Understanding Trauma-Informed Therapy
Trauma-Informed Therapy: Navigating the Path to Healing
by Kasey Meyer | Director of Mental Health | MSW, LICSW
Trauma touches many of us, yet its impact varies greatly from person to person. Understanding this is the first step toward healing.
Understanding Trauma
What constitutes a traumatic event is deeply personal. Trauma, as defined, is a distressing or disturbing experience. Its manifestation is as unique as the individual experiencing it, ranging from a single event to prolonged exposure over time—known as chronic trauma.
The complexity of trauma requires a nuanced approach to therapy. Therapists specializing in trauma care adopt a whole-person strategy, aiming to understand the entirety of a person's being and lifestyle. The goal is to treat the mind, body, and brain collectively, tailoring treatment to each individual's specific needs, preferences, goals, and desires.
The Impact of Trauma on Life
Trauma has the power to reshape our existence. It triggers our nervous system's protective responses—fight, flight, or freeze. However, when these responses are constantly engaged, they can lead to chronic states of panic, overwhelm, hypervigilance, severely affecting one’s mental and physical health. Trauma-informed therapy shifts the focus from asking "What is wrong with you?" to "What happened to you?", acknowledging the profound impact trauma has on an individual’s relationships with themselves and others.
The Inevitability of Trauma and the Possibility of Healing
Trauma is a part of life, but enduring its suffering is not a given. Recognizing the effects of trauma is the first step towards recovery:
Persistent replaying of traumatic events
Disruptions in sleep patterns, including too much sleep or nightmares
Difficulty remembering details, whether daily tasks or specific event-related information
Constant worry or fear of impending doom
Challenges in engaging socially or recalling conversations
Feelings of detachment, even in the presence of others
Hyperarousal, such as being easily startled or unable to relax
Fluctuating emotions, chronic pain, and physical symptoms like headaches or digestive issues
Seeking Help
Symptoms of trauma can vary greatly but often include intrusive thoughts, avoidance behaviors, mood changes, and sleep disturbances. If you recognize these signs in yourself, seeking support is a crucial step. Untreated, these symptoms can escalate, affecting your quality of life, employment, relationships, and overall well-being.
A trauma-informed therapist can guide you through processing traumatic events, emotions, thoughts, and sensations. They can also help you develop healthy coping strategies to safely navigate the healing process.
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Contact us today to learn more about our Mental Health Services and how we can assist you on your path to wellness.