Understanding Types of Trauma and How Therapy Can Help
Trauma can affect anyone, regardless of background or life experience. Whether caused by a sudden loss, an assault, a life-threatening illness, or a devastating event, the impact of trauma on your mental and emotional wellbeing can be profound. Trauma often leaves individuals feeling overwhelmed and uncertain about how to move forward. As trauma specialist Sian Roberts explains, “Trauma is anything that a person perceives as life-threatening to oneself and/or others, and it leaves you feeling overwhelmed.”
Types of Trauma
Trauma can stem from a wide range of events, both common and uncommon. While some sources of trauma may be immediately obvious, others may be more subtle but still profoundly impactful. Here are some situations where you might experience trauma:
- Concussion or head injury trauma
- Natural disasters
- Relocating to a new place
- Witnessing a suicide
- Discovering a deceased person
- Undergoing surgery
- Serious illness or injury
- Experiencing past childhood abuse or neglect
- The impact of COVID-19
- And many more...
If you have been affected by any of these experiences, it is possible that you are experiencing trauma. It's important to recognize these signs early, as they can affect both your emotional and physical health.
Recognizing Symptoms of Trauma
Trauma can manifest in many ways, with emotional and physical symptoms that can interfere with daily life. Below are some common signs to watch for:
Emotional Symptoms:
- Shock, denial, or confusion
- Lack of self-worth or feelings of guilt
- Increased anxiety or fear
- Depression
- Irritability or mood swings
- Difficulty concentrating
- Inability to perform routine tasks
- Withdrawing from others or social isolation
Physical Symptoms:
- Disrupted sleep (sleeplessness or sleeping too much)
- Lack of energy or physical exhaustion
- Nightmares or intrusive memories of the traumatic event
- Memory difficulties or fogginess
- Unexplained aches and pains
- Tight or tense muscles
If you are noticing any of these symptoms in yourself, it’s a clear sign that the trauma may still be affecting you. You don't need to go through this alone—help is available.
When to Seek Help
Often, those affected by trauma are unsure of when they should seek professional support. If you are struggling to move forward or feeling “stuck” despite time passing, it may be time to consider therapy. Additionally, if friends or family express concern—saying things like “You’re just not the same” or “I’m worried about you”—it’s a strong indicator that you could benefit from talking to a therapist.
Trauma can affect every area of your life, but it is possible to heal and reclaim your sense of peace. If your trauma symptoms are hindering your daily life, seeking professional support can be an empowering first step toward recovery.
Effective Trauma Treatment Methods
When it comes to healing from trauma, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Your therapist will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. Some of the most effective therapies for trauma include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals recognize how their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected. By shifting negative thinking patterns, CBT can help you change the way you respond to stressors and trauma.
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): This evidence-based therapy uses bilateral stimulation (e.g., eye movements or tapping) to help reprocess traumatic memories, reducing their emotional intensity and allowing healing.
- Narrative Therapy: Narrative therapy helps individuals reframe their personal stories by separating the problem from the person. This approach empowers you to redefine your experience and see yourself as capable of overcoming the challenges trauma presents.
Our therapists are trained in these and other evidence-based methods, and we are committed to working with you to find the right fit for your healing journey.
What to Expect from Therapy
At Wholesome Psychology, we understand that every individual’s experience with trauma is unique. That’s why we offer personalized, client-centered care to help you address both the immediate and long-term effects of trauma. Through therapy, you will gain the tools, skills, and insights you need to move forward and heal. Whether your trauma is recent or stems from the past, we are here to support you in reclaiming your life.
We offer flexible options for therapy, including in-person sessions, online therapy, and telephone counseling. This flexibility ensures you can access the support you need in a way that fits your lifestyle and preferences.
If you’re ready to take the first step toward healing, we offer a 50% discount on your first session to allow you to find the right therapist for your needs. Our compassionate team of certified professionals is here to listen and guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your healing journey.