Neurobiology of Trauma and Mindfulness: The Impact of Mindfulness-Based Interventions for the Treatment of Trauma through the Theoretical Frameworks of Sigmund Freud and Bessel van der Kolk

摘要

With current groundbreaking research on neurobiology, we are obtaining a better understanding of the impact of trauma on brain functioning and development. Historically, Jean-Martin Charcot, Pierre Janet, and Sigmund Freud studied hysteria, creating a foundation for discovering early trauma in relation to organic events in one's life. Freud expanded this research to develop theories around trauma and the unconscious, specifically around the use of repression as a defense mechanism. The use of repressive memories is still paramount for understanding the effects of traumatic memory in clients.;The importance of neuroscience allows us to discover impactful ways to teach our clients how to recover from psychological trauma by working within the body. This theoretical thesis will analyze Bessel van der Kolk's work, specifically understanding brain functioning with the use of neuroimaging. This thesis will also explore and integrate new research around the use of different mindfulness based interventions to work within the body for recovery from trauma.;Trauma informed care can be recognized in this new age of trauma treatment as therapists learning to help their patients find the present, not the past (Fisher, 2014). Becoming a trauma-conscious clinician is paramount for the treatment of survivors. By utilizing a mindful approach to trauma treatment, we're able to help clients heighten their curiosity and interest rather than allowing them to descend into shame and self-blame for their trauma (Fisher, 2014). Clinicians in the social work field should be formally trained for various trauma treatment modalities, specifically mindfulness based practices, as trauma is pervasive in the clientele that we serve.