Our therapists offer PTSD & trauma therapy in Westborough, MA

In working with a client who has a trauma history, the element of trust must be established before any other work can be done. Working to emphasize empathy and unconditional regard for the client’s feelings helps me as a clinician to cultivate this therapeutic alliance. I support my clients’ growth with the acknowledgment that each individual determines the pace at which they traverse their healing journey.

In working with clients who have a trauma history, one essential tool that I teach my clients is to learn how to access their feelings. We cannot express what we cannot feel. Trauma defense mechanisms can include the “shut down” of feelings, often referred to as “feeling numb.” This avoidance is a maladaptive coping mechanism that protects us from feeling emotional pain. Another essential tool in trauma therapy is to develop an understanding of what feels unsafe to us, which leads to an exploration of why this may be. Trauma healing is a process that includes allowing ourselves to feel safe within our own bodies.

In my work with clients who are on a healing journey from their trauma, I assess progress in different ways. One demonstration of progress is observing how and when the client allows themselves to be vulnerable. Another assessment of progress is the evidence of the client’s growth in self-compassion and self-respect. Progress is often a complicated journey with its setbacks and its breakthroughs. The journey requires patience with no expectations.

In therapy, clients may be encouraged to do specific acts to restore a sense of safety and stability. A client who is in therapy due to trauma is advised to refrain from any intentional activity that might trigger a reaction. Watching movies that have violence in them or innuendos of abuse can be triggering. Trauma-focused exposure therapy, i.e. returning to a place of previous trauma (physical location or a memory), can be beneficial if guided by therapeutic support. An exploration during trauma therapy of what would benefit a client outside of therapy is an important part of the work in order to minimize trauma-related distress.

Prior to starting treatment for PTSD/trauma therapy, I would advise a client to assess their level of care needs for treatment. Sometimes, outpatient therapy is appropriate for a client, be it virtual or in-office. Sometimes a higher level of care might be more appropriate for one’s needs. These programs are known as IOPs (intensive outpatient programs) or PHPs (partial-hospitalization programs). If a client is unsure about the appropriate level of care to best meet their needs, having a first appointment (intake session) with a Thriveworks counselor can help clarify this.