Unpacking Trauma and Why I Chose Intensive Therapy

Let's talk about trauma. It's a word we hear a lot, but what does it really mean? And why does it matter?

Trauma isn't just about the big, headline-grabbing events. It exists on a spectrum. We have "Big T" traumas – those catastrophic events that shake us to our core – and "little t" traumas – the more personal, everyday experiences that still leave a mark. Think of it like this: a car accident is a "Big T," while consistently feeling unseen or unheard in childhood could be a "little t."

Regardless of size, trauma leaves an emotional bruise. It's a "sore spot" in our psyche, a shock to our physical, emotional, and mental systems. These experiences get filed away in a part of our brain that's not easily accessed with our typical coping mechanisms.

Essentially, these emotional bruises linger. Most of the time, we're okay. We go about our lives, seemingly unaffected. But then, something triggers that sore spot – a familiar scent, a certain phrase, a similar situation – and suddenly, that bruise flares up. The intensity skyrockets, making us feel like we're reliving the trauma all over again. What was a minor discomfort becomes a full-blown emotional crisis.

So, what do we do about these lingering emotional bruises?

That's where trauma therapy comes in. We need to find ways to soothe these sore spots, to process and integrate these experiences so they no longer hold us hostage.

This brings me to why I chose intensive therapy.

Why Intensive Therapy?

Traditional weekly therapy is incredibly valuable, but sometimes, we need a more focused approach. Intensive therapy allows for deeper, more concentrated work. It's like tackling a major project with dedicated time and resources.

Think of it this way: instead of chipping away at the problem over many months, you're dedicating a concentrated period to delve deep, address the root causes, and begin the healing process.

Tools for Healing:

In intensive therapy, we often utilize powerful modalities like:

·         EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing): This helps to reprocess traumatic memories, reducing their emotional impact.

·         ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy): A rapid and effective therapy that uses visual imagery to change the way distressing memories are stored in the brain.

·         Parts Work: This approach recognizes that we all have different "parts" of ourselves, and it helps us to understand and integrate these parts to achieve greater inner harmony.

These therapies, combined with the concentrated nature of intensive work, create a powerful environment for healing.

My Journey:

Choosing intensive therapy as a clinician and a client was a decision I made for myself, to address those lingering emotional bruises and create a more fulfilling life. It's a journey of self-discovery and healing, and I'm grateful for the progress I've made.

If you're struggling with the impact of trauma, know that you're not alone. There are resources available, and healing is possible. Whether through traditional therapy, intensive therapy, or other modalities, finding the right support is key.

Have you explored different types of therapy? What has been your experience? Share your thoughts!