Different people have different responses to trauma. Some people who have experienced traumatic events have engaged in dysfunctional or unhealthy behaviors as a way to help themselves heal. Cutting, alcohol, drugs, sex, damaged relationships—these are the responses of a person doing the best they can to cope with painful experiences and memories. These behaviors, that perhaps you have engaged in, as well as the shame or confusion, that you may feel, can be turned around if you are ready to embark on that sometimes uneasy journey with a competent and compassionate therapist. Self-harm can be transformed into self-love and self-forgiveness. Do not give up on your precious self! When you are ready, take the first steps to finding out how to live differently and more fully and wholly.
And art therapy can help move you to this more spacious existence: you might explore your pain through painting or collage, or clay; you might see your beauty in a new light through photography; you might say things you have never said through writing. In addition, you will be given tools to modulate yourself physiologically so that when thoughts and memories arise, you will be ready to face them and keep yourself calm and strong. If you feel ready to begin discussing this journey, please contact me at 720-491-1533.