The healing work of forgiveness; a trauma sensitive perspective

I (Elizabeth) am a practicing Christian, raised in the church, and living in the Bible Belt. I am also an experienced trauma counselor. I work with those who have suffered great abuses, many times at the hands of those who were supposed to be safe and almost always from those in positions of power. In … Continue reading The healing work of forgiveness; a trauma sensitive perspective

EMDR and your child

By Samantha Gamboa, LPC Associate Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing is an eight-step process that utilizes bilateral stimulation (BLS). BLS is the process of alternatively stimulating the left and right sides of the brain, to reduce the physical and emotional response to a traumatic event and allow the brain to process the memory so that healing … Continue reading EMDR and your child

The Healing Crisis

Have you ever had an experience where the "right" choice would make life more difficult? Perhaps it was ending a toxic relationship, stopping an unhealthy coping mechanism, or leaving a job that did not honor your values. Sometimes, the next best step is essential for your health and healing. Sometimes the next best step hurts. … Continue reading The Healing Crisis

The Benefit of Shame

Shame is the feeling or belief that we are somehow flawed and unworthy of love and belonging. If we are capable of connection and empathy, we are vulnerable to shame. It is a common human experience. Unlike guilt, which is the conviction that I did something bad, shame is the feeling that I am bad. … Continue reading The Benefit of Shame