In this rerelease conversation, returning guest therapist & author Deb Dana answers your questions. Deb delves into the Polyvagal Theory, explaining its significance in understanding the autonomic nervous system and its impact on our daily experiences. She discusses the hierarchy of the nervous system, the importance of co-regulation, and the process of befriending one's nervous system. The conversation also addresses the challenges of building capacity in a reactive system, practicing regulating tools, and navigating anxiety. She also emphasizes the need for safe connections and the role of attachment and boundaries in our relationships, providing insights into how to reshape our nervous systems for better emotional health.

takeaways

• Polyvagal Theory helps us understand our autonomic nervous system.
• The autonomic nervous system has a hierarchy of responses.
• Ventral state is where we experience wellbeing.
• Co-regulation is essential for survival and thriving.
• Befriending your nervous system is a process of gathering information.
• Building capacity in a reactive system takes time and patience.
• Practicing regulating tools is crucial for emotional health.
• Listening to your nervous system is key to understanding your needs.
• Safe connections are vital for healing and growth.
• Attachment styles influence our relationships and boundaries.

Deb Dana's Books & Resources:

Anchored: How to Befriend Your Nervous System Using Polyvagal Theory https://amzn.to/3GSm8Lj

Polyvagal Practices: Anchoring the Self in Safety https://amzn.to/4515qBj

The Nervous System Workbook: Practical Exercises to Ease Anxiety, Find Safety, and Come Home to Yourself Using Polyvagal Theory https://amzn.to/4mdNzOw

Polyvagal Card Deck: 58 Practices for Calm and Change https://amzn.to/3TZkw5m

Polyvagal Exercises for Therapists and Clients: 50 Client-Centered Practices https://amzn.to/4lYl4oc

https://www.rhythmofregulation.com/

Find a list of recommended books + resources for the healing trauma journey.

 https://www.thehealingtraumapodcast.com/resources/

Join Dr. Mark McNear as he welcomes J. Ashley T. Booth to the Healing Trauma Podcast. In this episode, they delve into the transformative world of Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy. Discover how IFS offers a gentle, non-pathologizing approach to healing trauma by exploring the different parts of ourselves and fostering a deeper connection to our true self. Ashley shares insights from her book, "Quieting the Storm Within," and discusses the power of curiosity and compassion in the healing journey. Tune in to learn how IFS can help you navigate inner conflicts and embrace post-traumatic growth.

Find ashley here:ashleybooth.net

Book:Quieting the Storm Within: An Illustrated Introduction to Your Parts Through Internal Family Systems and Beyond https://amzn.to/3GtRE28

So Honored and thrilled to reshare this conversation with Dr. Judith Herman.

In this conversation, renowned trauma expert Dr. Judith Herman and host Monique Koven delve into the complexities of trauma and recovery, particularly focusing on the impact of interpersonal violence and the importance of social movements in validating survivors' experiences. They discuss the challenges faced by survivors within the justice system and the need for community support in the healing process. Dr. Herman introduces her new book, 'Truth and Repair,' which expands on the themes of her previous work, emphasizing the necessity of social healing alongside individual recovery.

takeaways

• The book 'Trauma and Recovery' was pivotal for many survivors.
• Complex PTSD is often misunderstood and under-diagnosed.
• Interpersonal violence has profound effects on identity and mental health.
• Social movements play a crucial role in validating survivors' experiences.
• Recovery involves both individual and social healing processes.
• Survivors often seek truth and validation over monetary compensation.
• The justice system can be re-traumatizing for survivors.
• Community support is essential for healing from trauma.
• Survivors often want to confront their perpetrators for closure.
• Empathy and understanding within communities can aid recovery.

About our guest:

Dr. Judith Herman is a professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School. She was the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies and is a distinguished life fellow of the American Psychiatric Association. 'Trauma and Recovery: The Aftermath of Violence - from Domestic Abuse to Political Terror,' Judith’s second book, is revered as the seminal text on understanding trauma survivors.

The conventional retributive process fails to serve most survivors; it was never designed for them. Judith argues that the first step toward a better form of justice is simply to ask survivors what would make things as right as possible for them. In her new book, 'Truth and Repair: How Trauma Survivors Envision Justice,' she commits the radical act of listening to survivors. Recounting their stories, she offers an alternative vision of justice as healing for survivors and their communities.

Deeply researched and compassionately told, Truth and Repair envisions a new path to justice for all.

Judith's Books:

Trauma and Recovery: The Aftermath of Violence--from Domestic Abuse to Political Terror

https://amzn.to/40d7R2b

Truth and Repair: How Trauma Survivors Envision Justice https://amzn.to/40aTmMr

In this episode of the Healing Trauma Podcast, guest host Leah Denton interviews Amber Trejoa licensed marriage and family therapist specializing in integrative trauma therapy. Amber shares her personal journey with trauma, her approach to therapy, and the complexities of dealing with complex trauma and its effects on relationships and parenting. The conversation delves into attachment styles, the importance of self-care, and the challenges of navigating grief and loss. Amber emphasizes the significance of finding the right therapist and understanding emotional flashbacks, particularly in the context of parenting. The episode provides valuable insights for trauma survivors and those seeking to understand the impact of trauma on their lives.

takeaways

• Amber is an integrative trauma therapist who combines various modalities.
• She emphasizes the importance of understanding complex trauma.
• Amber's personal experiences with trauma shaped her therapeutic approach.
• Attachment styles significantly affect relationships for trauma survivors.
• Self-care is crucial for parents with complex trauma backgrounds.
• Building safe connections in therapy is essential for healing.
• Grief and loss can trigger unresolved trauma issues.
• Finding a trauma-informed therapist is vital for effective healing.
• Generational trauma impacts parenting styles and emotional responses.
• Emotional flashbacks can complicate parenting and relationships
• 
  

Find Amber Trejo here:

https://www.theintegrativetraumathera...

  / integrativetraumatherapist  

Find Leah Denton:

https://www.instagram.com/psycho.therapypodcast/profilecard/?igsh=NW43djFkMGZ2NTli

Psycho Therapy Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/psycho-therapy/id1728786872?i=1000647241277

Show Support by buying me a coffee. @Buy me a coffee https://buymeacoffee.com/thehealingtraumapodcast

Trauma Healing Books & Programs & Resources https://www.thehealingtraumapodcast.com/resources/

In this episode of the Healing Trauma Podcast, guest host Dr. Mark McNear interviews Dr. Frank Anderson, a Harvard-trained psychiatrist and trauma expert, about his memoir 'To Be Loved.' They discuss the healing journey through writing, the importance of integrating personal trauma experiences, and the impact of shame on adult relationships. Dr. Anderson shares insights on the evolution of trauma treatment and the need for trauma-informed media, emphasizing that healing is possible for everyone.

takeaways

• Dr. Anderson's memoir aims to inspire hope and healing.
• Writing can be a powerful tool for personal healing.
• Integration of trauma experiences is crucial for recovery.
• Shame from childhood can deeply affect adult relationships.
• Understanding personal trauma can lead to healthier choices.
• Taking responsibility is key to healing from trauma.
• The field of trauma treatment has evolved significantly.
• Trauma-informed media can change societal narratives.
• Everyone has the capacity to heal from trauma.
• Healing is a journey that requires compassion and understanding.

About the Guest:Frank Anderson, MD, is a world-renowned trauma treatment expert, Harvard-trained psychiatrist, and psychotherapist. He is the acclaimed author of Transcending Trauma, a recently released memoir, To Be Loved: A Story of Truth, Trauma, and Transformation, and the co-author of the Internal Family Systems Skills Training Manual. As a global speaker on the treatment of trauma and dissociation, he’s passionate about teaching brain-based psychotherapy and integrating current neuroscience knowledge with Internal Family Systems (IFS)

Dr. Anderson is the co-founder of The Trauma Institute and Trauma Informed Media, organizations that promote trauma awareness, education, integration, and healing. He is a lead trainer at the IFS Institute under Richard Schwartz and has a long affiliation with Bessel van der Kolk and the Trauma Research Foundation. Dr. Anderson maintains a private practice in Harvard, MA, where he lives with his husband and two sons.

Books

To Be Loved: A Story of Truth, Trauma, and Transformation https://amzn.to/3ST15KU

Transcending Trauma: Healing Complex PTSD with Internal Family Systems https://amzn.to/4l3PPat

Internal Family Systems Skills Training Manual: Trauma-Informed Treatment for Anxiety, Depression, PTSD & Substance Abuse https://amzn.to/44hQMGF

In this episode, Monique re-releases a conversation with trauma therapist Robin Shapiro, focusing on the concept of ego states and their role in trauma therapy. Robin explains how ego state therapy differentiates various parts of the self, particularly in individuals with trauma histories. The discussion covers the importance of understanding these parts, the role of dissociation, and the integration of different therapeutic approaches to facilitate healing. Robin also shares techniques for creating safe healing spaces and nurturing inner child parts, emphasizing the need for therapists to have a multifaceted approach to treatment.

takeaways

• Ego state therapy helps differentiate parts of the self.
• Understanding ego states is crucial for trauma recovery.
• Dissociation can lead to a lack of control over ego states.
• Therapists must be creative in their approach to therapy.
• Building safe spaces is essential for healing.
• Integrating various therapeutic modalities enhances treatment effectiveness.
• The adult self plays a vital role in therapy.
• Imaginal nurturing can help heal early attachment trauma.
• Therapists should be aware of their clients' different needs.
• Healing is possible at any stage of life.

Robin's book:Easy Ego State Interventions: Strategies for Working With Parts https://amzn.to/43F9Mic

Robin's Website: https://www.emdrsolutions.com/

In this episode of The Healing Trauma Podcast, Guest host, Dr. Mark McNear interviews Adam Young, a licensed clinical social worker and author, about the importance of storytelling in healing from trauma. Adam shares insights on how personal stories shape our lives, the significance of engaging with our past, and the role of kindness in self-discovery. The conversation delves into family dynamics, the neuroscience of memory, and practical steps for individuals to begin their journey of healing through storytelling.

takeaways

• Understanding your story can lead to freedom and release.
• Symptoms are linked to past experiences and should be explored.
• Engaging with your story requires curiosity and kindness.
• Family dynamics can create emotional triangles that affect relationships.
• Trauma is often compounded by a lack of care and witness.
• The journey of self-discovery is ongoing and requires multiple passes.
• Witnessing others' stories is crucial for healing.
• Neuroscience shows that coherent storytelling aids in trauma recovery.
• Bringing kindness to your past can transform your present.
• The end goal of story work is to become more fully yourself.

Thank you to our guest:

Adam Young - https://adamyoungcounseling.com/

Adam's New Book: Make Sense of Your Story: Why Engaging Your Past with Kindness Changes Everything https://amzn.to/4kRN9wy

Guest Host: Dr. Mark McNear

https://markmcnear.com/

In this episode of the Healing Trauma Podcast, Monique and her guest Dr. Laryssa Creswell discuss the impact of trauma and the importance of understanding our internal family systems (IFS) in healing. Laryssa emphasizes the role of shame, self-energy, and the need for self-compassion in navigating our emotional landscape. The conversation explores the significance of reparenting our younger parts and the journey of self-discovery in therapy. Dr. Creswell encourages listeners to trust themselves and recognize their own expertise in their healing journey.

About The Guest: Dr. Laryssa Creswell is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Board-Certified Music Therapist with over 25 years of experience in the mental health field. She is the owner of Fearlessly Inspired Therapeutic Solutions, LLC, a private practice devoted to helping women and teen girls heal from trauma. Dr. Creswell’s past research focused on developing creative arts therapies for women experiencing mental health and substance use challenges. She currently serves as an adjunct professor at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and is the author of The Invisible Weight We Carry, a powerful guide to setting down generational burdens and reclaiming one’s voice.

Laryssa's website: https://fearlesslyinspiredsolutions.com

Find Her book here: The Invisible Weight We Carry: Breaking Free from Generational Burdens and Emotional Baggage

https://amzn.to/4jpgygJ

Connect with Monique on IG https://www.instagram.com/thehealingtraumapodcast/

Watch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/lfbuk_xv7j8

In this episode of the Healing Trauma Podcast, guest host Dr. Mark McNear interviews Dr. David Grand, the developer of Brain Spotting, a psychotherapy technique particularly effective for trauma. They discuss the principles of Brain Spotting, its discovery, and how it differs from other therapeutic approaches. The conversation includes a role-play demonstration, insights into the healing process, and the importance of following the client's lead in therapy. Dr. Grand emphasizes the developmental nature of trauma and the need for a compassionate, attuned therapeutic relationship. The episode concludes with reflections on the future of Brain Spotting and its potential to help those with trauma.

takeaways

• Brain Spotting is effective for both single and complex trauma.
• The eyes are deeply connected to emotional processing.
• Therapists should follow the client's lead in therapy.
• Healing involves moving from the past to the present.
• The nervous system knows how to heal itself.
• Trauma manifestations are natural responses to unnatural circumstances.
• Shame and guilt are often passed from perpetrators to survivors.
• Everything in therapy is developmental.
• Brain Spotting can be integrated with other therapeutic modalities.
• The future of Brain Spotting holds great potential for healing.

About our guest:

David Grand, PhD is the developer of Brainspotting, the groundbreaking relational brain-body-mindfulness-based method. He is the author of Brainspotting: The Revolutionary New Therapy for Rapid and Effective Change and the co-author of This is Your Brain on Sports. Dr. Grand is involved in humanitarian activities with survivors of 9/11, Katrina, and Sandy Hook/Newtown. He has accomplished breakthroughs in performance and creativity with Brainspotting Sports Work and Brainspotting Acting Coaching. Dr. Grand has been widely featured in the media, including The NY Times, NBC National News, The Discovery Channel, CNN, MSNBC, Sports Illustrated, and Sirius Radio.

Website: https://brainspotting.com/

Book: Brainspotting: The Revolutionary New Therapy for Rapid and Effective Change by David Grand

https://amzn.to/4dDSVzP

Connect with Monique on IG https://www.instagram.com/thehealingtraumapodcast/

Connect with Dr. Mark McNear

https://www.instagram.com/drmarkmcnear/

Dr. Lindsay Gibson is back just in time for Mother's Day.

About our Guest: Dr. Lindsay Gibson is a clinical psychologist and the author of the Emotional Immaturity series of books, including her bestseller Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents.

In this conversation, Monique and Lindsay discuss the complexities of navigating Mother's Day emotions, particularly for those with emotionally immature parents. They explore the conflicting feelings of grief and obligation, the importance of self-validation, and practical tips for managing relationships during this challenging time. The discussion emphasizes the need for self-care and reconnecting with one's true self to foster personal growth and healing.

Takeaways

• Mother's Day can evoke mixed emotions, including grief and obligation.
• It's important to honour your own feelings during this holiday.
• Emotional immaturity in parents can complicate relationships.
• Self-validation is crucial for emotional well-being.
• Finding a balance between honouring a parent and honouring oneself is key.
• It's okay to choose how to engage with emotionally immature parents.
• Reconnecting with oneself is essential for personal growth.
• Practicing self-care can help manage emotional turmoil.
• Taking a pause to reflect on feelings can lead to better self-understanding.
• 
  

Adult children of Emotionally Immature Parents

https://amzn.to/4kpLu1l

Recovering from Emotionally Immature Parents: Practical Tools to Establish Boundaries and Reclaim Your Emotional Autonomy 

https://amzn.to/42YKdHg

Self-Care for Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents: Honor Your Emotions, Nurture Your Self, and Live with Confidence

https://amzn.to/3RTG6XX

Disentangling from Emotionally Immature People: Avoid Emotional Traps, Stand Up for Your Self, and Transform Your Relationships as an Adult Child of Emotionally Immature Parents

https://amzn.to/44qhHRo

Connect with Monique on IG https://www.instagram.com/thehealingtraumapodcast/