of trauma?
Julie shares the inspiring story of Dr. Janine McConaughey and reframes what “success” looks like in healing.
19:57 - Dr. Ken Huey: What gives you hope about your daughter’s future?
Julie offers a moving, honest reflection on her daughter’s healing journey and the power of continued growth.
20:48 - Dr. Ken Huey: How can people connect with you and learn more about ATN?
Julie shares contact info, ATN’s website, and their upcoming events and resources.
