108: Trauma Recovery - Somatics, Attunement, and Mindfulness

“As human beings, we are meant for connection.“ I see you. I believe you. Sometimes, those are the exact words that survivors of sexual assault and violence need to hear. Genuinely affirming a survivor’s experiences, feelings, and responses are the first steps to entering into a space that the survivor has never let anyone else into before. Oftentimes, those who experience trauma seem to have lost touch. Sometimes they appear checked out, forget to eat, and even lose their spatial awareness. On the other end of the spectrum, some survivors become hypervigilant and notice everything: the way someone holds himself when he walks into a room, small changes in expression or energy, and anything else. In this episode, Robert Cox talks about this subject. He provides insight into the various responses that survivors have to their environment and new relationships. Robert discusses the importance of sitting in that vulnerable space with a survivor, listening to them, and helping them rewire their brains back to a healthy state. Take a listen to learn more about how Robert Cox uses somatic exercises and active listening skills to help trauma survivors begin living once again. About Robert Cox, LPC: Robert Cox is a licensed professional counselor in Missouri and owner of Life Recovery Counseling. He specializes in trauma, addictions, and autism. He works extensively with survivors of sexual abuse, trafficking, and childhood trauma. One of his main focuses, too, is mindfulness training to help patients create their own pathways to emotionally regulate through the difficult processes of trauma recovery. Resources: Life Recovery Consulting Website Mindful Recovery Podcast The Life Recovery Method: Autism Treatment From A Trauma Perspective by Robert Cox