Dr. Allan Schore, a clinical faculty member at UCLA's Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, dives into the long-term effects of trauma and the nuances of emotional development. He discusses the crucial role of the right brain in emotional regulation and empathy. The conversation touches on the significance of establishing trust in therapy, as well as the connection between early relational trauma and chronic pain. Dr. Schore also emphasizes the importance of authentic relationships and their impact on mental health.
The podcast emphasizes that lasting recovery from severe addiction is often reliant on the structured support offered by 12-step programs.
A strong therapeutic alliance between therapist and patient is crucial for emotional exploration and effective healing in therapy sessions.
Early emotional experiences and caregiver attachments significantly shape an individual's emotional development and ability to trust in relationships.
Deep dives
Advocacy for 12-Step Programs
The discussion emphasizes the effectiveness of 12-step programs for individuals with severe addiction issues. Personal experiences reveal that while some may initially find alternative treatments successful, the speaker insists that lasting recovery often hinges on the support offered by 12-step programs. The conversation highlights the differences between moderate and severe addiction, suggesting that those with deep-rooted issues may not find success without structured support. Despite some skepticism towards the approach, it is articulated that a significant number of individuals struggling with severe addiction ultimately benefit from 12-step methodology.
Integration of Psychotherapies
The podcast stresses the importance of integrating different therapeutic approaches, particularly emphasizing the connective tissue between cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and more dynamic forms of treatment. The speaker argues that while CBT can serve certain behavioral issues effectively, the most profound healing occurs through establishing a strong therapeutic alliance. This alliance is recognized as foundational for recovery, enabling patients to safely explore their emotions and experiences. Moreover, both practitioners and patients are urged to value the emotional and bodily responses that can deeply inform the therapeutic process.
Role of the Therapeutic Alliance
A significant point made revolves around the therapeutic alliance, which combines elements of trust and empathy between therapist and patient. Research indicates that the effectiveness of therapy can often be attributed not just to the methods employed but to the quality of relationship cultivated within the therapeutic space. This connection facilitates a shared emotional experience that allows patients to delve deeper into their issues. Furthermore, the speaker posits that therapists' personal emotional processing is vital, as this 'wounded healer' effect can greatly enhance therapeutic outcomes.
Impact of Early Emotional Experiences
The episode discusses the profound impact of early emotional experiences, particularly a child's attachments to their caregivers, shaping their emotional and relational development. The therapeutic narrative suggests that positive early relationships can establish healthier emotional responses, fostering security and trust later in life. Conversely, negative or neglectful experiences can result in lifelong emotional difficulties and dysregulation. This foundational understanding of early attachment is framed as crucial for anyone working in therapeutic settings, as it directly influences the methods of engagement with patients.
Understanding Dissociation and Trauma
Dissociation is explored as a significant response to trauma, with discussions on its role in the autonomic nervous system's regulation. As trauma leads to dissociative states, individuals may find themselves disconnected from their emotions, affecting their relationships and overall quality of life. The podcast highlights that understanding this neurobiological response is essential for therapists to recognize the mechanisms at play in their patients. Furthermore, it addresses the importance of creating safe spaces where patients can confront and integrate these dissociated experiences into their conscious awareness.
Dr. Allan Schore joins Dr. Drew for an examination of the long term results of trauma. Dr. Schore is on the clinical faculty of the Department of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences, UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine, and at the UCLA Center for Culture, Brain, and Development.
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