403: Healing Journeys: Understanding EMDR and Trauma Recovery with Dr. Pria Alpern, Ph.D.

Today’s episode focuses on EMDR for the treatment of birth trauma and reproductive trauma. You’ll learn what EMDR is and how this therapy technique can support families through trauma recovery. Dr. Pria Alpern is a licensed clinical psychologist, EMDRIA-approved therapist, and EMDRIA-approved consultant. She is the founder of the Manhattan Center of Trauma Studies and the director of the Center Psychology Group in NYC, a psychotherapy practice specializing in treating trauma in the adult and perinatal populations. Outside her clinical practice, she creates mental health content, provides education, and raises awareness about EMDR and trauma-informed psychotherapy on social media platforms. She’s been featured in numerous news outlets and is here to share her wisdom and experience with us. Show Highlights: Understanding the scope of reproductive trauma The philosophy behind EMDR, a therapy approach to unprocessed memories and negative beliefs Examples of traumas during pregnancy Trauma can manifest itself in PTSD and PMADs, both of which can be addressed by EMDR Understanding EMDR and the phases of its therapeutic use to process trauma What Dr. Alpern sees most in her clinical practice regarding birth trauma Similarities between reactions to birth trauma and sexual assault Flexibility within the EMDR protocol Finding “the window of tolerance” so someone can be present in the moment Therapy, support, community, and emotional support from family can work together to bring healing. Using the structure of a tree as a metaphor for the depth and variance of EMDR therapy Dr. Alpern’s wide range of work in training other therapists, with highlights on EMDR for racial and cultural oppression Race, identity, and positionality cannot be ignored in the therapeutic relationship. Dr. Alpern’s perspective on trauma: “For anyone who has experienced trauma, it can be very helpful to talk to someone. Please reach out for help.” Resources: Connect with Dr. Pria Alpern Website, Instagram, and TikTok Find EMDR resources at EMDRIA.org. Call the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline at 1-833-TLC-MAMA or visit cdph.ca.gov Please find resources in English and Spanish at Postpartum Support International, or by phone/text at 1-800-944-4773. There are many free resources, like online support groups, peer mentors, a specialist provider directory, and perinatal mental health training for therapists, physicians, nurses, doulas, and anyone who wants to be more supportive in offering services.  You can also follow PSI on social media: Instagram, Facebook, and most other platforms Visit www.postpartum.net/professionals/certificate-trainings/ for information on the grief course.   Visit my website, www.wellmindperinatal.com, for more information, resources, and courses you can take today! If you are a California resident looking for a therapist in perinatal mental health, email me about openings for private pay clients! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices