Healing from Sexual Trauma

by Sarah Jayne Oltz, MS, NCC, CTP (Accepting New Clients!)

Sexual trauma is an umbrella term that refers to any sexual act or encounter that is non-consensual, coercive, or forced. This can refer to a one-time event or an ongoing experience, and can happen to anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. It is important to note that the trauma experienced is not limited to the actual act or event, but also encompasses the emotional and psychological aftermath. Recognizing the effects of sexual trauma and exploring pathways to healing from sexual trauma are vital steps toward recovery and empowerment for survivors.

The Impact of Sexual Trauma

The effects of sexual trauma are wide-ranging and can be both immediate and long-lasting. They may include:

  • Emotional Responses: Survivors often experience intense emotions such as fear, shame, guilt, anger, and sadness. These feelings can be overwhelming and persistent, affecting daily functioning and relationships.
  • Psychological Effects: Many survivors suffer from anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and other mental health issues. Intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, and nightmares are common symptoms.
  • Physical Effects: Sexual trauma can result in physical injuries, chronic pain, and changes in sexual functioning. Survivors might also experience sleep disturbances and other stress-related health problems.
  • Behavioral Changes: Avoidance of people, places, or activities that remind the survivor of the trauma is common. Some may engage in self-harming behaviors, substance abuse, or other coping mechanisms that provide temporary relief but can be harmful in the long term.
  • Relationship Struggles: Trust issues, intimacy problems, and difficulties in maintaining healthy relationships are frequent challenges for survivors.
  • Existential Impact: Sexual trauma can also lead to a lost sense of a sense of safety, innocence, hope, or faith in humanity. Many survivors question the purpose of life and question if they can continue living after what they have experienced. 

Pathways to Healing from Sexual Trauma

Each survivor’s path is unique, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Here are some tips for navigating the journey of healing from sexual trauma:

  • Practice Self-Compassion: Healing is not linear, and setbacks are a normal part of the process. Be kind to yourself and recognize your progress, no matter how small.
  • Build a Support System: Surround yourself with supportive friends, family, and community resources. Sharing your journey with trusted individuals can provide comfort and encouragement. Open communication about needs and boundaries is essential. Seek support from peer support groups.
  • Engage in Self-Care: Make time for activities that promote physical, emotional, and mental well-being. This might include walking, meditation, creative pursuits, or spending time in nature. Prioritize joy!
  • Seek Professional Help: Finding a therapist who specializes in trauma can make a significant difference. Look for someone with whom you feel comfortable and supported. Consider engaging in group therapy to connect with other survivors who may understand your experience. 

Trauma Therapy

Trauma therapy provides a safe space to process experiences, manage symptoms, and rebuild a sense of self. Understanding the role of trauma therapy in healing from sexual trauma can offer hope and guidance to those seeking to reclaim their lives.

  • Safe and Supportive Space: A fundamental aspect of trauma therapy is establishing a safe and non-judgmental environment. Survivors need to feel secure and supported to share their experiences and emotions. A skilled therapist can help create this space, fostering trust and openness.
  • Processing Traumatic Memories: Many survivors of sexual trauma struggle with intrusive memories, flashbacks, and nightmares. Trauma therapy aims to help individuals process these memories in a way that reduces their emotional charge. Experiential techniques such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) are particularly effective.
  • Managing Symptoms: Survivors often experience a range of symptoms, including anxiety, depression, hypervigilance, and dissociation. Trauma therapy provides tools and strategies to manage these symptoms, improving daily functioning and quality of life.
  • Rebuilding Sense of Self: Sexual trauma can severely impact a person’s sense of self. Trauma therapy helps survivors rebuild a positive self-image and reclaim their identity. Through therapeutic work, individuals can explore their strengths, values, and goals, fostering a sense of empowerment and self-worth.
  • Addressing Relationship Challenges: Trust and intimacy issues are common among survivors of sexual trauma. Trauma therapy can assist in navigating these challenges, helping individuals establish healthy boundaries and build supportive relationships. Therapists may also involve partners or family members in the therapeutic process to enhance understanding and support.
  • Cultivate Posttraumatic Growth: Recovery from trauma offers us the potential of growth in various ways. Adversity can become a catalyst for positive change in our sense of self, relationships, spirituality and/or sense of meaning/purpose, opportunity, and appreciation of life. It is not enough to simply reduce symptoms of trauma, we must enter into recovery.

Healing from sexual trauma through trauma therapy is a courageous and likely transformative path. It’s a journey that offers hope, healing, and the possibility of a future where survivors feel empowered, resilient, and whole. With the guidance of a skilled therapist, survivors can process their experiences, prioritize their well-being, and sustain post-traumatic growth. 

The Phoenix Center is dedicated to providing personalized care that addresses the unique needs of each survivor. Our trauma therapists take a holistic approach, integrating mind-body techniques to support emotional and physical healing. If you or someone you know is struggling with the aftermath of sexual trauma, reaching out for professional help is a powerful step toward recovery and healing from sexual trauma. 

Sexuality, Gender, and Trauma Therapy

by Sarah Jayne Oltz, MS, NCC, CTP (Accepting New Clients!)

Trauma can permeate every aspect of a person’s identity including sexuality (an individual’s desires, behaviors, feelings, and attitudes related to sex and physical intimacy) and gender (one’s innermost concept of self as male, female, a blend of both or neither). The intersection of trauma with these deeply personal aspects of self can create complex challenges, influencing how one perceives oneself and interacts with the world. For some individuals, trauma may exacerbate feelings of dysphoria (a profound sense of unease and dissatisfaction) or confusion about their sexuality and gender. This could stem from experiences of invalidation or violence based on their gender identity, further complicating their journey towards self-acceptance.

LGBTQIA+ Trauma

For individuals who are already marginalized based on their sexuality and gender identity, such as those who identify as LGBTQIA+, trauma can compound feelings of alienation and fear. LGBTQIA+ individuals often face specific challenges related to their sexual orientation, gender identity, and the societal discrimination and violence they endure, creating a cycle of vulnerability and distress.

  1. Identity-based Trauma: Many LGBTQIA+ individuals experience trauma directly related to their sexual orientation or gender identity. This can include bullying, harassment, familial rejection, or violence. Such experiences can profoundly affect their sense of safety and self-worth.
  2. Internalized Shame and Stigma: Society’s pervasive heteronormative and cisnormative attitudes can lead LGBTQIA+ individuals to internalize shame about their identities. This internalized stigma can manifest as self-hatred, low self-esteem, or even self-destructive behaviors, exacerbating the impact of trauma.
  3. Discrimination and Violence: LGBTQIA+ individuals are disproportionately at risk of experiencing discrimination and violence due to their identities. Hate crimes, workplace discrimination, and denial of healthcare services based on sexual orientation or gender identity are all too common, contributing to a heightened sense of vulnerability and trauma.

Intersectionality

The experience of trauma within the LGBTQIA+ community is further complicated by intersectionality—the interconnected nature of social categorizations such as race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and disability. It is essential to acknowledge the intersectional experience of LGBTQIA+ individuals who also belong to other marginalized groups, and that the trauma they face may be compounded by systemic racism and discrimination within both LGBTQIA+ and mainstream communities.

Healing and Trauma Therapy

Trauma therapy tailored to the unique experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals can be instrumental in fostering healing and empowerment. By affirming identities, addressing internalized stigma, processing identity-based trauma, exploring intersectional experiences, building coping skills, advocating for clients, and creating safe spaces, therapists can support LGBTQIA+ individuals on their journey toward healing and empowerment. Through compassionate and affirming care, trauma therapy helps clients reclaim their narratives, cultivate resilience, and thrive authentically.

Specifically, experiential modalities such as EMDR, psychodrama, IFS, body-based work, and therapy groups can be especially impactful for addressing the complexity of trauma. Experiential trauma therapy encompasses a range of techniques that engage clients in activities or processes designed to access and process traumatic memories and emotions. Unlike traditional talk therapy, experiential methods focus on the sensory and emotional aspects of trauma, aiming to create transformative healing experiences.

Hope For The Future

Despite the challenges posed by trauma, many individuals find strength and liberation in their journeys towards self-discovery and healing. The process of integrating traumatic experiences with one’s gender and sexual identity can be empowering, leading to a deeper understanding and acceptance of oneself.

When trauma intersects with gender and sexuality, the resulting challenges can be profound, but so too can be the opportunities for post-traumatic growth. Cultivating inclusive and affirming environments, advocating for systemic change, and fostering community support are critical steps toward creating a society where all LGBTQIA+ individuals can thrive authentically and free from the burdens of trauma. Together, we can work towards a future where everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, feels safe, valued, and empowered to live their truth.

At the Phoenix Center, we offer an affirming space for LGBTQIA+ individuals seeking trauma therapy. Our approach is rooted in understanding and validating your unique experiences, creating a supportive environment where you can explore healing without fear of judgment. Take the step towards healing with us, where your identity is celebrated and your healing process is personalized to meet your needs.

Is Your Depression or Anxiety Fueled by Past Trauma or Adversity?

Do you ever find yourself grappling with feelings of depression and anxiety, unsure of where they stem from? While there can be various factors contributing to these mental health challenges, it’s essential to consider the role that past trauma or adversity may play in your present experience of anxiety or depression.

Traumatic experiences or adverse childhood events can have a profound impact on our mental and emotional well-being, often leading to long-lasting effects that manifest as depression and anxiety in adulthood. These experiences can range from physical, emotional, or sexual abuse to neglect, loss of a loved one, growing up in a chaotic environment, or experiencing discrimination based on your identity.

When we experience trauma or adversity, our brains and bodies undergo significant changes as part of the body’s natural response to stress. These changes can alter the way we perceive and respond to future stressors, leading to heightened levels of anxiety and a persistent sense of sadness or hopelessness characteristic of depression. There is a growing body of research showing a connection between depression and anxiety with past trauma or childhood adversity.

It’s essential to recognize that experiencing depression and anxiety as a result of past trauma or adversity is not a sign of weakness but rather a natural response to overwhelming circumstances. Seeking support from a qualified mental health professional who specializes in trauma therapy can be instrumental in understanding and addressing the underlying factors contributing to your experience of anxiety or depression.

Through trauma therapy, individuals can learn to process and cope with traumatic memories, develop healthier coping strategies, and reclaim a sense of control over their lives. Trauma recovery provides us with the tools needed to cope with anxiety, or resolve the original sources of anxiety, while empowering us to rise from our depression.

If you resonate with the idea that past trauma or adversity may be fueling your depression and anxiety, know that you are not alone, and help is available. By acknowledging and addressing the impact of past experiences on your mental health, you can take significant steps toward healing and rebuilding a fulfilling life.

Remember, healing is a journey, and it’s okay to seek support along the way. You deserve to live a life free from past trauma and adversity, where joy, peace, growth, and resilience can thrive.

Trauma-Informed Psychodrama Directing Intensive

Trauma-Informed Psychodrama Directing Intensive

Dr. Scott Giacomucci, DSW, LCSW, BCD, CGP, FAAETS, TEP

Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy

Presented by Dr. Scott Giacomucci, DSW, LCSW, BCD, CGP, FAAETS, TEP

Date & Time: 5-day training workshop from Jan 15-19th, 2025 | Wednesday – Sunday 8:30 am – 5:30 pm

Location: Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy, 524 N. Providence Road
Media, PA 19063

Cost –$1050 ($775 for students) (this fee guarantees a directing opportunity)

$825 – Reduced cost option for those interested in attending without directing practice

*please inquire if you are unavailable to attend the entire week and are interested in 2-3 day registration options

35 CE hours for NBCC, PA LSW/LCSW, LPC, LMFT, and Psychologists | 35 Training hours provided towards experiential and psychodrama certifications. *APA CE Hours are not offered in this workshop

About the Workshop: 

This psychodrama directing practice is designed for psychodrama students, practitioners, and trainers-in-training to enhance their directing through a trauma-informed lens. Each participant will have the opportunity to facilitate a group psychodrama and receive feedback from their peers and the trainer. Feedback will be provided based on the psychodrama certification competencies outlined by the ABE, as well as trauma-informed psychodrama considerations. Each participant will also have the opportunity to be the protagonist and play auxiliary roles to learn psychodrama from the inside out.

Psychodrama facilitation competencies emphasized will include a demonstrated understanding of group phases, the warming-up process, spontaneity-creativity theory, role theory, protagonist selection, contracting, scene setting, concretization, doubling, the mirror position, role reversal, soliloquy, directing auxiliaries and the audience, facilitating catharsis safely,  facilitating closure/integration, containment, strength-based roles, trauma-informed principles in psychodrama, attending to issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion in psychodrama, sub-roles of the director, and facilitating the sharing phase of a psychodrama session.

While this is a training workshop, and training will be held as the priority, there will be a multitude of secondary opportunities for personal growth. This workshop is designed for intermediate and advanced psychodrama students and would not be the best for someone with no prior psychodrama training. Participants are expected to have past experiential/psychodrama experience as a prerequisite for this workshop, as well as a foundational understanding of psychodrama’s methodology. This workshop will be attractive for anyone seeking to enhance their psychodrama facilitation skills – and especially for professionals with some psychodrama experience seeking to put their learning into action more fully. Professionals warming up to complete their CP/TEP onsite exams will also find this workshop helpful as the trainer will provide feedback using the same competencies outlined for the CP/TEP onsite exams.

Learning Objectives:

-Explain at least two psychodrama interventions

-Identify the three phases of a psychodrama group

-Describe at least two trauma-informed considerations for psychodrama directing

By purchasing tickets and registering for this event, you confirm that you agree with the Phoenix Center’s Informed Consent for Experiential Therapy Training.

 


PURCHASE YOUR TICKET BELOW AND FILL OUT OUR REGISTRATION FORM HERE!


Please follow the following steps to pay and register for this workshop:

Step 1: Pay for the event using PayPal.

Step 2: Fill out the registration form – YOU MUST USE THE SAME EMAIL YOU USE FOR PAYPAL WHEN YOU FILL OUT THE EVENT REGISTRATION FORM. 

Step 3: You will hear from us with a confirmation email (the same one you used for PayPal and registration) indicating your registration and information about the event in a few days. All materials will be directed to the same email address including your certificate.

 

 

Professional Registration for 1/15/24-1/19/24 Trauma-Informed Psychodrama Directing Intensive1050.00 USD
Student Registration for 1/15/24-1/19/24 Trauma-Informed Psychodrama Directing Intensive775.00 USD
Registration for 1/15/24-1/19/24 Trauma-Informed Psychodrama Directing Intensive WITHOUT DIRECTING825.00 USD
Your eTicket will be emailed after payment to your PayPal email address.

 

 

*Please note that this workshop will include both didactic and experiential learning components. The experiential learning structures include demonstrations of psychodrama and other experiential processes which often include (optional) personal disclosures from participants. While personal growth is often a byproduct of experiential learning in psychodrama, the primary purpose of this workshop is training. If you are seeking a workshop for personal growth or seeking a professional training event that is entirely didactic (lecture/PowerPoint), this is probably not the best workshop for you.

For folks traveling from out of town, there is a new beautiful bed and breakfast just 1 block from the Phoenix Center that we recommend. It is within walking distance of downtown Media and plenty of shops/restaurants – https://www.gifford-risleyhouse.com. Mention Phoenix Center for a reduced rate.

No Conflicts of Interest or outside commercial support have been declared by the presenter or others involved in the program.

This workshop is designed primarily for psychologists, social workers, counselors, and therapists but other professionals may also find it helpful. The instruction is designed at the intermediate level (though many new and advanced professionals may also find it helpful).

CE Program Policies and Procedures related to Refunds/Cancellations, Grievances, and Conflicts of Interest can be found here.

For the workshop schedule or other details or questions about the workshop, please contact us at Support@PhoenixTraumaCenter.com.


Continuing Education (CE) Approval Statements relevant to this workshop:

  • Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy, LLC (Lic. #004115) has been approved as a pre-approved provider of professional continuing education for social workers (Section 47.36), Marriage and Family Therapist (Section 48.36) and Professional Counselors (Section 49.36) by the PA State Board of Social Workers, Marriage & Family Therapists and Professional Counselors.
  • Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy is approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Psychologists (Lic. # PSY000215) to offer continuing education for psychologists.
  • Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7013. Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy, LLC maintains responsibility for the program.

 

Johanny Baez

Johanny Baez (she/her/hers) is currently a graduate student enrolled in Eastern University’s Clinical Counseling Trauma master’s program, having previously earned her BA in Psychology from the same institution. Johanny’s diverse experiences uniquely qualify her to provide comprehensive support to a broad range of individuals. Fluent in both English and Spanish as her first language, she brings a nuanced perspective to her therapeutic work.

Rooted in empathy and a genuine desire to alleviate suffering, my commitment to supporting individuals grappling with trauma and mental health challenges is unwavering. My dedication to nurturing resilience and fostering positive change reflects a deeply ingrained compassion and an authentic desire to facilitate healing and transformation in the lives of those I serve. I am motivated by a vision of personal growth and firmly believe that every individual deserves the opportunity to flourish and become their best self, regardless of their past experiences or current struggles. Through our work, I hope to cultivate a safe and nurturing environment where you feel not only heard, understood, and supported but also empowered as you embark on your journey toward healing and recovery.

Johanny’s profound passion lies in working with individuals facing trauma and diverse mental health challenges. This commitment is intricately tied to her identity, characterized by cultural sensitivity, language proficiency, and a nuanced understanding of immigrant experiences. Her background allows her to establish trust and rapport, essential for cultivating meaningful therapeutic relationships. Eager to contribute to a diverse and inclusive therapeutic space, Johanny looks forward to honoring the unique strengths and experiences of each individual she has the privilege to support.

Johanny’s professional journey encompasses diverse roles aimed at providing comprehensive support to individuals facing various challenges. Currently, she focuses on assisting college students on the spectrum, offering holistic support across academic, emotional, and social dimensions. Beyond her work with college students, Johanny draws from past experiences as a practicum student, where she supported adolescents, young adults, and women dealing with mental health challenges like anxiety and depression. Demonstrating a commitment to continuous professional growth, she will be actively engaging in various training programs, including EMDR and psychodrama, to enrich her therapeutic toolkit at Phoenix Center. Additionally, her experience as an academic coach equips her with valuable skills applicable to counseling roles, merging academic expertise with a nuanced understanding of psychological well-being.

Johanny’s typical fee is $85 for individual therapy (53 min); She can work on a flexible sliding scale if needed.

Johanny Baez (pronombre: ella) es actualmente una estudiante de posgrado, inscrita en el programa de maestría en Consejería Clínica en Trauma de Eastern University, y anteriormente obtuvo su Licenciatura en Psicología en la misma institución. Las diversas experiencias de Johanny la califican de manera única para brindar apoyo integral a una amplia gama de personas. Habla con fluidez inglés y español como su primer idioma, y aporta una perspectiva matizada a su trabajo terapéutico.

La profunda pasión de Johanny radica en trabajar con personas que enfrentan traumas y diversos desafíos de salud mental. Este compromiso está ligado a su identidad, caracterizada por la sensibilidad cultural, el dominio del idioma y una comprensión matizada de las experiencias de los inmigrantes. Su experiencia le permite establecer confianza y simpatía, esenciales para cultivar relaciones terapéuticas significativas. Deseosa de contribuir a un espacio terapéutico diverso e inclusivo, Johanny espera honrar las fortalezas y experiencias únicas de cada individuo a quien tiene el privilegio de apoyar.

Arraigado en la empatía y un deseo genuino de aliviar el sufrimiento, el compromiso de Johanny de apoyar a las personas que enfrentan traumas y desafíos de salud mental es inquebrantable. Su dedicación a fomentar la resiliencia y el cambio positivo refleja una compasión profundamente y un deseo auténtico de facilitar la curación y la transformación en las vidas de aquellos a quienes sirve. A Johanny la motiva una visión de crecimiento personal y cree firmemente que cada individuo merece la oportunidad de prosperar y convertirse en lo mejor de sí mismo, independientemente de sus experiencias pasadas o luchas actuales. A través de su trabajo, espera cultivar un entorno seguro y enriquecedor donde las personas no solo se sientan escuchadas, comprendidas y apoyadas, sino también empoderadas a medida que se embarcan en su viaje hacia la curación y la recuperación.

La trayectoria profesional de Johanny abarca diversos roles destinados a brindar apoyo integral a personas que enfrentan diversos desafíos. Actualmente, se enfoca en ayudar a estudiantes universitarios en todo el espectro, ofreciendo apoyo integral en las dimensiones académica, emocional y social. Más allá de su trabajo con estudiantes universitarios, Johanny se basa en experiencias pasadas como estudiante de prácticas, donde apoyó a adolescentes, adultos jóvenes y mujeres que enfrentan desafíos de salud mental como ansiedad y depresión. Demostrando un compromiso con el crecimiento profesional continuo, participará activamente en varios programas de capacitación, incluidos EMDR y psicodrama, para enriquecer su conjunto de herramientas terapéuticas en Phoenix Center. Además, su experiencia como asesora académica la dota de valiosas habilidades aplicables a funciones de consejería, fusionando experiencia académica con una comprensión matizada del bienestar psicológico.

La tarifa típica de Johanny es de $85 por terapia individual (53 min); Puede trabajar en una escala móvil flexible si es necesario.

Johanny Baez

Johanny Baez (she/her/hers) is currently a graduate student enrolled in Eastern University’s Clinical Counseling Trauma master’s program, having previously earned her BA in Psychology from the same institution. Johanny’s diverse experiences uniquely qualify her to provide comprehensive support to a broad range of individuals. Fluent in both English and Spanish as her first language, she brings a nuanced perspective to her therapeutic work.

Rooted in empathy and a genuine desire to alleviate suffering, my commitment to supporting individuals grappling with trauma and mental health challenges is unwavering. My dedication to nurturing resilience and fostering positive change reflects a deeply ingrained compassion and an authentic desire to facilitate healing and transformation in the lives of those I serve. I am motivated by a vision of personal growth and firmly believe that every individual deserves the opportunity to flourish and become their best self, regardless of their past experiences or current struggles. Through our work, I hope to cultivate a safe and nurturing environment where you feel not only heard, understood, and supported but also empowered as you embark on your journey toward healing and recovery.

Johanny’s profound passion lies in working with individuals facing trauma and diverse mental health challenges. This commitment is intricately tied to her identity, characterized by cultural sensitivity, language proficiency, and a nuanced understanding of immigrant experiences. Her background allows her to establish trust and rapport, essential for cultivating meaningful therapeutic relationships. Eager to contribute to a diverse and inclusive therapeutic space, Johanny looks forward to honoring the unique strengths and experiences of each individual she has the privilege to support.

Johanny’s professional journey encompasses diverse roles aimed at providing comprehensive support to individuals facing various challenges. Currently, she focuses on assisting college students on the spectrum, offering holistic support across academic, emotional, and social dimensions. Beyond her work with college students, Johanny draws from past experiences as a practicum student, where she supported adolescents, young adults, and women dealing with mental health challenges like anxiety and depression. Demonstrating a commitment to continuous professional growth, she will be actively engaging in various training programs, including EMDR and psychodrama, to enrich her therapeutic toolkit at Phoenix Center. Additionally, her experience as an academic coach equips her with valuable skills applicable to counseling roles, merging academic expertise with a nuanced understanding of psychological well-being.

Johanny’s typical fee is $85 for individual therapy (53 min); She can work on a flexible sliding scale if needed.

Johanny Baez (pronombre: ella) es actualmente una estudiante de posgrado, inscrita en el programa de maestría en Consejería Clínica en Trauma de Eastern University, y anteriormente obtuvo su Licenciatura en Psicología en la misma institución. Las diversas experiencias de Johanny la califican de manera única para brindar apoyo integral a una amplia gama de personas. Habla con fluidez inglés y español como su primer idioma, y aporta una perspectiva matizada a su trabajo terapéutico.

La profunda pasión de Johanny radica en trabajar con personas que enfrentan traumas y diversos desafíos de salud mental. Este compromiso está ligado a su identidad, caracterizada por la sensibilidad cultural, el dominio del idioma y una comprensión matizada de las experiencias de los inmigrantes. Su experiencia le permite establecer confianza y simpatía, esenciales para cultivar relaciones terapéuticas significativas. Deseosa de contribuir a un espacio terapéutico diverso e inclusivo, Johanny espera honrar las fortalezas y experiencias únicas de cada individuo a quien tiene el privilegio de apoyar.

Arraigado en la empatía y un deseo genuino de aliviar el sufrimiento, el compromiso de Johanny de apoyar a las personas que enfrentan traumas y desafíos de salud mental es inquebrantable. Su dedicación a fomentar la resiliencia y el cambio positivo refleja una compasión profundamente y un deseo auténtico de facilitar la curación y la transformación en las vidas de aquellos a quienes sirve. A Johanny la motiva una visión de crecimiento personal y cree firmemente que cada individuo merece la oportunidad de prosperar y convertirse en lo mejor de sí mismo, independientemente de sus experiencias pasadas o luchas actuales. A través de su trabajo, espera cultivar un entorno seguro y enriquecedor donde las personas no solo se sientan escuchadas, comprendidas y apoyadas, sino también empoderadas a medida que se embarcan en su viaje hacia la curación y la recuperación.

La trayectoria profesional de Johanny abarca diversos roles destinados a brindar apoyo integral a personas que enfrentan diversos desafíos. Actualmente, se enfoca en ayudar a estudiantes universitarios en todo el espectro, ofreciendo apoyo integral en las dimensiones académica, emocional y social. Más allá de su trabajo con estudiantes universitarios, Johanny se basa en experiencias pasadas como estudiante de prácticas, donde apoyó a adolescentes, adultos jóvenes y mujeres que enfrentan desafíos de salud mental como ansiedad y depresión. Demostrando un compromiso con el crecimiento profesional continuo, participará activamente en varios programas de capacitación, incluidos EMDR y psicodrama, para enriquecer su conjunto de herramientas terapéuticas en Phoenix Center. Además, su experiencia como asesora académica la dota de valiosas habilidades aplicables a funciones de consejería, fusionando experiencia académica con una comprensión matizada del bienestar psicológico.

La tarifa típica de Johanny es de $85 por terapia individual (53 min); Puede trabajar en una escala móvil flexible si es necesario.

Is Past Adversity Impacting You Today? Take This Short Assessment!

Throughout our life, we all encounter challenges that shape who we are. However, sometimes the impact of past adversity, trauma, and loss can linger – affecting our relationships and daily life in ways we might not fully understand. If you’re questioning whether past experiences are casting a shadow on your present-day experience, you are not alone. Below we summarize the most common ways that past adversity can impact us today – the signs of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) and encourage you to consider the transformative power of trauma therapy at the Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy in Media, PA.

Recognizing the Impact:

  1. PTSD Symptoms: Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can emerge after experiencing a traumatic event. Common symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, negative moods or beliefs, and emotional numbness. These symptoms can disrupt daily life, making it challenging to connect with others and find peace within oneself.
  2. CPTSD Symptoms: Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) is often associated with multiple exposures to traumatic situations, such as ongoing abuse or neglect. In addition to PTSD symptoms, individuals with CPTSD may struggle with difficulties in forming and maintaining relationships, a negative self-perception,  ongoing feelings of emptiness, and overwhelming emotions.

Still unsure if past adversity or trauma is continuing to impact you today?

If you are scoring above a 31 on the assessment above, you are likely experiencing posttraumatic stress and trauma therapy would be highly recommended for you (according to standards set by the National Center for PTSD).

The Transformative Power of Trauma Therapy:

Embarking on a journey of trauma therapy is a commitment to profound personal transformation. Here’s how it can guide you towards a resilient and empowered future:

  1. Establishing Safety and Developing Coping Skills: At the heart of trauma therapy lies the establishment of safety and connection. Specialized trauma therapists help create a secure space, allowing you to explore your experiences without fear of judgement or harm. Through collaboration, you’ll develop a toolkit of coping skills, equipping you to face life’s challenges with newfound strength and assurance. Your therapist will help you better understand how past trauma or adversity may be impacting you and offer you support in navigating relationships in your life.
  2. Processing Traumatic Memories and Dealing with Related Feelings: The therapeutic journey involves an exploration into your past, providing a safe container to process traumatic memories. Together with your therapist, you’ll navigate the complex terrain of emotions tied to these memories which might include grief, anger, shame, self-blame, and confusion. This transformative process gradually loosens the hold of the past, allowing for the integration of these experiences into your sense of self in a new way.
  3. Cultivating Posttraumatic Growth and Integrating Change into Your Life: Trauma therapy is not just about addressing wounds; it’s about cultivating posttraumatic growth – or growth after trauma. Through introspection and guidance, you can identify opportunities for positive change in the aftermath of trauma. Your therapist becomes a partner in integrating these changes into your life, fostering a sense of resilience, wisdom, and empowerment going forward.

In the realm of trauma therapy, each session is a step towards reclaiming your narrative, fostering resilience, and embracing a future where posttraumatic growth becomes a guiding force in your journey toward healing and wholeness.

If you’re unsure whether past adversity is affecting your life today, know that you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. Trauma therapy offers a beacon of hope, providing a pathway to healing and growth. It’s never too late to seek support and take the first steps toward a more fulfilling and connected life. Your past doesn’t have to dictate your future. If you suspect that past adversity is impacting your relationships and life today, consider the transformative potential of trauma therapy. Reach out, seek support, and embrace the possibility of healing. The journey toward a brighter and more resilient tomorrow begins with the courageous step of acknowledging the impact and taking action to reclaim your life.

Hiring Intake Coordinator!

We are Hiring and Intake Coordinator at the Phoenix Center!

Intake Coordinator Role and Expectations

Our growing trauma therapy practice is seeking an efficient, consistent, empathetic, and detail-oriented Intake Coordinator to join our team. The ideal candidate will have experience in administrative support, strong organizational skills, and the ability to multitask. This position requires a confident professional who can work independently, communicate effectively, and collaborate with others to ensure the smooth functioning of the practice. This position is diverse in its skill requirements including aspects of clinical assessment, crisis intervention, suicide assessment, networking, marketing, admin, customer service, and coordinating with our staff. This hybrid position requires some in-person hours but is flexible.

This is a part-time position (20 hours per week employee) with flexible hours and could evolve into full-time hours in the future if desired. We are seeking a long-term committed professional that we can invest in, train, and welcome as part of our close-knit organization. This non-benefits eligible position has an hourly range between $22-30 depending on applicant’s experience and skill set.

As an organization of trauma therapists, we place considerable emphasis on meaningful work relationships, work-life balance, and self-care. As a smaller and quickly growing organization, we are expanding our inner organizational processes and seeking a professional who can actively contribute to our growth with creative ideas. This role is an important part of our team, managing and coordinating many essential organizational tasks and processes. As our organization continues to expand, the responsibilities, leadership, and compensation with this role will also expand. Below are some of the duties of the Intake coordinator:

Admin and Customer Service 

  • Help maintain and coordinate logs for intake calls, therapist/intern client availability, and trusted referrals in the community
  • Track trends in intake demands and communicate with Director
  • Communicate with potential clients via phone/email
  • Maintains ‘on call’ hours to respond to intake calls as they come in
  • Responds to missed calls and emails
  • Updates website to reflect therapists availability 
  • Attend occasional community events to represent and promote our organization and meet with community partners as needed
  • Maintain relationships with referral partners 
  • Engage in in outreach to develop new community partners

Clinical

  • Provide brief intake calls with prospective clients to gather info related to their treatment goals, preferences, presenting issues, emotional stability, and financial limitations. 
  • Promoting our therapists, interns, groups, and workshops to callers
  • Relaying necessary clinical and logistical info from intake call to therapist or interns for initial session
  • Assessment for clinical appropriateness and level of care
  • Suicide assessments as needed
  • Child abuse reporting as needed
  • Crisis management as needed
  • Referring clients to outside providers when appropriate 
  • Maintaining list of trusted referrals 

Other requirements

  • Strong self care habits 
  • Occasional evening and weekend hours for events
  • Other duties as assigned
  • Possibility to co-create aspects of the role based on your skills and interests
  • Strong commitment to diversity, respect, and inclusion
  • Ability to work independently and prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment
  • Strong digital skills and experience with WordPress, Google voice, Google docs, and Google sheets
  • Training in Confidentiality laws, suicide assessment, and child abuse reporting pertaining to our work

Education and Experience Requirements 

  • Experience and knowledge of mental health, trauma, and substance use required
  • 2-3 years of experience in a clinical support role within a healthcare or mental health setting
  • Bachelor’s degree in psychology/social work or similar – or peer support certification strongly preferred

This is a part-time position with competitive compensation and flexibility. If you are a motivated and experienced clinical support professional with a passion for supporting mental health services, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity to join a growing psychotherapy practice. Please submit your resume and cover letter for consideration to Dr. Scott Giacomucci at Scott@PhoenixTraumaCenter.com. In your cover letter, please outline how your past experience and training has positioned you to be a good applicant for this open position.

EMDR Trauma Therapy: Overcoming Flashbacks, Nightmares, and Other Disturbing Images

Offering EMDR at the Phoenix Center in Media, PA or via TeleTherapy!
484-440-9416 | Support@PhoenixTraumaCenter.com

Flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive images from past experiences can cast a long shadow on our lives, making it challenging to move forward. Flashbacks are vivid and distressing recollections of traumatic events that can feel as if you’re reliving them. Nightmares are unsettling dreams that often revolve around past traumas or adversity. Disturbing mental images can pop up unexpectedly and cause significant distress in our lives long after an experience is over. Sometimes these disturbing images are related to violence, trauma, death, or other painful moments in our lives.

If you’re grappling with these distressing symptoms, there’s hope in the form of Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. EMDR therapy is a structured approach that has shown remarkable effectiveness in alleviating these symptoms. Here’s how it works:

How EMDR Therapy Helps:

  1. Resourcing: First we begin by helping you connect with some positive memories and positive images that can be used as helpful tools when we feel stressed, overwhelmed, triggered, or anxious. These positive resources are tools you will take with you and can use on your own in-between sessions to manage difficult emotions.
  2. Desensitization: EMDR therapy helps desensitize your emotional responses to traumatic memories. By gently processing these memories in a safe environment, their emotional intensity diminishes over time. While you will not forget the image or memory, EMDR works by reducing the emotional and physiological charge that we experience when thinking about a particular memory or image. EMDR effectively helps us change our relationship to the image or memory.
  3. Reprocessing: During EMDR sessions, therapists use bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, to guide your brain in reprocessing traumatic memories. This helps you view them from a different perspective, reducing their impact on your daily life. The bilateral stimulation is based on neuroscience research and seems to activate the memory processing mechanisms in the brain (the same process that happens naturally each night during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep). The EMDR process helps your nervous system and your brain maintain dual awareness of the past memory and the present moment at the same time which in a gentle and titrated manner, which allows the brain to process the previously stuck memory.
  4. Integration: As EMDR therapy progresses, you’ll find that the disturbing images and emotions associated with your past experiences become less intrusive or disturbing. This allows you to regain control over your thoughts and feelings. The EMDR process involves identifying negative beliefs about ourselves and actively working to change those into new positive core beliefs. After processing past memories with EMDR, we will then work to desensitize present-day triggers, and finally to create some future templates imagining and practicing what it will be like to encounter previously triggering experiences in a new way.

The Result: Relief and Healing: EMDR therapy offers hope for those struggling with flashbacks, nightmares, and disturbing images. It can provide substantial relief by addressing the root causes of these symptoms and helping you build resilience. Many individuals experience a significant reduction in the frequency and intensity of these distressing experiences, paving the way for healing and a brighter future. For clients who are already engaged in an ongoing personal growth journey, connected to social support in their life, and otherwise mostly stable emotionally and psychologically – EMDR can provide relief after just a handful of sessions.

Seek Help Today: If you or someone you know is grappling with flashbacks, nightmares, or disturbing images from past experiences, consider reaching out to a qualified EMDR therapist. They can provide the guidance and support needed to embark on a journey of healing and relief.

Remember, there’s no need to suffer in silence. EMDR therapy is a powerful tool that can help you regain control over your life and find peace from the grip of past traumas.

Who is appropriate for EMDR therapy?

It is important to note that not everyone is the best fit for engaging in EMDR therapy. The best candidates for EMDR are individuals who have already established a social support system, developed self-awareness, are able to regulate their emotions when overwhelmed, have already learned coping skills, and who are otherwise relatively stable in terms of suicidality, alcohol/substance abuse, other addictive behaviors, self-harm, and overall mental health.

We also offer EMDR intensives, which may be best for clients who seek a more immersive treatment experience and can afford the time and financial cost of scheduling multiple hours or days of consecutive sessions with one of our specialists.

Why Choose the Phoenix Center for EMDR trauma therapy?

Our staff is composed entirely of therapists who specialize in trauma therapy and have devoted their careers to learning, practicing, and teaching trauma therapy. While our staff have training and certifications in various trauma treatments, every therapist and graduate student on our team is trained in EMDR. EMDR is a common language and shared treatment philosophy and modality amongst our team which has over 25 EMDR providers. The Phoenix Center started in 2015 as a practice primarily offering EMDR therapy and has become recognized by many in the professional community as an agency providing high-quality and ethical EMDR treatment on a larger scale than nearly any other organization in the Philadelphia area.

We also offer low-cost EMDR and trauma therapy through our internship program. We have 10 advanced graduate interns that we host at our center who we support in participating in EMDR basic training and provide 3-4 hours of weekly supervision and EMDR consultation to. Often of our graduate students have more hours of training in trauma therapy than other experienced therapists in the field. Sessions with our interns start at $85/hour and can be flexible based on our sliding scale options.

Offering EMDR at the Phoenix Center in Media, PA or via TeleTherapy!
484-440-9416 | Support@PhoenixTraumaCenter.com

Benefits of EMDR Therapy as an Addition to Your Ongoing Individual Therapy

In the realm of therapeutic healing, embracing a diverse range of approaches often leads to profound transformation. A compelling fusion gaining momentum is the integration of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy alongside ongoing individual therapy. EMDR is a unique and specialized therapy for treating PTSD and reprocessing disturbing memories. At the Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy, we not only offer EMDR, but we specialize in it and nearly every therapist and intern on our team is trained in EMDR. It is the most commonly employed therapeutic modality at our center.

Offering EMDR at the Phoenix Center in Media, PA or via TeleTherapy!
484-440-9416 | Support@PhoenixTraumaCenter.com

Let’s dive into the benefits of incorporating EMDR therapy as an adjunct to your current therapeutic journey, fostering a dynamic collaboration for deep healing and focused EMDR work.

  1. Gaining Additional Perspective and a Specialized Approach: Ongoing individual therapy provides a nurturing environment for self-discovery and personal growth. The infusion of EMDR therapy from the Phoenix Center introduces an additional and specialized perspective. With a specialized EMDR therapist, you’re granted the privilege of a fresh outlook on your challenges. This distinct approach illuminates your healing from a new angle, offering novel strategies that enrich your therapeutic experience.
  2. Streamlined and Focused EMDR Experience: EMDR therapy, renowned for its precise focus on trauma and emotional distress, becomes even more impactful when seamlessly integrated as an adjunct to ongoing individual therapy. Enlisting a dedicated EMDR specialist from the Phoenix Center ensures that your sessions are highly focused on the reprocessing of traumatic memories. This streamlined process expedites the journey to healing, appealing to those seeking rapid relief from distressing symptoms. Often when the EMDR therapist is one’s only professional support, week-to-week stressors or other therapeutic issues slow down progress and draw the focus of therapy away from EMDR.
  3. Embracing EMDR Benefits While Sustaining Ongoing Work: Integrating EMDR therapy as an adjunct doesn’t have to replace your ongoing individual therapy; it can enhance it. Partnering with an EMDR specialist from the Phoenix Center allows you to reap the rewards of both therapists concurrently. This arrangement empowers you to experience the potent effects of EMDR without disrupting your ongoing therapeutic relationship, ensuring a seamless transition back to your primary therapist. By adopting EMDR therapy as an adjunct, you open the door to transformation without bidding farewell to your current therapist. The continuity of your ongoing sessions remains intact, while you harness the power of EMDR techniques to target specific traumatic memories and emotions.
  4. Collaborative Support for Enhanced Healing: Integrating EMDR therapy as an adjunct encourages a unique collaborative dynamic between therapists. The Phoenix Center’s EMDR specialist and your primary therapist combine their expertise to provide comprehensive and tailored support. This collaborative synergy facilitates the exchange of insights, strategies, and observations, fostering a holistic treatment plan that nurtures your well-being.

The fusion of EMDR therapy as an adjunct to ongoing individual therapy, offered by the Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy, is a potent recipe for transformation. By embracing diverse therapeutic modalities, you can cultivate fresh perspectives, encounter the focused efficacy of EMDR, maintain the momentum of ongoing therapy, and access collaborative support from a team of experts. Embark on your journey of healing and growth with the multidimensional approach that EMDR therapy as an adjunct offers, propelling you towards lasting emotional well-being.

We recognize too that engaging in therapy with two different therapists may be cost prohibitive and expensive to many. We are happy to share that we also offer low-cost EMDR therapy at the Phoenix Center through our low-cost trauma therapy program, staffed by our advanced graduate students.

Offering EMDR at the Phoenix Center in Media, PA or via TeleTherapy!
484-440-9416 | Support@PhoenixTraumaCenter.com

Who is appropriate for EMDR therapy?

It is important to note that not everyone is the best fit for engaging in EMDR therapy. The best candidates for EMDR are individuals who have already established a social support system, developed self-awareness, are able to regulate their emotions when overwhelmed, have already learned coping skills, and who are otherwise relatively stable in terms of suicidality, alcohol/substance abuse, other addictive behaviors, self-harm, and overall mental health. We also offer EMDR intensives, which may be best for clients who seek a more immersive treatment experience and can afford the time and financial cost of scheduling multiple hours or days of consecutive sessions.

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