SHARON SHEPPARD, MA MARRIAGE AND FAMILY THERAPY

Integrative Medicine and Nutrition for PTSD and Complex Trauma

INFORMATION

ABOUT EXPERIENCE

During my early career as a licensed marriage and family therapist clients came to see me for anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts and one thing kept showing up again and again. Unresolved and often unidentified trauma. Trauma was impacting clients’ ability to “get over” their relationship challenges and/or manage their anxiety and/or depression. With the realization that I could best serve my clients by focusing directly on the impact of trauma and its resolution, I shifted my practice to trauma therapy focused with a speciality in helping those with childhood sexual abuse. I utilize EMDR and other evidence based models to help clients resolve their trauma and though these mental health models work I began to notice that it wasn’t quite enough. I started integrating trauma-informed yoga, referrals to trauma-informed massage therapists, and integrative MDs and saw a remarkable increase in clients’ progress and healing. I’ve just begun offering intensives ( an initial 4 hours with a follow-up 2 hours two weeks later) utilizing Dr. Korn’s materials to create a blueprint for healing. The plan includes psycho-education on diet/nutrition, benefits of massage, acupuncture, yoga, etc. and, most importantly, a customized plan to facilitate the individual client’s goals and needs for healing.

WHAT PATIENTS CAN EXPECT

Initially, we’ll talk on the phone to answer questions and make sure we’re a good fit for each other. With your go ahead I’ll send you intake paperwork with lots of questions about your trauma history (no need for painful details), lifestyle, diet, what’s worked for you, what hasn’t worked for you, health concerns/challenges. Once you complete the paperwork we will schedule your initial 4 hour appointment where we’ll dive into the information you’ve completed, I’ll share some psycho-education and answer any questions you may have. Two weeks later we will follow-up and I’ll present a preliminary blueprint for healing which will include referrals for all suggested resources. Lastly, we will check in for a one hour appointment approximately one month later to see how the plan is working and make any necessary tweaks. Every day I have the privilege of working with the bravest folks on the planet and none of you know it when you first walk in the door. My hope is that as we work together you will grow in resiliency, confidence and well-being as you work your customized plan.

MEDICAL SPECIALTIES

• Psychotherapist

MEDICAL CONDITIONS

• PTSD and Trauma

PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS

American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy International Association of Trauma Professionals Institute for Integrative Medicine