Trauma


When a person is exposed to uncontrollable and terrifying experiences -- like childhood sexual abuse, chronic physical and emotional abuse, relational violence, war, long cycles of bullying and humiliation or sexual assault -- often the word trauma is used to describe the suffering. Traumatic experiences severally overwhelm one’s capacity to respond effectively in a situation leaving one feeling helpless and terrified.  Core beliefs about love and safety, that give us a sense of grounding in our selves and the world, are shattered.

In trauma the belief that others can be compassionate and helpful is so radically undermined that survivors often feel deeply alone in their suffering. My work with trauma survivors has shown me how much courage it takes to seek therapy and rekindle hope for healing. Below I answer some common questions I am often asked by clients with a trauma history

What is your experience working with trauma?

I have over ten years of experience working with individuals who have been experienced victimization in their lives. Working with trauma survivors has been an integral part of both my training and professional work as a psychologist.  I have worked with children and adolescents who have endured sexual and physical violence and adult survivors of trauma. In my private practice I focus on adult and adolescent survivors of trauma. In an effort to offer my clients the highest level of care, I continually attend seminars and confer-ences that focus on healing trauma.

How do you work with trauma survivors?

My clinical experience and research has shown that it is the quality of the therapeutic relationship that is central to healing.  I work relationally and collaboratively with my clients to create an atmos-phere of genuine acceptance. My experience has been that when clients experience emotional safety, shame and isolation are reduced, the capacity to attune to feelings is strengthened and new sources of passion and liveliness are generated. Just like trauma has many faces, healing has many paths and is unique for each survivor.