THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES

Our brains are generally great at processing information, but trauma can disrupt this process. EMDR helps the brain to naturally process painful memories without repeated re-telling, using bilateral stimulation like eye movements. This method reduces the emotional charge of traumatic memories, restoring a more balanced belief, enhancing emotional regulation, and improving overall well-being. EMDR can offer a tolerable and effective treatment for trauma.

*EMDR is not suitable for everyone, discuss with your therapist to determine if this is the right treatment for you.

ACT helps people manage their distressing thoughts and feelings by learning to accept that which cannot be changed while actively working towards their values. This approach builds on mindfulness skills to observe and make space for painful thoughts and feelings rather than trying to avoid them. The focus on values shows how people can live a rich, full, and meaningful life despite the limitations they may face.

Mindfulness is the ability to observe thoughts, feelings, urges, and sensations without judgment. Trauma survivors often struggle with mindfulness because they learned it wasn't safe to feel or had no support in managing overwhelming emotions. Developing mindfulness skills is essential for healing, as it helps individuals stay present and aware of their internal experiences without being overwhelmed.

Our thoughts, feelings, and actions are all connected - the way we think impacts our emotions, and subsequently, our actions. CBT helps people understand and change their thinking to improve their mood and behavioural patterns. 

Insight-oriented work helps people to understand the root of their dysfunctional thoughts, feelings, and behaviours so that they can move forward with all parts of themselves. There is an understanding that if a part of you is sabotaging your life, for instance by pushing others away, that this part of you once protected you, such as when it wasn't safe to be close to others. 

Curiosity and compassion are the key to these approaches which allow people to improve their relationship with themselves and others. I find this type of work to be incredibly powerful, especially for people who have struggled with self-worth and shame.