0
Users
0
Views
0
Reactions
0
Stories read
Need to take a break?
For immediate help, visit {{resource}}
I find getting after care counseling from trauma-informed counselors very difficult in my state. Do you have any advice?
Answer by Dr. Laura
PhD Mental Health Nurse & Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner
Thank you so much for reaching out to us. Finding trauma-informed counselors can be quite difficult depending on the state you live in, but they are out there. It can be a frustrating process, but you deserve to receive the support you need. Here are some tips we have found helpful when navigating this often challenging infrastructure.
To find a trauma-informed therapist or counselor in your state, consider utilizing online directories such as Psychology Today or GoodTherapy, which allow you to filter search results based on location and specialty areas. You can also consult with your primary care physician or reach out to local mental health organizations, domestic violence shelters, or rape crisis centers for recommendations and referrals. This can help reduce some of the anxiety of trying to find someone on your own. Additionally, contacting your insurance provider to inquire about covered mental health services and professionals specializing in trauma-informed care can help you identify suitable options within your network.
Selecting the right counselor or therapist requires a lot of patience, as you may not be connected to the person that is right for you the first time. Trust your gut and your instincts. To find a counselor that is right for you, begin by identifying your specific needs and preferences, considering factors such as the therapist's specialization, approach to treatment, and experience with the issues you want to address. Additionally, evaluating the therapist's qualifications, credentials, and licensing can provide assurance of their professional expertise and ethical standards. Once you find someone that looks promising, schedule an initial consultation or phone call to gauge your comfort level and assess the therapist's communication style and overall demeanor. Remember to prioritize your comfort and trust when selecting a counselor or therapist. The right counselor is out there for you. Don't give up.
Just Checking...
Discard Message?
You have a comment in progress, are you sure you want to discard it?
0
Users
0
Views
0
Reactions
0
Stories read
Need to take a break?
For immediate help, visit {{resource}}
Please adhere to our Community Guidelines to help us keep Our Wave a safe space. All messages will be reviewed and identifying information removed before they are posted.
Grounding activity
Find a comfortable place to sit. Gently close your eyes and take a couple of deep breaths - in through your nose (count to 3), out through your mouth (count of 3). Now open your eyes and look around you. Name the following out loud:
5 – things you can see (you can look within the room and out of the window)
4 – things you can feel (what is in front of you that you can touch?)
3 – things you can hear
2 – things you can smell
1 – thing you like about yourself.
Take a deep breath to end.
From where you are sitting, look around for things that have a texture or are nice or interesting to look at.
Hold an object in your hand and bring your full focus to it. Look at where shadows fall on parts of it or maybe where there are shapes that form within the object. Feel how heavy or light it is in your hand and what the surface texture feels like under your fingers (This can also be done with a pet if you have one).
Take a deep breath to end.
Ask yourself the following questions and answer them out loud:
1. Where am I?
2. What day of the week is today?
3. What is today’s date?
4. What is the current month?
5. What is the current year?
6. How old am I?
7. What season is it?
Take a deep breath to end.
Put your right hand palm down on your left shoulder. Put your left hand palm down on your right shoulder. Choose a sentence that will strengthen you. For example: “I am powerful.” Say the sentence out loud first and pat your right hand on your left shoulder, then your left hand on your right shoulder.
Alternate the patting. Do ten pats altogether, five on each side, each time repeating your sentences aloud.
Take a deep breath to end.
Cross your arms in front of you and draw them towards your chest. With your right hand, hold your left upper arm. With your left hand, hold your right upper arm. Squeeze gently, and pull your arms inwards. Hold the squeeze for a little while, finding the right amount of squeeze for you in this moment. Hold the tension and release. Then squeeze for a little while again and release. Stay like that for a moment.
Take a deep breath to end.