When you come to therapy, you see me for an hour. We talk, we process, we work together on your healing. But what you don't see is everything that happens outside that hour. As a trauma therapist based in North Berwick, I want to pull back the curtain on the work that happens between our sessions.
Before We Meet
Before you arrive, I'm reviewing my notes from our last session, refreshing my memory of your formulation and where we are in your treatment. I'm considering what we might work on today and preparing any resources we might need. I'm also doing my own grounding practice, creating the right headspace to hold your story with the attention it deserves.
After You Leave
Once you've left, I write up session notes and update your formulation as new information emerges. I reflect on what worked well and what might need adjusting. I consider next steps and document patterns I'm noticing. If you're working with insurance or through a medico-legal referral, there's additional paperwork to complete.
The Thinking That Continues
Formulation doesn't end when our session ends. Between sessions, I'm often connecting dots, considering different approaches we might try, or thinking about relevant research. I'm not obsessing about clients, but I am holding you thoughtfully in mind. This is part of providing good care.
Ongoing Learning and Support
I regularly attend training and supervision to stay current with trauma treatment developments. I read the latest research and learn new techniques. I have my own therapist and clinical supervisor, which I've written about before. These aren't extras, they're essential parts of doing this work well.
In supervision, I discuss complex cases anonymously, getting guidance and fresh perspectives. This benefits you directly through better-informed treatment decisions.
Managing the Weight
Hearing difficult stories day after day takes a toll. Managing vicarious trauma isn't optional, it's a professional responsibility. My own therapy, regular supervision, time in nature, and clear boundaries between work and home life aren't indulgences. They're what ensure I can continue to show up fully present for your healing.
Why This Matters
The therapy hour is just the visible part of comprehensive trauma care. Understanding this helps explain why quality therapy involves significant professional commitment beyond our time together. All of this unseen work exists in service of your healing.
If you're looking for a therapist who takes this comprehensive approach to trauma treatment, please get in touch. The work we do together is supported by everything that happens in between.