by Sarah Jayne Oltz, MS, NCC, CTP

The holiday season is often a time of joy, togetherness, and celebration painted with traditions and connection. However, for those navigating trauma recovery, this time of year can bring unique challenges. The emphasis on family gatherings, memories of past holidays, or societal pressure to feel a certain way can trigger difficult emotions, causing the season to feel overwhelming.

If this resonates with you or someone you care about, know that you are not alone. Here, we’ll explore why the holidays can be particularly challenging for individuals in trauma recovery and share practical strategies to support healing during this time.

Offering Trauma Therapy at the Phoenix Center in Media, PA or Online!
484-440-9416 | [email protected]

Why the Holidays Can Be Difficult for Trauma Survivors

1. Family Dynamics: For some, family gatherings can bring up unresolved tensions, remind them of past traumas, or create a sense of obligation to be in environments that feel unsafe.
   
2. Grief and Loss: The holidays often amplify feelings of grief for those mourning loved ones or the loss of a sense of “normalcy” due to trauma.
   
3. Sensory Overwhelm: Crowds, loud noises, bright lights, and bustling schedules can overwhelm the nervous system, especially for those working through trauma-related triggers.
   
4. Cultural Expectations: The societal narrative around the “perfect holiday” can create pressure to feel joyous, which may feel impossible or even alienating during the trauma recovery process.

Strategies for Navigating the Season

1. Set Boundaries with Confidence: Reflect on what feels safe and manageable and identify your limits. For example, decide in advance how much time you want to spend at a family gathering. It’s okay to decline invitations or leave events early if they become overwhelming. Practice saying, “Thank you for understanding, but I need to prioritize my well-being this year.”

• Create Your Own Traditions: If old traditions feel activating, start new ones that bring comfort and joy. Whether it’s watching a favorite movie, lighting a candle for loved ones, or volunteering, tailor the season to what nurtures you.

• Prioritize Self-Care: Build moments of stillness into your schedule. Practices like deep breathing, journaling, or grounding exercises can help regulate your nervous system during high-stress periods. Ensure you’re meeting basic needs, such as sleep, hydration, and nourishment. Engage in activities and practices that feel restorative to you.
  
• Lean on Your Support Systems: Reach out to trusted friends, therapists, or support groups to talk through challenging emotions and engage in safe connections. Prepare coping tools such as grounding objects, soothing playlists, or mindfulness apps to use when you feel triggered.

• Focus on What You Can Control: You can’t change the past or others’ behaviors, but you can decide how to respond. Choose environments and activities that feel safe and affirming to you.

It’s okay for your holiday season to look however you need it to. Your healing is valid, and your boundaries are necessary. The best gift you can give yourself this season is the grace to prioritize your well-being over external expectations. As you move through the holidays, may you find moments of peace and hope in your recovery journey. Remember, healing takes time, and every step forward is worth celebrating.

If the holiday season feels unbearable or worsens symptoms of anxiety, depression, or PTSD, consider reaching out for help. Trauma recovery is a journey, and professional support can provide invaluable tools for navigating difficult seasons like this one. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us at the Phoenix Center to learn how our team of trauma therapists can help support you through the holidays and beyond.

Offering Trauma Therapy at the Phoenix Center in Media, PA or Online!
484-440-9416 | [email protected]

by Sarah Jayne Oltz, MS, NCC, CTP

Trauma therapy is a deeply personal healing process that requires careful consideration of how therapy is delivered. Today, there are two main formats for therapy: in-person and virtual. Both have distinct advantages and potential drawbacks, particularly for trauma therapy. Below is an exploration of the pros and cons of each option to help you decide which format may work best for you or your clients.

Offering Trauma Therapy at the Phoenix Center in Media, PA or Online!
484-440-9416 | [email protected]

 

In-Person Trauma Therapy

 

 Virtual Trauma Therapy

 

Which is Right for You?

The choice between in-person and virtual trauma therapy ultimately depends on your personal preferences, circumstances, and therapeutic needs. Both formats can be effective, but it’s essential to consider what environment will make you feel most comfortable, supported, and safe.

If you value the immediate connection and presence of face-to-face interactions and have access to a therapist nearby, in-person therapy may be the best fit. On the other hand, if you need more flexibility and comfort or live in an area with limited mental health resources, virtual therapy might provide the support you need with fewer barriers. Sometimes, a hybrid model—where sessions alternate between in-person and virtual—can offer the best of both worlds. Many times, we have found success in starting sessions in-person to build a strong connection between therapist and client, and switching sessions to online after a strong bond has been established. We often will recommend meeting in-person if there are particular sessions when we plan to engage in trauma processing of core memories (sometimes these are scheduled for longer than an hour). Being in person with your therapist allows your therapist to better assess where you are in the process (especially through non-verbal cues such as complexion changes, voice tone, body language, posture, etc.), which will better allow your therapist to provide safe and effective trauma processing.

Trauma therapy is rooted in safety and autonomy, and the setting that fosters your personal growth and comfort will always be the right choice. Don’t be afraid to experiment with both formats to find what works best for you. Contact the Phoenix Center today to get started with one of our trauma therapists in-person or virtually.

Offering Trauma Therapy at the Phoenix Center in Media, PA or Online!
484-440-9416 | [email protected]

Dr. Scott Giacomucci, DSW, LCSW, BCD, CGP, FAAETS, TEP

Trauma-Informed Care has become increasingly recognized as an essential approach in both therapeutic settings and broader organizational contexts. Despite its growing acceptance, several myths persist about what trauma-informed care is and how it should be applied. Let’s debunk some of the most common misconceptions.

Myth 1: Trauma-Informed Care Is Only for People with Trauma

Reality: Trauma-Informed Care Is for Everyone

One of the most widespread myths is that trauma-informed care is relevant only for individuals who have experienced trauma. While it is indeed designed to support those affected by trauma, its principles benefit everyone. Trauma-informed care emphasizes safety, trust, and empowerment—universal needs that improve interactions and outcomes in all settings, whether or not trauma is involved. By creating environments where everyone feels respected and valued, trauma-informed care fosters positive outcomes across all interactions.

If you are working with humans, you are working with trauma survivors. Trauma-informed care is useful in any industry, organization, and system.

Myth 2: Trauma-Informed Care Is a Specific Therapy

Reality: Trauma-Informed Care Is a Philosophy That Can Be Incorporated into Any Therapy or System

Another misconception is that trauma-informed care is a specific type of therapy or intervention. In reality, it is a broader philosophy or framework that can be integrated into any therapeutic approach or organizational system. It involves shifting the focus from “What’s wrong with you?” to “What happened to you?” This change in perspective can be applied across various settings, from healthcare to education, ensuring that all services are delivered with an understanding of how trauma impacts individuals.

Myth 3: Trauma-Informed Care Is Only for Therapists and Mental Health Providers

Reality: Trauma-Informed Care Was Created for Organizations and Systems

While trauma-informed care is vital in therapeutic settings, it was originally designed with an emphasis on organizational culture and structures. The principles of trauma-informed care can and should be integrated into any system, including schools, hospitals, criminal justice systems, and workplaces. By implementing trauma-informed practices at an organizational level, systems can create environments that are sensitive to the needs of all individuals, especially those who have experienced trauma.

Myth 4: There Is No Accountability in Trauma-Informed Care

Reality: Trauma-Informed Care Offers Flexibility While Still Holding People Accountable

Some believe that trauma-informed care allows people to avoid responsibility for their actions due to its focus on understanding and empathy. However, trauma-informed care does not eliminate accountability; instead, it balances flexibility with clear expectations. Trauma-informed care values control and choice, allowing individuals to make decisions about their care and actions. At the same time, it includes predictable and thoughtful consequences. By understanding the underlying reasons behind someone’s behavior, trauma-informed care enables providers to address issues in a compassionate yet effective manner.

Myth 5: Trauma-Informed Care Avoids Catharsis

Reality: Trauma-Informed Care Values Catharsis but Not as the Primary Source of Change

There is a misconception that trauma-informed care avoids emotional catharsis altogether. In truth, trauma-informed practitioners do value catharsis, but it is not seen as the primary driver of change. Instead, trauma-informed care focuses first on building strengths and ensuring safety. Only when a stable foundation is established does catharsis become a tool for deeper emotional processing, ultimately leading to growth. This careful approach helps prevent retraumatization and ensures that emotional release happens in a controlled, supportive environment and within a trusting relationship.

Myth 6: Trauma-Informed Care Either Avoids Trauma Processing or Requires One to Talk About Trauma

Reality: Trauma-Informed Care Emphasizes Client Choice and Autonomy

A final myth is that trauma-informed care either forces clients to talk about their trauma or avoids it entirely. In reality, trauma-informed care prioritizes the client’s choice and autonomy. It provides structure and support, allowing clients to decide if and when they want to discuss their trauma. Practitioners understand the importance of not reprocessing trauma too quickly and work to create an environment where the client feels safe and in control of their healing journey.

Reach out to us to bring trauma-informed care training to your organization or team! [email protected]

Trauma-informed care is a versatile, compassionate approach that goes beyond specific therapies to influence entire systems. By debunking these myths, we can better understand the true value of trauma-informed care and its potential to transform how we support individuals and communities in healing and growth. Whether you’re a therapist, a teacher, or part of a larger organization, integrating trauma-informed principles can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those you serve.

To learn more about trauma-informed care, consider downloading SAMHSA’s resources, following us on YouTube, or purchasing Dr. Scott Giacomucci’s new book on the topic.

Offering EMDR Trauma Therapy at the Phoenix Center in Media, PA or Online!
484-440-9416 | [email protected]

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a powerful approach primarily used to treat trauma and its associated symptoms. It was developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s and has gained recognition for its effectiveness in helping individuals process and heal from traumatic memories. The structured nature of EMDR therapy is encapsulated in its 8 Phases and 3 Prongs, which together form a comprehensive approach to trauma healing. Understanding these phases and prongs will help you as you begin your EMDR journey!

The 8 Phases of EMDR

1. History Taking and Treatment Planning: The therapist gathers information about the client’s history and identifies target memories for processing. This phase also includes assessing the client’s readiness for EMDR.
2. Preparation: The therapist explains the EMDR process, establishes trust, and ensures the client has the necessary coping strategies to manage distress during the therapy. This phase involves EMDR Resourcing and development of a safe place or other coping skills to manage difficult emotions.
3. Assessment: This phase involves identifying specific aspects of the traumatic memory, including the visual image, negative beliefs, emotions, and physical sensations associated with it.
4. Desensitization: The core of EMDR, this phase uses bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements) to help the client reprocess the traumatic memory, reducing its emotional charge.
5. Installation: Positive beliefs are strengthened in this phase, replacing the negative beliefs originally associated with the traumatic memory.
6. Body Scan: The therapist guides the client to focus on any residual physical tension related to the trauma, helping to release it.
7. Closure: The therapist ensures that the client leaves the session feeling stable and provides strategies for self-care between sessions.
8. Reevaluation: In subsequent sessions, the therapist assesses the client’s progress and determines if further processing is needed.

The 3 Pronged Approach of EMDR

The 3 Prongs of EMDR address trauma from all angles, ensuring a holistic healing process:

1. Past: Focuses on processing past traumatic events that have contributed to current distress.
2. Present: Addresses current situations that trigger distressing responses linked to past trauma.
3. Future: Prepares the client to handle future challenges, fostering resilience and adaptive coping mechanisms.

EMDR’s structured approach, through its 8 Phases and 3 Prongs, offers a comprehensive path to healing for trauma survivors. By addressing the past, present, and future, EMDR not only helps in desensitizing traumatic memories but also empowers individuals to live more adaptive and fulfilling lives.

Offering EMDR Trauma Therapy at the Phoenix Center in Media, PA or Online!
484-440-9416 | [email protected]

Offering Trauma Therapy at the Phoenix Center in Media, PA or Online!
484-440-9416 | [email protected]

by Sarah Jayne Oltz, MS, NCC, CTP (Accepting New Clients!)

Trauma can permeate every aspect of a person’s identity including sexuality (an individual’s desires, behaviors, feelings, and attitudes related to sex and physical intimacy) and gender (one’s innermost concept of self as male, female, a blend of both or neither). The intersection of trauma with these deeply personal aspects of self can create complex challenges, influencing how one perceives oneself and interacts with the world. For some individuals, trauma may exacerbate feelings of dysphoria (a profound sense of unease and dissatisfaction) or confusion about their sexuality and gender. This could stem from experiences of invalidation or violence based on their gender identity, further complicating their journey towards self-acceptance.

LGBTQIA+ Trauma

For individuals who are already marginalized based on their sexuality and gender identity, such as those who identify as LGBTQIA+, trauma can compound feelings of alienation and fear. LGBTQIA+ individuals often face specific challenges related to their sexual orientation, gender identity, and the societal discrimination and violence they endure, creating a cycle of vulnerability and distress.

1. Identity-based Trauma: Many LGBTQIA+ individuals experience trauma directly related to their sexual orientation or gender identity. This can include bullying, harassment, familial rejection, or violence. Such experiences can profoundly affect their sense of safety and self-worth.
2. Internalized Shame and Stigma: Society’s pervasive heteronormative and cisnormative attitudes can lead LGBTQIA+ individuals to internalize shame about their identities. This internalized stigma can manifest as self-hatred, low self-esteem, or even self-destructive behaviors, exacerbating the impact of trauma.
3. Discrimination and Violence: LGBTQIA+ individuals are disproportionately at risk of experiencing discrimination and violence due to their identities. Hate crimes, workplace discrimination, and denial of healthcare services based on sexual orientation or gender identity are all too common, contributing to a heightened sense of vulnerability and trauma.

Intersectionality

The experience of trauma within the LGBTQIA+ community is further complicated by intersectionality—the interconnected nature of social categorizations such as race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and disability. It is essential to acknowledge the intersectional experience of LGBTQIA+ individuals who also belong to other marginalized groups, and that the trauma they face may be compounded by systemic racism and discrimination within both LGBTQIA+ and mainstream communities.

Healing and Trauma Therapy

Trauma therapy tailored to the unique experiences of LGBTQIA+ individuals can be instrumental in fostering healing and empowerment. By affirming identities, addressing internalized stigma, processing identity-based trauma, exploring intersectional experiences, building coping skills, advocating for clients, and creating safe spaces, therapists can support LGBTQIA+ individuals on their journey toward healing and empowerment. Through compassionate and affirming care, trauma therapy helps clients reclaim their narratives, cultivate resilience, and thrive authentically.

Specifically, experiential modalities such as EMDR, psychodrama, IFS, body-based work, and therapy groups can be especially impactful for addressing the complexity of trauma. Experiential trauma therapy encompasses a range of techniques that engage clients in activities or processes designed to access and process traumatic memories and emotions. Unlike traditional talk therapy, experiential methods focus on the sensory and emotional aspects of trauma, aiming to create transformative healing experiences.

Hope For The Future

Despite the challenges posed by trauma, many individuals find strength and liberation in their journeys towards self-discovery and healing. The process of integrating traumatic experiences with one’s gender and sexual identity can be empowering, leading to a deeper understanding and acceptance of oneself.

When trauma intersects with gender and sexuality, the resulting challenges can be profound, but so too can be the opportunities for post-traumatic growth. Cultivating inclusive and affirming environments, advocating for systemic change, and fostering community support are critical steps toward creating a society where all LGBTQIA+ individuals can thrive authentically and free from the burdens of trauma. Together, we can work towards a future where everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, feels safe, valued, and empowered to live their truth.

At the Phoenix Center, we offer an affirming space for LGBTQIA+ individuals seeking trauma therapy. Our approach is rooted in understanding and validating your unique experiences, creating a supportive environment where you can explore healing without fear of judgment. Take the step towards healing with us, where your identity is celebrated and your healing process is personalized to meet your needs.

Offering Trauma Therapy at the Phoenix Center in Media, PA or Online!
484-440-9416 | [email protected]

Offering Trauma Therapy at the Phoenix Center in Media, PA or Online!
484-440-9416 | [email protected]

Do you ever find yourself grappling with feelings of depression and anxiety, unsure of where they stem from? While there can be various factors contributing to these mental health challenges, it’s essential to consider the role that past trauma or adversity may play in your present experience of anxiety or depression.

Traumatic experiences or adverse childhood events can have a profound impact on our mental and emotional well-being, often leading to long-lasting effects that manifest as depression and anxiety in adulthood. These experiences can range from physical, emotional, or sexual abuse to neglect, loss of a loved one, growing up in a chaotic environment, or experiencing discrimination based on your identity.

When we experience trauma or adversity, our brains and bodies undergo significant changes as part of the body’s natural response to stress. These changes can alter the way we perceive and respond to future stressors, leading to heightened levels of anxiety and a persistent sense of sadness or hopelessness characteristic of depression. There is a growing body of research showing a connection between depression and anxiety with past trauma or childhood adversity.

It’s essential to recognize that experiencing depression and anxiety as a result of past trauma or adversity is not a sign of weakness but rather a natural response to overwhelming circumstances. Seeking support from a qualified mental health professional who specializes in trauma therapy can be instrumental in understanding and addressing the underlying factors contributing to your experience of anxiety or depression.

Through trauma therapy, individuals can learn to process and cope with traumatic memories, develop healthier coping strategies, and reclaim a sense of control over their lives. Trauma recovery provides us with the tools needed to cope with anxiety, or resolve the original sources of anxiety, while empowering us to rise from our depression.

If you resonate with the idea that past trauma or adversity may be fueling your depression and anxiety, know that you are not alone, and help is available. By acknowledging and addressing the impact of past experiences on your mental health, you can take significant steps toward healing and rebuilding a fulfilling life.

Remember, healing is a journey, and it’s okay to seek support along the way. You deserve to live a life free from past trauma and adversity, where joy, peace, growth, and resilience can thrive.

Offering Trauma Therapy at the Phoenix Center in Media, PA or Online!
484-440-9416 | [email protected]

Trauma-Informed Psychodrama Directing Intensive

Dr. Scott Giacomucci, DSW, LCSW, BCD, CGP, FAAETS, TEP

Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy

Presented by Dr. Scott Giacomucci, DSW, LCSW, BCD, CGP, FAAETS, TEP

Date & Time: 5-day training workshop from Jan 15-19th, 2025 | Wednesday – Sunday 8:30 am – 5:30 pm

Location: Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy, 524 N. Providence Road
Media, PA 19063

Cost –$1050 ($775 for students) (this fee guarantees a directing opportunity)

$825 – Reduced cost option for those interested in attending without directing practice

*please inquire if you are unavailable to attend the entire week and are interested in 2-3 day registration options

35 CE hours for NBCC, PA LSW/LCSW, LPC, LMFT, and Psychologists | 35 Training hours provided towards experiential and psychodrama certifications. *APA CE Hours are not offered in this workshop

About the Workshop: 

This psychodrama directing practice is designed for psychodrama students, practitioners, and trainers-in-training to enhance their directing through a trauma-informed lens. Each participant will have the opportunity to facilitate a group psychodrama and receive feedback from their peers and the trainer. Feedback will be provided based on the psychodrama certification competencies outlined by the ABE, as well as trauma-informed psychodrama considerations. Each participant will also have the opportunity to be the protagonist and play auxiliary roles to learn psychodrama from the inside out.

Psychodrama facilitation competencies emphasized will include a demonstrated understanding of group phases, the warming-up process, spontaneity-creativity theory, role theory, protagonist selection, contracting, scene setting, concretization, doubling, the mirror position, role reversal, soliloquy, directing auxiliaries and the audience, facilitating catharsis safely,  facilitating closure/integration, containment, strength-based roles, trauma-informed principles in psychodrama, attending to issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion in psychodrama, sub-roles of the director, and facilitating the sharing phase of a psychodrama session.

While this is a training workshop, and training will be held as the priority, there will be a multitude of secondary opportunities for personal growth. This workshop is designed for intermediate and advanced psychodrama students and would not be the best for someone with no prior psychodrama training. Participants are expected to have past experiential/psychodrama experience as a prerequisite for this workshop, as well as a foundational understanding of psychodrama’s methodology. This workshop will be attractive for anyone seeking to enhance their psychodrama facilitation skills – and especially for professionals with some psychodrama experience seeking to put their learning into action more fully. Professionals warming up to complete their CP/TEP onsite exams will also find this workshop helpful as the trainer will provide feedback using the same competencies outlined for the CP/TEP onsite exams.

Learning Objectives:

-Explain at least two psychodrama interventions

-Identify the three phases of a psychodrama group

-Describe at least two trauma-informed considerations for psychodrama directing

By purchasing tickets and registering for this event, you confirm that you agree with the Phoenix Center’s Informed Consent for Experiential Therapy Training.

 

---

PURCHASE YOUR TICKET BELOW AND FILL OUT OUR REGISTRATION FORM HERE!

---

Please follow the following steps to pay and register for this workshop:

Step 1: Pay for the event using PayPal.

Step 2: Fill out the registration form – YOU MUST USE THE SAME EMAIL YOU USE FOR PAYPAL WHEN YOU FILL OUT THE EVENT REGISTRATION FORM. 

Step 3: You will hear from us with a confirmation email (the same one you used for PayPal and registration) indicating your registration and information about the event in a few days. All materials will be directed to the same email address including your certificate.

 

 

 

 

*Please note that this workshop will include both didactic and experiential learning components. The experiential learning structures include demonstrations of psychodrama and other experiential processes which often include (optional) personal disclosures from participants. While personal growth is often a byproduct of experiential learning in psychodrama, the primary purpose of this workshop is training. If you are seeking a workshop for personal growth or seeking a professional training event that is entirely didactic (lecture/PowerPoint), this is probably not the best workshop for you.

For folks traveling from out of town, there is a new beautiful bed and breakfast just 1 block from the Phoenix Center that we recommend. It is within walking distance of downtown Media and plenty of shops/restaurants – https://www.gifford-risleyhouse.com. Mention Phoenix Center for a reduced rate.

No Conflicts of Interest or outside commercial support have been declared by the presenter or others involved in the program.

This workshop is designed primarily for psychologists, social workers, counselors, and therapists but other professionals may also find it helpful. The instruction is designed at the intermediate level (though many new and advanced professionals may also find it helpful).

CE Program Policies and Procedures related to Refunds/Cancellations, Grievances, and Conflicts of Interest can be found here.

For the workshop schedule or other details or questions about the workshop, please contact us at [email protected].

---

Continuing Education (CE) Approval Statements relevant to this workshop:

• Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy, LLC (Lic. #004115) has been approved as a pre-approved provider of professional continuing education for social workers (Section 47.36), Marriage and Family Therapist (Section 48.36) and Professional Counselors (Section 49.36) by the PA State Board of Social Workers, Marriage & Family Therapists and Professional Counselors.
• Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy is approved by the Pennsylvania State Board of Psychologists (Lic. # PSY000215) to offer continuing education for psychologists.
• Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy, LLC has been approved by NBCC as an Approved Continuing Education Provider, ACEP No. 7013. Phoenix Center for Experiential Trauma Therapy, LLC maintains responsibility for the program.