Trauma
Trauma can be deeply debilitating. It can paralyze us with flashbacks, cause us to question our role in the memory, overwhelm us with a sudden sense of dread, or leave us trapped in a cycle of reliving the event. These responses are all normal reactions to experiencing something traumatizing and overwhelming. However, staying stuck in trauma triggers can be disempowering, preventing us from living the lives we want. Over time, trauma can impact work, family, and relationships.
As a trained LifeSpan Integration therapist, I use this neurobiological approach to help clients break free from the grip of trauma triggers. By harnessing the brain’s ability to rewire itself, we can begin to release the hold that trauma has on your life. Similar to therapies like EMDR, LifeSpan Integration helps reduce anxiety, minimize flashbacks, and activate the brain’s natural neuroplasticity to promote healing.
Death of Someone
Losing someone can be a devastating event. It completely changes the landscape of our lives. The person may have died in some random way, some violent act, or without warning. And sometimes, with that loss, comes trauma.
Medical Trauma
Being a witness to a person's care in the healthcare system can sometimes lead to trauma. For those who never go into hospitals, medical care can feel sterile, or even objectifying. Everything around us feels foreign, and we often don't know how to navigate this strange environment where our loved one receives care. This experience, along with trying to be a support to that person in the hospital can lead to a trauma experience.
We began the Lifespan work, and it was like the volume of my trauma experience was turned down. I was finally able to talk about the car accident.
-Trauma Client
....I am so grateful I can see now how parts of me were protecting me through hard moments in life. Lifespan helped me see that and deal with the triggers that have long gotten in the way.
-Trauma Client
Debriefs & Critical Response
When a group of people experience a traumatic event together it can leave people feeling shocked, numb, and unsure where to turn. Because it is a group, differing grief responses can also arise which can potentially cause new tensions, create distance among members, or strain relationships. Grieving is so personal, and each person does grief in their unique way. Often what organizations need are safe containers, safe spaces, facilitated by a professional who can help provide needed education on loss and the accompanying grief, guides for how to engage grief in a way that will not inadvertently harm others, and encouragement to find commonality and community.
If your organization has suffered a traumatic loss or event, reach out for help!