Navigating the murky waters of trauma is not an easy road. A person must face the experiences that shaped them and learn to cope with those experiences in a healthy manner. Depending on the depth of trauma experienced, this path can be quite difficult. Having someone by your side who can help you in your healing journey is crucial to moving forward. But what type of trauma therapy is best for you?

At Christian Counseling of Tampa, our licensed, trauma informed specialists utilize a number of different therapy techniques based on the individual and their specific trauma-related needs. These include CBT, EMDR, and ART:

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): 

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychological treatment that has been demonstrated to be effective for a range of problems including depression, anxiety disorders, alcohol and drug use problems, marital problems, eating disorders, and severe mental illness. 

At Christian Counseling of Tampa, our trauma informed therapists utilize a series of strategies to help a person change his or her thinking patterns. These strategies may include:

• Helping a person evaluate the reality of their situation and reframe their thinking based on that reality.

• Gaining a deeper understanding of the behavior and motivations of others

• Developing problem-solving skills to cope with stressful situations

• Gaining confidence in one’s own abilities

• Learning to face and confront fears

• Equipping you with coping and relaxation techniques to calm the mind and body

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (A.R.T.)

Accelerated Resolution Therapy, often referred to as ART, is a form of psychotherapy with roots in existing evidence-based therapies but shown to achieve benefits much more rapidly (usually within 1-5 sessions). Clients suffering from trauma and other mental health problems such as Anxiety, Depression, Phobias, Panic Attacks, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Addictions/ Substance Abuse , Performance Anxiety, Family Issues, Victimization/Poor Self Image, Victimization/Sexual Abuse, Relationship Issues/Infidelity, Codependency, Grief, Job Related Stress, Pain Management, Memory Enhancement and many other mental and physical conditions can experience remarkable benefits starting in the first session.

ART incorporates a combination of techniques used in many other traditional psychotherapies. ART works directly to reprogram the way in which distressing memories and images are stored in the brain so that they no longer trigger strong physical and emotional reactions. ART accomplishes this through the use of rapid eye movements similar to eye movements that occur during dreaming. Although techniques similar to these are used in other types of therapies. ART’s very specific and directive approach can achieve rapid recovery from symptoms and reactions that may have been present for many years. ART combines long respected, sound treatment practices with safe and effective methods validated by current scientific research studies conducted by the University of South Florida.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

This therapeutic tool focuses on an individual’s present concerns. The EMDR approach believes past emotionally charged experiences have major influences on your present emotions, sensations, and thoughts about yourself. As an example: “Do you ever feel worthless although you know you are a worthwhile person?” EMDR therapy is a form of trauma therapy that helps you break through emotional blocks that may keep you from living an adaptive, emotionally healthy life.

EMDR uses rapid sets of eye movements. These help you update disturbing experiences, much like what occurs during sleep. When you sleep, you alternate between regular sleep and REM (rapid eye movement). This sleep pattern helps you process things that are troubling you.

EMDR therapy replicates this sleep pattern. It alternates between sets of eye movements and brief reports about what you notice. This alternating process helps you update your memories to a healthier present perspective.

What’s Different About EMDR? 

EMDR focuses on the brain’s ability to always learn, take past experiences, and update them with present information. Adaptive learning is always updating memory network systems. Past emotionally charged experiences often interfere with your updating process. EMDR breaks through that interference. This form of trauma therapy helps you let go of the past and update your experiences to a healthier present perspective. 

EMDR uses a set of procedures to organize your negative and positive feelings, emotions, and thoughts. Then, it uses bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or alternating tapping, as a way to help you work through those disturbing memories in an effective way.

Which Therapy Is Right for You?

Knowing which type of therapy will best suit your needs is not something that you are expected to figure out on your own. Here at Christian Counseling of South Tampa, our licensed professionals will determine which therapy is most effective based on your background. We would be honored to help you on your journey toward healing and are ready to meet with you today. Please call our office to schedule your first appointment where we will match you with the therapist best suited to help meet your needs.

If you’re ready to start the process of healing, we’re ready to support you. Reach out today to schedule your first appointment, and let us match you with a therapist who is specially equipped to help meet your needs.

At Christian Counseling of South Tampa, we’re honored to walk alongside you as you move forward on your path to wholeness.

INTERESTED IN GETTING STARTED WITH A THERAPIST IN TAMPA, FL?

If you're interested in exploring personalized guidance and counseling services, consider connecting with Christian Counseling of Tampa. Our compassionate team is here to support you every step of the way offering support and guidance, combining faith-based principles with evidence-based techniques to help you heal from your trauma. Reach out today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you.

Read more about Counseling for Trauma in Tampa, FL in our Trauma Series.

Understanding Trauma and Finding Support in Tampa

Understanding the Four Trauma Responses

You don't have to suffer in silence or feel overwhelmed from your trauma. Our therapists can offer support for trauma from our North Tampa, FL office located in the Northdale neighborhood and our South Tampa, FL office. To start trauma therapy, follow these simple steps:  

Contact Christian Counseling of Tampa

Meet with a caring therapist

Start learning to manage your symptoms associated with your trauma.

OTHER SERVICES OFFERED WITH CHRISTIAN COUNSELING OF TAMPA

Counseling for trauma individuals isn't the only service offered by our Tampa, FL-based practice. Our team is happy to offer a variety of services in support of your mental health. Other services offered include child therapy, premarital counseling, Christian counseling, therapy for anxiety, marriage intensives, trauma, and therapy for depression. We use a variety of treatment modalities including CBT, EFT, grief therapy, and more! Feel free to learn more about us by visiting our FAQ or blog today!