The mind body connection has been recognized in the medical and mental health fields for years. Each year more empirical evidence is discovered to support the relationship between physical and psychological symptoms and diagnoses. Within this developing research, mental health interventions have shown to be beneficial in improving medical and physical outcomes. Psychological interventions can compliment and improve physical treatment options. Chronic pain can significantly affect a person physically and psychologically. Research has shown a strong indication that psychological interventions aid in decreasing chronic pain.
OUR HISTORY
In recognition of the mind-body connection, Jennifer Worth, LCSW, LSCSW moved her clinical private practice into the Foundational Concepts Missouri office in August 2016. In September 2018, Worth It expanded into the Foundational Concepts office in Overland Park, KS. Since that time, Worth It has worked closely with the clinic’s physical therapists to address psychological issues that hinder improvement of physical symptoms.
In July 2018, Jennifer added another therapist, Rebecca Ray, LCSW, to her practice. Rebecca meets with clients in the Brookside office Tuesdays - Fridays. Jennifer now meets clients in the Brookside office on Mondays and in the Overland Park office Tuesdays - Thursdays.
In addition to individual services, Worth It is proud to offer psychoeducational groups based on Brené Brown's groundbreaking research on Shame. Beginning in Fall 2019, Worth It therapists will roll out a new group for new moms! Check the "Groups" tab for more info on all of our great offerings!
MODALITIES USED
Modalities used with clients include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) techniques, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and client centered therapy. While using these treatment protocols, education and guidance about mindfulness, grounding, internal psychological resources, and breathing exercises is provided by therapists. In addition, psychoeducation about the nervous system and the mind-body connection from a psychological perspective is provided. Symptoms addressed in mental health therapy include, but are not limited to, anxiety, abuse, relationship difficulties, family discord, trauma, depression, chronic pain, guilt, shame, sadness, stress, grief, and loss. These symptoms can sometimes trigger the body to move into a sympathetic nervous system response.
The arousal model represents what occurs when we experience a perceived threat (i.e. Physical, emotional, mental) and move into a sympathetic nervous system response. The sympathetic nervous system (SNS) is responsible for the “fight or flight” response which can tighten our bodies and make us feel on guard. The goal is to be in the window of tolerance so as to operate in an emotionally regulated calm, cool, collected, and connected state. Therapists guide clients through many exercises of mindfulness, grounding, breathing, and positive awareness so that clients can learn to operate more frequently within the window of tolerance.
EMDR is an evidence-based psychotherapy for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In addition, successful outcomes are well-documented in the literature for EMDR treatment of other psychiatric disorders, mental health problems, and somatic symptoms. Shame and social disconnection can be additional symptoms that may cause a decrease in functioning. For more information on EMDR and the Arousal Model, please check out the "Resources" tab.