Therapy for Trauma

Trauma can change the way we see ourselves, others, and the world. It can make daily life feel overwhelming or disconnected. If you’ve experienced something distressing or life-threatening, whether recently or in the past, and you're struggling to move forward, you are not broken. What you're feeling makes sense, and healing is possible.

Whether trauma comes from a single event or a pattern that built up over time, it can leave deep emotional wounds. These wounds are not always visible, but their impact can be felt in your body, your mind, and your relationships.

What Is Trauma?

Trauma is the response to deeply distressing or disturbing events that overwhelm your ability to cope. These events may threaten your sense of safety, stability, or sense of self. Trauma does not have to involve physical harm. Emotional neglect, betrayal, or living through ongoing stress can also be traumatic.

What’s traumatic for one person might not be for another. It is not about the event itself. It is about how your nervous system and emotions experienced it.

Common Symptoms of Trauma

Trauma can show up in many ways. You might notice:

  • Anxiety or panic attacks

  • Irritability or anger outbursts

  • Sleep disturbances or nightmares

  • Flashbacks or intrusive memories

  • Feeling numb or disconnected

  • Avoiding people, places, or reminders of the trauma

  • Trouble concentrating

  • Low self-worth or shame

  • Feeling unsafe even in safe environments

  • Unexplained physical symptoms or chronic pain

These responses are not signs of weakness. They are your nervous system’s attempt to protect you.

Different Forms of Trauma and Trauma-Related Disorders

Not all trauma is the same. Some common types include:

  • Acute Trauma: This results from a single distressing event, such as a car accident, assault, or natural disaster.

  • Chronic Trauma: This comes from repeated and prolonged exposure to highly stressful situations such as abuse, neglect, or living in a violent environment.

  • Complex Trauma: This often begins in childhood and involves multiple or prolonged interpersonal traumas, especially in relationships that were supposed to be safe.

  • Developmental Trauma: This stems from disruptions in early attachment or caregiving and can impact emotional and relational development.

  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): This is a diagnosable condition that may develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It often involves intrusive memories, hypervigilance, and avoidance behaviors.

  • Complex PTSD (C-PTSD): This often results from long-term trauma, particularly in childhood. It can include symptoms of PTSD along with difficulties in emotional regulation, relationships, and self-identity.

How Therapy Can Help

Trauma can make you feel stuck in survival mode. Therapy offers a path back to safety, connection, and wholeness.

Using a compassionate, trauma-informed approach, I offer a supportive space where your story is honored and never rushed or judged. Together, we will work at your pace to process painful experiences, reconnect with your strengths, and build a sense of internal safety.

I integrate approaches such as:

  • EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing): A therapy that helps the brain reprocess traumatic memories and reduce emotional distress.

  • ACT (acceptance and commitment therapy): A therapy that helps you create distance from painful thoughts while building a life aligned with your values.

  • Body-based and mindfulness practices: These approaches help you reconnect with your body and foster a sense of safety.

Healing is not about forgetting the past. It is about finding the freedom to live fully in the present.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

You do not have to go through this alone. If you are ready to begin your healing journey or if you just have questions, I invite you to contact me. Together, we will find a path forward that honors your pace, your needs, and your story. Reach out today to schedule a complimentary 15-minute consultation, book an appointment, or ask any questions.