Learning to Cope with Trauma and Moving Forward

Abstract

Stages to processing trauma are basically nonexistent. Clients who have been through trauma and are struggling with emotions, irrational thoughts/fears, etc. are the inspiration for developing the stages of validating feelings/emotions, combating irrational thoughts/fears, developing and implementing healthy coping skills and avoiding negative coping skills, regaining control and power, and being able to move forward. Too many who have experienced trauma turn to drugs (methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin) or alcohol to “numb” the pain and the memories. This paper is to assist in developing healthy techniques for processing and moving forward after a traumatic event.