Trauma results from deeply distressing experiences that can throw us off balance and make it hard to cope. The experience could be a one-time event like a car accident (acute) or persistent and ongoing, like constant mistreatment (chronic). These kinds of experiences affect how we feel, think, and even how our bodies work, leaving a lasting mark on who we are and how we see the world.

 

Beyond the initial shock, trauma often sets off a series of responses that can manifest as symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including intrusive memories, nightmares, heightened anxiety, and difficulty concentrating.

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Everyone deals with trauma differently. Even if two people go through the same thing, they might react in totally different ways because of their own backgrounds and who they are. Our brains try to handle these overwhelming experiences by changing how we think and feel. We come up with ways to keep ourselves safe, and while these strategies might help in the moment, they might not be so great in the long run.

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Together, we’ll work on creating a safe space while exploring how your trauma is affecting you emotionally, mentally, and physically. Our goal is to find healthier ways to cope that make you feel strong and connected to yourself and others.