Trauma Focused Therapy

In the United States, 2 in 3 youth have experienced at least one traumatic experience before the age of 16.

what is trauma?

Trauma is experiencing or witnessing a frightening, dangerous, or violent event that poses a threat to a person’s life or bodily integrity.

  • physical, sexual, or psychological abuse or neglect

  • sudden or violent death of a loved one

  • serious accidents or life-threatening illnesses

  • witnessing community or domestic violence

  • separation from family of origin

  • natural disaster

examples of traumatic experiences

impact of trauma

Trauma can disrupt the normal functioning of the brain, particularly areas responsible for regulating emotions, assessing threats, making decisions, and forming memories.

Every person has a unique response to traumatic experiences. Many people who have experienced traumatic events develop traumatic stress, which overwhelms an individual’s ability to cope.

Traumatic stress may look different depending on the age of the person. Here are some possible symptoms of traumatic stress by age group:

  • generalized fear

    difficulty sleeping

    attachment difficulties

    seeking reassurance

    acting out events through play, art, or story telling

    regressive speech, sleep, toileting, or behaviors

  • worries of safety for self and loved ones

    retelling stories related to trauma

    acting out behaviors

    sleep and concentration issues

    risky or impulsive behavior

    physical symptoms (stomachaches, headaches, etc.)

  • internalizing feelings

    withdrawing from preferred activities, including socialization

    re-experiencing and hyper-arousal

    substance use

    self-harm or suicidal thoughts

    risky behaviors

“If it feels disheartening to learn that trauma changes the brain, remember that healing changes the brain too.”
— @howhumansheal

how we can help

Therapy will not remove the memory of the trauma but will help individuals find a way to thrive despite having lived these experiences.

As a certified clinical trauma professional (CCTP), I offer trauma-focused treatment through individual therapy. I utilize aspects taken from trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, the most researched treatment modality for youth who have experienced trauma.