Trauma:

What is Trauma

Trauma is a deeply distressing or disturbing event which can impact emotional, psychological, and even physical well-being. Trauma can be caused by feeling a lack of safety; whether a childhood experience of bullying, verbal abuse, physical or sexual assault, accident, loss of health, natural disaster, or even a sense of abandonment. Trauma is extremely personal and subjective. Everyone responds differently to traumatic experiences. Some common reactions are feeling confused, numb, helpless, shame, disgust, and anger. Trauma can leave physical and emotional scars that need to be healed. For some, the impacts of a traumatic event may improve over time. For others, the psychological and emotional consequences of trauma can become “stuck” and continue to interfere with life. The negative impacts of unresolved trauma can range from issues with interpersonal relationships, poor motivation levels, difficulties coping with daily activities, physical illness and aches, or even struggles with depression and anxiety.

What Can Be Done?

Therapy can help heal the pain caused by trauma. In fact, years of research on psychotherapy shows that 80% of people who seek therapy will make progress towards improving their mental health as opposed to those who do not (Asay & Lambert, 1999; Wampold, 2001). Counseling has been found to be beneficial for all kinds of people from various different backgrounds.

Misconceptions About Therapy

There are a lot of misconceptions and myths about therapy out there. Unfortunately, some people do not get the help they need due to fear of stigma and misinformation. Do not let stereotypes or misconceptions intimidate you away from getting the healing you deserve. Being able to speak openly and confidentially with a caring professional can be life changing and rewarding. Please feel free to ask if you have questions or concerns about the process.