Understanding Trauma-Informed Therapy: Techniques and Effectiveness

Defining Trauma-Informed Therapy:

Trauma-informed therapy acknowledges the impact of trauma on clients' conduct, mental well-being, and capacity for treatment engagement. Therapists employing trauma-informed approaches recognize potential trauma experiences and endeavor to prevent triggering or retraumatizing clients during therapy.

Defining Trauma:

"Trauma" encompasses diverse experiences, and there's no specific type or universal response to a traumatic event. Different individuals might respond differently to the same event, and not everyone undergoing a traumatic event will experience trauma afterward.

The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5) defines trauma as exposure to actual or imminent incidences involving death, severe injury, or sexual violation in various ways:

• Directly experiencing the event.
• Witnessing events as they happen to others.
• Learning about these events happening to a close family member or friend.
• Repeated or extreme exposure to disturbing details of events.

The Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs):

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and Kaiser Permanente Insurance continue to study ongoing stressors on children, known as Adverse Childhood Experiences or ACEs. Research indicates that ACEs can contribute to behavioral issues in children and adolescents, with long-term consequences. Adults with higher ACE scores face a greater risk of physical health problems, mental illnesses, and premature death compared to those with lower scores.

Ten Adverse Childhood Experiences were identified:

• Physical abuse
• Sexual abuse
• Emotional abuse
• Physical neglect
• Emotional neglect
• Family member or caretaker mental illness
• Family member or caretaker substance abuse
• Witnessing violence against the mother
• Having a relative sent to jail or prison
• Losing a parent due to separation, divorce, or death

Racial trauma should also be considered an Adverse Childhood Experience for Black children.

Initially, over 46% of children were found to have experienced at least one Adverse Childhood Experience, emphasizing the need for trauma-informed care.

Trauma-informed Therapists' Approach:

Trauma-informed therapists recognize the potential impact of trauma on each client and incorporate this knowledge into their therapeutic approach. They emphasize asking, "What happened to you?" rather than "What is wrong with you?"

Techniques Employed in Trauma-Informed Therapy:

Trauma-informed therapy doesn't rely solely on specific interventions but tailors interventions based on the individual's trauma history, triggers, and unique requirements. It's a perspective that guides the therapist's approach, considering the impact of trauma on emotions, regulation, and behavior. This also includes acknowledging the influence of intergenerational trauma on clients.

Key Areas of Focus in Trauma-Informed Therapy:

• Physical and Emotional Safety: Therapists take steps to ensure clients feel safe and protected during therapy sessions.
• Collaboration: Trauma-informed therapists aim to empower clients through education, providing options and an active role in their care.
• Transparency: These therapists maintain open and honest communication with clients.
• Competency: Therapists stay updated on research and best practices for working with clients who have experienced trauma. They also recognize the cultural considerations that each client brings.

Benefits and Applications of Trauma-Informed Therapy:

Trauma-informed therapy is suitable for individuals who have experienced trauma, whether in childhood or adulthood. Its approach ensures the emotional safety of clients during therapy sessions, even if the treatment isn't solely focused on addressing trauma.

The Effectiveness of Trauma-Informed Therapy:

Trauma-informed therapy has shown increased effectiveness in supporting youth and adults who have experienced trauma. It also tackles issues of guilt and shame commonly experienced by trauma survivors.

Considerations When Starting Trauma Therapy:

1. Finding a Trauma-Informed Therapist: Not all therapists may be adequately trained in trauma-informed care. When searching for a therapist, consider asking specific questions to assess their trauma-informed approach.

2. Be Prepared to Discuss Your Trauma History: During your initial appointment, therapists will gather information about your history to make proper recommendations. Communicate your comfort level with sharing details, as a trauma-informed therapist will respect your boundaries and adjust their approach accordingly.

3. Understand the Pacing of Your Healing Journey: Therapy can be challenging as it involves exploring difficult emotions and memories, comparable to cleaning a physical wound. Be patient and gentle with yourself throughout this journey.

Seeking Support and Validation:

Seeking professional support for dealing with the effects of trauma is a courageous step. A trauma-informed therapist will validate your emotions and provide effective coping mechanisms to safely process and overcome traumatic experiences.