What Is Trauma?

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Trauma is the emotional and psychological reaction to a negative event. According to Peter Levine, the founder of Somatic Experiencing, trauma can be defined as experiencing fear in the face of helplessness (Heller, 2023). Fear plus helplessness equals trauma. People vary widely in their response to experiences of trauma and this can depend on a variety of factors including but not limited to family dynamics, childhood experiences, and access to internal resources. 

 

One of the most effective tools in treating trauma is EMDR - Eye Movement Desensitzation Reprocessing. EMDR is an evidence based therapy intervention designed to resolve unprocessed traumatic memories in the brain while significantly decreasing distressing symptoms (EMDRIA, 2022). EMDR is a psychotherapy treatment that utilizes body based interventions, bi-lateral stimulation (through tapping or eye movements), mindfulness, and core beliefs to reprocess trauma.

 

To learn more about EMDR visit EMDRIA and watch a quick video here. 

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What about childhood trauma?

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Empower Women Counseling is committed to providing evidence based treatment and trauma informed care through the use of the therapy intervention EMDR with an emphasis on attachment. Attachment wounding takes place when emotional needs are not met well in childhood (DNMS, 2023). This can develop when a parent or primary care giver struggles to soothe, encourage, or show up emotionally for a child. Consequently, children with attachment wounding can grow up with difficulties trusting others, managing their emotions, and  feeling emotionally safe in relationships. Attachment focused EMDR combined with inner child work is an effective way to heal developmental trauma while promoting emotion regulation. 

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If you are interested in determining if you are a good candidate for EMDR please reach out to schedule an intake appointment.

 

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