Offices in Berkeley and Orinda
COVID-19 update. Please note that I am working remotely via video at this time to help curb the spread of the corona virus. I am also offering late night video sessions in order to assist families in need of couples counseling whom are also struggling with daytime child care. Please inquire if I can be of service to you at this time.
Trauma
Don't suffer a moment longer with trauma and or trauma related symptoms. You do not need to do this alone; healing can be accomplished much faster than most expect. I start therapy with a welcoming, counter shaming attitude, and personal demeanor. I also offer a number of clinical tools to help manage symptoms of PTSD and other relational traumas. After a traumatic event or history of repeated traumas it can be hard to have hope or trust. Don't fall into the trap of doing this alone, trust the part of you that is reading this text and seeking help. Act now to reclaim your life.
Trauma manifests in three major realms; interpersonal (those we know), impersonal (those we don't know), and situational (events such as an accident or weather phenomena). Trauma often causes people to live in polarities such as: shame or pride, rage or compulsive niceness, a deep sense of aloness or the innability to be alone, paranoia or over trusting, vengefulness or overprotection towards others. Trauma often shows up as terrible body sensations that feel all but impossible to manage and can take over the body in seconds. Regardless of its cause negotiating trauma necessitates regaining a sense of control, self compassion, and a deep sense of groundedness. Typical trauma therapy includes the following three phases.
Step One- (This step is necessary)
Identifying Triggers
Managing Symptoms of Arousal and or Dissociation (getting worked up or spacing out)
Stopping Flashbacks (bodily or imaginal)
Developing Resources and Self Soothing Techniques
Cultivating Mindfulness
Rediscovering Strength and Relief
Step Two- (This step may be optional)
Proactively Engaging Resources when needed.
Learning how to Time Shift from "then" to "now"
Renegotiating Traumatic Memories or Unresolved Scenarios
Step Three- (This step is necessary)
Metaprocessing negative beliefs developed during states of arousal
Exploring and Consolidating New or resilient beliefs developed through Resourcing and Renegotiation
Discovering or Rediscovering pleasure and safety
Learning how to take Appropriate Chances again
Maintaining Triumph in the face of Previous Triggers
The ultimate goal of trauma treatment is to reduce or eliminate symptoms and enhance resilience. My goal is to help you feel back in control of your life again. Sometimes a little help can go a long way!
My approach to Trauma is informed by my ongoing training in EMDR, AEDP as well as various trainings in Somatic Experiencing. I specialize in PTSD and CPTSD. In my practice I use EMDR an APA approved method for working with trauma. I also use AEDP and somatic experincing to help with instilling and expediting healing. Please feel free to read more about these methods in my about me section.
