What is trauma-informed therapy?
Trauma-informed therapy is an approach that recognizes and addresses the impact of traumatic experiences on a person's psychological and emotional well-being. This approach is based on the understanding that trauma can have profound and lasting effects on an individual's thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and overall functioning. I am a trauma-informed therapist and include these principles in my work:
Safety: Creating a safe and trustworthy therapeutic space is crucial. I prioritize physical and emotional safety for my clients, helping them feel secure and comfortable during sessions.
Trustworthiness and Transparency: I am transparent about my methods, goals, and the therapeutic process. Establishing trust and a safe therapeutic relationship is vital, as individuals who have experienced trauma may have difficulty trusting others due to their past experiences.
Choice and Empowerment: My clients are given a sense of agency and control over their therapeutic journey. You are actively involved in decision-making and goal-setting, which can help counter feelings of helplessness often associated with trauma.
Collaboration: I believe that we walk together in this journey and I am not the “expert” on you and your feelings. I collaborate with clients and treat them with respect, valuing their input and perspective.
Sensitivity to Cultural and Diversity Issues: Trauma-informed therapy acknowledges the influence of cultural, social, and individual differences on how trauma is experienced and expressed. I believe that all therapists should be educated and aware of how power structures and oppression can affect clients. I strive to be culturally sensitive and avoid re-traumatization by being aware of potential triggers.
Understanding the Impact of Trauma: I understand the effects of trauma on the brain, emotions, and behavior. This understanding helps me tailor my approach to meet the specific needs of clients who have experienced trauma.
Resilience and Strength-Based Focus: While addressing the challenges stemming from trauma, I also highlight clients' strengths and resilience. For example, showing up to therapy is an amazing first step!
Trauma-informed therapy can be delivered through various therapeutic modalities and techniques. I use trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), parts work and ego states, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and attachment-based therapy, among others. My goal is to provide a comprehensive and compassionate approach that helps my clients work through traumatic experiences and relationships.
Does this resonate with you? Please contact me for a free consultation to see if I might be the right therapeutic fit for you.
