There is a preponderance of evidence that adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) result in harmful physical, learning, social, emotional, and behavioral health outcomes during childhood, with far reaching effects lasting across the lifespan. The cumulative effect of childhood adversity and its relationship to childhood trauma represent an urgent call to action among stakeholders, yet treatment studies are rare. The purpose of this randomized controlled trial was to explore the impact of child‐centered play therapy (CCPT) among children with two or more ACEs on improvement of social and emotional assets and behavioral problems. Results of a repeated measures linear mixed model demonstrated statistically significant increases in social‐emotional competencies including empathy, social competence, and self‐regulation/responsibility and decreases in total behavior problems among children who participated in CCPT. Results of this study support the effectiveness of CCPT among children who have experienced ACEs and at risk for complex trauma.

The present study examined the efficacy of a 4‐week mindfulness training program offered on a university campus focused on reducing college students’ (n = 38) perceived stress. Results showed a significant reduction in perceived stress levels throughout the duration of the study. These findings provide preliminary support for the implementation of broad mindfulness‐based training in reducing psychological distress among college students. Further controlled research is needed to determine the effects of such trainings in university settings.

Military-connected children represent intersectional identities and demonstrate unique vulnerabilities and strengths. Indeed, the wellbeing of military families is complex given stressors related to frequent separations and geographic relocations, coupled with the high-risk nature of careers in the armed forces. However, military families also demonstrate several strengths, such as resilience, that may be overlooked in the mental health interventions offered to the military community's youngest members. Previous researchers have illuminated the limitations of interventions provided to military-connected children, as well as methodological flaws that inhibit the development of exemplary practices for this population. In the article, the authors present several ways in which play therapy is responsive to the cultural values and mental health needs of military families. Additionally, the authors provide concrete strategies for play therapists and researchers to improve the rigor of play therapy research and support the efficacy of play therapy with military-connected children.