Therapies provided
Somatic Experiencing®
Somatic Experiencing® (SE™) is a therapeutic approach that recognizes the connection between the mind and body in the healing process. Developed by Dr. Peter A. Levine, SE focuses on resolving the effects of trauma and stress on the nervous system.
Traumatic events, whether physical or psychological, can overpower our natural ability to recover and adapt. This results in a dysregulated nervous system that remains stuck in a state of trauma arousal (fight, flight, or freeze). SE aims to restore the body's innate capacity for self-regulation, allowing individuals to release the energy trapped in their bodies from these overwhelming experiences.
SE therapists guide clients through a gentle and structured process to help them reestablish a sense of safety and connection with their bodies. By focusing on bodily sensations and movements, clients can become more attuned to the signals and responses embedded within their physical bodies.
Unlike traditional talk therapies, SE bypasses solely relying on verbal communication, acknowledging that traumatic experiences are stored in the body's non-verbal, sensory memories. By accessing these sensations and tracking the flow of energy in the body, clients can gradually address and integrate their traumatic experiences.
The SE approach incorporates key principles to support the healing process. "Titration" encourages the gradual exploration of distressing sensations or memories in small and manageable doses. This prevents retraumatization, allowing the nervous system to safely engage in the therapeutic process.
"Resourcing" is another vital aspect of SE, which involves identifying and strengthening positive or neutral experiences to foster a sense of safety and support during sessions. This helps to balance and regulate the nervous system, creating an environment conducive to healing.
SE also recognizes the importance of "pendulation," the rhythmic movement between activating stressful emotions or sensations and finding moments of respite and relaxation. This shift allows the nervous system to gradually discharge built-up stress and trauma, promoting integration and restoration.
Clients who engage in Somatic Experiencing often report decreased symptoms of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). By cultivating a mindful connection to their bodies, individuals can develop a greater sense of resilience, wholeness, and empowerment in their lives.
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on helping individuals live a more meaningful and fulfilling life. It is based on the premise that psychological suffering stems from our attempts to avoid or get rid of unpleasant thoughts, emotions, and sensations, and that by accepting these experiences, we can create space for positive change.
The core idea in ACT is that we should accept that the experience of pain and suffering is a normal part of life, rather than trying to control or eliminate it. By accepting our thoughts and feelings without judgment, we can cultivate a greater sense of psychological flexibility and resilience.
ACT also emphasizes the importance of clarifying personal values and committing to actions that align with these values. It encourages individuals to identify what truly matters to them and to take steps towards these values, even when faced with difficult or uncomfortable emotions.
One of the key techniques used in ACT is mindfulness. By practicing mindfulness, individuals learn to observe their thoughts and emotions without getting caught up in them or trying to change them. This allows for a sense of detachment from distressing experiences, and helps individuals build a greater capacity to respond effectively to challenging situations.
Another important element of ACT is the use of cognitive defusion. This involves recognizing and stepping back from unhelpful thoughts, rather than getting caught up in them. By defusing from our thoughts, we create distance and reduce their impact on our emotions and behavior.
ACT sessions often include experiential exercises, metaphorical stories, and use of therapeutic interventions to support clients in their journey towards psychological flexibility. Therapists may also use creative techniques to help clients build a more mindful and values-driven life.
Overall, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy provides people with practical tools and strategies to accept their thoughts and feelings, while also taking committed action towards living a meaningful life. This approach empowers individuals to cultivate psychological resilience, reduce suffering, and thrive in the face of life's challenges.
Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Sand Tray
Sand tray therapy is a therapeutic modality used by mental health professionals to help individuals express and explore their emotions, experiences, and inner world. It is based on the principle that the act of creating and manipulating miniature objects in a tray filled with sand can foster self-discovery and promote healing.
In sand tray therapy, clients are provided with a shallow tray filled with special sand and a diverse collection of miniature figurines, objects, and natural elements. They are invited to use these materials to create a three-dimensional representation of their inner state, external experiences, relationships, or any other aspect of their life. The sand tray serves as a contained space that mirrors the client's psyche, allowing them to externalize and process their internal struggles and conflicts.
The therapist acts as a guide, offering a safe and non-judgmental environment for the client to explore their sand creation. The therapist may ask open-ended questions or observe silently to support the client's self-reflection and encourage a deeper understanding of the symbolic meaning behind their choices. This process can help clients access and communicate unconscious thoughts, emotions, and memories that may be difficult to articulate verbally.
Sand tray therapy can be particularly beneficial for individuals who find it challenging to express themselves through traditional talk therapy. It appeals to the senses and engages the mind, body, and spirit in a holistic manner. By engaging in this hands-on activity, clients can gain insights into their patterns, develop problem-solving skills, and explore unresolved issues, trauma, or complex emotions.
Creative Therapies
These therapies utilize the creative process of making art to enhance emotional, psychological, and mental well-being. They combine the principles of psychotherapy with the expressive power of art, offering a unique avenue for individuals to explore, understand, and communicate their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
During a creative therapy session, a therapist provides a safe and supportive space for clients to engage in various artistic mediums such as painting, drawing, sculpture, or collage. The focus is not on creating aesthetically pleasing artwork, but rather on the process of self-expression and self-discovery.
Art has a way of bypassing the limitations of verbal language, allowing individuals to express aspects of themselves that may be difficult to put into words. By engaging in the art-making process, clients can tap into their subconscious, accessing emotions, memories, and beliefs that may be buried or unconscious.
In addition to its therapeutic benefits, creative therapy can also foster a sense of empowerment and self-confidence. Engaging in the art-making process allows individuals to reclaim their voice, express their unique identity, and regain a sense of control over their lives.
