Dr. Judith Herman is a renowned psychiatrist and Professor of Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. As a pioneer in the field of trauma studies, Dr. Herman’s groundbreaking work has transformed our understanding of trauma, abuse, and their profound psychological impacts. Her seminal books, Trauma and Recovery and Father-Daughter Incest, have become essential texts in the field of trauma therapy. Dr. Herman’s research focuses on the complex interplay of trauma, memory, and recovery, emphasizing the need for a compassionate and survivor-centered approach to healing. She continues to be an influential voice in advancing trauma-informed clinical practice and the broader movement towards social justice.

Todd McGowan is a Professor at the University of Vermont, where he also serves as the Director of Film and Television Studies. His academic work focuses on the intersection of cinema with psychoanalysis, existentialism, and critical theory, examining how theoretical insights from figures like Hegel, Marx, and Freud can be applied to understand media texts. McGowan has authored numerous books on topics ranging from comedy and capitalism to the psychoanalytic study of film, making substantial contributions to film and television scholarship.

Dr. Sandra Buechler is a respected psychologist and author, renowned for her work on emotional resilience and empathy in therapeutic practices. Her research focuses on the intersection of social factors and mental health, contributing valuable insights to both academia and clinical psychology. As an educator, she has played a significant role in shaping future professionals through her teachings. Her publications address crucial aspects of psychological well-being, making her a key voice in the mental health community.

Leo Guardado, Salvadoran by birth, is Assistant Professor in the Department of Theology at Fordham University, in New York City. His research areas include the tradition of asylum/sanctuary in churches, Latin American liberation theology, mystical theology, Gandhian nonviolence, and indigenous healing practices among migrant communities. His first book is titled Church as Sanctuary: Reconstructing Refuge in an age of Forced Displacement (Orbis, 2023). Guardado received his Ph.D. in both Theology and Peace Studies from the University of Notre Dame.

Manon Voice is a multifaceted artist and social justice advocate, known for her impactful work as a poet, hip-hop emcee, speaker, and educator. She leverages her art to explore and amplify the complexities of the human narrative, engaging in activities that range from workshops and public speaking to poetry commissions and collaborative projects. Her dedication to blending art with activism has established her as a respected voice within the arts and activism communities.

Dr. Peter Shabad is a Clinical Associate Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Northwestern University Medical School and a Core Faculty member at the Chicago Center for Psychoanalysis. His work delves into the often-overlooked experiences of loss, disappointment, trauma, and shame, emphasizing their lasting impact on individuals' lives. Dr. Shabad teaches courses on trauma, shame, mourning, and psychoanalytic values, highlighting the importance of addressing and mourning past traumas to facilitate healing. His research and writings contribute significantly to our understanding of the psychological aftermath of unacknowledged losses and the path towards emotional resilience.