But what are we going to do in our sessions?
Therapy is not a ‘one size fits all’ solution; it’s a unique and varied process that is about your needs, goals, and experiences. The most important thing is that we go at your pace with open communication. I’m not here to tell you what to do, but to walk with you along the path. These are some approaches we may try in addition to talking.
Creative arts THerapy & Drama Therapy
We may explore the roles that you’ve been playing in your life that you may want to understand, enhance, or shift. This orientation may look very similar to the IFS ‘parts’ approach.
We can look at the stories you’ve been telling about yourself. Are they true? Could they be revised? What else would you want to say?
We could ‘rehearse’ a challenging interaction. What if you could safely confront someone who has hurt you? Or talk to someone you’d like to forgive? What would you say and how would it feel?
We could play with improvisation (being present, spontaneous, saying ‘yes, and’)
Creative arts therapy could also include working in metaphor, making art, writing, listening to music, moving - anything that gets us thinking outside the box.
EMDR (EYE MOVEMENT DESENSITIZATION AND REPROCESSING):
EMDR is an evidence-based treatment that is used for processing trauma and reducing the symptoms of PTSD and Complex PTSD.
When we use EMDR, we follow a trusted protocol to help clients process difficult memories and come to a place of peace and understanding. With this modality, I focus heavily on ‘internal resourcing’, which promotes emotional safety and helps with self-regulation. This is a specialized trauma modality in which I am trained that requires time and commitment.
We may also integrate visualization, mindfulness, and tracking thoughts and beliefs to access a positive sense of self, promote agency, and improve confidence.
Somatic awareness
Both Creative Arts therapy and EMDR acknowledge that the body is a source of incredible wisdom. Embodiment means going beyond the intellectual and the verbal to tap into this resource.
Part of therapy might include developing somatic tools that can help us connect to our body and awareness.
Working with the body can help us ground emotionally and calm the mind; we can use the awareness of our sensations to help make sense of our experiences. We can learn to safely feel our feelings!