Trauma

My Approach

I specialize in a body-based approach to healing called Somatic Experiencing, which focuses more on the nervous system, rather than talk. It works to restore balance to the nervous system so that clients can be free of the symptoms that have been interfering with their best efforts to live a happy and fulfilling life. My approach to healing trauma is collaborative- at every step of the way I support you in feeling safe, heard, respected, and in charge of what you do and don’t want to discuss. Many clients are able to heal their trauma symptoms without ever discussing their trauma in depth.

The majority of clients I see who have experienced traumatic events in their lives often do not seek treatment for their trauma. Most likely they’ve done everything in their power to just get on with their lives, and leave the past behind. They come to therapy because they want to improve their self-esteem, the quality of their relationships, their parenting skills, set better boundaries with family and loved ones, or make some sort of life or career change that better reflects their deepest passions and beliefs. Many clients struggle with anxiety, chronic stress, and depression, and come to treatment to find relief from their pain.

 

What Is Trauma?

A traumatic event is defined as an overwhelming experience in which a person perceived threat to themselves or others, without the ability to defend themselves or another from harm. Types of trauma include exposure to psychological, emotional, sexual, physical abuse, or emotional neglect, as well as exposure to war, natural disasters, torture or ritual abuse. Trauma can include a single incident, or a pattern of abuse or neglect that occurred over time.

What is Trauma Therapy?

Trauma therapy works to help clients resolve their trauma symptoms so that they are better able to live in the present, rather than feeling stuck in the past due to their trauma physiology. Trauma treatment can help people develop tools to better cope with stress, establish a sense of safety, heal their sense of identity and self-esteem, improve quality of relationships, and restore a sense of aliveness and hope.

Ultimately, clients who’ve undergone trauma treatment are better able to live their lives without feeling defined by their past. Often, they are able to think about their past in a way that highlights their resilience, strength, and power.