Issues
Trauma
When the Past Continues to Shape the Present
Trauma is not defined only by what happened, but by how your nervous system learned to protect you during overwhelming or unsafe experiences. Trauma can come from many sources, including childhood emotional neglect, chronic conflict, relational ruptures, or experiences that made you feel powerless or unseen. Even when life looks stable on the outside, the effects of trauma can continue to shape emotions, reactions, and relationships.
Many people live with trauma responses without realizing that their reactions once served an important purpose.
Common Signs Trauma May Be Present
Trauma can show up in both subtle and obvious ways, often affecting emotional regulation, relationships, and a sense of safety.
Common experiences include:
- Heightened anxiety or emotional reactivity
- Difficulty trusting others or feeling safe in relationships
- Emotional numbness or disconnection
- Strong reactions to seemingly small triggers
- Avoidance of reminders connected to past experiences
- Shame, guilt, or self-blame
- Feeling stuck in survival mode
How I Work with Trauma
My approach to trauma is relational, attachment-focused, and paced with care. I focus on creating emotional safety first, helping clients understand their trauma responses without judgment.
In therapy, we work to:
- Build awareness of trauma-related patterns
- Strengthen emotional regulation and grounding skills
- Explore how trauma impacts relationships and self-image
- Gently process past experiences at a manageable pace
- Replace survival strategies with healthier ways of coping
The goal is not to relive trauma, but to help you regain a sense of choice, stability, and connection.
Supporting Healing Outside of Therapy
Healing from trauma also involves learning how to support your nervous system between sessions.
Helpful practices may include:
- Grounding techniques that bring attention to the present moment
- Creating routines that promote safety and predictability
- Paying attention to physical cues of stress or overwhelm
- Practicing self-compassion during emotional reactions
- Allowing trusted connections rather than isolating
Over time, these practices can help reduce reactivity and support a greater sense of safety and balance.
