What is Trauma?
Trauma is often associated with harrowing events such as war or natural disasters. However, any distressing event falling beyond the scope of normal human experience can be considered traumatic. Trauma is not solely defined by the nature of the event itself; rather, it is contingent upon an individual’s response to it. What may be traumatic for one person may not have the same impact on the next. The complexity of trauma lies in its enduring effects—it extends beyond the initial occurrence and alters the structure of the brain. Once the brain undergoes changes and enters a constant state of fight, flight or freeze, maintaining focus, experiencing joy, or finding pleasure can become challenging until the trauma is healed.
There are two types of trauma:
Big “T”
Big T trauma refers to major, significant events that are typically catastrophic and have a profound impact on an individual’s life. These events often involve a direct threat to one’s life or safety. Examples of Big T trauma include war, natural disasters, serious accidents, acts of violence, and severe abuse. The consequences of Big T trauma can be severe and enduring, often leading to conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Little “T”
Little T trauma encompasses less severe but still distressing events that can have a significant impact on an individual’s well-being. These events may not pose an immediate threat to life but can accumulate over time, contributing to emotional and psychological challenges. Examples of Little T trauma include relationship difficulties, bullying, loss of a job, or chronic stress.
How to recognize Trauma?
While each person’s response to trauma can be different, it often includes:
- Feelings of helplessness
- Flashbacks or nightmares
- Trust Issues
- Difficulty in relationships
- Feelings of anger, guilt, or shame
- Anxiety or depression
- Chronic irritability
- Feeling constantly “on edge”
- Difficulty concentrating
- Insomnia
- Body aches or fatigue
- Rapid heart rate
How Does Trauma Therapy Work?
When you’re overwhelmed by the kind of stress, anxiety, or depression you’re experiencing, it’s hard to see beyond these things on your own. Trauma therapy can help you process them in a completely safe environment: one where you are understood, seen, and supported.
I specialize in helping adults learn to stop living in their past, improve their relationships, regain their confidence, and conquer their fear of the unknown. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Practitioner, trained in EMDR, talk therapy, and other evidence-based methods. We will work together to address and process trauma and the feelings associated with it. Much of our work will also be focused on your thought patterns, confronting negative self-talk and self-esteem. Because while you cannot control your circumstances, you can control the way you view them. And that is where true freedom comes from.
I understand that you may have never shared what you have experienced with anyone else, and that going to therapy does not suddenly mean you are ready to do that. I am here to offer a safe space where you can begin to open up and share at your own pace.
What are the benefits?
Through therapy, you can learn to:
Become more grounded in the present day, rather than the past
Enjoy healthier relationships, with better boundary-setting and communication
Manage feelings of anger and resentment in a healthy way
Feel more confident, in control, and hopeful for the future
Gain insight into yourself and your innate strengths
Process the impacts of your trauma and heal them at the source
Certified Therapist
Jen Kaplan
EMDR Therapist
I have over 25 years of experience working with a range of mental and emotional challenge...
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