Psychotherapy for Trauma
Healing from trauma involves understanding and processing distressing experiences. Therapy offers support in rebuilding resilience and finding new strength. Discover effective trauma treatment in Thornbury.
What is Trauma?
Trauma, (whether from acts of commission or omission), is a deeply distressing psychological event (or prolonged context) resulting from experiencing or witnessing something which is beyond our capacity to cope or respond.
The term "trauma of commission" refers to a type of psychological trauma that occurs as a result of a person actively experiencing or being directly involved in a distressing event or situation. Unlike "trauma of omission," where trauma arises from neglect or lack of necessary actions, trauma of commission specifically involves actions or events where a person is a participant or witness to a harmful or distressing incident. This can include experiences such as physical assault, accidents, witnessing violence, or any situation where a person actively engages with or is directly impacted by a traumatic event.
"Trauma of omission" refers to psychological trauma that arises from experiences where a person perceives harm or distress due to neglect, lack of action, or absence of expected care or support. Unlike trauma of commission, which involves direct participation or witnessing of a distressing event, trauma of omission occurs when an individual feels traumatized by what was not done or what they did not receive. This could include situations such as neglectful parenting, emotional abandonment, failure to provide necessary medical care, or lack of protection in dangerous situations. Trauma of omission can result in feelings of abandonment, betrayal, or inadequacy, and can have profound psychological impacts on an individual's sense of safety, trust, and well-being.
Both types of trauma can have profound and long-lasting effects on an individual's mental and emotional well-being. Importantly, trauma of omission is recognised to be as impactful (if not more) than acts of commission - for example, experiences of prolonged neglect and emotional deprivation can significantly impact an individual's functioning and development.
By recognizing the diverse forms it can take, from overt abuse to subtle neglect, we can better address its impacts and provide effective support and treatment.
Common signs or symptoms
Trauma of Commission:
Flashbacks and Intrusive Memories: Recurrent, distressing memories or images of the traumatic event.
Nightmares: Disturbing dreams related to the traumatic experience.
Hyperarousal: Feeling on edge, easily startled, or having difficulty sleeping.
Avoidance: Avoiding reminders of the trauma, including places, people, or activities.
Emotional Numbing: Feeling detached, emotionally numb, or unable to experience pleasure.
Hypervigilance: Being overly alert or vigilant to potential dangers.
Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood: Persistent negative beliefs about oneself or the world, feelings of guilt or shame, or loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities.
Physical Symptoms: Headaches, digestive issues, or other physical symptoms without a clear medical cause.
Trauma of Omission:
Feelings of Abandonment: Feeling deserted, neglected, or emotionally abandoned by caregivers or significant others.
Low Self-Esteem: Feeling unworthy, unlovable, or inadequate due to perceived neglect or lack of care.
Trust Issues: Difficulty trusting others or forming secure attachments due to past neglect.
Emotional Dysregulation: Difficulty managing emotions, including intense sadness, anger, or anxiety.
Self-Blame: Feeling responsible for the neglect experienced, even if it was beyond one's control.
Interpersonal Difficulties: Struggling in relationships, including fear of intimacy or difficulty expressing needs.
Depression or Anxiety: Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or worry related to past neglect.
Psychosomatic Symptoms: Physical symptoms such as headaches or stomach aches that may stem from emotional distress.
These signs and symptoms can vary in intensity and duration depending on individual experiences and circumstances. There also may be crossover in the symptoms an individual may experience. Seeking support from mental health professionals can be crucial in addressing and healing from both types of trauma.
Common contributing factors
Trauma can arise from various factors, whether through acts of commission (direct harm) or omission (neglect). Here are some examples of both:
Trauma of Commission:
Abuse: Physical, emotional, or sexual mistreatment by others.
Violence: Witnessing or experiencing physical aggression or assault.
Accidents: Involvement in serious accidents or intentional harm.
Bullying: Persistent harassment or intimidation, often in school or workplace settings.
Criminal Acts: Robbery, assault, kidnapping, or other criminal activities.
Trauma of Omission:
Neglect: Lack of adequate care, supervision, or emotional support during critical developmental stages.
Abandonment: Being left without appropriate care or support by caregivers or significant others.
Emotional deprivation: Chronic emotional unavailability or lack of nurturing relationships.
These factors can profoundly impact individuals, leading to long-term psychological and emotional challenges that may require therapeutic intervention to address and heal from.
Trauma treatment often follows a three-stage model: stabilisation, processing, and integration.
In the stabilisation phase, the focus is on establishing safety, coping strategies, and emotional regulation techniques to help clients manage symptoms and feel secure. This stage aims to restore a sense of stability and control, laying the foundation for deeper work.
The processing phase involves addressing and working through traumatic memories and emotions in a safe and supported environment, using various therapeutic techniques. Here, the work may reside in address and reprocessing experiences, gradually reducing the emotional intensity and integrating these memories into one's life story.
The integration phase focuses on reconnecting clients with their sense of self and others, fostering resilience, and promoting personal growth.
Central to this model of practice is the restoration of agency and empowerment for clients, helping them reclaim control over their lives and relationships while building skills to navigate future challenges with greater confidence and resilience.
Treatment approaches
for trauma.
Psychotherapy for Trauma in Thornbury.
Book a free Discovery Call today to explore your needs and be connected with the most suitable practitioner.
Resources for managing & understanding trauma.
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This book is widely regarded as a seminal work on trauma, exploring how traumatic experiences affect the brain and body, and offering insights into various treatment approaches for healing.
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