PATH Workshop I: Izgradnja sigurnog, povjerljivog i toplog odnosa koji vodi ozdravljenju, ispunjenog poštovanjem

The workshop aims to help participants think about the typical phases of recovery during trauma therapy. Participants will understand the work and experiences of therapists and clients during these phases and consider areas for further development in their work as therapists. Survivors of torture are, by definition, resilient. They already possess the strength, internal resources, and abilities that enabled them to survive multiple life-threatening situations, often over several years. They have survived. The pyramid of recovery from trauma consists of three primary phases: 1. Safety/stabilization (re-establishing trust), 2. Mourning (elaboration of what happened), and 3. Reconnection (return to love and work). Torture is intentionally inflicted unbearable pain with the goal of destroying or undermining the physical and psychological integrity of an individual and, indirectly, the integrity of their family and community. Considering that trauma results in the disintegration of functioning in multiple spheres, treatment must be reintegrative and holistic. Each person who has experienced trauma has their unique experiences and must find their own path to recovery. However, there are some general, predictable phases in the recovery process. Some individuals may quickly pass through certain phases and spend more time in others. Phases often overlap, and some individuals may need a temporary return to previous phases during progress. In each phase, there are different tasks that both the client and the therapist must complete. In each phase, there are also choices that the client and the therapist must make. The phases on the path to recovery are: 1. Building a safe, trusting, and warm relationship that leads to recovery, filled with respect. 2. Investigating and understanding the client's needs, struggles, resources, and internal processes. 3. Helping the client become stronger and more stable, as preparation for the difficult work ahead. 4. Reconstructing the client's story in a way that allows for a healthier outcome. 5. Adapting distorted perceptions, thought patterns, beliefs, and behavior. 6. Continuing life and terminating therapy. - Creating a secure, comfortable, and welcoming space. - Adopting a non-judgmental attitude. - Showing empathy. - Demonstrating expertise. - Helping the client understand what therapy is. - Setting appropriate boundaries. - Teaching the client techniques for returning to reality. Questions to consider include: - Is this person in need of therapy? For what? - Does this person want therapy? For what? - Can I help this person with their therapy goals?