Successful Treatment Begins with Emotional Safety in Trauma Therapy
Before We Start
The Importance of Emotional Safety in Trauma Therapy
Emotional Safety is the cornerstone of any effective therapy, but, in particular, emotional safety in trauma therapy has a major impact on the therapeutic outcome. It is important to remember that, before the brain can process emotions or traumatic memories, it needs to know it’s safe.
Active Steps That Foster emotional safety in trauma therapy
Creating an emotional safety in trauma therapy involves both the therapist and the client. Some ways emotional safety develops is through things such as active listening, non-judgmental responses, and the validation of client experiences.
Rapport Building
Building a strong rapport between the therapist and the client is the first step in any therapeutic relationship but is especially crucial in trauma therapy. This rapport becomes the foundation upon which all other therapeutic activities are built.
Confidentiality & Boundaries
Maintaining confidentiality is not just a legal requirement but also essential for building trust. Setting clear boundaries ensures that the therapeutic space is respected and secure. Visit here for more information about how we approach trauma-informed online therapy.
Psychoeducation, Knowledge, Creates Emotional Safety
Understanding the what, why, and how of trauma therapy can be empowering for the client. Psychoeducation demystifies the process and can reduce anxiety about the therapeutic journey.
‘Team Approach’ towards Emotional safety in trauma therapy
Therapy is not something that is done to the client but something that the client and therapist do together. The team approach prioritizes transparency and togetherness in the Treatment Planning Process, ensuring that the client has a say in their treatment plan, which can be particularly empowering for trauma survivors. Before diving into trauma work, a safety plan is reviewed and put in place. This plan can include emergency contacts, coping strategies, and other supports like grounding techniques[1].
Applicable Skills for Emotional Safety in trauma therapy
Grounding Techniques
Grounding techniques help to anchor the client in the present moment and are essential tools for managing flashbacks or disassociation.
Emotional Regulation Strategies
Learning to manage intense emotions is crucial in trauma therapy. Emotional regulation strategies can include everything from deep breathing exercises to cognitive reframing.
Therapy Hangovers’ with Post-Therapy Self-Care
Therapy can be emotionally draining. Having a post-therapy decompression plan can help manage what some call a ‘therapy hangover.’
Real-World Applications of Therapy Experiences
The therapeutic relationship can serve as a model for other relationships. The trust and mutual respect cultivated in therapy can be applied to relationships outside the therapeutic setting[2].
Creating a safe and comfortable environment for trauma therapy online is not just possible; it’s a priority. With the right approaches and techniques, online therapy can be a powerful tool for healing from PTSD.
Ready to take the first step towards healing?
Contact us today or call us at 609-300-6481.
Your journey towards healing and wholeness starts now.
How do I get started as a new client?
New Clients can reach out to us directly via call, text or email here:
What is your cancellation policy?
We ask that clients provide at least 24 hours notice in the event that they need to cancel to avoid the 50% cancellation fee. we understand that life happens and do our best to be flexible & reschedule.
Does my insurance cover my visits?
We provide”Courtesy Billing” for clients who are using the Out-of-network insurance benefits.
Our Insurance Page shares a small blurb about Why We Left Insurance Panels
Do you offer traditional talk therapy?
of course! though we have some unconventional therapy approaches, we are rooted in evidenced based practices. Talk therapy is a major player in the therapy room! See What we Treat and Integrative Services for more information
Is Online Therapy As Effective As In-Person Therapy?
Online therapy is essentially face-to-face counseling, just conducted remotely. Studies show that teletherapy is as effective as traditional counseling. Professional organizations and state governments recognize its benefits and have set regulations for it. However, like any therapy, its success in achieving your goals isn’t guaranteed. It’s important to discuss with your therapist whether teletherapy is working for you.
Can I Change Therapists If I'm Not Happy?
Yes, you can switch therapists to another provider within the practice, or we can provide you a referral if preferred. We want to ensure that your time and effort are well spent, and that you are getting the relief you need, that’s why we work collaboratively with each other in the practice, as well as outside therapists who we know and trust.
How Do I Know If Therapy Is Helping?
You should feel like you’re making progress. Signs it’s working include:
Feeling comfortable talking to your therapist
Your therapist respects boundaries
You’re moving towards your goals
You feel listened to
You’re doing better in life
Your self-esteem is getting better
Is Online Therapy Easy to Use for Non-Tech-Savvy People?
Yes, it’s pretty simple to access sessions. You’ll need basic internet skills, such as opening and visiting the patient link sent to you via email. It’s similar to video chatting like Facetime or Zoom. We can also walk you through it on the phone the first time to ensure a strong connection
What Questions Should I Ask My New Therapist?
Feel free to ask anything. Some good questions are:
- How often will we meet?
- What do you specialize in?
- What experience do you have with my issue?
- What outcomes can I expect?
- How will I know I’m progressing?
- How long do you usually work with clients?
- How will we set my treatment goals?
How Should I Prepare for My First Session?
Showing up is all that you need to do! But if you really want to get the most out of session, it could help to take some time to think about what you want from therapy. It helps to write down your goals, questions you have or things that you feel are important to share.
What is the difference between associate therapists & fully licensed therapists?
Our Qualifications:
Our founder, Rebecca Sidoti, is a highly qualified, state-licensed therapist and supervisor with extensive training in anxiety related disorders and innovative treatment such as Ketamine Therapy. Mind by Design Counseling adheres to standards set by the our governing counseling boards.
To see each providers credentials, training and licenses, visit our “Meet the Therapists” Page to learn more.
- LAC/LSW are therapists who may practice clinical work under the supervision of a fully licensed therapist.
- LPC/LCSW are therapists who have completed the necessary clinical hours post-graduation under supervision and can practice clinical work independently.
What Geographic Areas Are Served?
Currently, we serve clients in New Jersey and are expanding to other states as telehealth laws evolve. While telehealth offers the convenience of attending sessions from anywhere, state laws require clients to be in-state during their session.
Is Virtual Counseling Suitable for Everyone?
Online therapy might not be as effective for individuals with chronic suicidal thoughts, severe trauma, significant mental health history, or those recently in intensive care. Such cases often benefit more from traditional, in-person counseling. We’ll help you decide if our online services are right for you during your intake and evaluation.
What Equipment is Needed for Online Therapy?
To join a session, log in using the credentials we provide. No downloads are needed. Our platform, compatible with both individual and group sessions, requires:
A computer or mobile device with a webcam and internet access.
We’ll help you test your setup before your first appointment to ensure a reliable connection. iOS users should use the Safari browser for mobile and tablet sessions.
What Questions Will Therapists Ask Me?
It depends on your goals. Expect questions about your thoughts, feelings, relationships, work, school, and health. They’ll ask to understand your therapy goals.
How Do You Keep Client Information Secure?
Security and Confidentiality of Sessions:
Your privacy is crucial to us. We use TherapyNotes, a HIPAA-compliant platform, ensuring secure and confidential teletherapy sessions. This platform’s security features include encrypted video connections, secure data transfers, and encrypted databases, ensuring your information is safe at all times.
What is VRT used for?
we use VRT to support Exposure Therapy, a long standing traditional therapy modality to treat phobias, anxiety and stress. we send a headset directly to your home so you can access VRT from anywhere.
VRT not only helps with exposure therapy for phobias, but is great for ADHD, mindfulness, PTSD and social anxiety.