When an individual experiences something that is horrible or frightening, the instinctive response may be to avoid memories, feelings, and situations that remind them of the trauma they experienced. This instinctive response unfortunately perpetuates fear and corresponding symptoms of trauma including distressing memories, traumatic reliving (flashbacks), nightmares, and changes in physical and emotional reactions (e.g. being easily startled, having angry outbursts, feeling constantly on guard). Therefore, the gradual process of approaching trauma memories and re-engaging with situations that cause distress but are not inherently dangerous allows for the individual to process the trauma more completely and accurately.
Prolonged exposure is a specific type of cognitive behavioral therapy that teaches individuals to gradually approach trauma-related memories, feelings and situations. At Cadence, prolonged exposure is done in the context of individual therapy, and may also be integrated into Dialectical Behavior Therapy for individuals who experience suicidal thoughts or engage in self-injurious behavior through DBT-PE.
For younger children with histories of trauma, Cadence employs Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy. TF-CBT aims to give children the skills they need to identify and manage distressing thoughts. Like Prolonged Exposure, TF-CBT incorporates gradual and age-appropriate narration of the trauma as well as a gradual approach to safe trauma cues currently being avoided. This evidence-based and effective treatment for trauma related symptoms may incorporate caregivers in treatment.
