
Trauma
Trauma happens when we lose control over our personal sense of safety and are overwhelmed by an event or series of upsetting events. Though time passes, the body experiences the traumatic event as continuing to be in the present rather than the past.
I help people work through trauma that includes PTSD and different kinds of attachment wounding . My warm approach to helping people work through trauma is a blend of psycho education about the nervous system and what happens in the body when we experience trauma, coping mechanisms to calm the nervous system and increase functioning, as well as recognizing defense mechanisms and how they keep us safe while also backfiring and pushing others away.
There is a misconception that only people who have experienced war crimes or severe abuse can suffer from trauma or PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder). In reality, there is what is called “Big T” trauma and “Little t” trauma. Big T trauma is where we experience major events like a natural disaster, war crimes, severe abuse etc. Little t traumas are made up of seemingly small moments in life that leave a lasting mark on our functioning. These could include things like a teacher ridiculing an art project in school or failing to successfully complete a presentation at work. Anything can be traumatic. Whether someone experiences trauma depends on the ability to cope and retain their internal sense of safety.
Signs Of Hyperarousal (Trauma):
Flashbacks
Racing heart
Sweating
Nightmares/night terrors
Intrusive thoughts
Depression
Mental fog
Being moody
Over reaction to situations in the present moment
Quick to become angry and irritable