Welcome to phoenix rising wellness

Dispelling myths surrounding trauma and related disorders 

Many people mistakenly believe that trauma only stems from extreme events like war, abuse, or natural disasters. However, the reality is much broader. Trauma can be caused by any experience that leaves someone feeling overwhelmed, unsafe, or powerless. This can include seemingly less dramatic events like bullying, neglect, chronic illness, or even the loss of a loved one, even through non-violent means.

The key factor is the individual's perception and ability to cope.  Trauma can also arise from the absence of positive experiences, such as a lack of emotional support or a caregiver's inability to provide a sense of safety and security.  Essentially, trauma is about unmet needs and a sense of disconnection from a safe and secure environment, and it can stem from both negative events and the absence of positive ones.

Personality disorders are often misunderstood. It's important to remember that these conditions often have roots in difficult experiences, like childhood trauma or neglect. These experiences can shape how someone thinks, feels, and behaves.  At Phoenix Rising, I understand these challenges and approach treatment with compassion and a trauma-informed perspective. There is no judgment here – only a desire to help you understand yourself better and develop healthier coping mechanisms.  Just like the phoenix rising from the ashes, we believe in your potential for growth and transformation. With the right support, you can manage your symptoms and build a fulfilling life.

Dissociation is a complex coping mechanism that can arise in response to overwhelming or traumatic experiences.  Imagine a situation so stressful that it feels unbearable. Dissociation acts as a kind of internal escape hatch, allowing a person to detach from their thoughts, feelings, memories, or even their sense of identity. This detachment can take many forms, such as feeling numb or disconnected from your body, experiencing flashbacks that feel like watching a movie, or having gaps in your memory.

While dissociation can provide temporary relief in the face of trauma, it can also become a habitual way of coping with stress.  If dissociation becomes chronic and significantly interferes with daily life, it may develop into a dissociative disorder. This can lead to difficulties in daily life, such as maintaining healthy relationships, managing emotions effectively, or feeling fully present in the world. There are a number of disorders that involve dissociation, the most commonly known being Dissociative Identity Disorder or DID.

DID is often portrayed in movies and TV shows as a dramatic display of "multiple personalities" taking turns controlling a person's actions. While DID does involve distinct identities, the reality is far less sensational. These identities typically emerge as a way to cope with overwhelming trauma. 

Importantly, not everyone with dissociative disorders including DID struggle to function in daily life. Many individuals manage their symptoms effectively and live fulfilling lives. However, they may experience significant internal distress or become triggered by stressful events, causing dissociative symptoms to become overwhelming. At Phoenix Rising Wellness I understand the complexities of dissociative disorders including DID and offer a compassionate approach to healing. By understanding the underlying trauma that may be fueling dissociation, therapy can help individuals develop healthier coping mechanisms and build a stronger sense of self.

Many people struggling with substance abuse disorders carry the scars of past trauma. Traumatic experiences can leave individuals feeling overwhelmed, unsafe, and disconnected from themselves. Substances like alcohol and drugs can offer a temporary escape from these difficult emotions, numbing the pain and providing a sense of relief. However, this "relief" is often fleeting, leading to a cycle of substance use to cope, followed by negative consequences, and then the need for more substances to escape the emotional fallout.

At Phoenix Rising Wellness, I work with  individuals in recovery from substance abuse disorders. I understand how trauma can fuel addiction, and I offer a holistic approach to healing that addresses both the addiction and the underlying trauma.  This typically involves individual therapy, and depending on your specific needs, I may require participation in an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) or group therapy alongside individual sessions for those in early recovery. IOPs and group therapy provide additional support, accountability, and skill-building opportunities that can be invaluable in early recovery.