Trauma Focused Therapy

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

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

what is trauma?

  • 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

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

how therapy 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.

Trauma creates patterns of behavior or emotional responses as self-protection mechanisms developed to survive these difficult circumstances. Our experiences shape how we view and interact with the world, leading us to respond in ways that may no longer serve us. Healing begins with understanding these patterns and empowering you to shift how you respond and move toward healthier, more fulfilling experiences.

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As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), I have extensive experience addressing the multifaceted effects of trauma. I have completed training in and utilize aspects from Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), the most researched treatment modality for youth have experienced trauma, as well as Theraplay®, and Trust-Based Relational Interviewing (TBRI).These approaches help individuals to address the root of trauma responses and support emotional regulation so clients can move forward with greater clarity, confidence, and emotional balance.

Together, we can explore how your past has shaped your present and work toward healing the emotional wounds of trauma.

Let’s talk about how I can support you!