New emphasis has been placed on the prevalence of Psychological Trauma in our lives- and its effects on our well being. Traumatic experiences are part of being human.
One well known trauma treatment center, The Meadows, describes trauma as any less than nurturing event in our lives. This definition might seem liberal yet as a counselor I can understand its relevance. So many clients come in with trauma-related issues and concerns. My understanding of psychological trauma is any experience which causes us to feel highly overwhelmed and helpless. Psychological trauma causes our nervous systems to work too hard, which results in a number of stress-related conditions.
One tool I am happy to be able to offer clients suffering from trauma-related concerns- whether it be excessive worrying, anxiety, or depression- is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I was initially drawn to this method by the wealth of research backing up its effectiveness. I can now personally and professionally attest to its usefulness in assisting us in healing from trauma.
The underlying healing mechanism in EMDR, and that in all trauma treatment methods, seems to be its ability help us revisit traumatic memories without feeling helpless and overwhelmed. It is immensely helpful to do this in a safe and trusting relationship, such as the counseling relationship. EMDR is just one tool available to today's counselors to help provide relief from trauma-related conditions and concerns. Specially trained trauma-informed counselors can help you through your experience, teaching you skills to stay grounded and calm and accompanying you on your healing journey.
Whatever approaches and interventions you may choose to try as part of counseling, know that you are not alone in your struggles and healing from trauma is possible.
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