Trauma is not what happens to you, it’s what happens inside you as a result of what happened to you. Trauma is that scarring that makes you less flexible, more rigid, less feeling and more defended. – Gabor Mate
Addiction is, at its core, a maladjusted coping mechanism born out of the stress of trauma. Traumatic experiences can leave individuals with unresolved emotional pain, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues, which can contribute to their addiction. Palm View believes that there can be no addiction treatment without trauma therapy.
Trauma-focused therapy aims to help individuals understand and process their trauma in a safe and supportive environment. This trauma can take many forms, from physical and emotional abuse to neglect and abandonment. These experiences can leave deep emotional wounds that can be difficult to heal, and often lead individuals to self-medicate with drugs and alcohol. We work with clients to identify and process the traumatic experiences that may be fueling their addiction, using a range of evidence-based therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing. One of the key benefits of trauma-based therapy is that it can help clients develop a deeper understanding of the root causes of their addiction. By exploring the ways in which past experiences have shaped their behaviors and thought patterns, clients can begin to develop new coping mechanisms and strategies for dealing with triggers and cravings.
At Palm View, we also recognize the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment for our clients. Many people who have experienced trauma may be hesitant to open up and share their experiences. Our team of experienced therapists and addiction counselors work to create a non-judgmental and empathetic atmosphere where clients can feel comfortable discussing their trauma and working towards healing.
Ultimately, Palm View believes that trauma-based therapy is an essential part of addiction treatment, and one that can have a transformative impact on the lives of our clients. By addressing the root causes of addiction, we can help individuals build a foundation for long-term healing and growth.
