Understanding Trauma Through the Work of Dr. Bessel van der Kolk
When it comes to understanding trauma and healing, few figures are as influential as Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, author of the best-selling book The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma. If you are looking to delve deeper into understanding the impact trauma makes not only on our mind, but also our bodies, this might be the best place to start! His research has transformed how therapists and clients approach trauma therapy, emphasizing that healing must involve both the mind and body.
At Calmura Counseling & Wellness, we integrate the basis of understanding derived from van der Kolk’s, evidence-based perspective in our trauma informed approach to PTSD treatment.
Trauma as a Whole-Body Experience
Dr. van der Kolk’s research shows that trauma is stored not only in memory but also in the body’s physiological systems. When someone experiences trauma, the amygdala (which is the brain’s “alarm” center) becomes overactive, and the prefrontal cortex (responsible for logic and decision-making) can shut down under stress.
This imbalance often leads to chronic hypervigilance, numbness, and emotional dysregulation, symptoms that trauma therapy aims to address.
“The body keeps the score,” van der Kolk writes. “If the memory of trauma is encoded in the viscera and heart rate, then healing must involve the body.”
Integrative Approaches to Trauma Healing
Dr. van der Kolk’s work highlights the importance of combining multiple therapeutic approaches. Some of the most effective include:
Somatic Therapies: Somatic Experiencing and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy focus on physical sensations to gently release stored tension and trauma responses.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): A proven method for PTSD treatment, EMDR helps the brain reprocess traumatic memories so they lose their emotional charge.
Neurofeedback: By training the brain’s activity patterns, neurofeedback supports better mood regulation, focus, and resilience after trauma.
Yoga and Mindfulness: Van der Kolk’s studies show that yoga and mindfulness practices can calm the nervous system and help clients re-establish trust in their bodies.
Creative and Relational Healing: Art, movement, and safe interpersonal relationships, such as a therapeutic relationship, can help people express what words cannot, fostering both self-understanding and connection.
The Role of Safety and Connection
One of van der Kolk’s core insights is that trauma recovery begins with safety, both within the body and in relationships. Healing takes place in an environment of trust and compassion, where clients can reconnect with their sense of agency and belonging.
The Lasting Impact of Bessel van der Kolk’s Work
Dr. van der Kolk’s influence extends beyond therapy rooms. His research has shaped trauma-informed practices in education, healthcare, and community systems, encouraging a more compassionate understanding of human suffering and resilience. At Calmura Counseling & Wellness, not only does our work with client embody these practices, but so do our program operations. We provide trauma-informed trainings for local schools, healthcare systems, and community-based organizations to increase awareness and implementation of essential principles and practices in trauma-informed care.
“Trauma is not the story of something that happened back then; it’s the current imprint of that pain on your mind, brain, and body.”
Trauma Therapy and PTSD Treatment in Los Angeles County
If you’re seeking trauma therapy, PTSD treatment, or body-based therapy in Los Angeles County, our team at Calmura Counseling & Wellness is here to help. We use evidence-based approaches inspired by the work of experts like Dr. van der Kolk to help you feel safe, grounded, and empowered again.
Start your healing journey today.
Contact us to schedule a consultation and learn more about our trauma-informed therapy options.
