Psychological trauma refers to an emotional overload that interferes with an individual’s ability to adapt to expectable life-stressors. For the individual who has sustained childhood trauma, these experiences may emerge into consciousness via intrusive thoughts, body sensations or social anxiety, among other disturbances.
Adults who have sustained trauma may be emotionally reactive, i.e. they over-react. They experience intense anxiety, may appear startled, when approached. Interpersonally, they may seem defensive, as though attacked, irritable, submissive. They may use substances to “self-medicate”, i.e. to lower their state of arousal. They may be triggered by loud noises, the proximity of people. bright lights, teasing by their peers, etc. They may also under-react, that is, they may shutdown or isolate themselves from others.
Co-existing conditions include addiction, eating disorders, depression, panic attacks, general anxiety disorders and dissociation. (Use of alcohol might be considered self-induced dissociation,)
Since most early psychological trauma occurs in a relational context, it is understandable that people will carry forward into adulthood fears and misgivings surrounding relationships with others.
Those who have sustained trauma, whether as an adult or during childhood, benefit by gradual de-sensitization. The therapist helps the individual to recall and “re-experience” traumatizing experiences to hopefully render their memory less threatening.
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Over the years, I have worked with individuals suffering from the after-effects of trauma, i.e. PTSD. The process of revising one’s belief systems and perceptions requires courage and perseverance. I use the interpersonal moment to explore assumptions, anxieties and perceptions to help them communicate their needs, as well as their boundaries. The patient sets the pace of exploration of painful topics. I encourage them to take charge of their treatment.
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David Henning
126 Church Street
San Francisco, CA 94114
(415) 852-8484
dhenningmft.SF@gmail.com