Trauma and PTSD can happen to ANYONE.
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Trauma does not go away on its own.
When we feel unsafe our fight-flight-freeze response get’s triggered, and a traumatic memory is left behind.
Whether something happened 10 days ago or 10 years ago, trauma can linger around like a virus software running behind the scenes of your computer.
The best way to neutralize trauma and live a life of recovery is to work with an EMDR trauma recovery counselor.
Whether you are struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder from a single devastating event (like a car accident) or chronic traumatic stress over time (like abuse or relational trauma), EMDR can help you release the overwhelming emotions and find peace.
It’s not a matter of “being broken” or “not being strong enough”. Trauma happens because we were pushed past our unique window of tolerance for stress. Our brain and body are wired to protect us, but when trauma happens – it means the wiring got a little tangled.
The good news is – trauma CAN be healed.
Even really old trauma can be released and opened up for mental, emotional, and physical healing.
If you or a loved one is dealing with unresolved trauma, you may be experiencing a lot of ups and downs in your life.
You may not feel like yourself.
It may feel difficult to connect with others, and anxiety and stress may seem to overwhelm you out of nowhere.
Insomnia. Anxiety. Depression. Chronic Pain. Flashbacks. Rage. Panic Attacks.
All of these things can be symptoms of undischarged trauma, and all of them can wreak havoc in your life.
It doesn’t have to be this way.
I specialize in working with adults who want to take action towards healing the trauma in their life.
How does trauma counseling help?
Research shows effective trauma therapy requires a holistic approach to treatment. In my practice, I use an integrative approach that integrates the latest in trauma research, interpersonal neurobiology, relationship science, somatic therapy, Acceptance + Commitment Therapy (ACT), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization + Reprocessing), and mindfulness practices.
EMDR (Eye movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a unique therapeutic technique which has helped thousands of people since it was first developed in 1989. Initially used to treated Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) it has also been shown to be very effective in the treatment of a wide range of issues.
EMDR helps people get “unstuck” often alleviating negative reactions and beliefs associated with emotionally-charged memories. Some of the memories and issues EMDR can help include:
- Encountering violence or abuse
- Car accidents
- Loss or injury of a loved one
- Depression and Anxiety
- Injury, illness or chronic pain
- Performance and test anxiety
- Trauma
- Low self-esteem
- Relationship problems
- Painful childhood memories
What can I expect in an EMDR session?
EMDR is different from traditional talk therapy: it is a more structured approach which involves discussing negative memories and the emotions while the therapist uses eye movements, alternating sounds or physical sensations (ex. handheld pulsers) to induce “bi-lateral stimulation”.
What is Bi-lateral stimulation?
BLS engages both sides of the brain alternately and rapidly, much like Rapid Eye Movement (REM)phases of sleep. It may sound unusual, but thousands of research studies (story after story in my clinical practice) have shown that EMDR really does work! Some clients report a change after only a few sessions of EMDR therapy.