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Maybe She’s Born With It, Maybe It’s Executive Dysfunction
As I’m writing this, I’m two days behind my deadline for it. I could certainly give some very understandable explanations for this that people would probably sympathize with – I’ve been busy (working, competing in several events, spending time with friends, reading a new book series…), the weather has been alternating between beautiful and atrocious, etc etc etc… but if we’re being honest, I procrastinated it and then forgot.
Navigating An Emotional Hangover
Similarly, a common experience (especially among trauma survivors) that is talked about much less–but just as deserving of its own list–is the emotional hangover. Despite all best intentions and emotional management, the day after an intense emotional experience or some intense triggers or flashbacks can be rough, and some of that emotional residue may carry over–like a hangover. Many clients I’ve worked with have also experienced this in the aftermath of an intense EMDR or other trauma-processing therapy session. And sometimes we’re so in the weeds with it that we forget how important it is to take care of ourselves when this comes up, especially when it comes to the basics.
The Long Run Of Trauma Recovery
There’s an old joke that asks, “How can you tell if someone is a runner?” And the answer is, “Don’t worry, they’ll tell you.” Harsh, but fair. As a runner, I do talk about it a lot, and most people who know me know there’s almost no situation I can’t come up with SOME type of running metaphor or comparison for. I try not to be too obnoxious, but the fact is I just love it.
About Brittany
Brittany earned her undergraduate degree (BA in Music) from Gustavus Adolphus College and her Master’s in Social Work (MSW) at the University of Minnesota- Twin Cities. Brittany brings 6 years of experience in the mental health field to MidWest Center. Before transitioning to the mental health field, Brittany worked as a music director and piano teacher. Prior to starting with MidWest Center, Brittany worked for Face to Face Health & Counseling working with at-risk adolescents and young adults, and at Alexandra House working with survivors of domestic and sexual violence. She has volunteer experience with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and To Write Love on Her Arms (TWLOHA). She enjoys working with individual adolescents and adults.
Brittany’s Therapy Approach: “I utilize a trauma-informed client-centered approach with roots in interpersonal, cognitive, and attachment theories, and my practice is rooted in a social justice, anti-oppression framework. I believe people are the experts in their own lives, and I work collaboratively with individuals through a strengths-based lens to foster hope, health and healing.”