Trauma and Healing: Trauma-Informed approaches to therapy, coping with trauma symptoms and the journey of healing

Trauma-informed approaches play a crucial role in the process of healing trauma. A trauma-informed approach involves understanding the pervasive nature and impact of trauma, and it prioritizes the physical, psychological, and emotional safety of individuals^[2]. Such an approach can be implemented in various settings and organizations, being distinct from trauma-specific interventions or treatments. It is designed to address the consequences of trauma and facilitate healing^[1].

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), a trauma-informed approach is based on six key principles:

       1. Safety

       2. Trustworthiness and transparency

      3. Peer support

      4. Collaboration and mutuality

      5. Empowerment, voice, and choice

      6. Cultural, historical, and gender issues³

These principles aim to create an environment that fosters healing and recovery for individuals who have experienced trauma. By integrating these principles into practices we can ensure that individuals are treated with respect, empathy, and understanding, ultimately contributing to their healing process^[1].

In addition, trauma-informed therapy involves therapists accounting for clients’ trauma and its impact on their behavior, mental health, and ability to engage in treatment. Trauma-informed therapists assume that clients could have a trauma history and take steps to avoid inadvertently triggering or re-traumatizing them during treatment in the process of trauma and healing ^[2].

Trauma specific therapy can often involve specialized techniques such as EMDR, Brainspotting and Trauma-Focused CBT.  Facilitated by a trained professional it can make a great difference in addressing the actual trauma rather than coping with its symptoms.

Coping with trauma can be challenging, but there are various strategies that can help individuals manage and heal from traumatic experiences. Some common coping mechanisms include engaging in physical activities such as yoga, cardio exercise, and weightlifting, as well as spending time with friends, meditation, watching favorite films or TV shows, and listening to and playing music (4).

In summary, trauma-informed approaches are essential for creating supportive environments that facilitate healing and recovery for individuals who have experienced trauma. It’s essential to remember that coping with trauma is a unique and personal journey, and seeking help for trauma and healing from a mental health professionals can provide valuable support and guidance throughout the healing process. Consult a trauma professional today to see what your healing options are.

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Sources:

1. https://positivepsychology.com/trauma-informed-therapy/
2. https://www.mentalhealth.org/get-help/trauma
3. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). “SAMHSA’s Concept of Trauma and Guidance for a Trauma-Informed Approach.” HHS Publication No. (SMA) 14-4884. Rockville, MD: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 2014. ↩
4. Source: https://psychcentral.com/ptsd/dealing-with-trauma