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Keith Cartwright speaks to the intersection of hurt, hope, and human connection. With decades of experience in trauma-informed work, education, and leadership, his keynotes and trainings help audiences better understand themselves, their nervous systems, and one another—so healing and connection become possible.
Keith Cartwright speaks to the intersection of hurt, hope, and human connection. With decades of experience in trauma-informed work, education, and leadership, his keynotes and trainings help audiences better understand themselves, their nervous systems, and one another—so healing and connection become possible.
Signature Speaking and Training Topics
Recent Events:
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January 2026: Virtual training for Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services Staff on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs).
February 2026: 3-Day training for Virginia Cooperative Extension - preparing team to lead community conversations about the impacts of early childhood experiences.
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February 2026: Connections presentation to The Community Collaborative for Youth and Families in Fredericksburg, VA.
February 2026: 3-Day training hosted by Rappahannock Area Community Services Board - preparing participants to lead community conversations about the impacts of early childhood experiences.
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Response From Recent Training Participants:
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Other trainings that I’ve attended were boring and did not mix personal story and gave a lot of clinical explanations in terms of art. Keith was able to take complicated concepts and break them down into simple understanding. He allowed for free-flowing thoughts and allowed questions to be asked and opinions to be valued. ~EWR III
Having space during the participant introductions for people to be open and express some vulnerability seemed to create a community space, rather than a classroom space. ~anonymous
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The training environment was transparent and safe. Even though I really didn't want to share much myself, I could relate to almost every story and loved it. I often chose to sit back and take it all in. ~anonymous
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Keith made sure to ask the groups input and make sure everyone’s voice was heard as often as they were willing to participate. He allowed for tangents and question upon question even if he may not exactly have an answer in the moment. It felt like a conversation and not a lecture. ~Daron Washington
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Other Testimonials:
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I have had the pleasure of hearing Keith speak on multiple occasions, addressing audiences both large and small, in virtual and in-person settings. His unique ability to weave together his personal and professional experiences creates a compelling narrative that helps listeners understand the brain, the impact of experience on brain development, and the practical steps we can all take to better support those around us. Keith has a remarkable gift for engaging and entertaining his audience while delivering meaningful, research-informed content. Participants leave not only inspired, but equipped with clear, actionable ideas about how they can make a difference. ~Chrissy, Strategic Initiatives and Priorities Manager
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When we understand Adverse Childhood Experiences, we stop asking ‘what’s wrong with you?’ and start asking ‘what happened to you?’ That shift changes everything. Keith Cartwright's ACEs trainings have transformed how communities support mental health, how they respond to crisis, and how they prevent suicide. On a personal level, this understanding has changed how I view my own life, how I parent, and how I show up in my interactions with others. It has challenged me to grow, increased my empathy, and helped me become a more grounded and intentional person. This work saves lives by restoring dignity, understanding, and hope. ~Laura R.(mom and suicide prevention advocate)
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Keith's Blog
