The Transformational Life Project (TLP) addresses interpersonal functioning, emotional barriers, program receptivity, and communication between social systems through a 12-14 session community-based cognitive behavioral and attachment theory intervention to help those struggling with trauma, self-concept, finances, and reintegration from incarceration. The TLP utilizes assessments and modules targeting social interaction areas to help participants understand how experiences impact emotions and behaviors and address problematic thoughts and behaviors. Benefits of the TLP group intervention include being cost-effective, providing social support, and facilitating skill development.

1. Transformational Life ProjectPresented at:2ND Annual Prospering Community, Thriving Families,Family Economic Security Conference “Building Foundation For A New Prosperity”October 19, 2009Hartford Marriott DowntownJames Perry, Ph.D.Angela Duncan M.S., M.Div., Ph.D. (candidate)Paul Morgan, B.A.Light of the World Group lightoftheworld.org Light of the World Group © 2009

2. Transformational Life Project “As a single footstep will not make a path on the Earth, so a single thought will not make a pathway in the mind. To make a deep physical path we must think over and over the kind of thoughts we wish to dominate our lives”. Henry David Thoreau Light of the World Group © 2009

3. Transformational Life Project Transformational Life Project (TLP) addresses four areas of treatment: 1. Interpersonal Functioning with Peers, Family and Community 2. Alleviation of Emotional Barriers Impacting Social Functioning 3.Program Receptivity and Utilization 4. Communication Between Key Social Systems Light of the World Group © 2009

4. Transformational Life Project TLP is a community based approach that works within existing programs such as: * Job Readiness and Employment Training * Housing Redevelopment/Supportive Housing * Prisoners/Reentry Populations * Domestic Violence Intervention * Leadership Development * Migration and Refugee Population * Traumatized Groups of People (natural disaster, genocide, oppression, abuse, etc.) Light of the World Group © 2009

5. Transformational Life Project Human Cost of Unaddressed Trauma In non-traumatized industrialized countries, the impact of mental illness in the labor force is well documented as measured by job performance and productivity. Preliminary evidence suggests that there are significant economic costs due to unaddressed trauma within the work force affecting the following areas: Light of the World Group © 2009

6. Transformational Life Project Human Costs of Unaddressed Trauma * Days of work lost (per week) * Quality of job performance * Ability to plan for economic activities * Increase in domestic violence * Increase in high-risk behavior * Increase in diabetes, cardiovascular disease & stroke * Premature death among the elderly * Negative impact on social capital & neighborliness * Higher suicide rates * Poor school performance by children and adolescents Light of the World Group © 2009

7. Transformational Life Project TLP Logistics Ages Adolescents 16yrs+ Adults- all ages Participants Men/Women Numbers of Sessions 12-14 Light of the World Group © 2009

8. Transformational Life Project TLP utilizes the following progression in this application: 1. Engagement – Assessment 2. Treatment Planning 3. Treatment – Transition – Implementation 4. Maintenance and Growth 5. Discharge Plan Light of the World Group © 2009

9. Transformational Life Project TLP is based on the integration of the clinical and theoretical traditions of attachment theory, cognitive behavioral tenets, and faith applications. This approach is for people who struggle with self-concept, financial challenges, traumatic life experiences and reintegration from incarceration. Light of the World Group © 2009

10. Transformational Life Project Delivered across a flexible series of 12-14 weekly 60-90 minutes sessions. TLP is a structured intervention with specific assessmentsand treatment modules that target four areas of social interaction: 1. Interpersonal functioning with peers, family and community. 2. Emotional barriers impacting social functioning. 3. Program receptivity and utilization. 4. Communication between key social systems. Light of the World Group © 2009

11. Light of the World Group GOAL The Light of the World Group (LWG) is a non-profit corporation whose primary focus is to improve the emotional and spiritual health of people that suffer in the world community to implement leadership and counseling initiatives that work with local governments, educational systems, businesses and churches. Light of the World Group © 2009

12. Light of the World Group PURPOSE Our purpose maximizes a spiritual, scientific, cultural approach and methodology to lessen suffering, reduce disability and to increase resiliency for survivors of trauma throughout the world Light of the World Group © 2009

13. Transformational Life Project This training incorporates cognitive and attachment theory with faith. “Cognitive” means thought process as well as “knowledge” or “perception”. “Attachment” theory describes and explains enduring patterns of relationships from birth to death. Transformational Life Project teaches participants to identify their thoughts, moods, behaviors, physical reactions, spiritual significance and relational implications. Light of the World Group © 2009

14. Transformational Life Project Learning Objectives 1. To understand how early life experiences may impact current emotions and behaviors. 2. To understand different methods to identify and address problematic thoughts and behaviors. 3. To understand how attachment theory, cognitive behavioral tenets and faith can be useful in addressing challenges with those we serve. Light of the World Group © 2009

15. Transformational Life Project Our life is full of brokenness-broken relationships, broken promises, broken expectations. How can we live with brokenness without becoming bitter and resentful except by returning again and again to God’s faithful presence in our lives. Henri Nouwen Light of the World Group © 2009

16. Transformational Life Project CORE VALUE 1 Our current situation is usually not the only source of our present pain Anger, anxiety, doubt, worry, hopelessness, helplessness, and resentment are emotions that many of us experience. Our emotional responses to current offenses can be disproportionate to the incident because of past history and unhealed emotional wounds. Light of the World Group © 2009

17. Transformational Life Project CORE VALUE 2 Our brains connect current and past events We don’t forget anything we just don’t remember it. Our brains can utilize information from similar events or experiences to help make current decisions, whether good or bad. Light of the World Group © 2009

18. Transformational Life Project CORE VALUE 3 Many beliefs: One mind Our emotions reveal our true core belief system- we feel what we believe. It can be very difficult to change our core beliefs by simply choosing to do so or by adding more logical information to the situation. Light of the World Group © 2009

19. Transformational Life Project CORE VALUE 4 Believing lies may have the same consequences as the truth Since experiential beliefs dictate our emotional responses, they may also affect our behavior. When we believe something we feel a corresponding emotion that may possibly influence our decisions. Light of the World Group © 2009

20. Transformational Life Project Attachment Styles We all have different types of relationships but healing and recovery hinges on the way we perceive the following: Are you there for me? Can I count on you? Do you really care about me? Am I worthy of your love and protection? What do I have to do to earn your affection? Light of the World Group © 2009

21. Transformational Life Project When we cannot answer these questions positively, our psychological, relational, and spiritual foundation may be shaken. Light of the World Group © 2009

22. Transformational Life Project Attachment Influences Our feelings of security. The personal meaning we give to our experiences. Our ability to develop and maintain closeness with others. Light of the World Group © 2009

23. Transformational Life Project Five Criteria for an Attachment Relationship 1. Proximity (closeness) to a caregiver is sought especially in times of trouble. 2. The caregiver provides a “Safe Haven” or a felt sense of security. 3. The caregiver provides a secure base from which to explore the world. 4. Any threat of separation induces fear and anxiety. 5. Loss of the caregiver induces grief and sorrow. Mary Ainsworth Light of the World Group © 2009

24. Transformational Life Project Attachment Injuries Occur when we have been hurt by someone who is supposed to be there for us: Parents Grandparents Spouse Primary Caregiver God Light of the World Group © 2009

25. Transformational Life Project Impact of Attachment Injuries These hurts can cause deep pain. This pain feels like it won’t go away. Why? More is at stake in the relationship. More emotion is invested. More vulnerability is felt. We expect a loved one to be there for us, and for whatever reason, when they are not, our fears increase. If they remain absent, our fears (if not addressed) can eventually paralyze us. Light of the World Group © 2009

26. Transformational Life Project Causes of Attachment Injuries As caregivers remain unavailable or hurtful, our fears or injuries can pollute our soul (mind, will and emotions). This can cause one to form absolute statements about relationships. The caregiver or loved one is simply not available (physically or emotionally), due to their own emotional distress or discomfort with closeness. The caregiver is willing to be available, but is not able to be there. (i.e., in the hospital or incapacitated) Light of the World Group © 2009

27. Transformational Life Project Causes of Attachment Injuries The caregiver desires to be available and normally would be there, but is absent at a crucial developmental phase or during a time of crisis (i.e., military or work). The parent or loved one is there, but instead of providing a safe haven, they use insensitive, embarrassing or sarcastic language towards the child or adult. The caregiver is there, but smothers and overdoes safety and protection. This doesn’t allow the child or loved one the freedom to explore the world and gain confidence in mastering life’s skills. Light of the World Group © 2009

28. Transformational Life Project Attachment Injuries How ironic and sad. The person who says they love and care for us may be the source of our greatest pain. They may manipulate our love to torture or abuse us for their own warped satisfaction. How do you think your life experiences affect your perception of self, others and God? Light of the World Group © 2009

29. Transformational Life Project Attachment Style Questions Self Am I worthy of being loved? Others Are others reliable and trustworthy? God Is God reliable and trustworthy? Light of the World Group © 2009

30. Transformational Life Project Attachment Styles Secure Attachment Style Positive Self/Positive Other Avoidant Attachment Style Positive Self/Negative Self Ambivalent Attachment Style Negative Self/ Positive Other Disorganized Attachment Style Negative Self/Negative Other Light of the World Group © 2009

31. Transformational Life Project Our Attachment Styles Influence How We Develop Core Beliefs Light of the World Group © 2009

32. Transformational Life Project Thoughts lead to purposes, purposes go forth in action; actions form habits; habits decide character; and character fixes our destiny. Tryon Edwards Light of the World Group © 2009

33. Transformational Life Project What are Core Beliefs? The deepest level of cognition (reasoning and perception). Absolute statements about: Ourselves Others God They operate within our subconscious without our awareness. Light of the World Group © 2009

34. Transformational Life Project Core Beliefs May influence our identity development, forming a portrait of: Flaws Strengths Abilities Worth Light of the World Group © 2009

35. Transformational Life Project Core Beliefs May determine the quality of: Relationships Mood Career Financial Income Recreation Health Light of the World Group © 2009

36. Transformational Life Project Core Beliefs Influence our lives in two major ways: First, they establish rules for: Survival Coping Second, they establish a constant inner monologue by which we: Evaluate our performance Interpret events Light of the World Group © 2009

37. Transformational Life Project Core Beliefs These beliefs when reinforced form a process that many counselors call the belief-expectation cycle. 1. Hurtful experiences begin the cycle of forming our… 2. Beliefs which lead to…. 3. Expectations arising from these beliefs. 4. Which in turn effects the way we Behave in life situations, which influences the behavior of others around us… 5. Which then leads to Experiences that confirm and further perpetuate our beliefs. Light of the World Group © 2009

38. Transformational Life Project Levels of the Belief System (Automatic Thoughts) The situation itself does not dictate your response; but your perception of the event or situation dictates the response. Light of the World Group © 2009

39. Transformational Life Project Levels of the Belief System Assumptions (Rules & Attitudes) Assumptions operate as rules that govern our daily behaviors and expectations. Light of the World Group © 2009

40. Transformational Life Project Clusters of Core Beliefs Conforming Compulsivity Controlling Light of the World Group © 2009

41. Transformational Life Project Light of the World Group © 2009

42. Transformational Life Project Federal Reserve Quarterly 2009, Market Wise Magazine Core Beliefs Program Shapes Attitudes about Money “As part of its HomeBuy5 financial education program, Virginia Supportive Housing (VSH) augments FDIC’s Money Smart curriculum with a novel training program on attitudes about money. VSH incorporated the Core Beliefs training into HomeBuy5 in 2004, after it became clear that financial literacy and even one-on-one counseling sessions were not sufficient for clients to meet their personal and financial goals. The program identifies deep-seeded beliefs about money that act as barriers to financial stability. According to Salathia Johnson, the program’s director, “We added Core Beliefs after we noticed a pattern of clients sabotaging themselves just as their goal was in sight in the last year.” Clients include low-wage earners, families with young children and individuals or families living in shelters or transitional housing or are at risk of becoming homeless.” Light of the World Group © 2009

43. Transformational Life Project Federal Reserve Quarterly 2009, Market Wise Magazine Core Beliefs Program Shapes Attitudes about Money “Core Beliefs helps clients adopt new beliefs and behaviors to rebuild credit, balance their monthly budgets, eliminate outstanding debt and accumulate savings. Clients examine past choices that did not serve their best financial interests even when they had sufficient information to understand the long-term consequences. Some Core Beliefs clients are also eligible for their savings accumulated during the training period to be matched at a rate of $2 to $1 for the first $2,000 saved. The curriculum requires clients to commit to five years of training and savings toward the purchase of a home. Since adding the Core Beliefs component, most clients are now able to reach their financial goals within three years of starting HomeBuy5, rather than five.” To learn more about Core Beliefs, contact Salathia Johnson at (804) 836-1054 or sjohnson@virginiasupportivehousing.org. Light of the World Group © 2009

44. Transformational Life Project Benefits of TLP Group Intervention 1. Cost effective. 2. Can diffuse transference and attenuate ego regression that otherwise may prolong or complicate treatment. 3. Provide social supports and facilitates the development of interpersonal skills. 4. Offers opportunities for acquiring new information, coping skills and self-expectations. 5. Provides feedback from peers. 6. Mutual identification and mirroring in the group are powerful therapeutic factors. Light of the World Group © 2009

45. Light of the World Group Contact information: Email James Perry drjamesperry@lightoftheworldgroup.org Angela Duncan angeladuncan@lightoftheworldgroup.org Paul Morgan paulmorgan@lightoftheworldgroup.org Offices 11 Mountain Avenue, Suite 204 3105 West Marshall Street, Suite 109 Bloomfield, CT 06002 Richmond, VA 23230 (860) 372-8636 (804) 615-3757 Mailing Address Mailing Address P.O. Box 1012 P.O. Box 5105 Hartford,CT06143 Richmond, VA 23220 Light of the World Group © 2009