Brenda, thank you for sharing your story. I'm very interested in what you're doing, in your graduate studies.... and perhaps we can talk more by phone or even in person (I'm in northern Virginia, I see you're in Maryland). Before I forget, I want to mention this: as I was reading your post I thought about a class I took in Bowen Family Systems theory, at Georgetown University. It helped me think about the power of emotional systems in a family, and how they are passed down through the generations. I was able to take the class through a consortium of universities in the DC area (I was enrolled at George Mason University). I think that a family systems approach helps me understand the impact of ACES and the ongoing ripples through generations.
It's good to hear about how aware you are of your family trauma and the new traumas that continue to occur, and great to hear that you've found effective help. I wish you all the best in 2014 and beyond!
-Catherine