Imagine walking into a space where you're seen not as a collection of symptoms or problems to be fixed, but as a person with a story, strengths, and the ability to heal. That's the essence of the person-centred approach.
When working with trauma, a person-centred approach focuses on seeing and treating individuals as whole beings, recognising their unique experiences, feelings, and needs. It’s all about putting you—not just your trauma—at the centre of your healing journey!
When someone experiences trauma, it can feel like their world has been turned upside down. Trauma can come in many forms, from one-time events like accidents or natural disasters to ongoing situations like abuse or neglect. It can make the world feel unsafe and shake up how you see yourself and connect with others.
Approaches to trauma treatment often focus on the event itself and how to manage symptoms. While this can be helpful, it sometimes misses the larger picture of your emotional and psychological landscape.
The person-centred approach shifts the focus. It's grounded in the belief that people are inherently capable of moving towards healing and growth, given the right support. This support is built on:
Understanding: Really listening and trying to get a sense of what you are going through without judging you.
Acceptance: Valuing you just as you are, without conditions or expectations and without needing to change to be accepted. This helps to create a safe space where you are respected and where you are supported in opening up and exploring your feelings.
Being Real: Being genuine and honest with you builds trust and shows it's okay to be yourself, even when things are tough.
In practice, this means your feelings, thoughts, and experiences are at the forefront of therapy. Instead of directing you on how to heal, the therapist is here to walk alongside you, helping you discover your path to recovery. This could involve exploring past traumas, but also focusing on your strengths, resources, and aspirations.
A person-centred approach acknowledges that healing from trauma is not a one-size-fits-all process. It allows for flexibility and creativity in therapy, encouraging activities or discussions that resonate with your specific interests and values. Whether through art, nature, conversation, or other means, the goal is to foster a sense of safety, empowerment, and connection.
Ultimately, a person-centred approach to trauma is about honouring your individual journey towards healing. It's a reminder that at the heart of trauma recovery is a person seeking to reclaim their sense of self and connection to the world around them. By focusing on the person, not just the trauma, we open the door to deeper, more meaningful healing.
Comments