Academic Writings, Publications and Media
Publications and media by Joanna Naomi Douglas in areas relating to trauma-informed theology.
Publications
Trauma: Building a Trauma-informed Worshipping Community
Publication: September 2023, Grove Books Ltd.
Helping those who have experienced or who are going through profound suffering is fundamental to truly Christian care. But many are unaware of the difference between suffering and trauma, and how best to help those having to endure the long-lasting effects of the latter.
This study explores the physical and psychological aspects of trauma, its theological significance in the event of the cross, and practical ways that Christian individuals and communities can begin to comfort individuals whose lives have been shattered by deep wounds.
Media
Diocesan Safeguarding Conference.
Publication: 2025, Lichfeild CofE Diocese, Diocesan Safeguarding Conference.
In September 2025, Joanna was the keynote at the Lichfield Diocesan Safeguarding conference at Telford Minster with well over 100 Parish Safeguarding Officers, other interested folk from parishes, presenters and members of the diocesan safeguarding team and scrutiny panel.
Joanna gave two keynote addresses at the event: What is trauma? - Who does this happen to, and what does it look like? & How can we become a trauma-informed, safer space, or church community?
Lichfeid Diocese has made the video recordings of the day and the PowerPoint resources freely available.
Trauma-Informed Theology Podcast.
Publication: 2024, Truro CofE Diocese, CMD Bitesize Podcasts.
In this podcast interview, Rebecca Evans, Ministry & Parish Development Officer of Truro Diocese, talks to Joanna Douglas, Trauma Theologian and PhD Candidate, about her research into trauma-informed theology.
Journal Articles
What Would it Mean to Build a Community of Shalom for Those Living with Eating Disorders?
Publication: 15th March 2024, Humanities Commons.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.17613/tg6e-gj21
Abstract
In many ways, the making and sharing of meals is a significant portion of the fellowship and community of the church, a portion of faith-driven life so integral that food and community are an important part of the Christian tradition. Christianity has at its heart a vision of community where eating together is one of our most sacred and fundamental sacraments. Christianity has argued that this image of community has also in many ways been exemplified to us by Jesus in His life, the last supper and by the early Christians in Acts. Therefore, many Christians attempting to live out this image of community do so by regularly making food and eating together a central aspect of their interpretation of what community means within their life. This interpretation of community is growing increasingly common among Christians, and food has become a central and largely understood to be a positive experience of religious traditions. However, this is something which needs to be explored deeply, particularly in light of the ever-growing number of people living with distorted eating.
How can the Christian worshipping community be a safe place for those living with non-suicidal self-injury?
Publication: 24th September 2023, Humanities Commons.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.17613/m0gq-h671
Abstract
Within contemporary society, there has been a greater understanding of issues of mental health and well-being. However, it could be argued that this awareness heavily focuses on issues of depression and anxiety and negates research into more complex issues such as non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI). This paper seeks to explore the issue of NSSI and where it fits within Christian theology and the pastoral practices of the Christian worshipping community.
News & Other
Safeguarding Conference Examines Trauma
Publication: 2025, Portsmouth CofE Diocese, News.
The Diocese of Portsmouth (CofE) released an article in their online platform and news magazine (September 2025) titled "Safeguarding Conference Explores Trauma." The article discusses their annual diocesan safeguarding conference held on 25th September 2025, where Joanna served as a keynote speaker, providing training on trauma theology.