I provide a combination of evidence-based interventions that is unique and tailored to the person served:
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Good therapy is about helping clients develop understanding and compassion for their parts that have been pushed out of awareness into exile and protectors that have developed that help a person cope. For example, people often cope with the anxiety and emotional dysregulation that accompanies PTSD through repression and dissociation. I believe that each part of us has a role or purpose within the context of how we have learned to cope.
My approach to treating trauma is based is somatically oriented and heart based. An inward focus and somatic awareness guide the client to the awareness that Self is the healer. The freeze response to trauma if often when the most damage is done and results in a disconnect between the right and left hemispheres of the brain. Implementing grounding and self soothing skills sometimes are needed for integration of vulnerable parts to occur. |
Bilateral postures involve crossing the midline and help integrate the right and left hemispheres, which promotes neuroplasticity and allows them to better communicate. There are many bilateral postures, including the pretzel, the butterfly, and cross-crawls. I incorporate these techniques and other skills based on my background in advanced trauma informed skills and Heart-Based Therapeutics.
Letting go of bracing or guarding in the belly, shoulders, and area under the ears is a part of the process. An abbreviated body scan is incorporated to help the person become more comfortable with experiencing the wholeness of their body. Natural Flow EMDR is a therapy that utilizes bilateral movements and somatic sensation to identify and release cognitive and bodily stores traumas. Resourcing pleasant or neutral memories and feeling grounded are essential steps. After the resourcing stage, I support the client in receiving alternating bilateral stimulation using a Thera-Tappers. The TheraTapper is powered by 2 Double-A batteries and provides gentle vibration via two hand-held pulsers. The theratapper allows for the client to close their eyes and go deeper into their experience. |
Similar to bilateral postures, the TheraTapper provides tactile stimulation to alternating sides of the body, which activates alternate hemispheres of the brain and helps calm the nervous system. I then support the client to explore the problem identified. I invite them to bring into their awareness any one person, pet, or thing that helps them feel safe or grounded and to pay attention to and stay with any somatic experiences. This approach often results in an experience of feeling calm and present and may allow for more positive feelings.
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Email me at the address above for more information :)