The 3 Hour Dive

Understanding the Development and Healing of Emotional Neglect and Abuse

An Educational & Therapeutic In-Person Experience

Open to the entire community—everyone interested is welcome.

Have you ever wondered why anxiety, depression, perfectionism, people-pleasing, or relationship struggles continue despite years of personal growth or therapy?

For many people, the answer is not a lack of effort—it may be the lasting effects of emotional neglect, chronic stress, or relational trauma that began early in life. These experiences often shape how we view ourselves, regulate emotions, connect with others, and navigate the world without us ever realizing their influence.

Join Waldo Psychotherapy and Kate Jackson, LPC, Complex PTSD specialist and creator of 90 Day Dive, on Sunday, August 23, from Noon to 3:00 p.m., for an afternoon of education, self-reflection, and personal insight.

Many individuals who struggle with chronic depression, anxiety, shame, emotional numbness, or recurring relationship difficulties grew up in environments where their emotional needs were overlooked or where stress was persistent. For these individuals, traditional mental health diagnoses may not fully explain the depth or persistence of their struggles.

Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) offers a compassionate and clinically meaningful framework for understanding how prolonged relational trauma—particularly emotional neglect, emotional abuse, and attachment disruptions during childhood—can shape emotional regulation, self-concept, and relationships throughout adulthood.

During this three-hour experience, you will learn:

• How Complex PTSD differs from traditional PTSD.
• Why emotional neglect can be as psychologically impactful as more obvious forms of abuse.
• How childhood experiences influence adult relationships, emotional regulation, and self-worth.
• Why persistent shame, anxiety, perfectionism, emotional numbing, hypervigilance, dissociation, and difficulty trusting yourself or others often develop together.
• How emotional neglect contributes to the development of the inner critic, outer critic, neurotic defenses, fantasy bonds, attachment patterns, and arrested emotional development.
• How to recognize emotional flashbacks and practical strategies for managing them.

Kate will also share her clinical perspective on how unresolved developmental trauma contributes to many of today's most significant emotional and relational challenges, offering participants a deeper understanding of both the origins of suffering and the possibilities for healing.

More than simply providing information, The 3 Hour Dive is designed to help participants connect the dots between childhood experiences and present-day struggles. Many people leave with greater self-understanding, increased self-compassion, and a clearer roadmap for healing.

The Final Hour

The final hour will include a modified, therapist-facilitated group psychotherapy experience, along with time for questions and discussion. Participation in the group process is entirely optional. Whether you choose to share or simply listen, the experience is designed to be respectful, supportive, and educational.

Who Should Attend?

This experience is appropriate for:

• Individuals seeking greater understanding of their own emotional history.
• Adults recovering from childhood emotional neglect or abuse.
• Therapists, counselors, and other helping professionals.
• Family members or partners who want to better understand developmental trauma.
• Anyone interested in learning more about Complex PTSD and emotional healing.

Whether you are beginning your healing journey, continuing therapeutic work, or simply curious to learn more, this afternoon offers an opportunity to deepen your understanding of yourself and others.

Please join us for this unique experience.

Sometimes the greatest breakthroughs begin not with finding new answers—but with finally asking the right questions. We invite you to dive beneath the surface and discover insights that may change the way you understand your life and your relationships.

Light snacks and beverages will be provided. Outside food and drinks are welcome. Please refrain from smoking or vaping during the event.

A Certificate of Completion will be provided for continuing education documentation (where applicable)—and, of course, for bragging rights.

LOCATION: The Juliet is an intimate, luxury event venue in Kansas City, Missouri, located in the historic Luzier Cosmetics Building, known for its modern style, abundant natural light, and versatility.

PRESENTER: Katherine (Kate) Jackson MA, LPC has provided psychotherapy in Kansas City, Missouri since 2010. Kate received her Master’s Degree in Counseling from the University of Missouri, Kansas City and studied Modern Psychoanalysis through the Elliot Group Institute. Kate opened Waldo Psychotherapy LLC in 2012. She specializes in the treatment of Complex-Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD). Kate developed a treatment program, 90 Day Dive, in response to the lack of resources and support for individuals who identify with the symptoms of C-PTSD. She enjoys sharing her knowledge and passion for “The Talking Cure” with colleagues and lay people alike.