Hi Trace,

20 years ago, there were different theories and different treatment options.
Things have changed considerably.

Even to this day, not every pdoc/therapist specializing in trauma feel they should do anything to re-traumatize a client. Each case is different. I don't agree that is has to hurt. I have seen some of the best, in fact an author/researcher we mention here (for a consult, etc.) and he does not always use the same approach with everyone. It depends upon the individual.
While he highly publicizes some approaches, he said he would not use them in my case.

It is truly not a "one size fits all" type of a remedy.

We must try to discern what we are willing to try, what makes sense, or what fits best for us. We can use the input of experts, and I do mean experts.
I, personally, feel DBT, like AA program, can help anyone to have a better life.

Trace, anything healthy which releases endorphins, changes your mood to a better one, distracts you from trauma memories, etc, is going to help you in the long run.

I have had the best luck with mindfulness, compassion, and Buddhist principles.

Stanford University is doing research on Compassion and they claim it's more potent that mindfulness in healing. They have youtubes all about their research and they also show their talks, featuring teachers of compassion.

One well-known teacher is Tara Brach.
The RAIN of Self-Compassion: https://www.tarabrach.com/meditation...lf-compassion/


WC

P.S. I wish you were nearby. My husband and I would meet you at the fish and game club for some fun! They also have archery!