What is Trauma-Informed Therapy?
Trauma-informed therapy is a form of talk-therapy that recognizes and responds to the effects of all types of trauma. It integrates a thorough understanding of the profound neurological, biological, psychological, and social effects of trauma and violence on a person. Our primary aim is to create a supportive and non-triggering environment that promotes healing and avoids re-traumatization.
This approach to talk therapy integrates an understanding of trauma’s pervasive effects into all aspects of treatment, ensuring that interventions are sensitive to the unique needs of trauma survivors. By fostering trust, empowering clients, and promoting resilience, trauma informed therapy helps individuals process their trauma, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and regain control over their lives. This approach is particularly beneficial for survivors of abuse, violence, natural disasters, and other traumatic events, as it addresses the root causes of distress and supports long-term healing and recovery.
“The big issue for traumatized people is that they don’t own themselves anymore. Any loud sound, anybody insulting them, hurting them, saying bad things, can hijack them away from themselves. And so what we have learned is that what makes you resilient to trauma is to own yourself fully”.
Dr. Bessel van der Kolk
Who is Trauma-Informed Therapy a Good Fit For?
This approach to talk therapy recognizes the widespread impact of trauma and understands potential paths for recovery. It is designed to meet the needs of individuals who have experienced trauma. This type of therapy is particularly suitable for:
- Survivors of Abuse: Individuals who have experienced physical, emotional, sexual, or psychological abuse can benefit from trauma-informed therapy, as it helps them process their experiences and develop coping mechanisms.
- Victims of Violence or Crime: Those who have been victims of violent crimes, such as assault, robbery, or domestic violence, can find support and healing through trauma-informed therapy.
- People with PTSD: Trauma therapy is especially effective for individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), providing a framework for understanding and managing their symptoms.
- Survivors of Natural Disasters: Individuals who have lived through natural disasters like hurricanes, earthquakes, or floods can use trauma-informed therapy to process the trauma and rebuild their lives.
- Refugees and Immigrants: People who have fled war, persecution, or other forms of conflict and violence can benefit from trauma therapy to address the trauma associated with displacement and the challenges of adapting to a new environment.
- Children and Adolescents: Young people who have experienced traumatic events, such as abuse, neglect, or witnessing violence, can benefit from trauma-informed therapy to support their emotional and psychological development.
- First Responders and Military Personnel: Individuals in professions that expose them to traumatic events, such as firefighters, police officers, paramedics, and military personnel, can use trauma-informed therapy to manage the impact of their experiences on their mental health.
- Individuals with Complex Trauma: Those who have experienced multiple, chronic, or prolonged traumatic events, often from an early age, can find trauma-informed therapy beneficial in addressing complex trauma and its long-term effects.
- People with Substance Use Disorders: Individuals who use substances as a way to cope with trauma can benefit from trauma therapy, which addresses the root causes of their addiction and promotes healthier coping strategies.
- Individuals Experiencing Loss or Grief: Those who have lost loved ones or experienced significant grief can use trauma therapy to navigate their emotions and find pathways to healing.
This form of talk therapy is designed to create a safe and supportive environment where individuals can explore their trauma, build resilience, and develop strategies for healing and recovery. It is adaptable and sensitive to the unique needs of each person, ensuring that the therapy process does not re-traumatize or overwhelm them.
