Trauma therapy in Columbia, SC

My go-to approach for helping people in trauma therapy is building rapport with the client. It is important that the client feel comfortable when sharing sensitive information. The focus is on the client's main concerns, and they are supported. Based on each client's needs, I will choose which treatment is appropriate. I use evidence-based practices such as cognitive behavioral therapy and cognitive processing therapy to form a treatment plan that is appropriate for the client.

I teach the following tools in trauma therapy:

• Cognitive processing therapy: CPT is a specific type of cognitive behavioral therapy that helps patients learn how to modify and challenge unhelpful beliefs related to the trauma.
• Distress tolerance skills: The client learns to manage distress healthily.
• Stress management skills: Learn strategies to manage life challenges and everyday stress.
• Mindfulness: Learn to stay in the present moment without judgment when situations seem difficult or out of an individual's control.
• Emotion regulation skills: Learn to process and express emotions in a healthy way.
• Interpersonal effectiveness skills: Learn skills to help maintain healthy relationships.
• Relaxation techniques: Address anxiety by learning breathing techniques and other mindfulness skills.

I know a client is making meaningful progress in trauma therapy when they can successfully navigate challenges independently with the tools provided in individual therapy. The client can work through trauma triggers without becoming overwhelmed. The client starts to recognize and address barriers that keep them in the cycle of their overwhelming symptoms.

Clients can supplement their time in trauma therapy by building a routine of activities learned in individual therapy. I encourage clients to create a healthy support system for accountability in mental health maintenance. I suggest that clients find support groups specifically for trauma to connect with others for support.

To prepare for your first individual therapy session, I encourage writing down your thoughts and concerns before your session so that all problems can be discussed in the intake session.