When people think about trauma, they often picture dramatic moments of danger or heartbreak. But trauma is a shape-shifter—it can look like a car accident, childhood neglect, or even ongoing emotional invalidation. One thing trauma often brings along for the ride? Dissociation, a clever but confusing coping mechanism that can leave you feeling disconnected from your body, mind, or even reality itself. In this post, we’ll explore how trauma impacts the brain, what dissociation is, how to recognize it, and ways to support yourself or a loved one through it.

Thanksgiving often comes wrapped in the pressure to celebrate togetherness, express gratitude, and enjoy festive meals. But if you have unresolved childhood trauma, the holiday can feel more like a storm of stress, anxiety, and old wounds. For many, it’s not the turkey or the pie that’s the problem—it’s the family dynamics, unspoken expectations, and the weight of the past.

Healing from CPTSD is a complex but deeply rewarding journey. By engaging in therapy, practicing self-care, and building supportive relationships, individuals can reclaim their lives from the grip of trauma. Recovery may take time, but with the right tools and compassionate guidance, individuals with CPTSD can move toward a life of greater emotional balance, healthier relationships, and renewed hope for the future. The path to healing is not about perfection but about embracing one’s humanity, resilience, and capacity for growth.

Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) is a deeply challenging mental health condition that arises from prolonged exposure to traumatic events, often during childhood or adolescence. Unlike PTSD, which typically results from a single, isolated incident, CPTSD stems from sustained trauma over a longer period. This chronic exposure profoundly impacts emotional, physical, and psychological well-being, shaping the way individuals perceive themselves, others, and the world around them.

Navigating relationships can be challenging for anyone, but for individuals with an avoidant attachment style, expressing needs and emotions can feel particularly overwhelming. When avoidance becomes a core defense mechanism, individuals may find it difficult to communicate openly, advocate for themselves, or even recognize their own emotional needs. This can create a cycle of isolation and dissatisfaction in relationships, leaving individuals feeling unheard and disconnected.

Communication is the foundation of any healthy relationship, but for couples coping with the impact of complex PTSD (C-PTSD), maintaining open and productive dialogue can be especially challenging. Emotional dysregulation—a common symptom of C-PTSD—can significantly hinder communication and create an environment where misunderstandings, conflict, and emotional pain take center stage.

Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy is an innovative and compassionate approach to psychotherapy that emphasizes the understanding and healing of the multiple sub-personalities, or "parts," within each person. Developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz in the 1980s, IFS offers a unique lens through which to view and treat psychological issues, particularly those rooted in trauma.

Anxious attachment, a term rooted in attachment theory, describes a style of relating to others characterized by a deep-seated fear of abandonment and rejection. This attachment style often develops in childhood and can significantly influence one's adult relationships. Understanding anxious attachment and its implications is crucial for fostering healthier connections and personal well-being.

As a therapist specializing in trauma recovery, I have witnessed the transformative power of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. This innovative approach to trauma treatment has helped countless individuals process and heal from their traumatic experiences. In this blog post, we will explore what EMDR is, what you can expect from it, who it can benefit, and why it might be more effective than other methods you may have tried. We'll also discuss how to find a qualified EMDR therapist near you and how my training and experience can support your healing journey.

Among the various therapeutic methods available, Brainspotting Therapy stands out as a powerful and effective tool for healing trauma. In this blog post, we will delve into what Brainspotting Therapy is, what you can expect from it, who it is helpful for, and why it may be more beneficial than previous methods you may have tried. Finally, we will guide you on how to find a Brainspotting therapist near you and explain my own expertise and success in using this therapy to help people process and heal from trauma.

Trauma therapy offers a structured and compassionate approach to help individuals navigate the aftermath of traumatic experiences, facilitating recovery and fostering resilience. In this blog post, we will explore what trauma therapy is, what you can expect from it, who it can help, and why it might be more effective than previous methods you may have tried. Additionally, we will provide guidance on finding a trauma therapist near you and share how I, as a trained trauma therapist, can support you in your healing journey.

One of the most empowering yet challenging aspects of healing from trauma is learning to set boundaries. For many who have experienced trauma, this concept can be daunting. However, it is crucial to understand that you are always allowed to change your mind and make decisions that best support your well-being.

Trauma can have profound and lasting impacts on an individual's life, influencing their mental, emotional, and physical well-being. While trauma responses can manifest in various forms, two primary conditions are commonly discussed: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD). Understanding the nuances between these two disorders is crucial for effective treatment and support.

Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) is a condition that affects many individuals who have experienced prolonged trauma. Unlike PTSD, which often results from a single traumatic event, CPTSD is the result of repeated exposure to traumatic situations, such as long-term abuse or neglect. This can lead to deeply ingrained negative thought patterns that affect one's sense of self and overall mental health.

Healing from childhood trauma is a courageous and transformative journey, but it's not without its challenges. While embarking on the path to healing can lead to profound personal growth and empowerment, it also involves confronting uncomfortable truths, making difficult choices, and navigating significant changes in various aspects of life.

In romantic relationships, the concept of infidelity extends far beyond physical acts of betrayal. While both emotional and physical affairs can have profound impacts on relationships, they differ in their nature and consequences. In this blog post, we'll explore the distinctions between emotional and physical affairs, societal perceptions of infidelity, and strategies for navigating the aftermath of betrayal.

As Mother's Day approaches, many individuals are preparing to celebrate with flowers, brunches, and heartfelt gestures to honor the women who have nurtured and shaped their lives. However, it's essential to acknowledge that for some, this holiday can evoke complex emotions and challenges.

In recent years, the term "narcissism" has become increasingly prevalent in discussions about personality traits and interpersonal dynamics. Narcissism, rooted in Greek mythology, refers to a personality disorder characterized by a grandiose sense of self-importance, a need for excessive admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. The rise of social media and a culture of self-promotion have greatly contributed to the visibility of narcissistic behaviors in society today.

Many individuals believe that their traumas are safely tucked away in the past. But, past wounds can suddenly and unexpectedly find their way into the present, influencing emotional well-being and daily functioning. As a therapist specializing in trauma recovery, I understand that it can be surprising to discover how the impact of past traumas are subtly shaping your day-to-day life.

In the realm of relationships, the balance between interdependence and codependence significantly shapes the dynamics between individuals. As a therapist specializing in trauma recovery, I often meet with individuals and couples who need support in navigating this complex topic.