Trauma is the development of characteristic symptoms following exposure to one or more traumatic events. It persists for more than one month and includes coping strategies such as hypervigilance or avoiding behaviors in attempts to avoid or prevent any similar events from occurring again.
Someone who has experienced trauma may have a belief that they “should” be fine. They may also think that what happened “should not count” as traumatic.
Often, trauma leads to sleep disturbances. Either too much or too little sleep can wreak havoc on our emotional and physical states. Relational trouble can soon follow suit. Trauma may lead to a very short temper, feel disconnected from others, and even feeling disconnected from yourself. You may feel on edge and may have an aversion to previously tolerable situations. In general, there is an increase in the adrenaline system in our body. Even if things seem okay, there is a sense that they will not stay that way.
Our team is trained in multiple trauma therapies such as Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Neurofeedback. These are research-based interventions to reduce symptoms associated with trauma, and our staff is trained in both modalities.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR is a mode of therapy that facilitates the healing of symptoms that result from trauma. Traditionally, severe distress has been understood to require a long time to heal. What often took years in talk therapy can now happen in just months with EMDR.
When healthy, the brain naturally moves to heal itself in processing and reprocessing information, but trauma creates a block. A person may want to “move on” or “get over” something, but the effects of trauma disrupt the brain’s ability to change old responses. It is stuck in a pattern that will not allow for healing. EMDR exists to encourage the left brain and right brain to work together and remove the disruption. Using the detailed protocols and procedures learned via EMDR therapy training sessions, clinicians help clients re-engage their natural healing processes.
Neurofeedback
Neurofeedback has helped millions of people with problems that stem from brain dysregulation. It is a way to train brain activity to a more positive, productive pattern where it may have originally been imbalanced or hindered. We measure brainwaves via sensors on your scalp to identify patterns and stressors, and then we work together to retrain those habits. Neurofeedback therapy offers a scientific approach to improve the way your brain thinks and functions – with zero side effects unlike medications that hide the problem!
