One of the most interesting and innovative uses of EMDR therapy has been in performance enhancement by decreasing fear, stress and anxiety related to performance. EMDR therapy helps the brain to think in a healthier, more adaptive way by removing blocks (such as negative self-beliefs) and helping the person to tap into his or her […]
The ACE (Adverse Childhood Experiences) study is one of the largest scientific research studies of its kind, with over 17,000 mostly middle income Americans participating. The focus was to analyze the relationship between childhood trauma and the risk for physical and mental illness in adulthood. Over the course of a decade, the results demonstrated a […]
Trauma in young children is stored in a “baby state” in which there are no images or thoughts about the trauma, just a felt sense of terror, abandonment, hurt or shame that never seems to go away. Babies absorb everything around them including their mother and environment.
As we celebrate Memorial Day we remember those men and women who have lost their lives serving in the armed forces. But we also feel gratitude to those who survived. Sometimes surviving a military experience can be very difficult. The startle response, nightmares, anger and survivor guilt are just a few of the symptoms that […]
Adults with trauma can feel isolated and alone. There are many reasons why people isolate after trauma. Here are a few: Many people who have experienced trauma in their lives feel that others will not understand what they are experiencing. And sometimes they don’t share with others because they want to protect the other person […]
Sexual abuse or child abuse survivors often report experiencing shame. If you are a victim of childhood abuse; physical, sexual abuse or neglect then you know about shame. A hallmark of shame is the negative thoughts and feelings that people are left with even after the abuse is over. Often times survivors think that they […]