I utilize several evidence based treatments in my practice:
Polyvagal Theory: Psycho-education regarding polyvagal theory and the mind/body connection are a vital part of trauma therapy. The fight/flight/faint/freeze reactions trauma causes can elicit feelings of guilt, shame, irritability, mood swings, difficulty concentrating, anger, anxiety, depression, and disconnection from others. Polyvagal theory creates a framework for understanding these responses.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Recognized by both the Veterans Administration (VA) and the American Psychiatric Association (APA) for its effectiveness in treating trauma.
Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART): Recognized as an evidence based treatment for trauma and a variety of conditions, AR therapy utilizes eye movements to assist with memory reconsolidating.
Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT): Seeks to recognize negative thinking patterns and beliefs which lead to behaviors that an individual would like to change. It is short term, solution focused, and places emphasis on the development of coping strategies.
Solution Focused Therapy: Recognizes that, at times, individuals seek solutions to issues they face and do not necessarily care to look deeply into the past causes of these issues. It identifies current resources and focuses on immediate and future goals.
Family Systems Theory: Examines how family dynamics impact relationships and behaviors throughout an individual’s life.