Two approaches to the same problem

Your brain is a marvelous thing; it has many different layers and functions, and this offers us an opportunity to be flexible and creative when it comes to resolving your problems.  

A useful starting point with all of this is to understand our brain in three different ways - 

• We have a Rational Brain (capable of planning and logic), 
• We have an Emotional Brain (you can probably guess what this is capable of), and
• We have a Survival Brain (enabling us to fight off or flee a perceived threat)

When you work with a therapist to resolve problems, we can help you by using one of two approaches to therapy:

• Top Down Therapy - This means we target our unhelpful thought patterns to make us feel better.  For example, we might use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to identify a tendency to catastrophize (you assume the worst about a situation).  Once you are aware of this tendency, we can help you to assess whether it is really a catastrophe or whether it is a matter of anticipated discomfort.  Finally, we help you to prepare for this anticipated discomfort by identifying your strengths and resources.
• Bottom Up Therapy - This is where we help you to change your bodily sensations and feelings to change your thoughts.  For example, we can use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR) to help your body to let go of distressing memories that may be held in your body.  In turn, you are able to let go of unhelpful thoughts about yourself (for example, 'I am unsafe' or 'I am out of control'), and you can start to look for more adaptive ways to view yourself and the world around you (for example, 'I have ways of keeping myself safe').  You can find out more about EMDR here.  

Whichever the approach, we are here to help you.  Get in contact today.

Chris Warren-Dickins, Psychotherapist
Ridgewood, New Jersey
www.exploretransform.com