04/11/2024
Gabor Mate's words here really bring home an important message that I feel is helpful for anyone experiencing the impact of trauma.
Your experience is valid, and it matters!
For many, an experience of trauma often goes beyond the definition of what is provided within our medicalised model of mental health care.
Its really common for clients to question the validity of their pain, making suggestions such as 'but I am sure someone has probably been through much worse than I have' or 'Others have it worse off than me'.
The way I think about trauma is much more expansive than what our medical model provides.
It is distressing to the person experiencing it, erodes their confidence and sense of self, and many find themselves constantly stuck in survival mode, experiencing overwhelming emotions and unable regulate, to fully process, integrate, embody, and move forward with self compassion.
Put simply, It's less about what qualifies and how that's measured, and more about that you are hurting, and that experience needs to be honoured with care and connection.
My approach is client led and recognises that trauma focused treatment is not a one size fits all. The modalities that I apply to working with trauma include CPT, Trauma focused CBT, EFIT, and IFS.
If you would like to know more about trauma work, reach out to us at www.phoenixconnectiontherapy.com.au
