trauma Archives - Hope Heal Change

Tag: trauma

Understanding the Roles in Dysfunctional Families

Posted on July 30, 2024August 5, 2024 by hopehealchange

by Tara Yombor From family dysfunction to slightly more functional families One of my favorite topics as a therapist, specifically working with clients who are in recovery from addiction, is educating them on the roles in dysfunctional families. While working in treatment centers for drugs and alcohol, inevitably, at least one or two groupsa week would land on the topic of family dynamics. I’ve always said, “you can pick your friends, but you can’t pick your family.” What is family dysfunction? You might be asking, what is a dysfunctional family? What are the roles in dysfunctional families? Is my family dysfunctional? How do the different roles come to exist? How can they “benefit” from each other to create a toxic environment? Let me start by saying that every family is dysfunctional – yes, even yours! It’s important to note that there is no “perfect family.” Human beings are dynamic, flawed, and unique. The intensity and impairment of the dysfunction Read more [...]

Thoughts on Treating Trauma: Unpacking Self-Hatred

Posted on October 24, 2023July 9, 2024 by hopehealchange

I’m aware that there is no perfect way to write a short post on the topic of counseling trauma without evoking some big feelings. I also understand that as delicately as I might handle my words, not everyone will agree with my observations and reflections. The last thing I would want to do is make a person reading this feel small, de-valued, not seen or hurt. Trauma, and how it plays out in a person’s life, is very unique. Moreover, talking about the topic can be challenging and tender. As such, I approach my post today with love in my heart. I know that many of us are simply trying the very best that we can. If you are a victim or survivor of trauma, and you’re reading this, thank you. Thank you for continuing to fight in the face of immense adversity. The Body Keeps the Score So much has been written about Trauma. The landmark book in my mind is “The Body Keeps the Score” by Bessel Van Der Kolk; though, there are many great pieces of literature on the topic. In his Read more [...]

When It Might Be Time to Seek Counseling

Posted on February 22, 2020July 8, 2024 by hopehealchange

There is nothing wrong with seeking counseling. When we go the gym, we are praised for taking the initiative to work on our fitness. When we are physically injured, we are advised to take the necessary steps to heal-- rest, ice, heat, stretch, etc. Yet, when we are struggling with an emotional or mental health issue, we feel funny about telling people. Ironically, a battle with a mental health concern can cause some serious physical manifestations. It's almost inexplicable how little we have valued our mental health as a society throughout...well...ever! It's not until recently that people in the community, including celebrities and athletes, are having serious discussions about mental health. But how do I know if I should seek counseling? One of the first questions I ask a new client is: "Have you ever been in counseling before?" Regardless of a "yes" or "no" response, I follow it up with my next question. "How long have you been thinking about getting in to talk to somebody?"To Read more [...]