‘When The Light Goes Out’ by Dr Lisa Myers
Time to read: 1 minutes
Four years ago, I received a distressing phone call from my sister informing me that our father was missing. What followed were hours of immense panic and horrific experiences that caused my family and me overwhelming trauma and grief.
Initially, I was told that my father had been murdered but it was later deemed to be a suicide. The only certainty was that my father had suffered. Losing my father in this way only aggravated my shame and guilt.
INSIGHTS GAINED FROM MY EXPERIENCE
Creating a narrative helps to integrate our trauma.
As a psychiatrist, I was familiar with trauma theory, but my personal experience gave me greater insight into my clients’ suffering.
We are taught never to disclose and to present a blank canvas to our clients, yet I have found that clients appreciate a relational, authentic approach. There is power in our lived experiences, vulnerability and shared humanity.
It is possible to overcome shame and imposter syndrome.
DSM-V fails to acknowledge the deep trauma that underlies many of our client’s symptoms that if left untreated, will never heal.
Throughout the book, I share many more valuable insights and stories of addressing clients’ trauma and grief in therapy. Click here to get the book.
