What is Trauma-Informed Therapy?

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I'm frequently asked, 'What does it mean to be a trauma-informed therapist?' 

So,  I've dedicated this blog to provide a brief explanation of both trauma and trauma-informed therapy.

1. What is Trauma?

Trauma is complex, impacting people in unique ways.

The DSM-5 defines it as exposure to shocking, distressing, or harmful events that often exceed the individual's ability to cope, leading to a profound and lasting impact on their emotional well-being.

These events can include death, abuse, natural disasters, serious injury, or sexual violations…

Traumatic events can also comprise a tough breakup, a car accident or a developmental exposure to abuse and neglect as a child.

According to the DSM-5, individuals may experience:

✨ Flashbacks: Re-experiencing the traumatic event as if it's happening again.

✨ Dissociation: Feeling disconnected from oneself or surroundings.

✨ Alterations in Mood and Cognition: Shifts in emotions, beliefs, or thought patterns.

✨ Sleep Problems and Nightmares: Disruptions in sleep patterns and distressing dreams.

2. What is Trauma-Informed Therapy?

Trauma-informed therapy recognizes the varied responses to such events and understands its pervasive nature. It goes beyond specific interventions.

How? 

It's a personalized approach shaped by an individual's trauma history, triggers, and needs. As a trauma-informed psychologist, I integrate this approach into my practice by:

🌟 Ensuring physical and emotional safety is paramount in every session. This involves giving the client the necessary time to sit with their experiences and process them without the risk of retraumatization.

🌟 Empowering clients by educating them and involving them actively in their care, working together on establishing routine, and learning helpful skills like grounding techniques to support clients. 

🌟 Maintaining openness and honesty in all interactions. As a trauma-informed psychologist, I prioritize establishing safety and trust. Collaborative relationships, honoring clients' voices, and respecting their choices are the foundations of my trauma-informed care.

🌟 Staying updated on research and best practices, recognizing unique cultural considerations. 

I'm here to guide individuals toward processing feelings, fostering psychological flexibility, and reframing thoughts to lead value-based lives. 

Take home message: 

If you or someone you know is seeking a trauma-informed approach to therapy, I'm here to provide compassionate support.

If you find yourself struggling to process a traumatic experience, don't hesitate to reach out and send me a message or an email on kindmindbydana@gmail.com 😊

Yours truly,

Dana Berri

Kindness is not just a virtue, it's a way of life. 


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