Trauma and Healing: Psychotherapy and Alternative Practices.

There are many different trauma therapy modalities that have been developed to help individuals recover from traumatic experiences. Below are a few examples of many trauma modalities available ranging from psychotherapy to alternative practices. Alternative practices should be used in conjunction with, not as a replacement for, evidence-based therapies for trauma. It's important to find a qualified therapist or practitioner who is trained in the specific type of modalities that you feel will be most helpful for you and can provide appropriate guidance and support.

Psychotherapy Practices for Resolving Trauma:

1. Traumatic Incident Reduction Therapy (TIR): TIR is a form of therapy that is designed to help individuals process and resolve traumatic experiences. In TIR therapy, the individual is guided through a series of steps to recall and re-experience the traumatic event in a safe and controlled environment.

2. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): EMDR is a form of therapy that helps individuals process traumatic memories by using bilateral stimulation. This can include moving their eyes back and forth, tapping their hands, or other forms of sensory stimulation.

3. Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT): TF-CBT is a short-term, structured therapy that typically lasts between 12 and 20 sessions. It involves a combination of cognitive-behavioral techniques and trauma-focused interventions. The therapy aims to help the child or adolescent develop coping skills and strategies to deal with the impact of the trauma, while also addressing the trauma directly.

4. Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (MBCBT): Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) is a type of therapy that combines elements of mindfulness meditation and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). It was developed as a treatment for individuals with depression, but has also been found to be helpful for a range of mental health issues, including anxiety, stress, and chronic pain.

5. Narrative Therapy: Narrative therapy focuses on helping individuals reframe their personal stories and experiences in a more positive light. This can be especially helpful for those who have experienced trauma, as it can help them gain a sense of control over their own narrative.

6. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): DBT is a type of therapy that combines elements of CBT with mindfulness practices. It can be helpful for those who have experienced trauma by helping them regulate their emotions and cope with distressing thoughts.

7. Psychodynamic Therapy: Psychodynamic therapy is a form of therapy that focuses on exploring unconscious thoughts and feelings that may be contributing to a person's symptoms. It can be helpful for individuals who have experienced trauma by helping them gain insight into their experiences and work through unresolved issues.

Alternative Practices for Resolving Trauma:

There are many alternative practices that can be beneficial for individuals who have experienced trauma. Here are a few examples:

1. Yoga: Yoga combines physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation to help individuals connect with their bodies and promote relaxation. It has been found to be effective for reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

2. Reiki: Reiki is a form of energy healing that originated in Japan. It involves the use of light touch or non-touch techniques to channel healing energy to the recipient's body. Reiki can be beneficial for individuals who have experienced trauma in several ways. Firstly, it can promote relaxation and reduce stress and anxiety, which are common symptoms of trauma. Reiki can also help to release blocked energy in the body, which can contribute to physical and emotional tension and pain.

3. Massage: Massage therapy can be a helpful complementary treatment for individuals who have experienced trauma. Here are some ways in which massage therapy can help: promotes relaxation, reduces physical tension, increases body awareness, encourages self-care, and provides a safe touch experience.

4. Acupuncture: Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and balance. It has been found to be helpful for reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

5. Meditation: Meditation involves focusing one's attention on the present moment, with an attitude of non-judgment and acceptance. It has been found to be helpful for reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD, as well as promoting overall emotional well-being.

6. Art therapy: Art therapy involves using creative expression, such as drawing, painting, or sculpture, to help individuals process and express their emotions. It has been found to be helpful for reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

7. Equine-assisted therapy: Equine-assisted therapy involves working with horses to promote emotional healing and well-being. It has been found to be helpful for reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and PTSD, as well as improving overall self-esteem and confidence.

Here at HHWS, we combine clinical modalities, such as EMDR, TIR, TF-CBT, Mindfulness-Based CBT, and Solution-Focused Therapy with holistic modalities such yoga, Reiki, and meditation. to empower you to own your story, increase coping skills, and connect to your body with compassion. Do you have questions about getting started together? Contact us here for a complimentary 15 minute consultation.

About the author: Sabrina Gelsinger-Rodorigo, LCSW, RYT-200 is a psychotherapist and yoga teacher who truly values holistic care. She supports women to overcome childhood trauma and embody the joy they long for. HHWS specializes in people pleasing, anxiety, and childhood wounds to help you heal from trauma, reparent your inner child, and embrace your authentic self.