Childhood Sexual Abuse And Structural Dissociation

A Quest for Well-Being

— Carl Rogers, psychologist wrote in 1959 his view on human nature, that when people are placed in meaningful therapeutic conditions, they will naturally change in a positive direction. Carl Rogers and William Miller (psychologist) have separately shared that this tendency toward reaching your true inner self “it is as natural as a plant’s growth upward toward the light when given adequate soil, water, and sunshine. It is as if each person has a natural mature end-state or purpose (Telos, in Greek) toward which he or she will grow given optimal conditions.” They say that the Telos of an acorn is to become an oak tree; to reach its true purpose. Each action we take as humans is directed towards some Telos (i.e. purpose) and real change involves identifying concrete steps needed to attain Telos. Telos has many terms that describes it in philosophy; goal, completion, or fulfillment; this translates into all walks of life.

Valeria interviews Marissa Harris — She is a compassionate therapist dedicated to guiding individuals on a transformative journey toward holistic well-being through sensorimotor psychotherapy.

She is a licensed independent clinical social worker, national board certified clinical social work diplomate, certified substance abuse provider, and certified in mindfulness-based relapse prevention, and a mindfulness-based relapse prevention group facilitator. She has specialized training in trauma informed approaches in Level 2 Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Trauma Informed Stabilization Treatment, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, and Internal Family Systems approaches. She is also trained in the Institute of Functional Medicine where she explores ways to highlight the intricate link between our emotional experiences and bodily responses.

She is currently the owner of Telos Health and Wellness Services, a private practice where she offers individual therapy as well as consultation. Throughout her 25 years in the field, she has served as a steadfast advocate and mentor, guiding and empowering a team of dedicated trauma, medical, and forensic professionals.

She shares the honor and privilege of supporting individuals navigating life circumstances that have led to symptoms consistent with PTSD or dissociative disorders. Her focus remains centered on the person and understanding the unique challenges someone could face as a result of their experiences or environment.

Exploring a holistic approach, she believes in the power of the body to hold and release emotional pain, trauma, and stress. Through gentle exploration and mindfulness, she helps people reconnect with the innate wisdom of their body at a pace that works for the person she is supporting. She feels the body tells a story and she utilizes a way of listening, honoring, and understanding its language.

To learn more about Marissa Harris and her work, please visit: https://www.teloshealthandwellnessservices.com