Overcome Betrayal Trauma with an EMDR Therapist
In a world where trust means everything, betrayal hits hard. Imagine Sarah, believing in the people closest to her, only to be hurt deeply by their betrayal. It's like her whole world fell apart, leaving her lost and hurting.
Sarah felt angry, sad, and betrayed. She couldn't sleep without nightmares, and the betrayal haunted her every thought. Trust, once so important, now seemed impossible.
Desperate for help, Sarah turned to a therapist who knew about EMDR therapy. This therapy helps people deal with trauma. Sarah wasn't sure what to expect, but she wanted to feel better.
In the therapist's office, Sarah talked about what happened. The therapist guided her through EMDR therapy, helping her face the pain little by little.
With each session, Sarah began to feel a little better. The nightmares stopped, and she didn't feel haunted by the betrayal anymore. Instead of just feeling angry, she started to understand and forgive, not the person who hurt her, but herself.
Through EMDR therapy, Sarah found strength she didn't know she had. She's not defined by the betrayal anymore. Now, she's strong and ready to heal, showing that even the deepest wounds can be overcome with help and determination.
What is Betrayal Trauma?
Betrayal trauma occurs when someone we trust deeply violates that trust, causing emotional harm.
It can result from various actions like infidelity, dishonesty, or breaking promises.
Betrayal trauma can lead to feelings of anger, sadness, mistrust, and anxiety.
Symptoms may include nightmares, flashbacks, and difficulty trusting others.
Healing from betrayal trauma involves addressing the emotional wounds and rebuilding trust in oneself and others.
Symptoms of Betrayal Trauma
Anxiety and Hypervigilance: Constant worry, fear of being hurt again, or difficulty feeling safe even in familiar surroundings.
Trust Issues: Struggling to trust others, even those who were not involved in the betrayal, and feeling suspicious of their intentions.
Intrusive Thoughts and Memories: Persistent thoughts or memories of the betrayal that intrude upon daily life, often accompanied by strong emotional reactions.
Difficulty Concentrating: Finding it hard to focus on tasks or responsibilities due to preoccupation with the betrayal and its aftermath.
Changes in Behavior: Engaging in avoidance behaviours, such as avoiding people or situations reminiscent of the betrayal, or withdrawing from social interactions altogether.
Physical Symptoms: Experiencing physical manifestations of stress, such as headaches, stomachaches, or trouble sleeping, as a result of the emotional turmoil caused by the betrayal.
7 Tips if You Are Dealing with Betrayal Trauma
Seek Support: Reach out to friends, family, or a therapist who can offer empathy and understanding during this challenging time.
Practice Self-Care: Take time to prioritize your well-being by engaging in activities that bring you comfort and relaxation, such as exercise, meditation, or hobbies.
Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries with the person who betrayed you to protect yourself from further harm and allow for emotional healing.
Express Your Feelings: Allow yourself to acknowledge and express your emotions, whether through journaling, art, or talking with a trusted confidant.
Consider Therapy: Explore therapy options like EMDR therapy, which can help you process and overcome the trauma in a supportive environment.
Focus on Healing: Be patient with yourself and recognize that healing takes time. Allow yourself to grieve the loss of trust while also nurturing hope for the future.
Rebuild Trust: As you progress in your healing journey, gradually work towards rebuilding trust in yourself and others, starting with small steps and incremental progress.
Treatments for Betrayal Trauma
Several treatment approaches have been developed to address the complex emotional and psychological effects of betrayal trauma. This section explores three main therapeutic modalities commonly used in the treatment of betrayal trauma: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
1. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a structured psychotherapeutic approach designed to help individuals process traumatic memories and alleviate associated distress (Shapiro, 2018). EMDR involves a standardized eight-phase protocol, including history-taking, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation, body scan, closure, and reevaluation (Shapiro, 2018).
During EMDR sessions, bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, taps, or auditory cues, is utilized to facilitate the processing of distressing memories and promote adaptive resolution (Shapiro, 2018). Research studies have demonstrated the efficacy of EMDR in reducing symptoms of betrayal trauma and improving overall psychological functioning (Lee et al., 2018).
2. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely used therapeutic approach that focuses on identifying and challenging maladaptive thoughts and behaviours associated with trauma (Cloitre et al., 2010). In the context of betrayal trauma, CBT aims to address cognitive distortions, such as negative beliefs about oneself and others, and develop coping strategies to manage distressing emotions (Cloitre et al., 2010).
Techniques commonly used in CBT for betrayal trauma include cognitive restructuring, exposure therapy, and skills training (Cloitre et al., 2010). Research evidence supports the effectiveness of CBT in reducing symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and improving interpersonal functioning among survivors of betrayal trauma (Cloitre et al., 2010).
3. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is a mindfulness-based intervention that emphasizes acceptance of difficult emotions and values-based action (Hayes et al., 2012). In the context of betrayal trauma, ACT encourages individuals to cultivate psychological flexibility and resilience by accepting their emotions without judgment and committing to actions aligned with their values (Hayes et al., 2012). ACT techniques, such as mindfulness exercises, cognitive defusion, and values clarification, can help survivors of betrayal trauma cope with distress and enhance their overall well-being (Hayes et al., 2012).
These treatment approaches offer valuable tools for addressing the complex emotional and psychological effects of betrayal trauma. By incorporating evidence-based interventions and fostering a supportive therapeutic relationship, clinicians can assist individuals in navigating the challenges associated with betrayal trauma and ultimately empower them to reclaim their sense of safety, trust, and well-being.
Get Started with a Betrayal Trauma Therapist
At Virtual CBT Psychotherapy, we have a variety of therapists and treatment modalities to choose from. Learn more about our team of social workers, psychologists, and registered psychotherapists. Book a free consultation by clicking the tab below and our Clinical Directors will match you with a therapist based on your unique trauma history.
References:Cloitre, M., Cohen, L. R., & Koenen, K. C. (2010). Treating survivors of childhood abuse: Psychotherapy for the interrupted life. Guilford Press.Hayes, S. C., Strosahl, K. D., & Wilson, K. G. (2012). Acceptance and commitment therapy: The process and practice of mindful change. Guilford Press.Lee, C. W., Cuijpers, P., & Akinwande, O. (2018). EMDR for depression: A systematic review of controlled studies. Depression and Anxiety, 35(11), 1038-1050. https://doi.org/10.1002/da.22792Shapiro, F. (2018). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy: Basic principles, protocols, and procedures (3rd ed.). Guilford Press.