Simply Thrive Therapy Blog
Using EMDR to Improve Family Systems (Part 2)
Last post we learned about EMDR and understanding traumas’ impact on the family system. In this post, it is my goal to elaborate more on exactly which ways EMDR can help families utilize their strengths and overcome various issues created by Trauma. 1. Healing Intergenerational Trauma Intergenerational trauma refers to the passing down of trauma from one generation to the next. Families often unintentionally perpetuate old wounds by repeating behaviors and coping mechanisms learned from past experiences. In this context, EMDR can help individual family members process their own trauma, enabling them to break free from patterns that may have been passed down to them. As one family member heals,
Using EMDR Treatment to Improve Family Systems (Part 1)
As a strength-based counselor intern, I approach therapy with a foundational belief in the inherent resilience and capabilities of individuals and families. You have read in previous blog posts and throughout our site about how useful techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy and others can be When it comes to healing family dynamics. In this post I’ll introduce a powerful tool that can support growth and transformation: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). While traditionally used to help individuals process trauma, EMDR can also be applied in a family or couples context to enhance communication, build healthier connections, and heal past wounds that may be impacting the family system as a
The Healing Power of Validation
The Healing Power of Validation Some therapists claim we’d all be out of a job if people learned how to validate each other. Yes, it’s that important to your mental well-being. What exactly is validation? Merriam-Webster defines it as, “to recognize, establish, or illustrate the worthiness or legitimacy of [fill in the blank].” To validate another’s feelings, you do NOT need to understand them, agree with them, or condone them. You can just recognize that their feelings are legitimate for them. For example, let’s say parents are fighting over whether their teenage daughter can start wearing makeup. The way many of us engage in conflict is to argue for our
I want to try therapy, but I’m embarrassed.
I want to try therapy, but I’m embarrassed. Yes, it’s okay to say it if you feel embarrassed or ashamed. It’s even okay to tell your therapist you feel that way! So, let’s talk about it. Why is it so hard to ask for help? Simply put, some of us get a lot of social messaging that we should be able to figure out or “fix” things on our own. So, just asking for help can make us feel shame. Now, add on the stigma that we often still feel about therapy, and it’s even harder to ask for help! Where does that stigma come from? Mental health struggles, injury,
Supporting Bereaved Individuals
Supporting Bereaved Individuals Loss is an inevitable part of life, whether of an individual, pet, job, or relationship. The grieving process for everyone can and will look different, therefore the ways in which people work through their grief and amount of time it takes to do so will vary. Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you support individuals who have experienced loss. Give space for the bereaved individual to share their grief in the way they need and want Allowing individuals to communicate thoughts, stories, or feelings about their loss in a manner that fits and feels right to them provides the individual with the opportunity
I’ve never been to therapy – what do I need to know?
I’ve never been to therapy – what do I need to know? Good question, we’re glad you asked! First of all, make sure you’re seeing a licensed therapist (or an intern working under a licensed therapist). For understanding licenses, you can refer to a previous blog here: https://simplythriveth.wpenginepowered.com/question-what-is-the-difference-between-a-therapist-and-a-counselor/ For some good questions to ask a potential therapist, we wrote about that here: https://simplythriveth.wpenginepowered.com/questions-to-ask-your-potential-therapist/ Here’s a few other nuts and bolts about therapy. Your first visit will be about getting background information, determining why you want therapy and what you want out of it, and it’ll be a chance for you to get to know your therapist and get comfortable with