Transforming Trauma

Dr. Jonathan Shedler, a distinguished psychologist and author, dives into the essence of effective psychotherapy. He emphasizes the crucial bond between therapist and client, advocating for greater understanding of personality patterns beyond the DSM’s limitations. The conversation also critiques how social media influences disconnection, while proposing a more personalized and relational approach to therapy. Shedler highlights the importance of self-awareness and agency in fostering meaningful change, all while navigating the complexities of human nature.

When was the last time you took a break from learning new professional skills and, instead, carved out space to pursue self-discovery and community support?  On this episode of Transforming Trauma, host Emily Ruth welcomes back the faculty of the Complex Trauma Training Center (CTTC)––Brad Kammer, Stefanie Klein, and Marcia Black––to introduce SPACE, an innovative inner development program for therapists debuting in early 2025. SPACE supports therapists on three levels of the human experience: the personal, interpersonal, and transpersonal.  Brad, Stefanie, and Marcia guide you through the intention of the program, as well as its structure, highlighting the themes and what participants can expect to gain from each session. They also share insights into how their own struggles and learning over their long careers as therapists helped them become more present, authentic, and effective therapists, and inspired their creation of SPACE.  When we think of space, we may think of exploration into outer space.  What CTTC's SPACE program offers is exploration into our inner space: “It's [an] invitation to have a new relationship to our own inner world as a therapist.” Learn more about being a part of this community About the SPACE Faculty: Brad Kammer, LMFT, LPCC, is the Training Director and Senior Trainer for the Complex Trauma Training Center. Brad is responsible for the creation of the CTTC professional development programs, including working with Dr. Laurence Heller in developing the NARM® Therapist and NARM® Master Training Programs offered through CTTC. Brad also guides the mentorship programs involving CTTC faculty, training assistants and participants; the diversity, inclusion and belonging (DIB) efforts; and is the executive producer of the Transforming Trauma podcast. Brad has a passion for cultivating a professional learning community that provides ongoing training opportunities and mentorship to a diverse group of mental health professionals in their work with complex trauma. Brad is also the co-author of The Practical Guide for Healing Developmental Trauma. Stefanie Klein, LCSW, is the Assistant Training Director for the Complex Trauma Training Center. Stefanie is also a NARM® Master Therapist, Consultant and Trainer. She previously taught the Level 1 NARM Online Basics Training and is involved in many aspects of supporting the development of the Center and its programs. Her focus as Assistant Training Director is co-creating and guiding CTTC’s Training Assistant Program. She is inspired by the mentorship model of supporting mental health professionals in bringing healing to individuals, groups and communities impacted by complex trauma. She also enjoys the training participants use their professional learning as a framework to create healthier and more sustainable relationships to their own lives. Marcia Black is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and CTTC Faculty Committee member.  As a NARM® Senior Training Assistant, Marcia has a passion for mentoring students and Training Assistants, and nurturing the growth of the community of graduates committed to ongoing learning.  Marcia is also a NARM Master Therapist and has been in private practice for over 40 years in SF and the East Bay, specializing in treating complex and developmental trauma, and other psychological conditions. Coming from a background in Attachment, Relational and Intersubjective approaches, as well as experience as a Somatic Experiencing practitioner and SE Assistant, Marcia finds the NARM model offers an invaluable and inspiring contribution to understanding and approaching the psychotherapy process, not only in working with C-PTSD but also more broadly. Marcia’s mentorship is based in a relational approach that invites an exploration into the therapist’s inner experience and growth, alongside that of the client’s. Marcia is excited about supporting ongoing training, consultation, and mentorship in her role at CTTC. To read the full show notes and discover more resources, visit https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com/transformingtrauma *** SPACE is an Inner Development Program of Support and Self-Discovery for Therapists on the Personal, Interpersonal, and Transpersonal Levels offered by the Complex Trauma Training Center. This experiential learning program offers an immersive group experience designed to cultivate space for self-care, community support, and deepening vitality in our professional role as therapists. Learn more about how to join. The Complex Trauma Training Center: https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com View upcoming trainings: https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com/schedule/ The Complex Trauma Training Center (CTTC) is a professional organization providing clinical training, education, consultation, and mentorship for psychotherapists and mental health professionals working with individuals and communities impacted by Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Complex Trauma (C-PTSD). CTTC provides NARM® Therapist and NARM® Master Therapist Training programs, as well as ongoing monthly groups in support of those learning NARM. CTTC offers a depth-oriented professional community for those seeking a supportive network of therapists focused on three levels of shared human experience: personal, interpersonal & transpersonal.  The Transforming Trauma podcast embodies the spirit of CTTC – best described by its three keywords: depth, connection, and heart - and offers guidance to those interested in effective, transformational trauma-informed care. We want to connect with you! Facebook @complextraumatrainingcenter Instagram @complextraumatrainingcenter LinkedIn YouTube  

Tobias Konermann, a clinical psychologist from Berlin specializing in developmental trauma, joins the discussion to explore the NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM). He highlights how NARM differentiates itself from traditional therapies by emphasizing relational dynamics and emotional awareness. They delve into the role of shame in therapy and how it can hinder healing. Additionally, Tobias shares innovative strategies for working with trauma, underlining NARM's potential to transform therapeutic practices and improve client outcomes through its holistic approach.

James McNinch, a seasoned addiction specialist and co-founder of NARM-AC, dives deep into the transformative approach of addiction treatment. He challenges traditional models that often overlook the impact of trauma and attachment on recovery. The discussion illuminates how the NeuroAffective Relational Model® prioritizes emotional connection and self-awareness. James shares insights on the profound healing experienced through NARM therapy, emphasizing the power of supportive relationships in overcoming shame and fostering empowerment in those struggling with addiction.

Pamela Kraus, LCPC, MBA, is a dedicated psychotherapist specializing in complex trauma and an expert in the NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM). In this discussion, she shares her innovative approach of integrating NARM principles into group therapy, revealing how it enhances healing for participants. Pamela emphasizes the importance of a 'beginner's mindset' to foster openness and adaptability in therapeutic settings. She also dives into the complexities of family dynamics and the significance of creating a supportive environment for effective recovery among groups.

Mariah Rooney, co-founder of Trauma-Informed Weight Lifting, discusses the neuroscience behind the program, its impact on resilience, agency, and interoceptive awareness. They explore the transformative power of strength training, creating inclusive fitness spaces, empowering movements, and developing trauma-informed modalities for healing.

We often discuss the NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM) as it relates to the adult journey of healing from complex trauma, but what about younger clients? On this episode of Transforming Trauma, host Emily Ruth is joined by Kami Black, LCSW, founder of ROOTs Transitions, a program that supports adolescent females ages 15 to 18 and their families by blending elements of outdoor therapy and residential treatment in Park City, Utah. The pair explore ROOTs’ commitment to utilizing NARM as both a therapeutic modality and a rubric for staff engagement. They also discuss the program’s assessment, treatment, and reintegration phases, plus the value of embracing and navigating dysregulation within the safety of the on-site therapeutic environment. About Kami Black: As a young adult, Kami Black, LCSW, knew that she wanted to be a therapist and help give back to a community that once served her and address the trauma impacting others. After completing her schooling, she began working with adolescents and their families, as well as signing up for any trauma training that she could find. This included EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Brainspotting, and many others. About five years ago, Kami came across NARM at a conference. She was intrigued by the language, and specifically the way it articulated complex trauma healing through a deeply interpersonal process. She trained in NARM and hoped that one day this healing modality would be at the foundation of a program she was envisioning. ROOTs Transition emerged from her vision, and has been open for almost three years now. And, NARM is now the foundation of their clinical approach and how they train their therapists, guides and staff. The principles of NARM also inspire and challenges them each day to stay curious and provide agency to those around them. Learn More: ROOTs Transition To read the full show notes and discover more resources, visit https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com/transformingtrauma *** The Complex Trauma Training Center: https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com View upcoming trainings: https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com/schedule/ The Complex Trauma Training Center (CTTC) is a professional organization providing clinical training, education, consultation, and mentorship for psychotherapists and mental health professionals working with individuals and communities impacted by Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Complex Trauma (C-PTSD). CTTC provides NARM® Therapist and NARM® Master Therapist Training programs, as well as ongoing monthly groups in support of those learning NARM. CTTC offers a depth-oriented professional community for those seeking a supportive network of therapists focused on three levels of shared human experience: personal, interpersonal & transpersonal.  The Transforming Trauma podcast embodies the spirit of CTTC – best described by its three keywords: depth, connection, and heart - and offers guidance to those interested in effective, transformational trauma-informed care. We want to connect with you! Facebook @complextraumatrainingcenter YouTube Instagram @complextraumatrainingcenter

Clinicians treating clients with complex trauma already understand the value of using the NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM) in 1:1 settings. Imagine, then, the transformative healing that might occur when applying NARM in group recovery and transitional living environments.  On this episode of Transforming Trauma, host Emily Ruth welcomes Laura Sorte, LCSW, NARM Therapist and Executive Director at Release Recovery, to discuss her experiences creating and implementing NARM-informed programming for a New York-based outpatient addiction treatment center. About Laura Sorte: Laura Sorte, LCSW, is a NARM Therapist. Laura has specialized in working with families, individuals, and adolescents and thrives in helping her clients develop a deeper connection to themselves. Laura holds the position of Executive Director at Release Recovery Centers, an outpatient treatment center in Westchester County, New York where she brings her deep understanding of the impacts of developmental trauma and addiction to the clinical programming. Release Recovery Centers is a clinically driven, client-centered, trauma informed outpatient treatment center treating substance abuse disorders. Release Recovery Centers is focused on treating the root cause of the symptoms and behaviors, without blame, shame or labels that fail to acknowledge the ability to change. Learn More: Release Recovery To read the full show notes and discover more resources, visit https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com/transformingtrauma *** The Complex Trauma Training Center: https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com View upcoming trainings: https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com/schedule/ The Complex Trauma Training Center (CTTC) is a professional organization providing clinical training, education, consultation, and mentorship for psychotherapists and mental health professionals working with individuals and communities impacted by Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Complex Trauma (C-PTSD). CTTC provides NARM® Therapist and NARM® Master Therapist Training programs, as well as ongoing monthly groups in support of those learning NARM. CTTC offers a depth-oriented professional community for those seeking a supportive network of therapists focused on three levels of shared human experience: personal, interpersonal & transpersonal.  The Transforming Trauma podcast embodies the spirit of CTTC – best described by its three keywords: depth, connection, and heart - and offers guidance to those interested in effective, transformational trauma-informed care. We want to connect with you! Facebook @complextraumatrainingcenter YouTube Instagram @complextraumatrainingcenter  

Experienced psychologist Dr. Karen Maroda discusses the conflict therapists face in emotional engagement with clients. She emphasizes honoring one's humanness in therapy and navigating countertransference. Topics include therapists' early experiences influencing their approach, managing emotions in therapy, power dynamics, and the transformative impact of empathetic engagement.

A vital tenet of the NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM) is that, no matter how withdrawn or isolated one becomes due to complex trauma, humans remain instinctively and spontaneously drawn towards connection, just as plants are drawn towards the sun. On this episode of Transforming Trauma, Emily Ruth is joined by Joseph McCaffrey, LPC, LMHC, an Arizona-based NARM therapist specializing in ecotherapy––the formal practice of incorporating nature-based experiences to facilitate healing. The pair explore Joseph’s process for applying NARM “in the wild” and his tips for identifying everyday opportunities to re-establish a personal connection to nature no matter where you live. About Joseph McCaffrey: Joseph McCaffrey holds an MS in Counseling with a specialization in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Prescott College and an MA in Educational Psychology from the University of Colorado, Denver. Joseph is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the state of Arizona as well as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Washington and specializes in complex developmental trauma and ecotherapy. His approach is trauma-informed, influenced by Ecotherapy, spirituality, mindfulness, and somatic work, and grounded in The NeuroAffective Relational Model (NARM). Learn More: Website To read the full show notes and discover more resources, visit https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com/transformingtrauma *** The Complex Trauma Training Center: https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com View upcoming trainings: https://complextraumatrainingcenter.com/schedule/ The Complex Trauma Training Center (CTTC) is a professional organization providing clinical training, education, consultation, and mentorship for psychotherapists and mental health professionals working with individuals and communities impacted by Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and Complex Trauma (C-PTSD). CTTC provides NARM® Therapist and NARM® Master Therapist Training programs, as well as ongoing monthly groups in support of those learning NARM. CTTC offers a depth-oriented professional community for those seeking a supportive network of therapists focused on three levels of shared human experience: personal, interpersonal & transpersonal.  The Transforming Trauma podcast embodies the spirit of CTTC – best described by its three keywords: depth, connection, and heart - and offers guidance to those interested in effective, transformational trauma-informed care. We want to connect with you! Facebook @complextraumatrainingcenter YouTube Instagram @complextraumatrainingcenter