Therapeutic Modalities
NATI's therapists practice Trauma Informed Therapy where the therapeutic process is geared specifically on past trauma as a cause of current symptoms and behaviors. They are trained in various psychotherapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). Clients are helped to become aware of destructive behaviors and symptoms, how and where these behaviors and symptoms may have originated, and steps to help change these into healthy behaviors. These modalities are often used in conjunction with EMDR, Neurofeedback, and Medications.
Psychotherapy
This modality involves Visual, Auditory, and Tactile stimulation. Under the guidance of a highly skilled therapist, a client is able to process their trauma and move the memory to a proper part of the brain. The memory is still present but it is no longer a dominant influencer of symptoms and behavior. This in turn frees up neural pathways which were “stuck” in destructive behaviors and allows for new healthy behavioral pathways for form. "Trauma treatment is about making it safe for people to remember"
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Bessel van der Kolk on EMDR
Unhealthy destructive behaviors will manifest abnormal brain wave patterns. These patterns can be recognized by analyzing a client’s brain waves. The brain has a way of learning or changing which is called neuroplasticity. Neurofeedback utilizes specialized equipment and computer software to help clients develop healthier brain wave patterns. Once a client develops healthier brain wave patterns, they are better able to regulate and process their trauma. They become more aware of the mind/body connection they have. This in turn helps speed up their therapeutic process. Neurofeedback is also helpful in ADHD, anxiety, depression, seizure disorders and addiction.
Neurofeedback
“Neurofeedback 101 – Rewiring the Brain for ADHD, Anxiety, Depression and Beyond” by Michael P. Cohen
Often professionals offer clients prescribed medications such as anti-anxiety and anti-depressant medications without further investigation as to the cause of their symptoms. While it is always better to be able to change behavior without psychotropic medications, some conditions require medication to help a client stabilize and regulate their behavior. Once a client has then processed their trauma and changed their behavior, the medications can hopefully be weaned off. Under the guidance of our medical professionals, clients can have their medications prescribed, monitored, and subsequently tapered off when they are no longer needed.
Medication Management
