The Dawn Trauma Retreat in Thailand
Our Tailored Pathways to Trauma Resilience and Recovery
Extensive scientific research shows that at the root of all mental health issues, substance use disorders and maladaptive behaviours, there is a complex interplay of factors that includes emotional trauma. Adverse life experiences often play a crucial role, yet many individuals may not be aware of their impact, especially when the trauma stems from Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs).
30% of mental health disorders are associated with ACEs.
80% of individuals with PTSD are diagnosed with at least one additional mental health disorder.
40% of individuals with substance use disorders also struggle with PTSD.*
To address these co-occurring disorders, we employ a trauma-informed, person-centred approach to treatment here at The Dawn. This approach targets both the immediate problems and the deeper needs for healing. We believe that only by focusing on the underlying causes of addiction and mental health challenges, can clients achieve long-term recovery and significantly reduce the risk of relapse.
*Sources: National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), National Institute of Mental Health, and National Institute on Drug Abuse
FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR TRAUMA RETREAT IN THAILAND
Understanding Trauma and its Impact
Big T Trauma and PTSD
Big T Trauma are traumatic events that are clearly identifiable and potentially life-threatening, encompassing experiences such as war, catastrophic accidents, serious illnesses like cancer, or severe personal assaults such as robbery and sexual violence. The severity and immediacy of these traumas make them extremely impactful to the emotions, often leading to Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).
Understanding PTSD
PTSD is usually characterised by 3 symptoms:
- Intense and distressing memories or dreams related to the traumatic event
- Mental and physical discomfort when reminded of the trauma
- Avoidance of situations, people, or places that might trigger painful memories
Such emotional turmoil can lead to significant changes in one’s mental state, profoundly impacting your relationships, work, and other aspects of daily life.
Small T Trauma
Small T Traumas involve non-life-threatening yet emotionally distressing events such as job loss, divorce, as well as Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) like bullying and emotional neglect. If overlooked and these experiences persist or accumulate, they can result in Complex Trauma, severely impairing an individual’s functioning and coping mechanisms.
Complex Trauma
Complex Trauma develops from prolonged exposure to Small T Traumas, which are emotionally painful events that accumulate over time. This type of trauma can significantly disrupt emotional regulation, compromise a sense of safety, and create substantial challenges in personal relationships and overall functioning. In some cases, depending on the severity and duration of the trauma, it may lead to the development of PTSD.
Understanding the Risks of Premature Trauma Therapy
Embarking on Trauma Therapy without proper groundwork can lead to significant risks, such as retraumatisation and increased anxiety. Many clients underestimate the emotional toll of revisiting traumatic events and might feel prepared to face these memories before they are genuinely ready. Therefore, careful preparation is essential to make certain that when you confront your traumatic experiences, you are resilient and sufficiently supported.
A Phased Approach Through Our Treatment Roadmap
At our mental health retreat for trauma in Thailand, our methodically designed Treatment Roadmap is geared to mitigate these risks. Prior to your arrival at The Dawn, we start crafting a customised plan tailored to your specific needs. This meticulous preparation continues through your initial Stabilisation Phase, during which we focus on establishing emotional and physical safety over the first 4-5 weeks. This Stabilisation Phase is critical as it ensures you are stable and poised to effectively engage in deeper therapeutic processes that address the trauma at the root of your addiction and mental health issues.
Addressing Underlying Issues - The Dawn’s Trauma Programme
Committing to a minimum of 8 weeks in this phase is crucial. This duration allows for the careful unfolding of therapeutic interventions to reduce the risk of overwhelming our clients as they delve deeper into their trauma, and ensures a stable transition back into their everyday lives once treatment is completed. Our programme is made up of 3 main elements that complement each other – group work, individual work, and somatic work:
Our group sessions provide a supportive environment where you can engage in various forms of trauma-focused therapies:
- Psychoeducation Groups – Gain insights and strategies for managing trauma effectively.
- Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT) – Learn techniques to reframe and manage traumatic memories.
- Narrative Therapy – Reshape your personal recovery story through guided sessions.
- Family Therapy – Integrate family support into the healing process, subject to client consent.
Our one-on-one sessions provide a safe and confidential place where you work with your Primary Therapist with whom you have built trust and bonded with since your Pre-arrival Phase.
- Individual Therapy – These sessions extend the modalities explored in Group Therapy and allow for deeper personal exploration and confidentiality. This approach is ideal for those who have trauma that may be too sensitive or complex to share in a group environment such as sexual abuse.
- Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) – A proven therapy to reduce the emotional distress associated with trauma and enhance coping mechanisms.
- Exposure Therapy – Methodically reduces fear and avoidance behaviours related to trauma by creating a safe environment to expose you to your fears.
Our Somatic Work incorporates various mind-body techniques to enhance trauma recovery, including:
- Trauma Releasing Exercises (TRE) – Techniques designed to help the body release stress and restore a sense of calm.
- Polyvagal Therapy – Explores techniques like controlled breathing and social interaction exercises, polyvagal therapy helps you effectively reduce anxiety and enhance emotional stability.
- Wellness Programme – Includes yoga and meditation that is scientifically proven to reduce stress hormones, improve mental clarity and promote overall wellness.
At our trauma retreat in Thailand, we prioritise creating a secure and compassionate environment that supports your recovery journey. Our goal is to restore well-being and self-esteem, enabling you to heal from traumatic events and actively re-engage in life’s activities.
Insights from Our Experts
At The Dawn, our team comprises highly skilled and compassionate professionals who are dedicated to your recovery journey. Here, we share insights from our experts that underline the philosophy and efficacy of our residential trauma treatment:
Understanding trauma and its pervasive impact on an individual’s life is the cornerstone of effective therapy. Our approach is not just about managing symptoms but fundamentally reshaping how our clients relate to their past experiences and envision their future. It’s about building resilience and finding new ways to thrive.
Helen Wells, Clinical Director
Trauma doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all solution. Each client’s path to recovery is unique, which is why our treatment plans are highly personalised. We utilise a combination of evidence-based therapies to comprehensively address all aspects of trauma, its interplay with addiction, and ongoing mental health challenges. Among these therapies, we include EMDR, a proven treatment in helping clients reduce the emotional distress associated with traumatic experiences.
Paulo Veneracion, EMDR Specialist
Learn From Those Who Walked Before You
Hear from our alumni about their experiences of PTSD treatment in Thailand and how they benefited from a trauma healing retreat. These narratives not only inspire but also illuminate the practical aspects of our trauma programme, offering you a glimpse of what to expect.
“It is like a family. The clinical team as well as support staffs always care and concern about your wellbeing. The therapeutic environment and nature make me feel at ease”
Laura
“Australia’s Mental Health system is broken, and I think something completely out of the ordinary [like The Dawn] might be the trigger to break the cycle”
Father of Daughter
from Australia
“Therapy alongside a holistic approach – the combination of the two attracted me straight away. This immersive and intensive programme is going to give you the best possible chance of recovery without going on medication, in a secure and safe environment.”
Irene
from UK
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