Hello everyone! We are talking about trauma today.
I have noticed the concept and term being thrown around often on social media lately. While some of the information is accurate, it is sometimes insufficient, and occasionally, entirely incorrect information gets used to push a particular product.
Today, I set the record straight. I also discuss a new way to work with me that ties into all this.
Join me as I unravel what trauma is and explain how to understand it and deal with it.
Understanding Trauma
Acute trauma can occur after events like accidents or loss. Trauma is the emotional response people have after living through those distressing events.
My Clinical Focus
What I focus on in my practice is not just the immediate incident but how people process or fail to process those distressing moments. I also deal with chronic traumas resulting from domestic violence or growing up in poverty.
Complex Trauma
Complex trauma is a term associated with interpersonal experiences like abuse or neglect, often occurring in multiple instances. That includes war veterans and people migrating or living in war-torn areas. The accumulation of those experiences contributes to chronic stress, which lies at the base of the trauma response.
Reprogramming Coping Mechanisms
Trauma therapy involves recognizing that the tools we develop to cope with stress, whether from acute or chronic traumas, might not serve us well in the long run. Some individuals may deny having trauma but find themselves repeating patterns or struggling in various aspects of life. That realization often leads them to my office, looking to process and reprogram those coping mechanisms.
My Approach to Trauma Therapy
As a trauma therapist, my approach differs from traditional psychotherapy. I emphasize a bottom-up intervention, recognizing that trauma is often held in the body rather than processed through talking alone. I use various therapeutic techniques, including EMDR therapy, somatic therapy, and even yoga therapy, to create interventions that resonate with each person’s unique experiences.
Misinformation, Self-Help, and Skepticism
In the era of quick-fix self-help advice, skepticism is crucial. While self-help resources may provide insights, the complexity of trauma requires a nuanced approach. I caution against the notion that everyone can single-handedly overcome trauma and emphasize the importance of seeking professional support.
Accessing Trauma Therapy
To address the financial and logistical challenges associated with traditional therapy, I introduced therapy intensives as a more flexible and accessible option. I aim to accommodate varying schedules and different financial situations, ensuring that individuals receive the depth of care they need to navigate their unique healing journey.
Conclusion
Trauma is not confined to dramatic events but also encompasses the emotional aftermath and adaptations people make to survive. As a trauma therapist, I am committed to providing a space for deep healing, challenging common misconceptions, and offering innovative approaches that cater to the diverse needs of those seeking support.
Me Time
I came across a valuable self-help book called Anchored by Deb Dana. As a licensed clinical social worker and expert in polyvagal theory, she provides insights and practical tips for healing through bodily awareness and movement. Her clinical training adds depth to her perspective, making Anchored a valuable resource for both clinicians and individuals seeking to understand and calm their nervous systems.
Another great find I stumbled upon is a set of mindfulness cards by Rohan Gunatilake, the founder of Mindfulness Everywhere. These cards offer simple practices for everyday life, categorized into areas like rest and balance, curiosity and joy, insight and awareness, and kindness. Mindfulness is essential for healing trauma, and these cards offer exercises to enhance your awareness of body and mind and practical tips to incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine.
I’d also like to remind you about my Therapy Intensives, a unique approach for those seeking a deeper therapeutic experience. If weekly or bi-weekly sessions don’t fit into your schedule, these therapy intensives might be the solution. You can find more details on my website, including the option for a 15-minute good-fit call to see if this approach aligns with your needs. It is an opportunity to explore a more profound level of healing tailored to your unique journey.
I hope you find my recommendations helpful. Remember that you are not alone on your healing journey, and don’t forget that every time you ask, “Am I a bad mom?” the answer is always no.
Until next time!
Links and resources:
Women of Wonder (W.o.W) Founding Members
Information for Women of Wonder (W.o.W) Community
Anchored: How to Befriend Your Nervous System Using Polyvagal Theory by Deb Dana
Mindfulness Cards: Simple Practices for Everyday Life Cards by Rohan Gunatillake
