Understanding Trauma-Informed Care: Healing Through Psychology and Somatic Therapy
In the realm of psychological well-being, a revolutionary approach known as trauma-informed care is transforming the way we perceive and support individuals.
As a dedicated psychologist and practitioner of somatic therapy, I am committed to unraveling the complexities of trauma and its profound impact on mental and physical health. In this blog, we will explore the essence of trauma-informed care, its relevance to my passion for therapeutic support, and its pivotal role in healing childhood trauma and beyond.
A Paradigm Shift Beyond Problems
Trauma-informed care takes a bold step beyond conventional methods, shifting the focus from problems to possibilities. As a therapist, my objective is to meet individuals where they are, acknowledging that their past experiences may have shaped their present. This approach fosters a predictable, safe and nurturing environment, allowing individuals to rebuild their sense of control and empowerment.
What does it mean to be trauma-informed?
Being trauma-informed starts with recognising that trauma is far more widespread than we might realise. It's an unfortunate reality that many individuals have experienced traumatic events or adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) that can shape their thoughts, behaviours, and emotional responses.
A trauma-informed perspective means shifting from asking "What's wrong with you?" to "What's happened to you?".
This shift in perspective allows me to delve deeper into an individual's history and experiences, understanding the root causes of their challenges and behaviors.
Trauma-informed care aims to help people find meaning and purpose in their lives, fulfill valued roles and engage in life in a community of their choice. It supports individuals to see themselves as more than their trauma(s) and helps them to identify and pursue avenues to reducing distress and problems in their lives.
Creating a Safe and Empowering Environment:
A core principle of trauma-informed care is the creation of a safe and empowering environment. This means establishing clear boundaries, predictable routines, and respectful communication. By offering a sense of safety, I encourage individuals to share their thoughts, fears, and vulnerabilities without the fear of judgment. In this nurturing space, healing can begin to take root.
Empowerment, Voice and Choice continue to expand on this idea by further emphasising the need to actively encourage people to use their power and voice.
People who have been disempowered or victimised in the past may be understandably fearful and reluctant to step forward, so active efforts may need to be made to help people develop skills e.g., self-advocacy, assertiveness.
Empowering Through Understanding: Somatic Trauma Therapy
At the heart of my practice lies somatic trauma therapy, a holistic approach that recognises the interconnectedness of mind and body. This methodology delves into the somatic experiences of trauma, facilitating profound healing through guided somatic exercises.
By engaging with the body's innate wisdom, individuals can release trapped trauma and move towards a journey towards resilience.
Empowerment is at the heart of being trauma-informed. I believe in empowering individuals to make choices that align with their own well-being and growth. By offering choices and involving individuals I am honoring their autonomy and agency.
This collaborative approach builds a foundation of trust and respect, essential elements in the journey of healing.
Understanding Trauma’s impact
Trauma-informed care goes beyond addressing the symptoms of trauma—it delves into understanding how trauma impacts various aspects of an individual's life. From mental and emotional well-being to physical health, trauma has far-reaching consequences. By recognising these impacts, therapeutic approaches can be tailored to address the holistic needs of each person, guiding them toward comprehensive healing.
Guiding Principles of Trauma Informed Care
Merely stating the intention to be trauma-informed is not enough to guarantee good outcomes. Given the diversity of traumatic experiences and trauma survivors, it is hard to land on a narrow set of behaviours that will be appropriate in all circumstances.
A better approach is to use a set of guiding principles which can be flexibly applied to unique situations and people:
Promote trauma awareness and understanding
Recognise that trauma-related symptoms and behaviours originate from adapting to traumatic responses.
View trauma in the context of individuals’ environments.
Minimise the risk of re-traumatisation or replicating prior trauma dynamics
Create a safe environment
Identify recovery from trauma as a primary goal
Support control, choice, and autonomy
Create collaborative relationships and participation opportunities
Familiarise clients with trauma-informed services
View trauma through a sociocultural lens
Use a strengths-focused perspective to promote resilience
Foster trauma-resistant skills
Develop strategies to address secondary trauma and promote self-care
Provide hope and believe recovery is possible
Rooted in psychology and somatic therapy, this approach transcends boundaries to unlock the true potential of individuals. By embracing the principles of trauma-informed care, we create a world that fosters growth, resiliency, and healing, paving the way for a brighter, more compassionate future.
Incorporating these principles into my practice allows me to offer a truly trauma-informed approach—one that sees individuals not as their trauma, but as whole beings capable of healing, growth, and empowerment. Through psychological and somatic therapy, I am dedicated to guiding you on a journey of self-discovery, healing, and profound transformation
Whether you seek healing for childhood trauma, women's health challenges, or general well-being, my therapeutic offerings extend to both online and in-person sessions.
Operating in Stockport, Macclesfield, and Whaley Bridge, I am committed to creating a supportive space where your healing journey can flourish.
You can join my waitlist here
I am hosting a luxurious four-day retreat in 2024 set on the edge of the Brecon Beacons. I would love for you to join. You can find more information here
with love,
Sally x