Clinical Emphasis
Trauma
Trauma is an emotional response to a deeply distressing or disturbing event or experience. Trauma can come in various forms (i.e. childhood abuse, neglect, domestic violence, sexual abuse, violence in the community, natural disasters, systemic racism and discrimination, etc). Trauma has been linked to adverse effects on mental and physical health, as well as social and emotional wellbeing. Particularly, research has suggested that experiencing childhood trauma and adversity raises the risk of numerous health problems, such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and mental illness in adulthood. Additionally, unprocessed trauma in adulthood can lead to challenges in relationships, careers, and other aspects of life. Research has also shown that the effects of trauma can lead to anxiety disorders, depression/mood disorders, fearfulness, hypervigilance, separation anxiety, unrealistic fears about dying or losing a loved one, and increased substance use.
Trauma can also cause people to feel overwhelmed and have trouble concentrating, experience increased irritability and mood swings, have feelings of guilt and shame, withdrawl from friends and family, and feel disconnected or numb. People describe that trauma makes them feel like their body is being “hijacked” and they lose a sense of control. The impact of trauma can also be transmitted across generations, from parent to child. Transmission of trauma through generations can lead to emotional distancing, defensive behaviors around expression of emotions, denial, and minimization of trauma. Bessel Van Der Kolk, psychiatrist and trauma research author stated “Trauma is not just an event that took place sometime in the past. It is also the imprint left by that experience on mind, brain, and body.”
Due to so many detrimental effects trauma can have on people, it is incredibly important to understand the nature and impact of trauma, as well as to explore healing and wellness options. Trauma can be very difficult to discuss. However, as a trauma informed therapist, my clients’ emotional and psychological safety is a top priority. In therapy, we will work together to explore, identify and process how trauma has impacted and shaped your life, as well as giving you the tools to feel grounded and empowered.
“Trauma is a fact of life. It does not, however, have to be a life sentence.”
Anxiety and Stress
Occasional anxiety and stress are a normal part of life. However, for some people, anxiety and stress do not go away and can worsen with time. Anxiety is defined as a feeling/emotion associated with unease. Anxiety can cause one to experience physical sensations (i.e., fast or irregular heartbeat, muscle aches and tension, trembling or shaking, dry mouth, etc.), as well as have racing, uncontrollable, and ruminating thoughts. If left unattended, anxiety can impact and interfere with one’s daily life, such as job performance, schoolwork, and relationships. Stressful life experiences, particularly if stress is prolonged and repeated, also increases one’s risk of developing an anxiety disorder. Symptoms may begin immediately or years later. Anxiety and stress can cause people to feel easily fatigued, have GI and stomach issues, experience frequent headaches and migraines, and experience sleep disturbances. Research has also linked stress and anxiety to health problems such as high blood pressure, heart problems, diabetes, skin conditions, asthma, and arthritis, to name a few. Since anxiety and stress can cause devastating effects on one’s mental and physical health, it is important to seek support. In therapy, we will work collaboratively to identify stressors or triggers, as well as helping you unlearn unhelpful thinking patterns and help you learn to regulate your thoughts and emotions.
“Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren’t always comfortable but they’re never weakness.”