Laura Summers, LMFT
Therapy for trauma warriors and their families
Specialties
Adoptees and their loved ones
Adoption is a trauma that affects every adoptee in a myriad of ways. It may not even feel like the word "trauma" fits for you, and that's fine. Each adoption is specific to every family and adoptee and requires an attachment-based and person-centered approach. My goal in my work with fellow adoptees is to first and foremost validate their experiences, and then begin to unpack how this has impacted them and how they can be empowered to live more authentically as their own person. In my work with adoptive families I strive to cultivate relationships that can grow in healthy and authentic ways where true bonds can be formed and sustained.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
EMDR is a type of therapy that assists in the processing and reintegration of traumatic or disturbing events. EMDR therapy works to heal a client's mind in much the same way the body recovers from physical trauma. "When you cut your hand, your body works to close the wound. If a foreign object or repeated injury irritates the wound, it festers and causes pain. Once the block is removed, healing resumes. EMDR therapy demonstrates that a similar sequence of events occurs with mental processes. The brain’s information processing system naturally moves toward mental health. If the system is blocked or imbalanced by the impact of a disturbing event, the emotional wound festers and can cause intense suffering. Once the block is removed, healing resumes. Using the detailed protocols and procedures learned in EMDR therapy training sessions, clinicians help clients activate their natural healing processes." (From EMDR.com)
EMDR work can be helpful with many kinds of trauma, mental blocks and disorders. It is a multi-phase process of therapy that requires established trust between the therapist and client. Please click here for a more detailed description of the phases of EMDR.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy
As an intensively-trained DBT therapist (Behavioral Tech, 2018), I provide DBT-informed therapy for individuals who may benefit from the structure and skills the model provides. DBT skills may also help provide stabilization at the beginning of trauma treatment. A properly utilized coping plan made up on DBT skills can offer the client a sense of hope and direction. DBT has been found to be effective in lessening symptoms of depression, anxiety, and a wide range of disorders. It is often utilized with clients struggling with non-suicidal self injury and suicidal ideations and/or attempts. Please visit Behavioral Tech's website to learn more about this evidence-based modality.
Cost
Private pay $170/hour
Limited sliding-scale available
Lyra Employee Benefit Program