Conversations with Healers, Helpers, and Guides: Destigmatizing BPD and Honoring the Mind-Body-Spirit Connection with Brandi Herring, RMHCI

Conversations with Helpers, Healers, and Guides is a monthly blog series from Holistic Healing and Wellness with Sabrina LLC with the intention of sparking conversation with other wellness professionals to share perspectives on different ways mind, body, spirit health can be supported.

Today, we are talking with Brandi Herring, a dear colleague that offers Soul Centered Therapy and specializes in helping women optimize their lifestyle through confidence, connection, and community.

Sabrina: Tell us who you are, where you practice, and what you specialize in.

Brandi: I am Brandi I am a holistic therapist who specializes in trauma, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), and polyvagal healing with a focus on spiritual healing. Operating from my practice I employs a comprehensive approach to therapy, integrating both traditional and alternative methods to address the complex needs of my clients. My expertise in dealing with trauma and BPD is supplemented by my understanding of the Polyvagal Theory, which emphasizes the role of the vagus nerve & nervous system in emotional regulation and social connection. My approach is unique in that it not only addresses the mental and emotional aspects of these conditions but also incorporates spiritual healing, offering a well-rounded and deeply transformative experience for my clients.

Can you share your perspective on the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit in the context of trauma and its impact on those diagnosed with borderline personality disorder?

Brandi: As a holistic therapist specializing in trauma, BPD, and spiritual and polyvagal healing, my perspective on the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit is central to my therapeutic approach, especially when dealing with trauma and its impact on individuals diagnosed with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD).

Trauma often disrupts the delicate balance between mind, body, and spirit. In the context of BPD, this disruption can be particularly profound. Individuals with BPD typically experience intense emotional disturbances, a pattern often rooted in traumatic experiences. These experiences can lead to a heightened state of emotional sensitivity and reactivity, impacting their mental and emotional well-being.

From a holistic standpoint, the mind is not an isolated entity; it's deeply influenced by the physiological states of the body and one's spiritual health. The polyvagal theory, which I incorporate into my practice, highlights how the nervous system, particularly the vagus nerve, plays a crucial role in regulating emotional responses and social behaviors. Trauma can dysregulate this system, leading to challenges in emotional regulation and interpersonal relationships, which are common issues in BPD.

Incorporating spiritual healing is vital because it addresses the existential and deeper emotional aspects that are often neglected in conventional therapy. Spirituality can provide a framework for understanding and processing trauma, fostering resilience, and finding meaning in one’s experiences. It can be a source of comfort and strength, especially for those who feel disconnected or fragmented due to their traumatic experiences.

Therefore, in treating individuals with BPD who have experienced trauma, it's essential to adopt an integrative approach that addresses not just the mind and emotional symptoms but also considers the physiological aspects and spiritual well-being. This holistic approach aims to restore balance and harmony between the mind, body, and spirit, facilitating a more comprehensive and effective healing process.

Sabrina: In your experience, what role does trauma play in the development or exacerbation of borderline personality disorder, and how does this connection influence the therapeutic approach?

Brandi: I've observed that trauma often plays a significant role in the development or exacerbation of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). Traumatic experiences, particularly in early life, can profoundly impact emotional regulation and interpersonal relationships, core areas affected in BPD. This understanding of trauma's role in BPD shapes my therapeutic approach. It calls for a treatment that not only addresses the psychological symptoms but also considers the body's physiological responses to trauma and the individual's spiritual well-being. This holistic approach, integrating mind, body, and spirit, is crucial for effective healing and management of BPD, acknowledging the complex interplay between trauma and the disorder.

Sabrina: Borderline personality disorder is often stigmatized, and misconceptions abound. How do you work towards destigmatizing BPD in your practice, and what advice do you have for others in the mental health field?

Brandi: I actively work towards destigmatizing Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) in my practice. I approach BPD with empathy and understanding, recognizing it as a complex mental health condition often rooted in trauma. My practice involves educating clients and their families about BPD, debunking common myths, and highlighting the individual's strengths and potential for growth. By adopting a holistic approach, I aim to show the multifaceted nature of BPD and the importance of addressing mind, body, and spirit for healing. For other mental health professionals, my advice is to stay informed about the latest research in BPD, approach patients with compassion, and advocate for a deeper understanding of BPD in both clinical settings and the broader community. This approach can help reduce stigma and foster a more supportive environment for those with BPD.

Sabrina: Building a therapeutic alliance is crucial in trauma work. How do you establish trust and rapport with clients who have experienced trauma?

Brandi: In trauma therapy, I prioritize a strong therapeutic alliance through trust, empathy, and a non-judgmental space, respecting each client’s pace. Using polyvagal theory, I assist clients in body awareness, enhancing safety and control, while spiritual practices contribute to a holistic healing environment. This approach cultivates a supportive relationship vital for successful trauma treatment.

Sabrina: Are there specific mindfulness or spiritual practices that you find particularly beneficial for individuals diagnosed with borderline personality disorder? How do you introduce and integrate these practices into your therapeutic work?

Brandi: I find specific mindfulness and spiritual practices particularly beneficial for individuals with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). Practices like mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, and guided visualizations can be very effective. These techniques help in grounding clients, reducing emotional volatility, and improving self-regulation, which are often challenging for those with BPD.

I introduce these practices gently, ensuring they align with each client's comfort level and readiness. The integration process is gradual, beginning with basic exercises to build awareness of the present moment and bodily sensations. Over time, as clients become more comfortable, I incorporate more advanced practices. This approach not only helps in managing the symptoms of BPD but also fosters a deeper connection with the self, enhancing overall well-being. My holistic approach, encompassing mind, body, and spirit, allows for a tailored therapeutic experience, addressing the unique needs of each individual with BPD.

Sabrina: As we explore the mind, body, and spirit connection, how do you address the concept of self-love and self-compassion in your therapeutic approach?

Brandi: I place a strong emphasis on the concepts of self-love and self-compassion in my therapeutic approach. Understanding the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, I guide clients towards recognizing and nurturing these aspects within themselves. This involves helping them to identify and challenge negative self-beliefs, often exacerbated by trauma and BPD symptoms. Through various techniques such as mindfulness, affirmations, and reflective exercises, I encourage clients to develop a more compassionate and forgiving inner dialogue. This practice of self-love and self-compassion is essential in healing, as it fosters a positive relationship with oneself, which is especially crucial for individuals who have experienced trauma and those dealing with the complexities of BPD. My approach aims to empower clients to embrace their worth and cultivate a nurturing and healing internal environment.

Sabrina: What is the number one thing you want the reader to know about recovering from trauma?

Brandi: The number one thing I want readers to know about recovering from trauma is that it is a deeply personal and nonlinear journey. Healing from trauma is not a one-size-fits-all process; it varies greatly from person to person. It involves not only addressing the psychological impact but also understanding and nurturing the body and spirit. Recovery is possible, but it requires patience, self-compassion, and often professional guidance. Incorporating a holistic approach can significantly aid in this process, as it allows for the healing of the entire self — mind, body, and spirit. It's important for individuals to know that while the path to recovery can be challenging, it can also be a transformative experience leading to profound personal growth and resilience.

Sabrina: Do you have any special offerings available for clients?

Brandi: In addition to my therapy services, I also offer coaching and consultation. These special offerings are designed to cater to a broader range of needs. My coaching services are tailored for those seeking personal growth and development, particularly in managing life transitions, improving emotional regulation, and enhancing self-awareness. Consultation services are available for professionals or organizations looking for expert insights in my areas of specialization, including trauma-informed practices and holistic therapeutic approaches. These offerings complement my therapy services, providing a comprehensive support system for both individual clients and the wider community.

Check out Brandi’s offerings here.