Trauma

Exploring trauma in therapy, particularly childhood trauma, is a vital step toward healing and personal growth. Childhood trauma can take many forms, ranging from "Big T" trauma—such as physical or sexual abuse, severe neglect, or witnessing violence—to "Little T" trauma, which includes everyday experiences that have a significant impact. Examples of "Little T" trauma might include emotional neglect, bullying, a parent’s chronic illness, the divorce of parents, feeling ignored or unloved, or experiencing academic pressure. These experiences, though often dismissed, can deeply affect a person’s emotional landscape and self-perception.

During childhood, children develop coping mechanisms to protect themselves from emotional pain and to navigate their environments. These strategies, such as avoiding conflict, people-pleasing, or withdrawing emotionally, were ways to keep themselves safe in a difficult or unpredictable world. However, while these coping mechanisms may have served a purpose in childhood, they often become maladaptive in adulthood. As we grow, the same responses can hinder our ability to form healthy relationships, manage stress, or express our true feelings. It's important to recognize that these behaviors are not failures; they are responses rooted in survival, reflecting how our nervous systems learned to cope with trauma.

The impact of childhood trauma often manifests in various ways. You may experience anxiety, depression, or difficulty forming healthy relationships. Patterns such as fear of abandonment, trust issues, or an overwhelming need for control can emerge as coping mechanisms developed during childhood. Additionally, you might find yourself replaying traumatic events in your mind or feeling detached from your emotions - a common response known as dissociation. These responses can create barriers to living a fulfilling life, but exploring them in therapy can be a transformative process.

In our work, we’ll create a safe and supportive environment to process these experiences at your own pace. I understand it takes time for this trust to develop, and I am constantly in awe of the courage my clients display as they delve into their stories. It is the greatest privilege of my life to bear witness to this courage and hold each client’s unique story. By delving into both "Big T" and "Little T" traumas, we can identify how they have shaped your beliefs and behaviors, allowing you to work toward healing and integration. Together, we’ll explore more adaptive coping strategies and techniques to manage distressing symptoms, ultimately empowering you to reclaim your narrative and build a healthier, more resilient self. The journey may be challenging, but with support, you can find hope, healing, and a path toward releasing what no longer serves you.