In AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy), trauma refers to any experience that overwhelms a person's capacity to cope, leading to a sense of being overwhelmed, helpless, and disconnected. This can include events like:
- Abuse: Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
- Neglect: Physical, emotional, or educational neglect
- Witnessing violence: Domestic violence, community violence, or war
- Accidents: Car accidents, natural disasters, or serious injuries
- Loss: Death of a loved one, divorce, or job loss
AEDP views trauma as a disruption in the natural flow of emotional experience, leading to a dissociation from one's feelings and a sense of fragmentation. It emphasizes that trauma is not just an event, but also the ongoing impact of that event on a person's life.
AEDP focuses on helping individuals reconnect with their emotions and develop a stronger sense of self, which are crucial for healing from trauma.
