In this program, we will define both resolved and unresolved trauma. Then, we’ll examine the roadblocks that stand in the way of resolving trauma and how maneuver those stuck points. Specifically we will study how preoccupying and dismissing mind states obstruct the path to trauma resolution. Moreover, the way to resolve preoccupying trauma is very different from dismissed trauma. These are largely opposite mind states that need to be remedied differently. We will flesh these out and experience them directly as mind states in the guided meditation

For the trauma to resolve, we need to come into a balanced mind state that integrates what otherwise is unseen or un-acknowledged. Self-dismissal and preoccupation along with other less common defensive strategies obstruct the resolution process. Additionally, more complex trauma will involve a layering of distortions/self-defensive strategies. We will attempt to address this as well.

In line with the saying that “What we resist persists”, we will also discuss the value of using a defensive strategies like dismissal or preoccupation and see how these strategies worked in the past to keep us safe.

Psycho-education Part (what to understand)

• Trauma (resolved and unresolved)
• What obstructs resolution of trauma
  • Dismissing mind states
  • Preoccupying mind states
  • Other less common self-protective strategies
• Reflective integration/mentalization/metacognitive processing to come into balance and resolve and see what is obscured

This course draws from:

• Attachment Theory generally
• Dynamic-Maturational Model of Attachment and Adaptation (Crittenden et al.)
• Coherence Therapy (Bruce Ecker et al.)
• Mentalization Based Treatment (Fonage & Bateman et al.)
• Ideal Parent Figure Protocol (IPF) (Brown & Elliott et al)

Guided Meditations

• Brief Perfect Nurturer Reinforcement (Largely overlapping with a basic Ideal Parent Figure Protocol Meditation)
• Two separate meditations to intentionally come into dismissing and preoccupied mind-states around trauma in order to understand, value, and accept these defensive strategies
• Guided meditation focused on resolving trauma with emphasis on identifying, understanding and going beyond unproductive traps of dismissing and preoccupying mind states.

This program is not psychotherapy or a substitute for it. It is a psycho-educational and meditation program. Additionally, it is helpful and recommended to do psychotherapy in parallel with this type of program.