Understanding Trauma: A Path to Healing
Trauma can affect anyone, and its impact on your mental and emotional well-being can be profound. Whether the trauma arises from the sudden loss of a loved one, an assault or abuse, a job loss, a car accident, being a victim of crime, or any other distressing experience, the consequences can be long-lasting. Trauma doesn’t just affect the event itself but can deeply shape how we feel, think, and behave. As trauma therapist Sian Roberts puts it, "Trauma is anything that a person perceives as life-threatening to themselves or others, leaving them feeling overwhelmed." Recognizing trauma and understanding its symptoms are the first steps toward healing.
Common Symptoms and Signs of Trauma
Trauma can manifest in both emotional and physical ways. It’s important to understand that these responses are natural reactions to overwhelming events, and they can vary from person to person. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, it may be a sign that trauma has affected your life.
Emotional Symptoms
- Shock, denial, or confusion
- Feelings of low self-worth
- Anxiety or constant worry
- Depression or persistent sadness
- Irritability or mood swings
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Inability to perform daily tasks
- Withdrawing from friends, family, or social activities
Physical Symptoms
- Insomnia or excessive sleep
- Lack of energy or motivation
- Nightmares or flashbacks of the traumatic event
- Memory problems or “brain fog”
- Physical aches or pains without an obvious cause
- Tense or tight muscles
When to Seek Help for Trauma
If your symptoms of trauma are interfering with your daily life, relationships, or overall functioning, it might be time to seek professional help. Perhaps friends or family have noticed changes in you, saying things like, "You’re just not the same" or "I’m worried about you." These are often important signs that you may need additional support. Even if you think you've moved past a traumatic event, if you’re still feeling “off” or if your symptoms persist, therapy can help you process and heal.
Effective Trauma Treatment Methods
Healing from trauma is a personal journey, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. At Wholesome Psychology, we offer a range of therapies that can help you manage or overcome trauma. Our certified therapists will work with you to find the most suitable treatment tailored to your unique needs. Here are some of the effective approaches we use:
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
CBT is an evidence-based therapy that focuses on how your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors influence one another. It helps individuals identify and change harmful thought patterns, leading to healthier emotional responses and behaviors.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR is a well-researched therapy proven to help those dealing with trauma. It uses bilateral eye stimulation to help individuals process and integrate traumatic memories, reducing their emotional charge and helping clients move forward.
Trauma-Informed Narrative Therapy
In Narrative Therapy, clients explore their personal stories to help them reframe the way they view themselves in relation to the trauma. This method empowers individuals by separating their identity from their problems, fostering a sense of agency and self-worth.
Additional Trauma Treatment Options
Other therapeutic options include:
- Exposure Therapy (ET)
- Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
- Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (SP)
- Neurofeedback
- Brainspotting
- Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)
- Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
- Trauma Sensitive Yoga
- Hypnosis
- Animal and Equine Therapy
- Somatic Experiencing Method Ⓡ
- The Grief Recovery Method Ⓡ
- Art Therapy, Group Therapy, Play Therapy
What You Can Expect from Therapy at Wholesome Psychology
At Wholesome Psychology, we understand the complex nature of trauma and offer a personalized approach to treatment. Our therapists are trained in a variety of trauma-informed methods and will work with you to create a tailored plan that suits your unique experience. We focus on providing you with the tools and support needed to process the trauma, rebuild your life, and restore your emotional well-being.
Whether you prefer in-person, online, or telephone counseling, we offer flexible therapy options to meet your needs. Contact us to learn more about how we can support you on your healing journey.