SEX THERAPY TREATMENT

This approach is commonly a synthesis of sex education, cognitive therapy, talk and trauma therapies. Often briefer in duration than other treatment modalities.

TRAUMA TREATMENTS

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR is a neurobiological form of therapy that helps people cope with traumas or upsetting events that may have lasting effects on an individual. Often these moments that happened long ago still feel very ‘real’ and when triggered, individuals can have a hard time letting go of the negative emotions, cognitions and beliefs about themselves associated with the traumatic event. Consequently, these memories, implicit or explicit, have an adverse impact on the person’s quality of life.

EMDR therapy works much in the same way Rapid Eye Movement (REM) works in sleep. EMDR has an effect on the way the brain processes information — helping the brain reprocess the memory of a painful event into a thought process that is less upsetting. By helping the patient see the event in a new way, through a series of bilateral stimulation (eye movements, alternating tapping, or alternating tones) a patient will be able to process distressing memories which allow for positive change and healing. EMDR treatment has been proven to be the most effective treatment for any form of post-traumatic stress disorder including childhood and sexual abuse. EMDR therapy also works over a shorter period of time as compared to other methods of therapy.

The Flash Technique

The Flash Technique was originated from EMDR and is an approach to reduce disturbing life events and distressing memories. The Flash Technique is a minimally intrusive intervention which allows clients to process traumatic memories without feeling distress. It is useful in a wide variety of presenting complaints including anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, mild and severe dissociation, depression and more. The Flash Technique can reduce the distress of a memory or disturbing experience “enough” so that further processing of the trauma with EMDR therapy is easier to tolerate.

The Recent Traumatic Episode Event (R-TEP) and Group Traumatic Episode Protocol (G-TEP) and Remote for Individuals and Self Care (G-TEP-RISC)

All three EMDR protocols are for early intervention for recent acute traumas. These treatments are short term and are designed to prevent consolidation of traumatic memories into PTSD and increase a sense of control, calmness and well being. These early interventions can be delivered successfully in an individual or group format (in person or virtually) and stress self care and healing.

Somatic Experiencing (SE)

SE is a body-awareness, mindful approach to overcoming trauma. It is based on Dr. Peter Levine’s research and clinical practice, demonstrating the innate ability of the human condition to transform trauma in achieving an enhanced quality of life.

Hypnotherapy

Hypnotherapy is often integrated with other treatment modalities. Techniques can be used to help the patient feel calm and relaxed. Dr. Pasahow finds this approach highly useful in effectively communicating ideas that enhance motivation toward change. There is a broad range of disorders and situations where it has been proven to be effective, for example: pain management, weight loss, smoking cessation, preparation for surgery, general anxiety, performance anxiety, depression, cancer conditions and traumas.

PSYCHOBIOLOGICAL APPROACH TO COUPLES THERAPY (PACT)

This model allows the therapist to understand the areas of the brain responsible for the difficulties couples present in both their attachment and emotional arousal behaviors and patterns. The PACT therapist helps couples move into secure attachment patterns and has proven to be highly successful for a wide range of relational and sexual challenges.

INSIGHT ORIENTED AND SUPPORTIVE THERAPY

This is commonly known as “talk therapy”. This type of therapy helps patients understand their moods, thoughts, feelings and behaviors. One-on-one discussion with a therapist can help individuals achieve a more adaptive perspective, enabling them to make more effective choices in managing their life challenges.  The benefits of “talk therapy” are immediate. The simple act of discussing your feelings can help you feel better as you work through your problems.