Trauma Doesn't Always Look the Way People Expect

Some traumatic experiences are clearly identifiable.

Others are more complicated.

Trauma can relate to a single frightening event, repeated experiences over time, difficult relationships, abuse, violence, loss or situations where you felt powerless or unsafe.

Its effects can also appear in unexpected ways.

You may experience intrusive memories, nightmares, emotional numbness, difficulty trusting people, hypervigilance, anxiety, avoidance or strong reactions to situations that remind your nervous system of something threatening.

Sometimes people don't connect these experiences with trauma until much later.

Trauma Therapy Can Start With the Present

You do not necessarily begin trauma therapy by recounting the past.

Often, useful work can start with what is happening right now.

Are you sleeping?
What makes you feel unsafe?
What happens when you're triggered?
How are relationships being affected?
What helps you feel grounded?

Before exploring painful experiences, a therapist may work with you on emotional regulation, grounding, boundaries and developing a greater sense of safety.

Evidence-based trauma treatment can involve different therapeutic approaches depending on the person and their needs. What matters is that treatment is thoughtful, collaborative and appropriate for you.

Finding the Right Trauma Therapist in Kitchener

Therapeutic fit matters enormously in trauma work.

What is your approach to trauma?
How do you ensure therapy doesn't move too quickly?
What happens if I become overwhelmed during a session?
Do I need to discuss details I'm not ready to share?

A therapist's response should help you feel that your boundaries will be respected.

In-Person and Virtual Trauma Therapy

Redbird Therapy offers in-person trauma therapy at 944 King Street West in Kitchener as well as virtual appointments.

Different people feel safe in different environments. You may appreciate having a dedicated therapeutic space outside your home, or you may feel most comfortable beginning therapy from familiar surroundings through a virtual session.

There is no universally correct choice.

There is only the choice that helps you engage safely.