From Trauma to Prison to Purpose with Ranae Van Roekel | Founder of Connecting to Cope

What is the connection between trauma and incarceration? Can people truly change after prison? And how do you begin healing from trauma, shame, and past mistakes?

In this episode of The Holistic Counselor Podcast, Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, sits down with Ranae Van Roekel, founder of Connecting to Cope, to explore the intersection of childhood trauma, emotional regulation, mental health, and the criminal justice system.

After serving 36 months in federal prison, Ranae shares her personal journey—from unresolved childhood sexual trauma and dissociation to accountability, therapy, and ultimately transforming her life into purpose-driven work helping others heal.

This trauma-informed conversation addresses what many people are actively searching for but rarely understand:

• The link between trauma and incarceration
• How unresolved trauma impacts behavior and coping patterns
• The psychological and emotional realities of life inside prison
• Rebuilding identity after shame, trauma, and poor choices
• Emotional regulation and coping skills for healing
• The role of therapy, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
• The importance of accountability, support, and connection in long-term transformation
• A trauma-informed perspective on justice and rehabilitation

This episode does not excuse harmful behavior. It helps listeners understand the "why" behind behavior so meaningful change can occur.

At its core, this conversation reinforces a powerful truth:

You are not the sum of your worst moments—and you are not beyond healing.

Topics Covered

• Trauma and the criminal justice system
• Healing after incarceration
• Emotional regulation and coping skills
• Childhood trauma and dissociation
• Rebuilding life after prison
• Shame, identity, and personal growth
• Trauma-informed care
• Faith, accountability, and second chances

Memorable Quotes

Diana S. Rice, LMHC: "We are not just the sum of our worst moments. And we are not beyond healing."

Ranae Van Roekel: "If you're not doing the work and going through it, you're not going to get better."

Resources Mentioned

Connecting to Cope – Ranae Van Roekel https://connectingtocope.com

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Overview https://www.apa.org/ptsd-guideline/patients-and-families/cognitive-behavioral

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) International Association https://www.emdria.org

Internal Family Systems (IFS) – Dr. Richard Schwartz https://ifs-institute.com

Pet Partners (Animal-Assisted Therapy Information) https://www.petpartners.org

Who This Episode Is For

This episode is for individuals who are:

• Healing from trauma
• Navigating shame, regret, or identity struggles
• Supporting a loved one impacted by incarceration
• Mental health professionals and helping professionals
• Seeking a trauma-informed and faith-integrated approach to healing

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Your support helps expand these conversations and continue breaking stigma around mental health, trauma, and faith.

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Disclaimer

This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional mental health, medical, or legal advice.

Listening to this podcast does not establish a therapist-client relationship with Diana S. Rice, LMHC, CIMHP, or any guests.

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please contact a licensed professional, call 911, or go to your nearest emergency room.

Always seek the advice of your physician or qualified mental health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition.