There are few things that affect our current wellbeing more than our past. Research suggests that trauma is at the root of the majority of our mental distress. That is why an exploration and treatment of past trauma can be an essential part of the therapy process.
What is considered trauma?
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) describes trauma as “an event, series of events, or set of circumstances that is experienced by an individual as physically or emotionally harmful or life threatening and that has lasting adverse effects on the individual’s functioning and mental, physical, social, emotional, or spiritual well-being.”
It is generally understood that some events have the potential to be highly traumatic such as sexual assault, physical violence, and natural disasters, etc. These types of events are often referred to as “big T” Traumas, and these are readily acknowledged as traumatic by most people.
Researchers have also found that less dramatic events can also make a significant impact on a person’s well-being. Relational injuries, often referred to as “Little t” traumas, have cumulative effect on a person and can cause significant emotional and even physical pain. Events such as social rejection, bullying, belittling, and neglect can also make a lasting impact. Yet, these less obvious wounds can be hard to identify. They frequently go unacknowledged and untreated, leaving a person wondering why they are having so much trouble in life without any identifiable cause. “Little t” traumas can be easily dismissed, yet they have a significant impact on mental health. They frequently lead to problems such as over-reactivity, low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, body pain and addictions.
As an experienced trauma therapist, we work with my clients to identify the source of their pain, which may include both “big T” and “little t” traumas. We work together to treat these harmful experiences so that they can live life free from their painful past. It isn’t necessary to let your history haunt you or keep you from having the future you desire.
What is EMDR?
EMDR stands for Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is a treatment protocol created by Francine Shapiro that has gained recognition over the past several decades as one of the most effective forms of treating trauma. It uses bilateral stimulation (BLS) to assist the brain in processing memories, reducing reactivity, and strengthening positive thoughts.
As a trained EMDR therapist, we are able to use this ground breaking treatment as a way to help you find freedom from your past.
