The Bellevue Trauma Recovery Center

Wishing a warm happy birthday to one of our incredible Clinical Directors at The BTRC, Dr. Connie Zollner! ☺️ Elizabeth and Jessica would like to wish you a day filled with relaxation and a true celebration of yourself, and they are incredibly grateful to be sharing this journey with you!! Thank you for the incredible work you do to better the lives of others. Here’s to another year of making a difference and bringing more light into the world. ❤

Let's shower her with birthday wishes in the comments!

Meet Mary-Frances Moore, our newest therapist at BTRC!

With a compassionate heart and a wealth of expertise, Mary-Frances is here to guide individuals and couples through life’s challenges. Specializing in trauma-informed care, she offers a personalized approach that includes psychodynamic, narrative, and existential therapies.

Whether you're dealing with intergenerational trauma, betrayal, or neurodivergence, Mary-Frances provides a safe and supportive environment to help you heal and thrive.

Join us in welcoming her to the team!

To learn more about Mary-Frances, click on the link here: https://thebtrc.com/therapists/mary-frances-moore/

Did you know that su***de is a leading cause of death in the U.S., with over 48,000 lives lost each year? That’s one person every 11 minutes. Behind these numbers are friends, family members, and loved ones whose lives are forever changed.

But here’s the truth: you can make a difference. If someone you know is in emotional pain, reach out. A simple conversation can be the first step towards saving a life.

Here’s how you can help:

1. Listen: Be there without judgment. Sometimes, all someone needs is to be heard.
2. Ask: Don’t be afraid to ask if they’re thinking about su***de. It could open the door to getting them the help they need.
3. Support: Encourage them to seek professional help and offer to accompany them if they’re scared to go alone.

Your kindness, empathy, and willingness to talk could be the lifeline someone needs. And if you or someone you know needs help, please call or text the Su***de & Crisis Lifeline at 988.

The ETT Level 2 training at the BTRC office last weekend was a huge success! 🙌🏻 Hosting an ETT training is all about bringing clinicians together and expanding ETT’s reach in the Pacific Northwest. 🧠📚 At the BTRC, we're dedicated to providing therapists with training because we know how powerful this intervention can be. Plus, we always pick up something new, even if we’ve attended the training before!

If you or someone you know is interested, visit www.etttraining.com to see upcoming events.

Being in a relationship isn’t always easy, and sometimes we face unspoken struggles like avoiding tough conversations, checking each other's digital footprints, or dealing with emotional triggers. But in a healthy relationship, we tackle these challenges with honesty and support.

Ever notice how your thoughts shape your relationships? 🤔

Understanding the difference between co-dependent thinking and boundary-led thinking is key to building healthy, fulfilling connections. 🌱 The way we think and talk to ourselves can help us set strong and healthy boundaries.

Which type of thinking resonates with you more? We'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences below.

Betrayal and infidelity often inflict wounds that aren't visible to the naked eye but are deeply felt. The initial act of deceit can shatter trust and security, leaving an immediate impact on the heart and mind.

However, it's the scars left by these experiences that often cut even deeper.

These scars represent the long-term emotional consequences—such as difficulty trusting others, fear of intimacy, and lingering self-doubt. They affect how we view ourselves and our relationships, often creating barriers to future emotional connections.

The process of healing from these scars requires time, self-compassion, and sometimes professional support.

Understanding that these emotional scars are part of the healing journey can help individuals navigate the path to recovery and ultimately rebuild their sense of trust and security. 🌷

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Did you know that the BTRC has been featured in several news outlets lately? To keep you updated, we’ve added a new page on our website showcasing all our media mentions. 😊 Feel free to check out and read through the articles where we've been featured.

Click the link here: https://thebtrc.com/in-the-press/

In celebration of National Wellness Month, remember that the first step to building healthy relationships is to start with self-love! 🤍 ✨

Research shows that individuals who foster a positive relationship with themselves enjoy more successful and fulfilling connections. True self-love goes beyond surface-level confidence; it’s about deeply knowing yourself, treating yourself kindly, and trusting your capabilities.

Here are six key pillars to strengthen your self-relationship:

1. Self-knowledge: Understand your true self to make fulfilling decisions.
2. Self-respect: Value your time and set boundaries for better mental health.
3. Self-compassion: Be kind to yourself in tough times to build resilience.
4. Self-trust: Believe in your ability to handle challenges to boost confidence.
5. Self-care: Prioritize your well-being with activities that recharge you.
6. Self-control: Manage impulses to achieve long-term goals and maintain healthy habits.

Which pillar resonates with you this month? Share your thoughts below. 🌸

You might hear the term "trauma bonding" a lot, but it’s often mixed up with bonding over shared traumatic experiences.

It’s crucial to distinguish the two:
- trauma bonding is an unhealthy attachment formed through cycles of abuse and manipulation,
- while bonding over shared trauma can actually be a healthy connection based on mutual support and understanding.

Trauma bonding happens when a victim forms a strong emotional bond with their abuser, often due to alternating periods of abuse and positive reinforcement. In contrast, bonding over shared challenges is built on empathy and support.

If you recognize trauma bonding in your or someone's life, reach out for help. Talk to a trusted friend, family member, or a licensed therapist.

Just like our body has an immune system to fight off physical illnesses, our mind has a psychological immune system to help us manage stress and bounce back from emotional challenges.

These key elements include:

1. Cognitive Appraisal: Finding silver linings in tough situations.
2. Emotion Regulation: Managing your emotions effectively.
3. Self-Efficacy: Believing in your ability to handle life’s challenges.
4. Social Support: Leaning on friends and family for support.

So why does it matter? Well, a strong psychological immune system is crucial for trauma recovery. It helps you build resilience and cope with adversity.

If you are curious in learning how to strengthen your psychological immune system, click on the link here to red the full blog post: https://thebtrc.com/understanding-the-psychological-immune-system-and-its-role-in-trauma-recovery/

Happy National Couple’s Day! 💑

Today is all about celebrating the love and bond you share with your partner. Whether you’re dining at your favorite restaurant, enjoying a picnic in the park, planning an at-home movie night, or writing a heartfelt letter, make sure to be fully present.

Tag your partner and let them know how much they’ve enriched your life. ❤️🥰

When trauma disrupts the harmony of a relationship, healing can feel out of reach. At Bellevue Trauma Recovery Center, we believe in resilience and growth.

Our holistic couples therapy acknowledges how trauma affects individuals and their relationships. We provide a safe space for couples to explore their experiences, understand trauma’s impact, and learn effective coping strategies.

💬 If you and your partner are struggling, consider our expert couples therapists in Bellevue. Counseling can improve communication, increase intimacy, and strengthen your connection.

Contact us today at [email protected] to start your healing journey.

Did you know that today is National Relaxation Day?

In the midst of our busy lives, let this be a gentle reminder to take a breath and unwind. Whether it’s a cozy moment in your favorite chair, a peaceful stroll, or simply a few minutes of mindful breathing, make sure to take time for yourself and find peace in small, meaningful moments. ✨ What's your idea of self-care?

🧠 Become certified in the leading edge in therapy: Emotional Transformation Therapy (ETT®).

ETT® offers a drug-free therapeutic approach suitable for a variety of conditions, emphasizing the crucial role of human emotion. This therapy has a remarkable ability to transform emotions directly and effectively.

Join us at the BTRC office in Bellevue, WA, on August 22-24 for the ETT® Level 2 Training! This session will delve into Peripheral Eye Stimulation combined with interpersonal processing.

Interested? Contact us at [email protected] or visit www.etttraining.com for more details.

The journey through betrayal trauma can be incredibly isolating, but one of the most powerful tools for healing is the support of others.

When you’re grappling with the pain of betrayal, having a circle of friends, family, or support groups can make all the difference.

It’s not just about having people to talk to—it's about finding understanding, validation, and empathy from those who genuinely care. This kind of support can ease the feelings of loneliness and help rebuild trust in others.

In moments of vulnerability, the presence of compassionate listeners and supportive companions can reinforce your resilience and provide practical help when you need it most.

Be reminded that healing from betrayal trauma doesn’t have to be a solitary journey. Leaning on your support network can offer both comfort and strength, reminding you that you are not alone.

Who has been your anchor through tough times? Tag them in the comments to show you appreciate them. 🤍

Struggling with emotion dysregulation? Whether it's anxiety, anger, or overwhelm, learning to calm these intense feelings is key to a peaceful mind. If you're feeling off, try grounding techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, or talking to a trusted friend. Taking small steps to acknowledge and soothe your emotions can make a big difference in how you feel.

Remember, self-care is a powerful tool on your journey to emotional balance. ✨

Coping with PTSD can be challenging, but there are effective strategies to help manage and reduce their impact. At the BTRC, we emphasize the importance of grounding techniques, mindfulness, self-compassion, and professional support.

✨ Here are some key tips:

1-Grounding techniques like the 5-4-3-2-1 method and deep breathing.
2-Visualizing a safe space to retreat to during flashbacks.
3-Practicing mindfulness and meditation.
4-Using cognitive behavioral strategies to reframe negative thoughts.
5-Prioritizing self-care and self-compassion.
6-Seeking professional support and building a reliable support network.
7-Developing a personalized crisis plan.
8-Considering medication management if needed.
9-Maintaining a consistent routine and healthy lifestyle.

Remember, it's a journey and not the final destination. Reach out for support and take small steps towards healing every day. 💙

🌿 August is National Wellness Month! 🌿 Let's celebrate by focusing on self-care for mind, body, and spirit. Here are some practical tips to help you on your wellness journey:

🧠 Mind: Practice mindfulness, limit screen time, stay organized, and learn something new.

💪 Body: Exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet, get adequate sleep, and stretch daily.

💖 Spirit: Keep a gratitude journal, connect with nature, engage in spiritual practices, and perform acts of kindness.

What are your favorite self-care habits that work?

Building strong connections is essential in any relationship, but it’s crucial to recognize the difference between healthy and unhealthy bonding. 🌱✨

Healthy bonding involves mutual respect, trust, and open communication. Meanwhile, unhealthy bonding often stems from dependency, fear, or control.

Ask yourself: Are they uplifting and empowering, or do they create tension and anxiety? Do you feel supported in your individual goals, or is there a constant push to conform? Are your needs heard and valued, or do you often feel overlooked?

Understanding these dynamics can pave the way for healthier, more fulfilling connections. What kind of bonds are you nurturing in your life?

Thinking about trying therapy for the first time but feeling a bit unsure?

Many people hold onto misconceptions that can stop them from taking that important step. It’s common to believe therapy is only for those in crisis or that you need a 'big' problem to seek help. The truth is, therapy is a safe space for anyone looking to understand themselves better and navigate life’s challenges.

At the BTRC, our trauma-informed therapists honor your unique story and support you on your journey to healing. Whether you’re facing betrayal trauma, PTSD, infidelity, grief, or simply feeling a bit lost, talking to a trusted therapist can have a profound impact on your mental health.

If you’re ready to take that step, we’re here for you. Contact us at [email protected] with any questions or to start your healing journey.

Ever wondered how manipulation works? It's often disguised in words that seem innocent but carry hidden meanings. 'I'm just concerned' might mean 'I want to control.' Recognizing these subtle cues can empower you to navigate relationships with clarity and confidence.

If something feels off, don’t hesitate to talk to a therapist or a trusted friend. They can provide valuable perspective and help you find clarity.

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One of the most painful experiences in relationships is the betrayal of trust, and when it comes to narcissistic behaviors, this can be especially devastating. Narcissistic behaviors often prioritize their own needs and desires above all else, leading to manipulation, deceit, and emotional abuse. They may charm their way into your life, only to exploit your vulnerabilities for their gain.

Understanding these dynamics is crucial for protecting yourself and healing from the betrayal.

Are you struggling to understand your child's challenging behaviors? Do you wonder why they act out and how you can help?

As parents, it's important to explore the common reasons behind these behaviors. Often, children act out due to unmet needs, difficulty expressing emotions, or changes in their environment. Understanding these underlying causes can make a world of difference.

Empathy and understanding are key to understanding a child's behavior.

When parents approach their children's actions with compassion, they create a supportive environment for them to thrive. Instead of reacting with frustration, try to see the world from their perspective. Ask yourself, what might they be feeling or needing right now?

It's important to note every behavior is a form of communication. By taking the time to understand and empathize with children, we can help them feel heard and valued.

If you have any stories you would like to share about parenting children, we'd love to hear them in the comments. 💖

Betrayal can leave deep scars, impacting our trust and well-being. Have you ever experienced betrayal in one form or another? Share your stories in the comments below. 🤍

The BTRC co-founder, Jessica Lamar, Jessica Lamar, is featured in an insightful article discussing hypers*xual disorder. Click on the link here to read the full piece: https://www.kinkly.com/definition/hypers*xual-disorder/

Have you ever wondered about the complexities of this condition? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below. 💬👇

This is the BIGGEST mistake people make when trying to let go...

Holding onto painful emotions and thoughts.

True liberation comes from breaking the habitual link between the mind (thoughts, beliefs) and emotions (feelings, reactions).

Our minds often create stories and narratives around our emotions, amplifying and perpetuating them. This attachment to our thoughts about our feelings keeps us trapped in a cycle of suffering.

Instead, true freedom arises when we learn to observe our emotions without judgment or attachment, allowing them to arise and pass away naturally.

By breaking the habitual identification with our emotional states, we can begin to experience a deeper sense of peace and presence.

Do you agree with this? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section.

Struggling to control thoughts and behaviors related to s*x, including fantasies, urges, or actions, can disrupt your life and cause distress. If s*xual behaviors like excessive ma********on, multiple partners, po*******hy use, or paying for s*x dominate your thoughts and actions, it might be time to seek help.

People with s*x addiction often feel unable to stop their compulsive thoughts and actions, leading to shame, especially when it involves infidelity. Untreated, this condition can damage self-esteem, relationships, careers, and health.

At the BTRC, we provide therapy to help you regain control and improve your quality of life. Recognizing these signs and seeking our support can make a significant difference in your journey to healing.

Reach out at [email protected] if you have any questions, our therapists are here to honor your story.

Healing the wounds of our past is a journey that demands patience, compassion, and courage. At the heart of this healing process lies our inner child—the part of us that carries the experiences and emotions from our earliest years. This inner child, often wounded by past traumas, still seeks love, acceptance, and safety.

To truly heal, we need to nurture this inner child with the same care and tenderness we would offer to any child. This means acknowledging their pain, validating their feelings, and providing them with the reassurance and comfort they may not have received in the past.

By embracing and caring for our inner child, we allow ourselves to heal deeply and completely. This process requires us to be patient with ourselves, to show ourselves compassion, and to summon the courage to face and nurture the parts of us that have been hurt.

In doing so, we pave the way for a more whole and healed self, capable of moving forward with strength and resilience.

Disenfranchised grief is a type of grief that society doesn't fully recognize or validate, which can make it even more challenging to cope with. Understanding and acknowledging these 5 types of disenfranchised grief can help you recognize that your feelings are valid and important, even if society doesn't always see it that way.