Recovering From Trauma

Julie McAllister is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Nationally Certified Counselor, and a Certified EMDR therapist. She is the co-Founder of EMDR Transformations Counseling in Gilbert, AZ. Julie has worked in the field of trauma for the past 14 years. She specializes in treating complex trauma and attachment, as well as working with first responders and members of the LGBTQ community.

She is passionate about trauma work and wanted to provide the following resources:

What Happened to You, by Dr Bruce Perry and Oprah Winfrey.  This is a great book to give an overview of what trauma is, how it impacts the brain and behavior, and provides hope for healing and resiliency. I particularly enjoy the audiobook format on this one because it is narrated by the authors and feels as though a conversation is taking place. 

 

The Body Keeps the Score, by Bessel van der Kolk, M.D.  A comprehensive book about the imprint that trauma has on the body, focused on neuroscience, findings of multiple research studies, real case histories, and an in depth review of various interventions and treatment modalities. This book offers a holistic viewpoint, incorporating medical, psychiatric and alternative interventions for healing.

 

Calming bilateral music:
Bryan Cumming - Can be found on Apple, Spotify, Amazon, etc.  Meditative instrumental music, slowly panning back and forth from left to right, a technique designed specifically for use by EMDR clients but can be calming for anyone. Bryan composed and arranged the music, using acoustic guitars, gentle keyboards, wind instruments, light percussion, and the natural sounds of water and wind.

 

App:

Anxiety Release Based on EMDR. $4.99 app store. https://apps.apple.com/us/app/anxiety-release-based-on-emdr/id647038074   App developed by Mark Grant that provides some exercises to release anxiety, relax, and track your progress. Caution by the developer: Persons suffering with complex PTSD or mental health problems, multiple psychological trauma or unstable neurological conditions (eg; epilepsy) should not use this product without medical supervision.