Trauma-Informed Therapy- The impact of trauma differs widely among individuals. While some people may bounce back rapidly after a difficult experience, others might undergo significant changes in their ability to cope, which can influence how they see themselves and others. This can lead to changes in self-confidence, relationships, in one’s ability to work or relax, and countless other areas. Trauma-informed therapy marks a shift in perspective by asking, “What happened to you?” instead of the traditional “What is wrong with you?” This method focuses on thoroughly understanding a person’s entire history — both past and current — to offer the most effective and compassionate treatment possible.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)- CBT is built on the concept that your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors are interconnected. It explores how your past experiences shape the way you see yourself and the world, which in turn affects how you think and act. Essentially, your thoughts and feelings about a situation can have a strong impact on your behavior. Typical treatment often involves the following:

-incorporating role-playing exercises and relaxation methods to handle challenging encounters

-learning new problem-solving skills

-working towards facing your fears and challenges

-acknowledging that incorrect thought patterns can worsen problems

-enhancing confidence through improved self-understanding and genuine self-appreciation

Attachment Theory- Attachment theory is a psychological concept that explains the way people develop strong emotional ties to important individuals, especially from early childhood. These connections are vital for handling feelings of stress, fear, and uncertainty, and they influence how a person understands themselves and others over time. The theory focuses on the significance of early interactions, mainly between infants and their main caregivers, as these relationships lay the groundwork for either secure or insecure attachments. In essence, attachment theory stresses the critical role that emotional bonds play in affecting relationships throughout a person’s life.

Family and Relationship Support- Family and relationship support in therapy involves various techniques and approaches to improve communication, resolve conflicts, and foster stronger bonds among family members.

Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT)- DBT is a type of CBT that is structured around learning four main skill sets:

1. Interpersonal effectiveness which focuses on improving communication skills to foster strong relationships and express needs confidently.
2. Mindfulness which helps enhance awareness by staying present and accepting your inner experiences without judgment.
3. Distress tolerance utilizes skills that help in building the ability to endure difficult emotions and experiences without turning to self-destructive behaviors.
4. Emotional regulation helps one gain skills to regulate and transform overwhelming emotions that interfere with daily life.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)- ACT is a dynamic, action-based form of psychotherapy that blends mindfulness techniques with strategies for behavior change. ACT centers around six foundational processes designed to cultivate psychological flexibility:

1. Committed Action: Taking intentional steps toward a life aligned with your values, even when obstacles arise.
2. Acceptance: Welcoming thoughts and emotions without trying to suppress or avoid them.
3. Cognitive Defusion: Learning to observe thoughts without being controlled by them—seeing them as passing experiences rather than absolute truths.
4. Being Present: Practicing mindfulness to stay grounded in the here and now.
5. Self-as-Context: Recognizing that you are more than your thoughts and feelings—developing a sense of self that provides perspective and resilience.
6. Values: Clarifying what truly matters to you, so your actions are guided by purpose and meaning.

Expressive Arts Therapy- Creative methods integrated into counseling to explore emotions and healing.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR)- EMDR is a recognized therapeutic method commonly used to address trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Beyond its effectiveness in trauma recovery, EMDR can also be applied in various ways to influence and regulate future physiological reactions. This approach not only aids in processing traumatic memories but can also serve as a tool to guide how the body and mind respond moving forward, offering expanded possibilities in therapy beyond trauma-focused care.

Ami is currently in training for EMDR and will be certified in the coming months. If you have any questions or concerns, please share them! EMDR is something I have been interested in for several years and would love to share the history and research with you!