Trauma-INformed Treatment
Our professional clinicians specialize in utilizing trauma-informed treatment to best support you in reducing your symptoms related to PTSD. These integrative methods include EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
Definition of Trauma Trauma is described as an event or multiple occurrences that is experienced by a person as unpleasant. It disturbs emotional stability and leads to negative symptoms. These symptoms then impact the individual long term. There are many different types of traumatic events that an individual can experience such as:
· Neglect and abuse in childhood
· Witnessing or being a victim of violent acts
· Being involved in a terrible car accident
· Grieving the loss of a loved one or child
· Being a victim of bullying
· Intrusive medical procedures
· Being diagnosed with a chronic illness
· A bad break-up or divorce
· Poverty and extreme financial stress
When psychological or emotional trauma is left untreated, symptoms can manifest in a variety of ways, such as:
· Vivid nightmares and/or insomnia
· Feeling detached or numb
· Difficulty maintaining close relationships
· Physical pain
· Intrusive memories, nervousness, and fear
· Feelings of sadness or hopelessness
· Self-blame and guilt
· Avoidance of activities or places that remind you of the traumatic incident
What is EMDR? If you find that you are struggling with many of these symptoms, it is beneficial to obtain support from a professional. There are many different modalities that can enhance the healing process and will support you in recovering from these traumas. One modality that is extremely effective in supporting individuals with these symptoms is known as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
EMDR is a complete protocol that was established by Francine Shapiro to help reprocess traumatic events. EMDR therapy is recognized as an evidence-based practice and is cited as an effective treatment by the American Psychiatric Association (in 2004), the Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense (in 2010), the International Society of Traumatic Stress Studies (in 2009), and in other organizations worldwide, including in Britain, France, the Netherlands and Israel. In 2010, EMDR was reviewed and included in the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices (1).
A Brief Explanation of How EMDR Will Work to Help You
Traumatic memories are typically stored in the brain in a fragmented fashion. Trauma memories are encoded visually and in the body, therefore when the bad memory is triggered, there is typically a visceral reaction. This can cause you to start "looping" or get "stuck" in the memory network of an adverse event. When this occurs, your symptoms of fear, nightmares, feelings of detachment, guilt, and shame can arise. EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (in the form of a light noise or tapping alternating between the right side of the body to the left side of the body) to create a dual focus of awareness. This helps you move out of the "looping" that so commonly occurs when a traumatic memory is triggered. When bilateral stimulation is combined with the reprocessing of memories, the brain is able to integrate new information in a healthy way. Typically this treatment is tolerated well and there is a reduction in disturbing images and emotional reactions associated with negative memories.
During the process, you will be able to reach new insights about adverse events that occurred throughout your life. In addition to this, you will increase the number of supportive and positive mental resources that can be called upon during times of stress in the future. If you are interested in obtaining support for trauma and have additional questions, please do not hesitate to call at 518-461-5772 or e-mail us at slwellness4@gmail.com. We will have an initial free phone consultation to determine if this is the right treatment for you. We look forward to hearing from you!