Trauma & EMDR
At Lavender Psychotherapy, we understand the deep impact that trauma can have on one's life. Traumatic experiences can manifest in various forms, such as anxiety, depression, flashbacks, nightmares, relationship troubles, trouble with memory and/or focus, and a sense of overwhelming distress. We are here to provide you with a safe and supportive environment to help you work through trauma and build a better relationship with yourself. Our therapists prioritize a judgement-free approach that acknowledges how trauma shapes your experiences.
What is Trauma?
Trauma can result from a wide range of experiences, from accidents, abuse, loss, neglect, bullying, and much more. It's not limited to a specific type of event but rather the individual's emotional response to it. Trauma can include one significant event or a multitude of complex traumatic experiences.
What does "Trauma Informed Mean"?
A trauma-informed therapist recognizes that many emotional, behavioural, and relational challenges may be influenced by past traumatic experiences. Trauma-informed therapy prioritizes creating a safe, collaborative, and empowering environment where clients feel respected, heard, and in control of their therapeutic journey. Rather than asking "What's wrong with you?", a trauma-informed therapist considers "What happened to you?" and works with sensitivity to the ways trauma can impact the mind, body, relationships, and nervous system. The approach emphasizes trust, choice, and cultural awareness.
Understanding EMDR Therapy
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based psychotherapy approach designed to ease the distress associated with traumatic memories. EMDR has been widely recognized as an effective method for addressing various forms of trauma, including PTSD and CPTSD. This therapeutic technique is designed to help individuals process traumatic memories and integrate them into their past experiences, ultimately reducing their emotional charge. This is done through bilateral stimulation that allows unprocessed memories that cause distress to be processed within the brain.
How EMDR Works
EMDR therapy involves a structured, eight-phase approach that allows individuals to reprocess distressing memories. This process includes:
History Taking:
Your therapist will work with you to understand your trauma history and any related symptoms.
Preparation:
You'll learn stress-reduction techniques and establish trust with your therapist.
Assessment:
Together, you and your therapist will identify target memories and specific negative beliefs associated with them.
Desensitization:
This phase involves bilateral stimulation (this can include eye movement, tapping, and/or sound) to help you process the traumatic memory.
Installation:
To eliminate negative thoughts, positive beliefs are strengthened.
Body Scan:
Your therapist will assist you in addressing any residual physical tension.
Closure:
Sessions are completed by reviewing progress and developing coping strategies.
Re-evaluation:
Your progress will be assessed to ensure the treatment has been successful.
Benefits of EMDR Therapy
Rapid Relief
EMDR is often recognized for its ability to provide relatively relief from distressing symptoms.
Reduced Avoidance
Many clients find that they can face reminders of their trauma without overwhelming fear.
Lasting Results
EMDR aims to create long-lasting changes by addressing the root of the trauma.
Empowerment
EMDR therapy can support client's in feeling empowers individuals to take control of their emotional well-being.
Why Choose Lavender Psychotherapy?
At Lavender Psychotherapy, we have a team of compassionate therapists who take on a person-centred approach, holding space to understand your experience. Some of our team members provide EMDR therapy, and hold a passion for working with folks navigating trauma. Our goal is to create a safe, inclusive, and non-judgmental space where you can explore your experiences and embark on a journey towards meaningful change.