We know that in the face of threat, the nervous system responds in ways designed to help keep us safe. For example, if your client was under physical attack, their nervous system may have gone into fight, flight, or freeze. But of course, that’s only one type of threat. And the responses that might be […]
Reporting In – Giving Back in 2022
When I was young, my father and mother emphasized how important it is to give as you have received. You see, they taught us to tithe at least 10% of our allowance to the church each week. And on top of that, we were encouraged to give more to those in need. It’s a lesson […]
[Infographic] 4 Signs of the Attach/Cry-for-Help Response
When people are in distress, seeking out the support and comfort of others can be a natural response. But for clients who’ve experienced trauma, this response can sometimes signal something more. Their persistent attempts to elicit help from others may indicate that they’re stuck in the attach/cry-for-help response. So how can we better recognize this […]
[Infographic] 4 Questions to Help Clients Overcome Anxiety
When clients experience anxiety, their first response is often to avoid whatever (or whomever) might be causing it. But when clients become trapped in a cycle of avoidance, it can keep them from the very activities and people they value most. So how can we help clients see the cost of their avoidance strategies – […]
[Infographic] Mapping Your Nervous System’s Response to Trauma
How can we help clients better understand when their nervous system is going into “defense mode”? According to polyvagal theory, the nervous system has three pathways it can follow in the face of a threat. By helping clients map these pathways, they can begin to identify their triggers and develop strategies for staying grounded. That’s […]