Trauma Demystified

Natalie Jovanic

Welcome to Trauma Demystified by Bright Horizon Therapies. Hosted by Natalie Jovanic (they/them), a Master Therapeutic Counselor and Trauma Recovery Coach with lived experience, we explore trauma and recovery with insights, tools, and compassion. Join us to unveil the truth about healing.

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Episodes

What are best practices for trauma treatment?
6d ago
What are best practices for trauma treatment?
In this episode, we explore the best practices for trauma treatment. Building upon our previous discussion, we delve into the intricacies of trauma recovery, exploring various therapeutic modalities. From Somatic Experiencing to EMDR and parts work, we discuss the importance of an integrative approach, combining top-down and bottom-up methods. Join us as we navigate the multifaceted journey of trauma recovery and learn how integrating different modalities can provide a more tailored and effective treatment. Stay tuned to discover the significance of structural dissociations and how to navigate trauma treatment more effectively. If you're ready to begin your journey toward healing, this episode is for you.Discover the definition of trauma in our first episode.Explore the concept of the window of tolerance in our second episode.Embark on a journey to recovery from trauma in our third episode.Discover the world of Bright Horizon Therapies.Dive into the memoir "A Brave, True Story," available on both amazon.com and amazon.ca.Stay connected with us on Instagram.Join our community on Facebook.Trauma Demystified is not intended to be a replacement for professional guidance, support, medical treatment, or therapy. Please consult your physician or a mental health professional for any inquiries about mental health symptomsBright Horizon Therapies is located on the Treaty 7 region in Southern Alberta, which includes the Blackfoot Confederacy, the Tsuut’ina First Nation, and the Stoney Nakoda. This land is also home to Métis Nation of Alberta, Region III. We acknowledge the traditional caregivers of the land and the importance of a commitment to continued decolonisation of our work.
Finding the right trauma counsellor
Feb 8 2024
Finding the right trauma counsellor
Have you ever wondered on how to find the right trauma counsellor?Embark on a transformative journey with this episode, "Finding the right counsellor" where we delve into the intricate world of trauma counselling. Join us as I share personal experiences, uncover the 6 crucial characteristics of a good trauma counsellor, and unveil the step-by-step guide to finding the right trauma therapists for your healing journey.  Dive into insightful discussions on trauma-informed practices, specialized trauma training, and the art of creating a healthy therapeutic relationship. Plus, don't miss the 9 essential questions to ask your potential counsellor.Tune in today and empower yourself with everything you need to know to find a good counsellor.If you want to learn more about trauma counselling, check out the blog post "Why is trauma counselling important: Empowering recovery."Discover the world of Bright Horizon Therapies.Dive into the memoir "A Brave, True Story," available on both amazon.com and amazon.ca.Stay connected with us on Instagram.Join our community on Facebook.Trauma Demystified is not intended to be a replacement for professional guidance, support, medical treatment, or therapy. Please consult your physician or a mental health professional for any inquiries about mental health symptomsBright Horizon Therapies is located on the Treaty 7 region in Southern Alberta, which includes the Blackfoot Confederacy, the Tsuut’ina First Nation, and the Stoney Nakoda. This land is also home to Métis Nation of Alberta, Region III. We acknowledge the traditional caregivers of the land and the importance of a commitment to continued decolonisation of our work.
Thriving after trauma: Goals for Recovery
Dec 28 2023
Thriving after trauma: Goals for Recovery
In this empowering episode, we delve deep into the transformative journey of recovery after trauma, exploring the multifaceted aspects of healing and growth. Our host - Natalie - a trauma-informed counsellor and coach and individual with lived experienced with trauma - will unravel the very definition of recovery and its profound implications in the context of trauma. Guiding listeners through the different stages of recovery, they will uncover the resilient spirit that can emerge even in the aftermath of profound adversity.Understanding that no two traumas are alike, our discussion navigates the varying complexities individuals face dependent on what has happened to them. The episode addresses the nuanced goals for recovery based on the three phases of recovery from trauma. From building a foundation of emotional resilience to rediscovering a sense of purpose, Natalie provides invaluable advice and strategies to inspire and guide those on their journey to thriving after trauma.Additionally, our host tackle three burning questions that often linger in the minds of those seeking recovery. Can we recovery on our own, or do we need professional help? Is it normal to experience setback in recovery? How long does recovery take?Join us for a compassionate and enlightening conversation that aims to empower, inspire, and provide practical guidance for anyone seeking to not only survive but thrive after trauma. “Thriving after trauma" is your go-to resource for understanding the transformative power of recovery and setting meaningful goals on the path to a brighter, more resilient future.Discover the world of Bright Horizon Therapies.Dive into the memoir "A Brave, True Story," available on both amazon.com and amazon.ca.Stay connected with us on Instagram.Join our community on Facebook.Trauma Demystified is not intended to be a replacement for professional guidance, support, medical treatment, or therapy. Please consult your physician or a mental health professional for any inquiries about mental health symptomsBright Horizon Therapies is located on the Treaty 7 region in Southern Alberta, which includes the Blackfoot Confederacy, the Tsuut’ina First Nation, and the Stoney Nakoda. This land is also home to Métis Nation of Alberta, Region III. We acknowledge the traditional caregivers of the land and the importance of a commitment to continued decolonisation of our work.
Understanding the Window of Tolerance: Re-balancing a Dysregulated Nervous System
Oct 29 2023
Understanding the Window of Tolerance: Re-balancing a Dysregulated Nervous System
Feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, or constantly on edge? Maybe you've been outside your "Window of Tolerance". Join Natalie Jovanic as they unravel the profound concept of the window of tolerance, a safe zone within which we can effectively manage our emotions. We'll take you on a fascinating exploration into the window of tolerance while providing insights into how trauma impacts our nervous system and how we can recognize and mitigate automatic responses.Ever wondered why some situations leave you more rattled than others? And what do childhood experiences, trauma, and discrimination have to do with it? Tune in as we take a deep dive into the influences that can narrow our window of tolerance and push us into states of hyper- or hypo-arousal. Arm yourself with effective coping skills that can help you expand your window of tolerance or come back to it if you are in hypo= or hyperarousal.  It's time to navigate the often turbulent sea of emotions with more awareness and control, stepping into a journey of healing and growth.Discover the world of Bright Horizon Therapies.Dive into the memoir "A Brave, True Story," available on both amazon.com and amazon.ca.Stay connected with us on Instagram.Join our community on Facebook.Trauma Demystified is not intended to be a replacement for professional guidance, support, medical treatment, or therapy. Please consult your physician or a mental health professional for any inquiries about mental health symptomsBright Horizon Therapies is located on the Treaty 7 region in Southern Alberta, which includes the Blackfoot Confederacy, the Tsuut’ina First Nation, and the Stoney Nakoda. This land is also home to Métis Nation of Alberta, Region III. We acknowledge the traditional caregivers of the land and the importance of a commitment to continued decolonisation of our work.
Setting the scene: Unveiling the podcast journey
Sep 3 2023
Setting the scene: Unveiling the podcast journey
Embarking on the path of trauma recovery can often feel like a solitary expedition. But here's the truth: it doesn't have to be. Drawing from both my personal journey and years of professional expertise, I firmly believe that healing is not just possible; it's attainable, and you don't have to navigate this labyrinth alone.Welcome to the inaugural episode of "Trauma Demystified," where we set the stage for an enlightening journey ahead. Today, we'll begin by laying down some essential ground rules for this podcast.Ever wondered what trauma truly looks like? In this episode, we dive deep into the intricate world of trauma, demystifying its complexities and shedding light on its true nature.We'll deconstruct the medical perspective on trauma, approaching it from a trauma-informed standpoint. Along the way, we'll unravel the common symptoms of trauma and explore why identifying these symptoms is often easier than pinpointing the traumatic events themselves. Together, we'll gently navigate these symptoms and uncover healthier strategies for recovery.Have you ever found yourself grappling with feelings of guilt, shame, self-blame, or other trauma-related symptoms? Know that you're not alone. Throughout this episode, I'll candidly share my personal journey through recovery, including the obstacles I encountered along the way.So,  tune in and let's embark on this transformative journey together. "Trauma Demystified" is here to be your compass, guiding you toward a brighter horizon of healing and resilience.Discover the world of Bright Horizon Therapies.Dive into the memoir "A Brave, True Story," available on both amazon.com and amazon.ca.Stay connected with us on Instagram.Join our community on Facebook.Trauma Demystified is not intended to be a replacement for professional guidance, support, medical treatment, or therapy. Please consult your physician or a mental health professional for any inquiries about mental health symptomsBright Horizon Therapies is located on the Treaty 7 region in Southern Alberta, which includes the Blackfoot Confederacy, the Tsuut’ina First Nation, and the Stoney Nakoda. This land is also home to Métis Nation of Alberta, Region III. We acknowledge the traditional caregivers of the land and the importance of a commitment to continued decolonisation of our work.