Description
Traditionally we have used talk therapy to address trauma, a process that is considered to be a “top-down” approach as it engages the “thinking” part of the brain. Research in the last 20 years, specifically in the area of brain scan technology, has indicated that a “bottom up” approach which engages the limbic region of the brain is more effective in addressing trauma. This bottom up approach calms the hyper aroused deeper parts of the brain and aids in reducing distress and prevents traumatic memory from further imprinting on the limbic system. .
The Group Treatment Intervention presented in this workshop is as 3 module “bottom up” approach to healing trauma. It has been designed to address the symptoms associated with Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder /Developmental Trauma. The participants will be provided psycho-education and tools to assist their clients in calming arousal in the body, manage emotion regulation, identify triggers and process traumatic experience, develop an individuated sense of self, and reduce intra/inter personal struggles related to past traumatic experiences.
The three modules presented include:
- Stabilization/ Window of Tolerance
- Trauma Processing (Triggers)
- Individuation /Integration “Consolidating the Gains” (ISTSS, 2012)
The skills presented in the modules will be illustrated using client cases and an interactive review of group related scenarios.
Learning Outcomes
- Become familiar with basic stabilization skills to reduce arousal and increase Window of Tolerance
- Expand Knowledge of Here and Now Processing model including exploration of ‘triggers’.
- Review of the strengths based approach to supporting clients in the process of individuation, integration and consolidating the gains (ISTSS, 2012)
- Review the process of facilitating a trauma based group.