Trauma Informed Care
Trauma is defined as a deeply distressing or disturbing experience that can lead to significant emotional upheaval. While many people associate trauma with major catastrophic events, it is important to recognize that trauma can also arise from ongoing, repeated experiences over time. This is known as complex trauma, which often stems from events that occurred regularly during childhood or adolescence. The effects of complex trauma can persist well into adulthood, shaping how individuals perceive themselves and relate to others.
Relational Trauma
A specific form of complex trauma is relational trauma. Relational trauma refers to the lasting emotional impact resulting from neglect, abuse, betrayal, or inconsistent care by caregivers. This type of trauma can be experienced both in childhood and adulthood, with common sources including parents, siblings, peers, or romantic partners. Individuals affected by relational trauma may struggle with trust, self-worth, relationship development, and emotional regulation. It is also common for them to repeat relational patterns that mirror the original trauma.
Those who have experienced relational trauma often deal with ongoing challenges such as anxiety, dissociation, guilt, shame, emotional numbness, and persistent sadness. These symptoms can be overwhelming and may feel familiar to those who have lived through such experiences.
Therapeutic Approach and Support
My practice is dedicated to helping individuals who have experienced relational trauma. I offer a safe and non-judgmental space where clients can explore their past experiences and examine patterns within their current relationships. Through this process, healing can begin. I believe that the therapeutic relationship itself has curative potential; by providing a consistent, weekly space to discuss thoughts and feelings, clients can start to heal and move forward.
Areas of Focus
- Narcissistic abuse
- Severe bullying
- Emotional neglect
- Rejection from parents, peers, and romantic partners
- The intersection of growing up in a larger body and relational trauma
I am here to support individuals as they navigate and heal from these complex experiences, fostering growth and resilience in their journey toward recovery.