What Does Starting Trauma Therapy Look Like?: The First Step
Trauma can take a heavy toll on a person's mental and emotional well-being. That is why seeking professional help from a licensed therapist or counselor who specializes in trauma treatment can be a vital step towards healing and recovery. However, the thought of starting therapy can be intimidating, especially for those who have never been to therapy before.
The first step towards starting trauma therapy is to find a therapist who specializes in trauma. You can begin your search by asking for recommendations from friends, family members, or your primary care physician. You can also look for therapists specializing in trauma online. Make sure to read the therapist's profile and their approach to treatment before making a decision. It's essential to find a therapist who makes you feel comfortable, safe, and heard.
Once you have found a therapist, you will need to schedule an initial consultation. During the consultation, the therapist will ask you about your past trauma, your current symptoms, and your goals for therapy. This consultation would be an opportunity for both you and your therapist to evaluate whether you are a good fit for each other. Ask your therapist any questions you may have about the therapy process to help you make an informed decision.
The next step is to create a treatment plan. Your therapist will work with you to develop a plan that focuses on your individual needs and goals. Treatment for trauma varies from person to person; it may include trauma informed treatments such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Brainspotting, or other therapeutic approaches depending on the individual’s situation. The treatment plan will also address any other mental health conditions or substance use disorders that you may have.
After your initial consultation and treatment plan, you will begin your therapy sessions. Therapy sessions are typically fifty minutes to one hour long and occur on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. During the session, your therapist will guide you through the treatment plan and help you develop coping strategies to manage your symptoms. It's essential to communicate openly with your therapist and let them know about any difficulties or concerns you may have during the therapy process.
Trauma survivors often struggle with trust issues due to their past experiences. Your therapist will understand this and will work with you at your pace to help you build trust. Trauma therapy is a long and often intense process, but with time and consistency, you will start to see positive changes in your mental and emotional well-being.
Starting therapy for trauma is an essential step towards healing and recovery. It's essential to remember that therapy is a collaborative process, and your therapist is there to guide you towards a path of healing. By finding the right therapist, going through the initial consultation, creating a treatment plan, and beginning therapy sessions, you can start your journey of healing from past trauma. Remember, trauma therapy is a long and often difficult process, but with persistence and dedication, you can overcome the impact of trauma on your mental health. Give yourself the opportunity to heal and recover by taking the first step of starting trauma therapy.
