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Treatment Approaches

EMDR

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing is a research supported, time effective treatment option for trauma.  EMDR capitalizes on the brain’s natural healthy processing of events in order to reprocess how memories are stored.  Find more information here

Play Therapy

When our sensory needs are met, then we are within a window of tolerance to successfully participate in therapy.  When there is too much arousal (hyperarousal) or too little arousal (hypoarousal), then we aren’t able to fully participate in psychotherapy. We use a variety of methods to get kids and teens within their window of tolerance so we can maximize the benefits of therapy.  Examples of  methods used include walking, yoga, bouncing on a trampoline, fidget toys, or using a weighted lap blanket. Each are targeted to increase or decrease sensory input. There is a strong relationship between sensory needs and emotions and behaviors. 

Sensory and Movement Based Interventions

When our sensory needs are met, then we are within a window of tolerance to successfully participate in therapy.  When there is too much arousal (hyperarousal) or too little arousal (hypoarousal), then we aren’t able to fully participate in psychotherapy. Kristen uses a variety of methods to get kids and teens within their window of tolerance so she can maximize the benefits of therapy.  Examples of  methods used include walking, yoga, sitting on a yoga ball, fidget toys, and/or weighted lap blanket each targeted to increase or decrease sensory input.  There is a strong relationship between sensory needs and emotions and behaviors.  This understanding is evaluated for and used throughout therapy.

Art Therapy

Art therapy provides a medium for kids and teens to express themselves.  It can be used to facilitate emotional identification, further understand conflicts and challenges, and can provide an opportunity for resolution as well.  Art therapy can use clay, painting, crafts, and drawing to assist in therapy. 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Cognitive behavioral therapy examines negative thinking in order to create healthier, more realistic cognitive patterns. CBT is based on the foundation that thoughts, feelings, and behaviors have an interactive relationship. By targeting thoughts and behaviors, there is an opportunity to change our feelings.

Mindfulness Strategies

Mindfulness is the ability to be present and aware of what is happening in the moment without judgment.  Mindfulness grounds us and keeps us from living in the past or the future.  Mindfulness strategies are taught to help with emotion regulation and to gain insight and awareness. 

Attachment Based Interventions

These interventions are primarily drawn from Karyn Purvis and David’s Cross Trust Based Relational Interventions (TBRI®).  TBRI® is a researched set of interventions to help build trust and connection with children from trauma backgrounds.  These interventions can alter brain chemistry through a holistic approach to tremendously improve a child’s ability to regulate emotions and build attachment relationships.  TBRI® draws from neuroscience, attachment research, and sensory models.  Please click here to learn more.

Narrative Therapy

Narrative therapy is founded on the idea that we all create stories about our lives in order to have understanding and meaning. However, some of these stories can become harmful and cause problems.  In this therapy, the client is seen as the expert to see if there is a healthier narrative that allows for more positive thoughts and feelings to occur.

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