For too long, the pervasive effects of trauma have been ignored in psychotherapy. As neurobiology has made huge leaps in the last decade in our understanding of trauma, a new model of psychotherapy has emerged that integrates this important information. Somatic Attachment Psychotherapy is an approach to counselling focused on resolving shock and attachment trauma, [...]
I am pleased to share with you this informative article about the new paradigm of trauma treatment using Polyvagal Theory. I was interviewed for the article by my friend and colleague, Chiara Viscomi, M.A.: "Trauma, in greater and lesser forms, is one of the most challenging aspects of the human experience. It could be a [...]
Like many of you, I am deeply disturbed by what is happening on our planet. The destruction of Nature, the exploitation of people and animals, and the rampant use of violence all weigh heavily on my heart. It pains me to see forests being slashed and children going hungry, especially when it is so obvious [...]
We are relational beings, meaning we need to be in relationship with other beings to be healthy and happy. Our society, however, teaches us that the ultimate in personal development is to be independent, and not to need anyone. Don’t get me wrong—not all relationships are created equal. It is better to be alone than [...]
The good news of the last decade of brain research can be summed up in one word: “neuroplasticity.” “Neuro” refers to nerve cells that make up your brain and nervous system and “plasticity” refers to the fact that the connections between these cells can CHANGE and GROW. What determines whether they change and grow? Experience. [...]
As a child, counsellor Swarn Leung was always very interested in helping others. “I wanted to be a nurse or a teacher in Ethiopia. When I was fifteen I watched a movie about Gandhi that inspired me very deeply. I was amazed that an ordinary man could have such a profound impact in the world." [...]
“I just want to be ME!” These words are music to my ears. As a counsellor, one of my greatest joys is helping people to live more authentic lives. What gets in the way? Why is it so hard to just be oneself? To understand why we sometimes wear masks, hide our real feelings, and [...]
“Get over it!” “Move on.” “Don’t look back.” These are some of the words of advice commonly heard by someone who is depressed, anxious, and/or suffering from trauma. Though well-intended, this advice is impossible to follow for someone who is in such a state. Why? Normally we process information from the bottom up: the sensations [...]
