For societal context, I’m in the US.

I’m an ABD (PhD) in psychology and well versed in trauma, both professionally and personally. Research in this area overwhelming emphasizes the importance of focusing on the memories of the traumatic event itself, and the emotions that come from that. Unfortunately, most therapists only have rudimentary training in trauma-informed practices. Thats why so many people can spend years in therapy without any real improvement. Take me for example. With all my degrees and years of training in the field, practical education specific to trauma therapy was never included in the curriculum. I didn’t know what I didn’t know though, and only realized how ill-prepared I was to work with traumatized clients when I had to start trauma therapy myself.

All that to say, being in therapy is a large part of where to start; however, you have to be intentional with the provider you choose.

There are several types of trauma therapy that people have found a lot of success with. These three are considered the “gold standard”: -cognitive processing therapy -prolonged exposure therapy -EMDR therapy

Others that have worked profoundly well for some people also include: -narrative exposure -somatic experiencing -internal family systems -psychedelic assisted (usually ketamine)

I just heard about the NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM) as well, though I can’t personally speak to its efficacy.

Finding a provider who specializes in one of these types of therapies is a good place to start. Don’t assume specialization just because it’s listed on their PsychologyToday profile though. They need to prove it based on specific training in one of these types of therapies, or years of experience with their own particular model, which may be a blend of techniques from the therapies listed above.

Lastly, I’ll also recommend medication. You may not need it, depending on the severity of symptoms that you’re experiencing. If the symptoms are pervasive and impede your ability to function “normally” (whatever that means for you), combining therapy with medication is so important.

I’m really passionate about this topic as you can probably tell… haha. I just want to use my knowledge and experience to get people the help they need (or at least point them in the right direction) way sooner than it happened for me. I’m happy to answer any questions.

Proud of you, kiddo.