Processing
Processing (Analytical)
In Brief
Integrates the traumatic event or separates our story from the overwhelming emotion of the trauma.
Quotes
“I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become.” ~ C. Jung
Processing / Catharsis (Experiential)
In Brief
Catharsis is releasing and then processing strong, difficult emotions.
Expressive tools
role-playing, guided imagery, empty chair, music, etc. to reexperience past trauma
Quotes
“Processing pulls out our story from the weight and confusion of trauma.” ~ N. Shpancer
“Processing allows current emotional experiences to be paired with compassion-focused interventions.” ~ Unknown
Therapy Pros
Gateway to the unconscious.
Therapy Cons
Catharsis is double-edged.
Processing (In-The-Moment)
In Brief
As with Tournament Poker, therapeutic processing is the skill of experiencing and observing at the same time.
Quotes
“Therapy should not be theory-driven but relationship-driven.” ~ Irvin D. Yalom
“The here-and-now is the major source of therapeutic power, the pay dirt of therapy.” ~ Irvin D. Yalom