Rebuilding: A Journey to Healing Psychological Trauma by Nabiel Esa Noviandina & Elfi, S.Pd.I., M.Pd.

How can we heal invisible wounds? Every year, more than 300 million people experience post-traumatic stress disorder. Psychological trauma does not have to be a lifelong burden, because healing begins with the first step. According to William (2017), psychological trauma is a painful, threatening, or deadly experience that affects a person's mental and emotional health. This trauma can be healed with three processes, namely cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. According to Allison (2016), cognitive behavioral therapy helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns associated with trauma. Meanwhile, EMDR therapy helps individuals process and integrate trauma memories into consciousness (Beggan & Andrea, 2012). Next is psychodynamic therapy which helps individuals understand and process feelings and emotions related to trauma (Van & Martin, 2014).
The first process of healing psychological trauma is cognitive behavioral therapy. This therapy is a psychotherapy approach that focuses on identifying, understanding, and changing unbalanced thought patterns, behavior, and negative emotions. This therapy aims to improve the quality of life and reduce the symptoms of mental disorders (Gaskill, 2012). Cognitive behavioral therapy is carried out with a psychotherapy approach that combines cognitive and behavioral elements to change negative thought patterns, behavior, and emotions. According to Ogden (2006), at the end of therapy, a person can identify the problems and goals of therapy, whether carried out individually or in groups. Cognitive behavioral therapy begins with identifying negative thoughts that may indicate depression.
The next process for healing psychological trauma is EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy. This therapy is a psychotherapy technique that aims to process and integrate traumatic memories into consciousness, thereby reducing traumatic symptoms. This therapy begins with consultation with a therapist experienced in EMDR (Lawson & Godbout. 2015). EMDR therapy should only be performed by experienced therapists and is not suitable for everyone. According to Herman & Cruz (2013), this therapy has side effects in the form of difficulty sleeping, emotional changes, and temporary anxiety. This therapy of course uses eye movements and can also be done with tapping, vibration, and imagination.
The last process of healing psychological trauma is psychodynamic therapy. This therapy is a psychotherapy approach that focuses on the influence of past experiences and unconscious psychological processes on current behavior and emotions. This therapy aims to develop the ability to deal with stress and conflict, as well as recognizing and changing unbalanced thought patterns and behavior (Ochberg, 2006). Basically, psychodynamic therapy stems from past experiences that influence current behavior. According to Friedman & Blau (2011), this therapy is useful for developing the ability to deal with conflict, but it can trigger temporary negative emotions.
In conclusion, the process of healing psychological trauma is a long and complex journey that requires patience, commitment, and support. There are three processes for healing this trauma, namely cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. Therefore, do not ignore psychological trauma which means you will let the wound continue to bleed. Because psychological trauma is not a curse, but an opportunity to heal and recover.