Pacing
You set the speed
Trauma work goes at the speed your body can hold. These four things are yours in every session, with every clinician.
Say stop
Any time, for any reason. We stop, and we either talk about what happened or sit quietly.
Say slower
If something is moving too fast, we slow it down or step back to something steadier.
Say skip
You can pass on a question, and you never owe an explanation.
Take a break
Stand, stretch, get some water or look out the window. We pick up when you are ready, or another day.
Over time
How pacing works across sessions
- 01
Step 1: Start with what helps
Many clinicians begin with skills for settling before any work on memories. Your clinician explains the options and why one might fit.
- 02
Step 2: Agree on what is off the table
You and your clinician name what you want to leave alone for now. That list can change.
- 03
Step 3: Check in, every time
We ask how the pace feels at the start and end of each session, and we adjust.
- 04
Step 4: Pause or change direction
Some people take a break from the harder work, move to a different method or end therapy. Each of those is your choice.
Questions
About pace
01Do I have to tell my story?
No. Some of the work happens without you describing what happened. Your clinician explains which methods need it and which do not.
02What if I feel overwhelmed in a session?
Tell your clinician, or use a signal you agreed on, such as a raised hand. Your clinician helps you settle, and each session ends with time to settle before you leave. Trauma work can stir up strong feelings, and your clinician explains the risks before you start. If you feel unsafe after a session, call or text 988, any time. In an emergency, call 911.
03Can I change therapists?
Yes. If the fit is not right, tell us. We will help you find a better match here, or elsewhere.
Ready to talk about pace?
Send us a message and tell us how you would like to start.