Trauma Counseling
When we encounter experiences that are overwhelming or disturbing—whether it is an event, emotion, or sensation—that are too much to process on our own, and when we lack the support we need, it can become trauma.
Trauma occurs when our brain gets stuck, replaying distressing moments over and over. This often happens when events are too difficult to cope with or feel beyond our control. Even when we are not consciously thinking about the experience, our brain keeps these memories active in an attempt to protect us from future harm. These memories are often stored as fragmented feelings or sensations, making it difficult to form a clear “story” of what happened. In daily life, carrying these fragmented memories can feel exhausting or overwhelming. Trauma can lead to a range of symptoms, including:
Anxiety
Depression, suicidal thoughts, or self-harm
Sleep problems (like nightmares, night terrors, or insomnia)
Constant alertness (hypervigilance)
Flashbacks
Chronic pain or autoimmune conditions
Headaches
Digestive issues
Trouble concentrating
Dissociation (feeling detached from reality)
Struggles in relationships
Healing from trauma begins when we receive the support and connection needed to process and make sense of these overwhelming experiences. At Scout, our therapists are trained to provide trauma-informed care, helping clients feel safe and begin their healing journey. We employ proven methods, such as somatic therapy, grounding techniques, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Brainspotting, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). Our approach is inspired by the work of leading trauma experts, including Bessel van der Kolk, Peter Levine, Francine Shapiro, Richard Schwartz, Judith Herman, Stephen Porges, Gabor Maté, and others. Below, you can learn more about each approach and the clinicians here to assist you.
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a transformative psychotherapy developed by Richard C. Schwartz. IFS views individuals as systems made up of protective and wounded parts, all guided by a core Self that knows how to heal. IFS helps people access their true Self, heal, and unburden the inner parts that have taken on extreme roles due to trauma. This approach facilitates both inner and outer connectedness, helping individuals change their relationship with themselves and their story, as well as their relationships with others and the world.
In IFS therapy, clients work with clinicians to identify parts by focusing on emotions, thoughts, impulses, or bodily sensations. By focusing on a part, the individual can separate from it and allow their true Self to come forward. The therapist and client work together to help these parts share their roles, understand their protective functions, and ultimately heal the pain they carry.
If you are interested in integrating IFS treatment into your current therapy, please contact Amy Achata for more information on scheduling an intake appointment.
Brainspotting
Brainspotting is an effective tool for healing past trauma. This technique uses specific eye positions to help access traumatic memories and guide the brain’s natural neuroplasticity, enabling the creation of new neural pathways that facilitate healing. The therapist collaborates with the client to identify the most relevant eye position for processing unresolved issues. The fixed eye position, combined with bodily sensations, triggers the deep emotional processing required for healing.
While commonly associated with resolving trauma memories, Brainspotting can also address a wide range of issues, such as:
Unmet emotional needs from caregivers
Performance and sports-related anxiety
Phobias
Core beliefs like “I’m not good enough” or “I must please others to be worthy”
If you would like to explore Brainspotting in conjunction with your current therapy, please contact A.G. Estes for more information on scheduling an intake appointment.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Due to the way the brain stores traumatic memories, a specific approach is needed to unlock and process these experiences. EMDR and Brainspotting are both effective methods for addressing these memories. EMDR is a structured treatment protocol that has been proven effective for adults and children experiencing PTSD after safety has been established in the therapeutic relationship. The process involves learning about your history, including family dynamics, past relationships, school experiences, and both positive and challenging moments. After gathering this information, the therapist and client identify target memories and negative beliefs linked to those memories.
The reprocessing phase involves identifying the targeted memory and using bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements) to help process the associated intense emotions or sensations, reducing their power and allowing for greater healing. Throughout the process, clients are empowered to make decisions regarding their care.
If you'd like to incorporate EMDR treatment into your current therapy, please contact A.G. Estes for more information on scheduling an intake appointment.
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy designed to help individuals cope with symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). CPT focuses on the connections between thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and bodily sensations. PTSD can arise after traumatic events such as physical abuse, sexual assault, accidents, threats, military combat, or witnessing violence or death. CPT is an evidence-based therapy, meaning its effectiveness has been validated through extensive scientific research.
This approach helps individuals understand why recovery from trauma can be challenging and how PTSD symptoms impact daily life. A key element of CPT involves identifying and addressing negative thought patterns that can keep individuals “stuck,” hindering their recovery from PTSD and related issues.
If you’d like to explore CPT treatment, please contact Amy Fowler for more information on scheduling an intake appointment.