What Trauma Therapy Can Do For You?

Trauma can be very painful. Research shows that trauma can lead to increased amygdala function and decreased medial prefrontal function. It also causes smaller hippocampal volumes. This is what it means in layman’s terms. These are the issues that trauma therapy can address.

• The amygdala is a key part of processing memories and making decisions. It can also become hyperactive and activated when it becomes overstimulated and starts looking for threats.
• The prefrontal cortex has an impact on decision-making, personality, and the will to live. If the medial prefrontal cortex fails to function properly, it can negatively impact impulse control, nervous system regulation, and the ability to communicate and empathize.
• The hippocampal volume is a measure of how the hippocampus converts short-term memories to long-term ones. This makes it less efficient at making synaptic connections. The sympathetic nervous system is on high alert when this happens. This causes fatigue, especially in the adrenal system.

Can you undo the damage done? Yes, it can be undone. Neuroplasticity, also known as the brain’s malleability, can be used to repair the brain and allow people to move on. Sometimes medication is necessary, but therapy is often the best option. There are many types of therapy available today. It is important to find a trauma-informed psychotherapist who can help you overcome the effects of trauma on your brain.

Trauma therapy does not have to be one type of therapy. You can use different types of therapy to achieve the same goals as long as they meet certain criteria. Sources state that trauma therapy must meet the following criteria:

• Understand the impact trauma has on society and identify possible paths to recovery
• Recognize signs and symptoms that indicate trauma.
• Respond to trauma by fully integrating information about it into policies, procedures, and practices.
• Attempt to resist re-traumatization.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, and Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy are some examples of trauma therapy. Other options include Brainspotting, Mindfulness Meditations, Deep Breathing Exercises, and Participation in Social Activities that Support the Therapy Process. These types of strategies have the advantage that a person can work with a trauma therapist to:

• Avoid getting stuck in the past.
• Relieve or reduce trauma symptoms.
• Move your focus from the past to the present.
• Enhance daily function, including regulation and control of the nervous system.
• Be more aware of hereditary trauma.
• Reclaim your power.
• Avoid addictions that are related to trauma and stress.
• Develop coping skills to prevent relapse.

Genesis Recovery can help you or someone you care about if you are struggling with addiction due to unresolved trauma. Genesis’s philosophy is based on a one-on-one approach to addiction recovery. It’s the foundation of Genesis’ success. Individual therapy can help patients find tools and the strength to overcome addiction, learns new coping strategies, and rebuild their lives. To learn more about the Genesis approach to addiction treatment, please refer to our website if you know of someone who would benefit.