Trauma Informed Therapy in Kansas City
Welcome to Systems Psychotherapy, where healing is at the heart of our mission. We understand that trauma can have a profound impact on one's mental and emotional well-being. Bailey Smalley, a dedicated Marriage and Family Therapist in Kansas City, is here to offer her expertise as a Trauma-Informed Therapist.
What does it mean to be "trauma-informed"? It means that Bailey is not only well-versed in the complex and often deeply-rooted nature of trauma, but also has the knowledge and empathy to provide support and therapy for individuals who have experienced various forms of trauma, including Complex PTSD. Bailey uses evidence-based treatments, including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to collaboratively set and reach client goals quickly, according to their needs.
Understanding Trauma Therapy
Trauma comes in many forms and can deeply affect an individual's life. These are some of the most common types of trauma that often lead individuals to seek therapy:
Childhood Trauma
Experiences of neglect, abuse, or dysfunction during childhood can have lasting impacts on mental and emotional well-being.
Physical Trauma
Accidents, injuries, or physical assaults can lead to trauma, often accompanied by symptoms such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD.
Sexual Trauma
Experiences of sexual abuse, assault, or harassment can result in deep emotional scars, necessitating specialized therapy.
Loss and Grief
The loss of a loved one, a pet, or even a job can be a traumatic experience, causing profound grief and sadness.
Emotional Trauma
Ongoing emotional abuse, gaslighting, or manipulation can cause emotional trauma, affecting one's self-esteem and relationships.
Military Trauma
Veterans may experience trauma related to their military service, leading to conditions like combat PTSD.
Domestic Violence
Individuals in abusive relationships may experience trauma due to physical and emotional violence.
Natural Disasters
Surviving natural disasters such as hurricanes, earthquakes, or wildfires can lead to trauma and anxiety disorders.
Accidents and Injuries
Trauma from accidents or injuries, such as car accidents, falls, or workplace incidents, can manifest as both physical and emotional distress.
Medical Trauma
Experiencing severe illness, surgeries, or medical emergencies can result in medical trauma and contribute to conditions like medical PTSD.
Therapy for Trauma
Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors, providing valuable tools to manage trauma-related symptoms.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR is a specialized therapy that helps individuals process traumatic memories, reducing their emotional impact. While I do not offer EMDR, the bilateral stimulation and integration of peripheral stimuli can easily be accessed by walking.
Psychodynamic Therapy
This approach focuses on exploring the unconscious mind to identify and resolve unresolved conflicts and traumas from the past.
Trauma-Focused CBT
This approach is tailored specifically for individuals with trauma-related issues and helps them understand and manage the impact of trauma on their lives.
Exposure Therapy
Exposure therapy is particularly effective for specific phobias and PTSD. It involves gradually exposing individuals to their traumatic memories or triggers to reduce their emotional response.
Mindfulness-Based Therapies
Techniques like mindfulness meditation and mindfulness-based stress reduction can help individuals cope with trauma-related symptoms and improve overall well-being.
Art and Expressive Therapies
Creative therapies, such as art or music therapy, offer alternative ways to explore and process trauma.
Narrative Therapy
Narrative therapy encourages individuals to reframe their personal stories and experiences, fostering resilience and post-traumatic growth.
Group Therapy
Group therapy can provide a sense of community and support as individuals share their experiences and learn from others dealing with trauma.
Ready to Address Your Trauma Using Therapy?
If you're seeking support and guidance to address trauma and its effects on your life, Systems Psychotherapy is here for you. Bailey Smalley, our Trauma-Informed Therapist in Kansas City, is dedicated to providing trauma-sensitive care and helping you on your path to healing.
Don't let trauma hold you back; schedule a session with Bailey today and begin your journey towards a healthier, more fulfilling life. Your unique path to healing starts here.