Trauma-Informed Therapy: Understanding PTSD and Healing from Trauma

The unfortunate reality is that 70% of people will experience at least one traumatic event in their lifetime. Of those, around 20% will develop some form of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Trauma can result from many experiences, including:

• War or combat exposure
• Violence or abuse
• Sudden loss of a loved one
• Serious accidents
• Natural disasters

Even witnessing traumatic events can lead to lasting effects.
A common misconception is that PTSD only affects soldiers or first responders. In reality, trauma impacts people from all walks of life. Another myth is that some experiences “don’t count” as trauma—yet no one else can define what feels traumatic for you. Unfortunately, these misconceptions prevent many people from seeking help.
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Trauma can be difficult to recognize, but it may surface in symptoms such as anxiety, depression, or chronic health issues. Research even shows that trauma can be passed down across generations, increasing risks for both mental and physical health struggles.
At our practice, we use trauma-informed therapy to help clients identify, process, and heal from trauma in ways that feel safe, empowering, and supportive.

What Is Trauma-Informed Care?
Not every client who seeks therapy has trauma—but trauma-informed care benefits everyone. It is an approach that shapes the entire therapeutic process by recognizing the widespread impact of trauma and striving to avoid re-traumatization.
Key elements of trauma-informed therapy include:

• Creating safety → Building an environment of trust and support
• Collaboration → Viewing therapy as a partnership between client and therapist
• Transparency → Providing clear communication to reduce fear or uncertainty
• Empowerment → Helping clients take an active role in their healing
• Cultural sensitivity → Understanding the diverse ways trauma impacts individuals and communities

This approach not only benefits clients but also reduces burnout for therapists, enabling us to provide more compassionate, effective care.

Why Trauma-Informed Therapy Matters
​Trauma-informed therapy helps clients:

• Recognize the role trauma may play in their symptoms
• Build coping strategies for anxiety, depression, and stress
• Feel empowered to advocate for themselves in triggering situations
• Develop resilience and healthier relationships

Healing from trauma takes time, but with the right support, it is possible to move forward and reclaim a sense of control, safety, and peace.

Resources

• PTSD Facts and Statistics – The Recovery Village
• Trauma-Informed Care: What It Is, and Why It’s Important – Harvard Health
• Trauma-Informed Care Implementation Resource Center

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