Trauma & C-PTSD
TRAUMA THERAPY
Healing Past Wounds, Restoring Strength, and Building Resilience
Trauma can leave lasting emotional and psychological impacts that shape how individuals view themselves, others, and the world. At Trauma and The Art of Healing PLLC, we specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based support to help you process past experiences, regain control, and move forward with hope and resilience.
What is Trauma?
Trauma is a complex experience that goes beyond acts of violence, manifesting in many forms that can profoundly shape our lives. It can stem from emotional abuse, neglect, or internalizing negative beliefs imposed by others, such as being told we aren’t good enough. Growing up in unstable environments or facing significant loss can also leave deep emotional scars, impacting our sense of self and security.
Trauma isn’t always personal—it can arise from witnessing the suffering of others or through invalidating experiences, such as seeking help and being dismissed. These moments can compound emotional pain, creating barriers to healing and further isolating us.
The effects of trauma are not confined to the mind; they are often stored in the body. Traumatic experiences can leave the body in a prolonged state of hyper-alertness, known as the “fight or flight” response, contributing to chronic stress, anxiety, and even physical health issues. This connection between mind and body underscores how deeply trauma influences us.
Over time, the cumulative impact of trauma can alter how we navigate relationships, trust others, and perceive ourselves. Healing begins with acknowledging these patterns and reclaiming a sense of safety, self-worth, and agency. Trauma is not just about what happened—it’s about how it continues to shape us and the steps we take to recover and rebuild.
What are the signs and symptoms of Trauma?
Trauma can affect individuals differently, depending on the nature of the experience, personal resilience, and available support. While everyone processes trauma uniquely, certain emotional, physical, and behavioral symptoms are common indicators.
Emotional Signs
- Persistent feelings of sadness, fear, or anger.
- Numbness or emotional detachment.
- Difficulty trusting others or maintaining relationships.
- Feeling overwhelmed, helpless, or out of control.
- Guilt, shame, or self-blame related to the traumatic experience.
Physical Symptons
- Fatigue or chronic exhaustion.
- Changes in appetite or weight.
- Headaches, stomachaches, or other unexplained aches and pains.
- Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or nightmares.
- Heightened startle response or feeling “on edge” (hypervigilance).
Cognitive and Psycholgical Indicators
- Difficulty concentrating or memory problems.
- Intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, or reliving the traumatic event.
- A sense of disorientation or confusion.
- Negative beliefs about oneself, others, or the world (“I am not safe,” “I can’t trust anyone”).
Behavioral Changes
- Avoidance of people, places, or activities that remind one of the trauma.
- Withdrawal from friends, family, or social activities.
- Increased irritability, anger outbursts, or aggression.
- Risky or self-destructive behaviors (e.g., substance abuse, reckless actions).
- Difficulty functioning in daily life, including work or school.
Trauma in Children and Teens
- Regressive behaviors, such as bedwetting or clinginess.
- Difficulty focusing in school or declining academic performance.
- Increased fearfulness or phobias.
- Behavioral outbursts, tantrums, or aggression.
- Changes in play, which may become repetitive or reenact traumatic themes.
When to Seek Help
If these symptoms persist, worsen over time, or interfere with daily life, it may be time to seek professional support. Trauma and the Art of Healing PLLC’s therapy can provide tools and strategies to process painful experiences, reduce symptoms, and foster emotional healing. Recognizing the signs is the first step toward recovery and reclaiming a sense of balance and well-being.
