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All of us have been forever affected by the September 11th disaster. Some of us have been more deeply affected than we initially realized. Individuals, couples or families who experienced early childhood trauma, or those who have struggled with mental illness have experienced a roller-coaster of emotional pain and memories.

Awareness of this predictable process is the first step in gaining control. Knowing that skilled professionals can provide concrete techniques to cope more effectively with your trauma is the next step in your recovery. Hypnosis is one modality that has successfully helped trauma patients.

To begin, consciously tune into your body by identifying where you are holding the most tension. Breathe deeply and comfortably and exhale away the tension. If you continue to hold tension, then deliberately increase it. Your muscles can only hold so much before they let go. Visualizing positive images and repeating positive messages can reduce the effects of trauma. Visualizing and sensing the support of positive people can also significantly reduce the intensity of the trauma.

Another useful technique is visualizing the traumatic event onto a television or movie screen. You can blur the image, place it far away, lower the sounds and reduce all of the other sensory stimuli. You can also change the images, sounds, smells, and body sensations. It may seem complicated, yet if you're good at daydreaming you can do this. Visualizing yourself and supportive others in a safe environment prior to the traumatic event can provide comfort and relief. Visualizing yourself in the near future feeling safe and serene can also provide significant comfort.

Healing from trauma takes time, patience, understanding and the support of others. There is no quick fix or simple solutions. With effective support you can grow, heal and develop a resilience that you may never have experienced before.