140. VBT Study Hall: What Does “Trauma-Informed” Mean?
Jun 19, 2023
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What does 'trauma-informed' really mean? The discussion dives into the complexities of trauma, exploring historical perspectives and modern definitions. It scrutinizes the scientific basis for trauma stored in the body, weighing skepticism against various theories. A surprising highlight is the introduction of dog therapy as a unique emotional healing approach. The speakers also touch on listener experiences with repressed memories, mixing humor with critical insights about therapy practices today.
Trauma's definition has broadened over time from wartime experiences to encompass various life events affecting mental health.
The importance of trauma-informed care lies in its five core values: safety, trustworthiness, choice, collaboration, and empowerment.
Debate continues regarding trauma treatment efficacy, highlighting the therapeutic relationship's significance over specific modalities like CBT and EMDR.
Deep dives
The Evolution of Trauma Definitions
Historically, trauma has evolved in its definition from being narrowly associated with wartime experiences, known as 'shell shock,' to a broader understanding. The first significant acknowledgment of PTSD as a defined condition appeared in the DSM-III in 1980, shaped largely by the experiences of Vietnam veterans. This definition has expanded over the years, notably with the DSM-IV and DSM-5, which recognized that trauma could result from various life events beyond combat, including sexual violence or severe accidents. This evolution highlights the growing recognition of diverse experiences and their psychological impacts in contemporary mental health discourse.
Assessing Trauma's Impact
Research indicates that while many individuals experience trauma, only about 10-20% will subsequently develop PTSD. This statistic emphasizes that trauma does not have a universally predictable outcome; many who endure traumatic events do not exhibit lasting symptoms. Moreover, the term 'trauma' has become overused in everyday speech, leading to confusion regarding its true implications in mental health contexts, as it can refer to both severe incidents and minor setbacks. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for therapists in order to address client concerns accurately.
Defining Trauma-Informed Care
Trauma-informed care extends beyond merely recognizing trauma; it encompasses five core values: safety, trustworthiness, choice, collaboration, and empowerment. This approach recognizes that trauma can affect individuals in various ways and that those impacts may linger long after the traumatic event. Key to trauma-informed therapy is the establishment of a safe therapeutic environment wherein clients feel secure to share their experiences. Furthermore, this approach is not limited to specific interventions but promotes tailoring therapies to each individual's unique trauma history and triggers.
Controversies Surrounding Treatment Modalities
There is significant debate within the psychological community regarding the best methods for treating trauma, particularly about the efficacy of various therapies such as CBT and EMDR. Meta-analyses have suggested that the specific modality used may be less important than the therapeutic relationship and context in which treatment occurs. This raises concerns about reliance on specific therapies without considering the broader implications of the therapeutic alliance. Critics argue that focusing too heavily on particular techniques, such as those outlined by the APA, can overshadow the significance of common factors that contribute to effective therapy.
Uncertainty in the Body-Stored Trauma Concept
The notion that trauma is stored in the body has gained popularity, though it remains controversial and lacks robust scientific support. Many claims surrounding this idea rely on anecdotal evidence and interpretations of physiological responses, rather than empirical research. Skepticism lies in how therapists should address claims like these when empirical evidence is lacking; some professionals assert these theories sound compelling yet are not founded in verifiable science. This uncertainty reflects a wider concern in the mental health community: the need for a nuanced understanding of trauma that incorporates physiological and psychological dimensions without overstating the current evidence.
Trauma-informed therapy is…what, exactly? And is trauma actually stored in the body, or is that just a clever narrative that a few enterprising gurus have used to sell books and trainings? We dig deep into the research on trauma to answer these questions and more, and Carrie introduces her breakthrough trauma-focused treatment: dog therapy.
Thank you for listening. To support the show and receive access to regular bonus episodes, check out the Very Bad Therapy Patreon community. Today’s episode is sponsored by Sentio Counseling Center – high-quality, low-fee online therapy in California with immediate availability for new clients.
