Trauma Counselling
Trauma is the inability to take effective action. What one person experiences as a trauma, another person may not. Trauma can be one singular incident, or a series of events, ongoing. Trauma often leaves us feeling stuck in the past, reliving old painful experiences in our minds and within our bodies. If you ever have felt activated by something happening in your day to day, this could be related to past wounds - it is your nervous system responding to something in your present life that is reminding your body or your brain of something that was dangerous in the past.
Counselling can be a valuable tool for individuals looking to better understand themselves and their experiences. In a safe and paced manner, a counsellor can guide you through the process of unpacking your past and how it may be impacting you in the present. They can also teach you coping strategies, such as how to calm your body and reconnect with the present moment. Ultimately, counselling can help you align your actions with your values and who you want to be. Seeking out counselling is a courageous step towards personal growth and self-improvement.
Metanoia Mental Health offers face-to-face or online counselling for trauma to all residents in Alberta, Canada.
Trauma can present itself in a variety of physical and psychological symptoms. Common physical reactions may include headaches, fatigue, changes in sleeping or eating patterns, and unexplained aches and pains. Psychological symptoms can include difficulty concentrating, flashbacks or intrusive thoughts, mood swings, feelings of numbness or detachment, and self-destructive behaviors.
It is important to remember that everyone responds to trauma differently and there is no right or wrong way to experience it. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms after a traumatic event, it is important to seek support from a trained professional who can help you process and heal from your experiences.
Symptoms of trauma
Types of trauma
Trauma is a broad term that can refer to any form of psychological, emotional, or physical harm. The three main types of trauma are acute, chronic, and complex.
Acute trauma is often a one-time event such as a car accident or natural disaster. Chronic trauma refers to repeated experiences of abuse or neglect throughout one's lifetime. Complex trauma involves both a single traumatic event and ongoing traumatic experiences, such as growing up in a war-torn country.
It is important to understand the different types of traumas as they often have different symptoms and require different approaches in treatment. Trauma can have long-lasting effects on an individual's mental and physical health, so identifying the type of trauma experienced is crucial in providing effective care.
It is important for individuals who have experienced trauma to seek support from trained professionals in order to begin the healing process.
When people experience trauma, it can have a profound impact on their emotional and mental wellbeing. Fortunately, there are a variety of counseling methods available to support individuals in processing and healing from their trauma.
Traditional talk therapy provides a safe space for individuals to share their experiences and explore their emotions. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help individuals challenge and change negative thought patterns related to the trauma. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is another popular approach that utilizes bilateral stimulation to assist with processing traumatic memories.
It's important to keep in mind that no single approach is right for everyone, so it's important for individuals to work with a trained therapist who can tailor treatment to their unique needs and goals. Ultimately, having access to these various counseling methods can greatly aid individuals in their journey towards healing from past traumas.
Treatments for trauma
Did you know that trauma affects the brain?
The experience of trauma can have significant, long-lasting effects on the brain.
In response to a traumatic event, the brain undergoes changes in both structure and function. Regions responsible for fear and stress response, such as the amygdala, can become hyperactive. Conversely, areas involved in impulse control and decision making, like the prefrontal cortex, can show decreased activity. These alterations in brain function can lead to a range of symptoms, such as flashbacks and difficulty regulating emotions.
Trauma also affects neurotransmitter systems, leading to changes in mood and increased risk for mental health issues like PTSD and depression. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to healing from trauma, therapy and medication can help address these changes in the brain and alleviate symptoms.
It is important to recognize that healing from trauma takes time and self-compassion; seeking support from a mental health professional can be an important step in this process.
What can trauma counselling help you with?
It is not uncommon for individuals who have experienced trauma to struggle with overwhelming emotions, distracting thoughts, or debilitating physical symptoms. Trauma counselling can provide support in navigating these reactions and developing healthier coping mechanisms. Through personalized talk therapy sessions, individuals can process their traumatic experiences in a safe and supportive environment. Additionally, counsellors may help their clients incorporate coping techniques such as deep breathing exercises or mindfulness practices into their daily lives.
Ultimately, the goal of trauma counselling is not simply to overcome traumatic events, but to use them as opportunities for growth and resilience. With the assistance of counselling, individuals can begin to move forward while still honoring their individual journey towards healing.
A few things trauma counselling can help you with…
Learn new strategies and coping techniques for relaxation and managing distress associated with the trauma
Cope effectively with daily stressors
Identify and manage triggers
Gain a sense of peace and hope from the effects of trauma
Increase internal strength and motivation
Facilitate stronger interpersonal relationships
Find a therapist
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Brianne Erichsen
BSW, MC, RCSW