Creating Safety from a Psychodynamic Trauma-Informed Perspective: A Path to Healing and Growth

In the journey of life, our experiences shape who we become, and sometimes, they leave scars that impact our behavior and emotions in profound ways. Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes, the Executive Director of AllCEUs Counselor Education, explores the transformative power of creating safety from a psychodynamic perspective. Through her insightful video, "Creating Safety From a Psychodynamic Perspective," Dr. Snipes guides us on a journey of self-awareness and healing.

At the core of psychodynamics lies the belief that our unconscious and subconscious motives significantly influence our behavior and emotions. Our childhood experiences, especially those related to attachment, play a fundamental role in shaping our adult selves. Recognizing this connection is the first step towards understanding and addressing unhelpful or bothersome behaviors that may hinder our growth.

The video delves into various behaviors that arise when we feel unsafe – the Fight, Flee, Freeze, and Withdrawal response, also known as "Forget about it" behaviors. These reactions are rooted in our survival instincts, and they manifest in different forms, such as addictions, social withdrawal, self-sabotage, and hypervigilance. Understanding the underlying causes of these behaviors empowers us to break free from their grip.

On the flip side, Dr. Snipes discusses behaviors that indicate a sense of safety – happiness, contentment, assertiveness, and self-esteem, to name a few. By recognizing and nurturing these positive behaviors, we can create a foundation of safety for ourselves.

Our present experiences are often perceived through the lens of our past, shaped by personal experiences, education, and developmental influences. Dr. Snipes encourages us to explore our autobiographies to uncover themes of abandonment, rejection, failure, safety, and loss of control. This introspection allows us to better understand our current feelings and behaviors and helps us identify triggers that may lead to dysphoria.

Transference, both positive and negative, plays a significant role in how we perceive and react to present situations. By becoming aware of our transference patterns, triggered by sights, smells, sounds, and situations, we can gain control over our reactions and emotions.

Mindfulness and grounding techniques are powerful tools offered in the video to address transference and foster self-awareness. By developing mindful awareness and grounding ourselves in the present moment, we can distinguish past fears from present realities, thus promoting emotional well-being.

The concept of PACER Safety is another crucial aspect of the video. It emphasizes physical, affective, cognitive, and relational safety in various environments. By identifying triggers and implementing strategies to moderate them, we can cultivate a greater sense of safety within ourselves.

In conclusion, "Creating Safety From a Psychodynamic Perspective" by Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes is a transformative video that encourages self-exploration and healing. By understanding the impact of our past experiences on our present behavior, we can create a safer and more empowered future. Through mindfulness, grounding, and nurturing positive behaviors, we pave the way for growth, happiness, and genuine connections with others. So, take the first step on this journey of self-discovery and watch the videos here: https://DocSnipes.com/CS-TIP to unlock the power of safety and healing from a psychodynamic trauma-informed perspective. Embrace the opportunity to embark on a path of self-awareness and transformation today – you deserve it!