The treatment of trauma can be some of the most complex work practitioners face.
And for years, this challenge was complicated by not having a clear picture of the impact that trauma has on the brain.
But scientific advances within just the past few years have opened the eyes of practitioners to what actually happens in the brain of someone who has experienced trauma.
And according to Bessel van der Kolk, MD, there are three major ways that the brain changes in response to trauma.
To find out what they are (and their impact on the body), take a look at the video below – it’s just 3 minutes.
Bessel is one of the world’s leading experts in trauma and PTSD. Because of his research, we have a deeper understanding of how trauma impacts both body and brain.
And this is crucial – it can help us target our interventions more effectively.
So now, we’d like to hear from you . . .
When it comes to the treatment of trauma, what do you want to know most? Please leave your comment below.
Bernard Pontones, Counselor Trainee, Columbus/Ohio says
Complex trauma may have multiple triggers. Is their some hierarchical approach to treatment that would best serve the client?
MaryAnn Klausner, therapist, USA says
What are the demonstrated effects of a daily practice of Vipassana meditation on trauma related symptoms?
Pamela Yenawine CST-D says
Much of the trauma that shows up in my clients is from prenatal, perinatal or early childhood development. Using CranioSacral Therapy has been working well to support little ones to release the cellular memory. However, I know that Mom is also holding the cellular memory in her body of whatever happened with baby – yet I am not always successful in helping mom understand the importance of doing her own work to shift these body-held memories.
What do you recommend I explain to Mom to help her?
Kathy, wife of veteran, CT says
EMDR. It works. It has been the subject of extensive research and proven effective. It doesn’t re-traumatize the patient and it works quickly and the result is PROFOUND HEALING as opposed to symptom management. I recommend reading the book EMDR Breakthrough Movement Therapy Overcoming Stress, Anxiety and Trauma by Francine Shapiro. To find an EMDR trained therapist in your area try the EMDRIA website.
Veda , RN LMT , Marksville, La says
After 3 severely traumatic events I have personally experienced I can understand all 3 responses. Though I have this understanding I find it extremely difficult to move forward. It’s like being lost in the dark yet you see everything around you. I now wonder how many others are living this way. I have taken my traumas and entered into professions to ease the pain of others yet cannot seem to touch or heal mine. How can this be changed.
Ali Winters, DSW, LCSW in Nashville, TN says
I see the first way, the hypervigilance, quit often in my work with female inmates and the other 2 ways as well. What are some interventions that quiet the mind and reassure the body of safety during those episodes?
Margaretann, specialized kinesiologist, bc , canada says
Im wondering if the brain can be rewired after brain injury from 30 years ago . Many head injuries to different parts of the head . Without drugs . Can the overwhelm be stopped . No drugs or desensitization .
William Wallin, M.D. says
I have heard these messages before but this new interpretation is quite interesting.
Alice Landers says
My son was the first double above the knee amputee in Navy SEAL history. He stepped on an IED in Afghanistan in 2009, was hurled through the air 30 yards from the blast, experienced devastating internal injuries and spent 2.5 years recovering at Walter Reed. He kept very physically active, excelling in Nordic Ski and Paracycling with USParalympics. He is now starting a master’s degree at the Kennedy School of Govt. at Harvard. What concerns me is his almost Narcissistic focus only on himself when we have conversations on the phone or when he returns home for visits. He never Ksas about others and when I bring up a topic other than him, he simply dismisses me, not responding. “It’s all about him.” I don’t call him on it, as maybe it’s a coping mechanism from so much trauma, and I don’t want to upset his balance. Could this be a form of “blunted affect” and PTSD? How can I help him? He doesn’t think he has any kind of traumatic brain injury or PTSD!
Margaretann, specialized kinesiologist, bc , canada says
He definetly has a brain injury and ptsd .he needs to focus on himself for survival . Doing the crosscrawl may help integrate the left and right hemispheres or looking at an x for long periods of time say 5 minutes to start . There is help .
Syl B. Schwartz / B.A./Guatemala says
How to overcome it!!! by myself!!!
Anne, San Diego, CA says
I am seeing a psychiatrist to try to bring an end to my anxiety/agoraphobia. But I am completely isolated from everything and have been unable to get a job, which at leasts shifts the focus from me and my thoughts for 8-10 hrs. a day. I relate to the 3 ways that Trauma changes the brain, but need to move past this and return to the life I used to experience.
Thanks.
Margaretann, specialized kinesiologist, bc , canada says
A little help may be just touching the k27 s on your kidney meridian while your other hand is on your forehead thinking of the stress that is causeing the anxiety. Let whatever comes up go .
v says
I have experienced trauma in my life from an early age as well as witnessed similar events in my family. These experiences include sirgery without anesthesia imposed by MDs, radiation poisoning and repeated assaults. As I grew older I devoted myself to helping orphans who are disenfranchised and ended up witnessing very disturbing inhumane crimes against orphans. I ended up becoming a whistle-blower who reported crimes in the orphan foster care system. These accumulated traumas weigh heavily on my mind, body, soul. Where can I find the best modality of assistance to overcome these wounds and continue with a life of serving others ?
Margaretann, specialized kinesiologist, bc , canada says
If you have someone in your area who practices touch for health or traumatology , that would be a great help . Defragging your brain for stress . You could start by putting your hand on your forhead and the other on yourbelly button . Think of the stress of seeing the stressfull acts . Letgo of everything that comes up . Feel the sadness of loss completely .
Lisa Townsley, Lafayette,IN. says
How can I get your help? I am in a dissociative state all the time(not DID) with depersonalization. I have no life. I sit in my apt almost all of the time. I just exist.
I am a 51 yr old female with cumulative traumas, if fact it doesn’t take much for me to experience something as traumatic.
Please help me
Margaretann, specialized kinesiologist, bc , canada says
Start marching crossing your arms across your midline . This will take you out of overwhelm . Find something to do with your hands , kinetically getting you going . Vollunteer somewhere . . Focus on your breath . As you do , tell yourself your safe . Look for a touch for health practitioner in your area to destress you.
Nancy cross says
My genitals were mutalked by a doctor (basically unconsented FGM) I was unable to bring forth a med Mal case MANY doctors lied and because there is a cap in Md and I am poor attorneys who all took my case initially would drop it due to expense to bring it forth and fear of not getting enough money.. I was also abused as a child and I see now that trauma has been with me my whole life. Two of my adult children are very sick w Lyme and tick borne infections the other is addict. Their father abused us all. I divorced him many years ago he then passed due to alcoholism. I am on SSDI and a small survivors annuity. I suffer from severe chronic pain and have some success with prolo therapy and phenol injections which actually help a huge amount when they hit the right spots. I also have had tremendous help and success with yoga, chant prayer etc. But that said I have been unable 7 years later to get well enough to work and am VERY close to losing my home. Lately sleep is elusive and when I do sleep it is nightmares. Any suggestions would be helpful. Thank You for your time
Margaretann, specialized kinesiologist, bc , canada says
Put one hand on your forehead and the other on your belly button. Think of the stress that you feel from the traumas . Release what comes up . Feel the loss to the core . Drink some water . March in one spot to take you out of overwhelm . Repeat as stuff comes up .
Gina Cindrich says
Love van der Kolk’s work.
More information and resources that is easily accessible to clients in helping them understand what is going on for them. As always, more therapeutic interventions.
Thank you!
sheila broderick social work, durham NC says
This is very useful as a tool for educating clients. I would like some very specific activities that clients can do on their own to help them in their recovery. thank you
Mary E. Root says
I am a survivor of childhood sexual abuse. I have had a remarkable recovery and my main issue now are problems with focus and concentration.
This has gotten much better, but my ability to concentrate, complete projects etc. is still compromised.
Thank-you for all that you do,
Mary
Margaretann, specialized kinesiologist, bc , canada says
Crosscrawl to get you out of overwhelm as you think of the issue moving the eyes at the same time .
Arina I.J. Montag RN says
How long do tissue/neuron/phantom memory pains last? Is there no end to them? They hurt and so often feels like I am buried alive with no one knowing where i am or alone in some desert or floating out inspace all alone with no hope at all but perhaps a tiny little flicker of it. Its like living within or right on the edge of an immense Black hole void of memories of loved ones stolen away as if they and i never early existed EXCEPT I KNOW BETTER! Have had a longstanding history of Amnesia since early childhood. I have not been delusional about being originally from Germany and LOngIsland as at first always assumed by all my many past therapists and Drs from one to the next. The experiences eventually shattered my trust in the entire profession of Psychotherapy! i eventually learned I was better off NOT turning to them as all they did was prey on my trust and make me feel even further victimized which was not what I wanted. Years ago I figured out the answer lied in LOVE and of course being busy and kept challenged. I just wonder if there is a way yet that confirms whether someone truly suffers from Phantom pains or not even if they still all limbs intact. You would think that a subject such as myself would be an asset in the discovery of how to diagnose and treat phantom pains related to atrocious traumas.
Margaretann, specialized kinesiologist, bc , canada says
I treat phantom pains by working on the body as if the part still exists . Ortho bionamy – integrating scares and body parts may be of great help to you . I know it works because my clients tell me they can feel itagain.
Kay Bylenga says
I work with Domestic Violence Victims, and would like to see specific material dealing with that area of trauma, also any art therapy work that has been done in this area with DV victims as I facilitate and self empowerment group also.
Dr. Jerri Curry, Psy27385; LMFT19776 says
TBI facts and tx theories and models please
J.L. Pizarro, Trauma-Sensitive Yoga Teacher says
As Veteran Combat Medic with severe and chronic PTSD and as a certified yoga teacher bringing Trauma Senditive Syoga to other US combat veterans diagnosed with PTSD at a local VA facility, I am both pleased and very enthused to see the information you share as a public service regarding complex trauma/PTSD and its effects on the brain. Myself, trained in Dr. Van Der Kolk’s Trauma-Sensitive Yoga protocol by David Emerson and Jenn Turner at Kripalu in April 2014, I can attest to the effectiveness of Dr. Van Der Kolk’s yoga protocols for the treatment of complex trauma. Its an exciting time for practitioners working in this field.
Jay.L.Pizarro@Gmail.com
Kay Zeaman consumer Grand Rapids MI says
I suffered with a severe anxiety disorder for many years. Then I discovered EMDR Therapy for trauma. I spent time with my therapist reliving many traumas in my life using EMDR. The result: I am now a very peaceful, happy, energetic woman. I am writing a book about how EMDR brought me peace, joy, and gratitude. No more ativan, xanax, etc needed for me. Thanks be to God!
Valerie Gutwirth, Dance Teacher, Oakland CA says
I teach dance to children in a very diverse public elementary school. I have kids with high levels of trauma and kids with low levels. Working with the gap is a challenge. Is there any work out there specifically about working in movement with this kind of diverse group? I just ordered the yoga book (yoga is part of my program).
Margaretann, specialized kinesiologist, bc , canada says
Brain gym is a specialized kinesiology that is most amazing
Patricia Wolfenden says
I am quite interested, lately, in what — it may be Dr. Vander Kolk has called the “traumatic bond” that is formed later in life, as the result of early abuse, abandonment, or neglect. In other words, the damaged attachment that manifests in adult life, and how this is repaired. Thank you! As a psychotherapist who works with addicted patients and those involved with them, I’ve followed your writings for many years.
Ilene Kovach says
I don’t know how I found you on my email page.
I have suffered Trauma and no one would help me.
You gave me so much insight to how the brain reacts.
I was studying psychology to help further my education
in teaching special Ed – but I made a mistake in trying
to help an old friend who I thought was going to take his life.
My other half had taken his life 6 months prier – this person
in turn was trying to hurt to me and thought he could take
my home and everything I owned – Police refused to help
me and no one would believe me.
Thank you, Ilene
Sara UK says
My trauma was initially when My mam died when i was 11 years old … She was my soul mate my rock and my best friend ….. There was no body to talk through emotional issues and it was expected that we went on as if nothing had changed ….Then my dad remarried and my stepmother was evil … I had no one ….. I am now full of anxiety … Years and years later …… I am convinced my brain changed never to be the same.
john martin, musician,France says
Hi, I am a brit retired in France. I had tinnitus onset about 7-8 years ago, being a pro drummer with rock bands was definitely the cause. I have a bad time dealing with this having taught myself to listen to tones notes and rhythm,it has caused (because of my reaction to it) years of lost sleep. Xanax and sleep potions helped at first but the help loses its power with time.I have had various new therapies tried. Then came other major trauma,my daughter living in Uk has suffered a fierce child seperating and beating husband who has abandoned her taking one of the 2 children. This has had major impact because it is financially and emotionally draining. I also have a deaf sister to try to assist since my father and brother died,all in the UK.All this has turned me into a tortured stressed individual who has lost his fuse,its all gone.My wife has been brilliant support. I have been advised by therapists to look at minfulness.I try not to issue a sob story its just facts. Music, my raison d’etre is now usually torture to my ears.I do experience odd days where the T diminishes,sleep or lack of seems to be the one way of collecting thoughts,but natural sleep now escapes me,any advice or ideas are welcome ,and how to i start mindfullness ? ,many thanks John
Margaretann, specialized kinesiologist, bc , canada says
Rubbing the sides of your legs on the gallbladder meridian before going to sleep3 min or so wwill help get the resentment out . Also , wet your hands , open your mouth , cup your ears and plunge in and out , then pull off the ears . Keep doing this until the sounds clear . Its like haveing an air bubble in your oil line . You keep pumping till you have the air out . Mouth open , very important .
Clare, musician, USA says
I lost a 30 year, high-level career as a saxophonist due to focal dystonia, and have been diagnosed with PTSD because of the intense trauma of the diagnosis. Music was my entire identity. I can’t stand to listen to music. My husband is still playing and I love him, but hate him. All of my friends were musicians, so I have no friends. Physically dystonia is exhausting, and the basal ganglia area of the brain that causes dystonia also governs moods and emotions, so life is rough. I understand what you are going through!
Ironically, I have taken up drums, and I am playing a little, but will never get back the type of gigs in jazz, symphony, theater, etc. that I had before. It is very hard for people to understand that I have lost not just an occupation, but my life.
Cherie James teacher Indianapolis Indiana says
What kind of a doctor do you go to for trauma? Is it too late for an adult to be treated?
Margaretann, specialized kinesiologist, bc , canada says
You go to a traumatologist
Joan, Canada says
In the treatment of trauma, I wonder what kind of experiences would help a person attune to themselves better? Recognizing your own inner experience is very difficult when you have dissociated to create safety. How do you get that awareness back?
Margaretann, specialized kinesiologist, bc , canada says
Breath is the only way back . 5 breaths with the third , a statement being added that you are safe in this moment . Mindfullness meditations withbreath being the focus
Dana L. Kasper, Licensed Professional Counselor - Clinical Resident Columbus Ohio and Montreal says
Working with child and adult survivors of sexual abuse I’ve found the doing counseling using horses (equine assisted psychotherapy) has become beneficial to clients. Also, I’ve begun using Observed and Experiential Integration that has astounding results. Always looking for more ways to help others. Thanks for your support and research.
David Mchenry, HumanServices. Australia says
I am 52 and childhood trauma still dogs me, I feel something is not quiet right, total blackout of childhood until 6-7 yrs old, suffered terrible mental abuse and some physical abuse, non sexual as far as I remember. no satisfaction seeing psychologists etc. looking for peace, I feel body tenseness, uneasy. I turned to alcohol and drugs and wrecked my life. now externally things are well. I have started a job I love, loving partner, nice home. but still feel nervous, I do some meditation, that seems beneficial, would love to find out more about recent studies into ptsd.
Kathryn N. Garnett, LCSW, Richmond, VA says
I would like to know about treatments that are yielding the best responses; methods for best helping the clients I serve. I have taken Level I of Life Force Yoga because I do believe in the mind-body connection and the power of the body to influence the brain. I would really love to be able to take a sabbatical to devote myself full-time to studying and utilizing effective techniques……if only there were funding for such a thing.
Letitia says
Hi
I have lived a life of trauma I guess… I grew up in a house were my parents regularly beat us most days..with implements their fists etc often for several hours.. this abuse from from a very young age… Dad was an alcoholic and eventually Mum was too. I went to 12 schools as Mum would take us out of schools when the nurse discovered our bruises and welts.. in those days they didn’t track abuse between schools so they avoided detection this way. They had eight kids so life was also a struggle financially. Many of these things were reported to the police and social workers but not much was done as there were so many of us and resources were always low. My brothers also used to pack rape me from the age of four until I could fight back well enough.. sometimes even then they had their way… my parents used to ignore or brush this aside in the fear dealing with it would break up the family unit, so I was sacrificed for the sake of not causing trouble…this has left me quite a broken person in many ways, but I have fought on and through my intelligence and determination I have managed to make something of a life for myself and was even married for fifteen years.. I had a lovely daughter who is my pride and joy. I keep finding more men who abuse me though and can’t seem to break this pattern.. I am also finding it increasingly difficult to cope with working after someone attacked me on the train two years ago..my anxiety levels preclude me from working in my old role as an IT Project Manager. I am fifty now and really think it’s about time I was in a place where I could actually enjoy the love and companionship of others, it’s a really lonely place being a person who was abused, often people put you in the too hard basket.. anyway I thought I’d drop you guys a line in the hope of a response..
Have a great day
Letitia
Donna Bunce MSW says
Wow you have survived!! Self compassion is such a key. I hope you are proud of yourself!!
When I see a pattern of behavior that I want to change, then do this consciously. Look for a counselor who you know within, is the one to work with. I do not think that anyone can know right away but in time and building trust. I practice seeing everything as an opportunity. How can anyone make changes without a coach or counselor!
Donna Bunce MSW says
I was a preverbal traumatized child. I suffered most of my life. I spent a long time on psych meds, misdiagnosed.
For me the best times were when others would attune to me. So whether its a child or adult be with them right where they are at. Do what they would like to do if they know and can tell you.
The simple stuff of life is the best, like a walk if that does not produce fearfulness. There were points in my life where walking did not help. Go slow and learn to read the inner being of the other.
We do not know how to self-regulate or dance like a 2 step.
Maybe watching a silly movie. 5 mins of not feeling alone will help. School was pretty much torture. Be kind and encourage gently. Not about what you want for the child but what the child wants and appears to feel good about.
Kathryn N. Garnett, LCSW, Richmond, VA says
Thank you so much for sharing those thoughts. I try to do this and often feel like it’s not enough – your words are encouraging and support my instincts.
Suzanne; Teacher; Canada says
As a teacher, when I encounter children who may have been impacted by trauma, what are some telling signs that I can use to discern if this may be the case? How can I best help these children deal with the reprecussions of trauma in a classroom/school situation?
Louise, UK says
When speaking about the third impact of trauma on the brain, Bessel used the word ‘connection’. I’d really love to know in what sense he meant that – connection with self, with others, both? He speaks of the sense of self, of dulling the senses of pleasure, excitement, sensuality, connection, but I’d like to know if that extends to connection with others. I had a serious trauma in childhood and am really trying to piece together various aspects of its impact, how they’ve played out in my life, and how I might still overcome them today. Thank you.
Ingrid Morgan, teacher. says
How do I help my husband deal with his PTSD he has experienced after our accident.
Sharon, Psychotherapist, says
i am treating a woman who had brain injury about 4 years ago. she has difficulties excepting her new life and is always depressed. she says she will not hurt herself because of her children….
but otherwise
she says my office is her safe place… i dont feel helpful…
Sherry F Belman, MA, LMHC, NYC says
I would appreciate something helpful to say to friends/loved ones/others, when trauma/PTSD has been triggered, or is impeding “normal” or expected life actions, & one obviously cannot “cover”. Unfortunately, as most of you are aware, these elicit probable “triggers” & ensuing disgust, attack, etc…”Just pull yourself up by your bootstraps, I did, & do everyday!”
While I respect all of our challenges (holding down jobs, maintaining & enlivening relationships, hardships, challenges in the face of caring for others, of sharing a positive message with a wider world–as you, Ruth, & Bessel do, & all healers–It just doesn’t cut it to say ” research now proves even daily life is harder for me, & most so-called trauma therapists only further harm,due to lack of sufficient training, experience, & personal healing [as has been pointed out here]…& real help exists however it is rare & financially out of the range of most people”.
When folks say nasty things in general, I try to collect myself whenever I can, & see them & respond from a better place. Any suggestions for me or my clients? Thanks.
Donna Bunce MSW says
Be with the person right where they are at no matter the age. If you can sense what makes anyone feel safe at that moment then that is it. Sometimes there is no safety. One must learn to build trust for the 1st time. It will get better if one can attune to the other. If the person is is therapy encourage that. Many people want to quit when the therapist does not understand. As the client we must somehow tell em that it does not fit. Sensitivity heals in this case.
Maria Solarez says
What are day to day activities to help the brain reset to a non hyper-vigilant trauma state?
Donna Bunce MSW says
For me it depends on what resets the brain. After I began to trust my teacher/counselor, I could do qigong in a group setting and also meditate with her. I could do yoga with one teacher who was very calm and did meditation too. I like to walk with another friend.
Lauri, Reiki Master, Farmington, NY says
Once your brain suffers trauma and is dealing with PTSD, can it ever go back to “normal” ?
What treatment can heal the brain from trauma so the PTSD will be healed?
Please don’t say talking to a professional because that does not work!
Thank you for your time.
Donna Bunce MSW says
My experience in healing myself, is that I have a new normal. I can self sooth and continue to grow in situations and experience safety and security. Every moment is new, yet for the most part I have a core strength that I never had before mindful psychotherapy. I had to take a step whenever needed and learn to trust again. Its the hardest work I’ve ever done. Mindfulness tools work. The practice is to do it over and over again, retraining the brain.
Paula J Hughes, RN, Tucson, AZ says
How do we turn off that hypersensitivity, and change our brain’s way of perceiving back to normal so that our sense of self is more realistic and we can start to enjoy relationships more fully. Also, how is OCD affected by this or do the PTSD/brain changes contribute to OCD. Thank you
Judy Rodakis says
my trauma started when I developed epilepsy i 1995….im 58 now. Self esteem, anxiety, inability to focus on the task. It’s temporal lobe. Epi.IED ..self-diagnosed. It’s been a tough road.
Monica, Doctor of Oriental Medicine, Santa Fe, NM says
I use acupuncture to reset the nervous system and Chinese herbs to treat the symptoms, such as night terrors and social anxiety. What else can I do?
Leslie Marchand, LCSW, RYT-500, NW Houston, TX says
What are your top 3 body-based/somatic tools to use when trying to help someone with a trauma history to start to heal? I would especially like to hear tools appropriate for adolescents. Thank you.
suzan speech pathologist. nyc new york says
Can the damaged pathways ever be changed
Donna Bunce MSW says
I think that everyone has the ability to reset their systems. It may take the kitchen sink to do that but never give up!
Do what works over and over then that child or adult has a new neuro pathway.
I worked with a neuro psychologist with biofeedback in his office. After 6 months or so he helped me get my own unit at home. I know that I was able to retrain my brain to sleep after 16 years on psych meds, a misdiagnosis.
I’ll be 60 in a few months. Do what works over and over.
Timmie Pollock Clinical Psychologist La Jolla, Ca says
Why do some people seem better able to withstand trauma better than others? Is there anything specific that seems to provide protection?
Ellie Steele, EFT practitioner, Canada says
I’m curious to know about techniques or therapies that correct these changes to the brain. There’s some great research that suggests EFT can be effective at re-wiring, is there a reason you haven’t had some of the EFT experts like David Feinstein or Bob Schwarz on your program to talk about the effectiveness of EFT and other energy psychology tools?
Char Webster retired teacher Chula Vista, CA says
Just got off Venlafaxine and bupropion . I now an feeling the gut-wrenching anxiety which now is cbinef with fear. I don’t want to take meds due to feeling memory issues because of taking them, but this really feels painful.
Wendi Dumbroff, Lic. Prof. Counselor, nj says
I am interested in learning more about how to work with patients with trauma. Specifically, how far do to go in asking them to talk about the experience and assessing readiness to do so. Also, when they become triggered, ways to offer them a “container” and to help calm them.