When you are going through the fallout of partner betrayal trauma, you are already facing a high level of uncertainty in your life. Knowing what to expect from a partner trauma therapy professional can make it easier for you to seek and find the kind of support you deserve.
What Will Partner Trauma Therapy Help Me Do?
Address Any Trauma-Related Barriers to Intimacy
Fear of vulnerability- Many people fear opening up again after a partner's betrayal. This can lead to unfulfilling relationships, a fear of intimacy, or choosing partners who cannot meet your needs. The idea of being vulnerable again can feel frightening. In partner betrayal trauma therapy, you will learn how to set and maintain healthy emotional boundaries.
Relationship expectations- Another common side effect of partner betrayal is a dysfunctional perspective on relationships. You may worry that your partner will repeat their destructive behaviors, or that all your future partners cannot be trusted. Since healthy relationships are built on trust and security, you must reset your expectations and regain your ability to trust. Discussing your feelings in an emotionally safe space can help.
Shame/low self-esteem- All too often betrayed partners blame themselves for their partner’s decisions or actions. Feelings of inadequacy or shame in the wake of betrayal are common. Low self-esteem can be a significant obstacle to your healing process. Working with a therapist can restore your confidence.
Communication problems- After experiencing a partner's betrayal, you may have difficulty communicating your boundaries, expectations, and needs. You might struggle to explain your feelings, especially when they feel overwhelming. Going through partner trauma therapy will improve your communication skills.
Build A Toolkit of Coping Skills
Healthy coping mechanisms are an effective way of moving past partner betrayal trauma and restoring your sense of normality. Too often, people turn to harmful behaviors to dull the pain of their experiences. If you have been using unhelpful strategies to help you cope, consider talking to a professional.
During your therapy sessions, you will learn several types of coping skills, including:
Emotional processing- In order to come to terms with your traumatic experience, you will need to validate and accept your feelings;even the difficult ones. Journaling and talking about your experiences allow you to release and process pent-up emotions.
Relaxation techniques- Dealing with betrayal trauma is stressful and can take a physical and emotional toll. You can use breathing exercises and meditation techniques to regulate your nervous system and reduce stress.
Problem focused coping- Emotional upheavals are only one part of managing partner betrayal trauma. You may also experience changes that impact your day-to-day life. Resolving practical issues such as childcare or financial stability can greatly reduce your stress and help you feel more in control.
Social Support- Being surrounded by positive loving people can accelerate your recovery. In partner trauma therapy, you will learn about different types of social support and how to ask for help. In your sessions, your therapist will also discuss strategies for identifying and overcoming any barriers to building social support.
Please realize that you can start therapy at any point in your journey. Our highly qualified staff has years of experience helping clients navigate through their traumas and the healing and recovery process. We invite you to start by booking a free consultation with Lani TODAY.
How is Partner Trauma Therapy Different from Traditional Counseling?
Partner Trauma Therapists Focus on Relationships
Many therapists specialize in individualized counseling, which focuses on one person’s needs and therapy goals. This approach cannot simply transfer over to couples. Both partners may have very different life experiences and perspectives. Adequately addressing each partner’s needs requires special training.
Relationship focused therapies, like couples counseling or partner betrayal trauma therapy, support partners in working towards shared and individual goals. Sessions focus on communication, relationship dynamics, and healthy conflict resolution.
In the case of a betrayal, partner trauma therapists provide nonjudgmental guidance to help couples decide and reach the best resolutions for their circumstances.
Partner Trauma Therapy through a Trauma-Informed Approach
Trauma-informed therapy considers how a traumatic experience can affect your mental health, emotional state, and openness to treatment. Our therapists mindfully create a psychologically safe environment where you can rebuild your trust and self-confidence.
Trauma-informed therapy is built on five major principles:
Emotional safety- Trauma-informed therapists ensure emotional safety by preventing circumstances that could trigger trauma wounds or re-traumatize clients.
Autonomy- You will always be informed and empowered to lead your personal healing process.
Transparency- You can expect a trauma-informed therapist to respect boundaries, act with integrity, and communicate honestly.
Awareness- Trauma-informed therapists engage in continuous professional development to provide the latest and most effective treatment.