Healing Trauma and Attachment: Understanding ITATM™

Author: Lori Gill, RP, MACP, CTIC Founder and Clinical Director, Lori Gill Psychotherapy: Holistic Wellness for Health http://www.holisticwellnessforhealth.com/ | @lorigilltherapy

At Lori Gill Psychotherapy: Holistic Wellness for Health, we understand that trauma and attachment wounds can profoundly affect every aspect of life—our emotions, relationships, sense of safety, and ability to thrive. That’s why our therapists use the Integrative Trauma and Attachment Treatment Model (ITATM™), a comprehensive, evidence-based approach developed by Lori Gill to support deep healing and lasting change.

What Is ITATM™?

ITATM™ stands for Integrative Trauma and Attachment Treatment Model. Created by Lori Gill, this model is designed to address the complex ways trauma and disrupted attachment impact the brain, body, and mind. ITATM™ combines the latest neuroscience research with compassionate, client-centered care, offering a pathway to recovery that is both holistic and individualized.

How Does ITATM™ Work?

ITATM™ recognizes that trauma and attachment issues are stored not just in our thoughts, but in our bodies and nervous systems. ITATM™ is a bottom-up, neurosequential model that helps to depotentiate trauma (reduce the charge) so it can be put away in proper space and time (in the past). Instead of rehashing painful memories, ITATM™ works to gently process central trauma details, integrating:

• Brief exposure therapy: Gently process central trauma details without overwhelming the client.
• Somatic therapies: Address how trauma is held in the body.
• Resource installation & visualization: Builds inner strength and resilience.
• Bilateral stimulation: Engages both sides of the brain for deeper healing.
• Cognitive reframing: Shifts fear-based beliefs and perspectives.
• Energy release work: Supports the body in letting go of stored stress.

 

Importantly, ITATM™ works at the “edges of activation”—meaning clients are supported to stay regulated and safe, without needing to relive or talk through all the details of what happened.

Key Features of ITATM™:

• Trauma-Informed: Sensitive to the impact of trauma and the need for safety and control.
• Attachment-Focused: Supports healing in relationships and strengthens healthy bonds.
• Holistic: Integrates mind, body, and spirit through expressive arts, mindfulness, and sensory-based techniques.
• Evidence-Based: Uses proven strategies from neuroscience, psychology, and somatic therapies.
• Individualized: Tailored to each client’s unique history, strengths, and needs.

 

What Can ITATM™ Help With?

ITATM™ is effective for:

• Trauma recovery (including complex and developmental trauma)
• Attachment disruptions in children, youth, and adults
• Emotional regulation difficulties
• Grief and sudden loss
• Anxiety, depression, and stress
• Building resilience and self-awareness

 

Real Results: What the Research Shows

A program evaluation by Victoria Dobson and Dr. Paul Frewen (Western University Hospital) demonstrated that ITATM™ leads to significant changes—often observable in as few as 5–6 sessions. While complex trauma doesn’t resolve overnight, these results are remarkable for this population and underscore the model’s benefits.

Average reductions in high-risk areas:

• Depression: 9.61 points
• Suicidality: 10.20 points
• Anger: 9.98 points
• Dissociation: 8.71 points

 

Any reduction in these areas represents a meaningful shift toward emotional regulation and overall well-being.

What to Expect in ITATM™ Therapy

Clients are gently guided through a process of:

• Understanding the effects of trauma and attachment
• Learning to track and shift emotional states
• Using creative and sensory tools for regulation
• Building healthy relationships and self-acceptance
• Integrating new skills for lasting wellness

 

Our therapists create a safe, supportive environment where healing can unfold at your own pace.

Ready to Start Your Healing Journey?

If you or your loved one is struggling with trauma or attachment challenges, ITATM™ can help. Book an appointment or contact us to learn more about this integrative approach.

Let’s take the next step toward recovery—together.

Wishing you and yours a gentle rest of your day!

In gratitude,

Lori

Contact:

🌐 www.holisticwellnessforhealth.com 📱 @lorigilltherapy 🔗 Follow Lori on Social Media