Samantha Hanson, LPC, ATR, Clini-Coach®

Archives November 2024

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What is the Difference between: Trauma Specialists and General Trauma Trained Providers?

Understanding the Differences Between Specialists and General Trained Professionals

When seeking help for trauma-related issues, understanding the distinctions between a trauma specialist and a general trauma-trained professional can help you find the support that best suits your needs. Both types of professionals bring valuable skills to the table, but their expertise and focus differ in meaningful ways.

Here’s a closer look at what sets them apart, along with tips on choosing the right professional for your situation.

General Trauma-Trained Professionals

General trauma-trained professionals have undergone training to recognize and address trauma-related concerns in their clients. While this training enhances their ability to provide informed and sensitive care, it is often part of a broader skill set rather than their primary focus.

Key Features:

  • Breadth of Knowledge: They have foundational knowledge of how trauma impacts mental health and behavior
  • Continuing education requirements: In order to renew license, providers are required to take minimum 30 credits of training in various areas to stay up todate as much as possible with education and modern day concerns. Many providers may go over this amount in areas that may have a greater need pending the population of clients they serve.

Choosing the Right Level of Care: Why Specialist Training Matters

Imagine that you’ve broken your arm. Would you seek help from a therapist or a medical doctor? Would you visit a pharmacy or head straight to the emergency room? The answer depends on the situation and the level of expertise required. The same principle applies to mental health care.

Mental health professionals vary in their training and areas of expertise. Some have general training in trauma-informed care, which equips them to address trauma effectively within their broader scope of practice. Others pursue specialized training, which involves an intensive focus on specific approaches to trauma therapy, such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), somatic experiencing, or trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT). Other types of Specialists include:

  • Brainspotting
  • ART (Accellerated Resolution Therapy)
  • Biofeedbacl
  • Prolonged Exposure Therapy
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
  • Dialectical Behavioral Therapy
  • Somatic Therapy
  • Internal Family Systems Therapy
  • Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy
  • Polyvagal Therapy,

Becoming a trauma specialist often requires:

  • Prerequisite Experience: Professionals may need to accumulate substantial time in practice, often several years, before qualifying for specialist programs.
  • Supervised Training Hours: Many specialist certifications require between 500 and 2,000 hours of practice alongside formal training and supervision.
  • Financial Investment: Specialist programs can be costly, and not all therapists can afford the expense.
  • Time Commitment: Balancing rigorous training with an existing caseload and personal responsibilities can be a challenge for many providers.

These hurdles don’t diminish the value of general trauma-trained professionals, who can still offer effective and compassionate care. However, specialists bring a deeper level of expertise to complex trauma cases.

If you’re looking for a trauma specialist or need help navigating your options, leave a comment. Samantha is happy to assist with referrals to professionals who match your needs. The right provider is out there, and finding the right fit can make all the difference in your healing journey.

you are not alone quote board on brown wooden frame
November: A Month of Mental Health Awareness and Compassion

This year has flown by, and we are already mid November. November offers us a unique opportunity to reflect, raise awareness, and foster compassion. It’s a month dedicated not only to celebrating cultural and personal identity but also to recognizing the profound impact of mental health on our lives and communities. Let’s explore how November’s observances connect to mental health and why they’re so crucial in fostering understanding and support.

National Family Caregivers Month

Caregivers play a vital role in supporting loved ones, often at great emotional and physical expense to themselves. Many face burnout, stress, and isolation as they juggle their responsibilities. This month encourages us to honor caregivers by recognizing their challenges, offering resources, and ensuring they feel supported in their own mental health journeys.

an old man lying down on a bed with a woman standing near him
Photo by Yaroslav Shuraev on Pexels.com

How You Can Help:

  • Offer a listening ear to a caregiver in your life.
  • Encourage them to seek respite care or counseling if needed.
  • Share resources like caregiver support groups and hotlines.
  • Be empathetic if they ask and do not follow through, the amount of responsibility they have felt for so long may be hard to see past.

National Diabetes Month

Living with diabetes is more than a physical health challenge—it also impacts mental health. The constant need for monitoring, management, and lifestyle adjustments can lead to stress, anxiety, and depression. For many, this journey highlights the intersection of physical and mental well-being.

woman in white shirt holding a glucometer
Photo by Polina Tankilevitch on Pexels.com

How You Can Help:

  • Learn about diabetes and the emotional toll it can take.
  • Support loved ones by encouraging healthy habits without judgment.
  • Advocate for better mental health resources in chronic illness care.

Native American Heritage Month

This month honors the history, culture, and contributions of Native American communities while acknowledging the systemic barriers they face. Generational trauma, health disparities, and a lack of access to mental health services are persistent challenges in these communities. Celebrating their resilience while advocating for equity is key.

photo of two native americans playing woodwind instruments
Photo by Gabriela Custódio da Silva on Pexels.com

How You Can Help:

  • Educate yourself about Native American history and present-day struggles.
  • Support organizations providing culturally competent mental health care for Indigenous people.
  • Celebrate and amplify Native voices in your community.

Transgender Awareness Week (Nov. 13-19) & Transgender Day of Remembrance (Nov. 20)

Transgender individuals face unique mental health challenges, including discrimination, family rejection, and an increased risk of violence. Transgender Awareness Week highlights the need for understanding and advocacy, while the Transgender Day of Remembrance honors those lost to anti-transgender violence.

cubes spelling the word transgender
Photo by Alexander Grey on Pexels.com

How You Can Help:

  • Use inclusive language and respect people’s pronouns.
  • Advocate for trans-inclusive mental health policies.
  • Remember and honor trans lives by attending local or virtual events.

International Survivors of Suicide Loss Day (Nov. 23)

This day is a time for those who have lost someone to suicide to come together, share their stories, and heal. It underscores the importance of breaking the stigma around suicide and prioritizing mental health support for those left behind.

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Photo by Thought Catalog on Pexels.com

How You Can Help:

  • Attend or promote events supporting survivors of suicide loss.
  • Familiarize yourself with resources like the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
  • Offer empathy and understanding to those who have experienced this loss.

Bringing It All Together

November reminds us that mental health is a shared responsibility. By acknowledging these observances and the people they impact, we can create a more empathetic and supportive world. Whether through learning, advocacy, or simply showing up for someone, every action matters.

Let this month inspire us to look out for each other and to prioritize mental health—not just in November, but all year long.

What are you doing to support mental health awareness this month? Share your thoughts and let’s keep the conversation going.

woman illustrating albert einstein formula
What Makes a Teacher Great: Beyond the Classroom

2) Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.

– Benjamin Franklin
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Teaching is one of the most impactful professions in the world. A great teacher doesn’t just impart knowledge—they inspire, nurture, and shape the future by touching the lives of their students in profound ways. But what truly makes a teacher great? It’s a combination of qualities and actions that go beyond simply delivering lessons.

1. Passion for Teaching and Learning

At the heart of every great teacher is a genuine passion for their subject and for the act of teaching itself. This passion is infectious; it ignites a spark in students and makes learning an engaging, dynamic experience. A teacher who loves what they do is constantly exploring new ideas, staying curious, and bringing that enthusiasm into the classroom.

2. Empathy and Understanding

A great teacher understands that every student is unique, with their own set of challenges, strengths, and needs. They are empathetic and patient, taking the time to listen and support their students. Whether it’s offering extra help after class or simply being a reassuring presence, an empathetic teacher makes students feel valued and understood.

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3. Effective Communication

Communication is key in teaching. A great teacher can explain complex concepts in a way that is accessible and relatable. They know how to break down information, use examples, and adapt their communication style to meet the needs of their students. They also encourage open dialogue, making the classroom a space where students feel comfortable asking questions and expressing themselves.

4. Adaptability and Creativity

No two classes are the same, and no single teaching method works for every student. Great teachers are adaptable, able to adjust their approach based on the situation and the needs of their students. They are also creative, finding new and engaging ways to present material, whether through innovative projects, interactive lessons, or integrating technology.

5. Dedication to Student Success

Great teachers are deeply committed to the success of their students. They set high expectations and provide the support necessary for students to meet them. This dedication often means going above and beyond—whether it’s staying late to offer tutoring, providing encouragement during tough times, or helping students navigate challenges both inside and outside the classroom.

6. Encouraging Critical Thinking

Rather than just focusing on memorization or rote learning, great teachers encourage critical thinking. They challenge students to ask questions, think deeply, and explore different perspectives. By fostering an environment where inquiry and exploration are valued, they help students develop the skills necessary to become independent thinkers and lifelong learners.

7. Building Relationships

Great teachers know that strong relationships are the foundation of a successful learning environment. They take the time to get to know their students, building trust and respect. These relationships extend beyond the classroom, as great teachers often remain mentors and guides for their students long after the school year ends.

photo of child sitting by the table while looking at the imac
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8. A Lifelong Learner

Teaching is not a static profession; it evolves constantly. Great teachers are lifelong learners who are always seeking to improve their skills and knowledge. They stay updated on the latest educational research, experiment with new teaching techniques, and are open to feedback. This commitment to their own growth ensures that they can continue to provide the best education for their students.

9. Inspiring and Motivating

A great teacher does more than teach; they inspire. They motivate students to reach for their potential, to believe in themselves, and to strive for excellence. This inspiration often comes not just from the teacher’s words, but from their actions—demonstrating a work ethic, a love of learning, and a commitment to making a difference.

10. Making Learning Fun and Relevant

Finally, a great teacher knows how to make learning fun and relevant. They bring lessons to life by connecting them to real-world experiences and showing students how what they’re learning applies outside the classroom. They create an environment where students are excited to learn and where education is seen as a meaningful and enjoyable pursuit.

In conclusion, what makes a teacher great is not just their knowledge of the subject but their ability to connect with students, inspire them, and foster an environment of growth and curiosity. Great teachers leave a lasting impact, not just through the lessons they teach, but through the lives they touch.

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Teachers can be anyone in our lives, not just those in the classroom. Whether it’s a mentor, a family member, or even a stranger we’ve met in passing, there are countless people who have left us with meaningful lessons. Who do you know or have encountered that taught you something valuable? What lesson did it leave behind, and how might you pay it forward to someone else? Reflecting on these moments reminds us that teaching and learning are continuous processes, and we all have the power to inspire and uplift others in ways we may never even realize.

“Coping with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) and Addressing Seasonal Triggers”

Explore the onset of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) as the fall season approaches, discussing how the change in seasons can impact mood and trigger feelings of grief or loss. Provide strategies for managing SAD, including light therapy, establishing routines, and incorporating self-care practices. Additionally, address how the fall season can bring up emotional triggers related to grief and offer techniques for coping with these feelings to maintain emotional wellness throughout the season.

As the vibrant days of summer give way to the cooler, shorter days of fall, many people find themselves grappling with a shift in mood. This transition isn’t just about changing leaves and cozy sweaters; for some, it brings a more challenging emotional experience. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that typically occurs in the fall and winter months when sunlight is scarce. Additionally, the fall season can evoke powerful emotions and trigger grief for those who associate this time of year with loss or past trauma. Understanding and addressing both SAD and these seasonal triggers is crucial for maintaining emotional well-being.

Understanding Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

SAD is a subtype of depression that follows a seasonal pattern, In most cases, SAD symptoms start in the late fall or early winter and go away during the spring and summer, known as winter-pattern SAD or winter depression. Other people experience depressive symptoms during the spring and summer months, known as summer-pattern SAD or summer depression. Summer-pattern SAD is less common.
Common symptoms include:

  • Persistent low mood or sadness
  • Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
  • Fatigue and low energy
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Changes in appetite, often with a craving for carbohydrates
  • Sleep disturbances, particularly oversleeping
  • Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness

The exact cause of SAD is not fully understood, but it’s believed to be related to the reduced level of sunlight during the fall and winter months, which can disrupt your body’s internal clock, leading to a drop in serotonin levels—a neurotransmitter that affects mood.

Strategies for Managing SAD

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of SAD, there are several strategies that can help manage and alleviate these symptoms:

  1. Light Therapy: One of the most effective treatments for SAD is light therapy. This involves sitting in front of a light therapy box that mimics natural sunlight for about 20-30 minutes each day. The exposure to bright light can help regulate your body’s circadian rhythm and boost serotonin levels.
  2. Establishing a Routine: Creating and sticking to a regular daily routine can provide structure and a sense of normalcy, which can be comforting during the darker months. This includes maintaining consistent sleep and wake times, even on weekends.
  3. Physical Activity: Regular exercise, particularly outdoor activities, can significantly improve mood and energy levels. Even on cloudy days, being outside can help your body absorb natural light.
  4. Diet and Nutrition: Eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help maintain energy levels and stabilize your mood. Be mindful of cravings for sugary or high-carbohydrate foods, which can lead to energy crashes.
  5. Therapy and Counseling: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has been shown to be effective in treating SAD. A therapist can help you identify negative thought patterns and develop strategies to cope with the symptoms.
  6. Social Support: Staying connected with friends and family is crucial. Social isolation can exacerbate feelings of depression, so make an effort to reach out and spend time with loved ones, even if it’s just a phone call or video chat.

Addressing Seasonal Triggers of Grief

For some, fall is a time of year that brings up memories of loss or past trauma. The season can serve as a reminder of loved ones who have passed away, particularly if those losses occurred around this time of year. It’s important to acknowledge these feelings rather than suppress them.

  1. Recognize and Validate Your Feelings: It’s normal to experience a resurgence of grief during certain times of the year. Give yourself permission to feel these emotions and recognize that they are a natural response to loss.
  2. Create Rituals of Remembrance: Consider establishing a ritual to honor your loved one or process your grief. This could be visiting a favorite place, lighting a candle, or spending time reflecting on positive memories.
  3. Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out for support, whether it’s from friends, family, or a grief counselor. Sharing your feelings can help you process them and feel less alone.
  4. Practice Self-Compassion: Be gentle with yourself during this time. Allow yourself to take breaks, rest, and engage in activities that bring you comfort and peace.
  5. Focus on the Present: While it’s important to honor your feelings, it’s also helpful to stay grounded in the present. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation or deep breathing, can help you stay connected to the here and now.

Combining Strategies for Holistic Well-being

It’s important to recognize that SAD and grief can intersect, creating a complex emotional landscape during the fall. By combining strategies to manage SAD with those for addressing seasonal grief triggers, you can create a holistic approach to emotional well-being. This might involve:

  • Incorporating light therapy and exercise into your daily routine while also engaging in remembrance rituals.
  • Balancing social activities with quiet time for reflection and mindfulness.
  • Seeking professional support for both SAD and grief, as they can amplify each other’s effects.

Ultimately, the key is to be proactive about your mental health as the seasons change. By acknowledging the challenges that fall can bring and taking steps to address them, you can navigate this transition with greater resilience and emotional strength. Remember, it’s okay to seek help and take the time you need to care for yourself during this time of year.

Check out this article from the National Institute of Mental Health for more information and resources to assist with SAD if you or anyone you know may experience symptoms or already do benefit from some of the suggestions and just want more information.