Trauma

Many of us live with unresolved trauma from past experiences. My approach to helping those with trauma is rooted in compassion, understanding, and a commitment to creating a safe space for healing and recovery.

Trauma can profoundly change how you view yourself and the world, and my goal is to guide you through the process of reclaiming your sense of self and finding peace.

What is trauma?

Trauma is a natural response to an intensely distressing or disturbing event that overwhelms your ability to cope, causes feelings of helplessness, and diminishes your sense of self and your ability to feel a full range of emotions and experiences.

The effects of trauma can be immediate or delayed, and they can disrupt emotional, physical, and mental well-being. Common reactions include intense fear, horror, numbness, detachment, and persistent memories or flashbacks of the event.

Where does trauma stem from?

A variety of sources can cause trauma, and what is traumatic for one person may not be for another, highlighting the subjective nature of the experience. Some common sources of trauma include:

  • Physical and emotional abuse
  • Natural disasters
  • Serious accidents
  • War and combat
  • Sexual assault and violence
  • Neglect and abandonment
  • Witnessing violence or trauma
  • Chronic stress and oppression

What is the difference between PTSD and C-PTSD?

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can occur after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event like a natural disaster, assault, or accident. It’s characterised by flashbacks, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the trauma.

Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD), while sharing these symptoms, arises from prolonged exposure to traumatic events, often during developmental periods like childhood. The chronic nature of trauma in C-PTSD leads to a broader range of symptoms, profoundly affecting one’s sense of self and relationships.

Symptoms of PTSD and C-PTSD

Both disorders involve re-experiencing the traumatic event, avoidance behaviours, and a heightened sense of threat. C-PTSD also includes affective dysregulation, negative self-concept, and relationship disturbances. This can manifest as emotional instability, feelings of worthlessness, difficulty trusting others, and challenges in forming healthy relationships.

What treatment approaches are used for trauma?

I equip a range of therapeutic approaches to address the complex needs of those with PTSD and C-PTSD:

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Helps reshape negative thought patterns and develop coping strategies.
  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): Encourages embracing thoughts and feelings, promoting psychological flexibility.

What can I expect during trauma therapy?

In our sessions, you can expect a nurturing and non-judgmental space. We will explore your experiences, feelings, and thoughts at a pace that feels comfortable for you. My approach is collaborative, and I am committed to helping you develop the tools and understanding necessary for healing and growth.

We will start by establishing a sense of safety and trust to lay the foundation for our work together. Developing coping strategies will help you to manage your symptoms effectively. We will gently explore and process your traumatic experiences to foster healing and build a positive self-concept and self-compassion.