How does “trauma work” work?
The term "trauma work" is often used in therapy and refers to the process of addressing and healing from a distressing event. Trauma can impact individuals differently, and the healing journey may not be linear. The main components of trauma work include creating a safe and comfortable environment to share the traumatic event, exploring and reprocessing the event with the help of a therapist, and developing a plan to move forward and integrate the experience into one's life. Trauma work may involve different interventions and modalities and can be a healthy and life-changing experience.
How does “trauma work” work?
“Trauma work” is a topic that often comes up in therapy when we talk about treatment or, most recently, online and social media as a buzzword. I recently had a client ask me what trauma work even was, and it made me think that it’s an important topic to consider before therapy or when you are starting your healing journey. To better understand what trauma work is, it is essential to think about trauma. Trauma can mean different things to different people, and trauma for one individual may be something else entirely for someone else.
What is trauma?
The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health defines trauma as “a term used to describe the challenging emotional consequences that living through a distressing event can have for an individual.” Because a distressing event can be different for everyone, trauma and the consequence of an event impact us all differently! It is expected to have experienced an event that causes trauma and not even recognize it was trauma or for the consequences to build over time. For example, suppose you were to be in a car accident. In that case, you may be in shock initially but not realize those events remain in your body for a long time, impacting your ability to be comfortable driving again, increasing anxiety, cause nightmares or avoidance. It may build over time, or events may come up a long time after!
So, what is trauma work?
Firstly, it’s essential to remember that trauma work can look different to everyone and may not be linear! Your healing journey may take different phases and may bring up different things. When working with a professional to do “trauma work,” it typically will and should entail these main components:
Safety and Warmth- You need to feel comfortable! Sharing a traumatic event or experience can cause new triggers or open old wounds. It can be stressful and anxiety-inducing to bring up complex events. Therefore, you need to be comfortable with your therapist! Ensure that you feel comfortable and safe to share your story. The therapist should show you respect and allow you to share at your own pace and in your way. Pressuring yourself to share or share before you feel safe can lead to painful memories and reliving past hurt. Your therapist and you should discuss the way you will share, discuss, and explore trauma so that you are both prepared and can anticipate what will come.
Mourning and Reprocessing- Sharing and exploring a traumatic event can differ for everyone because memories and how we access them may vary. You may remember all the details vividly or have very little memory of the event. You may also not realize it was trauma at the time, so it takes questions, validation, and curiosity from your therapist. Your therapist may ask questions about feelings, thoughts, and experiences to investigate where the trauma is stored, how it is stored, and how it shows up or may be impacting your day-to-day life. With the help and safety of your therapist, part of reprocessing is making connections to the trauma, as well as taking time to reflect on and mourn the experience and how it has impacted you. This could include journaling, writing letters, or developing coping skills with your therapist
Integration and outreach- One of the most critical steps in trauma work is working with your therapist on how to move forward. Establishing a plan for reprocessing the events, building up your community, and connecting with the proper support would be best. For example, you may benefit from group therapy, working with your relationships to share your experiences and create personal goals to take control of your life. Your therapist may use different interventions and modalities to assist with navigating the trauma work, such as somatic exercises, mindfulness, role plays, or outside referrals for support.
Although Trauma Work can be incredibly scary, it can be extremely healthy and life-changing to have a safe place to share and reprocess trauma. Having your therapist guide and support you can change the way you’re living with your trauma. Trauma work also does not need to be done alone! You can start the journey with family therapy, couples therapy, or individual therapy by telephone, virtual, or in person!
Don’t hesitate to reach out today to begin your healing journey!
