My Approach

 

 

Making Sense of it All

My work with clients at Counseling and Trauma Therapy Associates has taught me a great deal, not only about the process of psychotherapy, but also about the process of healing trauma. While we often think about trauma in terms of significant instances of abuse or neglect, there are many types of experiences that humans endure that impact the brain and nervous system, not to mention the spirit. These types of experiences can range from things like witnessing domestic violence, repeated experiences of rejection, or even things like being ignored, belittled, or distained. Whatever the experience, if our brain cannot integrate the experience, it remains unprocessed and a source of not only emotional pain but also physiological distress. The affects of such adverse experiences can end up running a person's life without them knowing it. Yet, there is room for hope! Overcoming these physiological and neurological obstacles are very much possible due to neuroplasticity. Neuroplasticity means that the brain, despite being molded by past trauma, can change in time and be reprogrammed. It is mysterious and wonderful how we have been created. 

 

On the other hand, a person may not be dealing with the effects of trauma, but rather a biologically instigated medical condition. Another possible source of our problems are chemical imbalances within the brain, just as we have them in the body, such as low blood sugar. These types of imbalances can cause a myriad of unwanted emotions and correlative behaviors that cause problems. Yet, through medication and psychotherapy new ways of being, doing, and becoming are possible. 

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In the end, my approach to clinical counseling is trauma informed and rooted in evidence based practice while respecting the cultural reality and personal beliefs of my clients. 

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For more information or to schedule a session feel free to reach out!

 

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