Trauma, Trust, and Transformation: Understanding Adverse Childhood Experiences with Donna McGee & Ken Hogan

Welcome to CNME Connects, the podcast that shares stories to inspire, educate, and connect those working across healthcare.

In this episode, Ken Hogan sits down with Donna McGee, Addiction Services Lead for Social Inclusion in the North West, for a powerful and heartfelt conversation about Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and trauma-informed practice.

Donna brings warmth, honesty, and deep professional insight as she explores:

• What adverse childhood experiences are and why they matter;

• How early adversity can shape lifelong health and wellbeing;

• The meaning of trauma-informed care and how we can bring it into everyday practice;

• Why compassion, trust, and understanding are the foundation of healing.

It’s a wonderful conversation — both reflective and practical — reminding us that trauma is not just about what happened to someone, but also about what didn’t happen: safety, connection, and belonging.

Support Resources

If this episode brings up any difficult emotions for you, please remember support is available:

• HSE Employee Assistance Programme (EAP):
  Free and confidential wellbeing support for all HSE staff.
  📞 1800 409 388 | 🌐 HSE EAP Support

• Samaritans Ireland:
  Free 24/7 listening service for anyone in distress or struggling to cope.
  📞 116 123 | 🌐 www.samaritans.ie

• Pieta:
  Professional therapy and crisis support for those experiencing suicidal thoughts or self-harm.
  📞 1800 247 247 | 📱 Text HELP to 51444

🎙️ Produced by CNME Sligo–Leitrim–West Cavan
💡 Empowering healthcare professionals to connect, reflect, and grow.