Tag: Trauma-Specific Therapy

Posted on

Signs of Emotional Trauma in Adults: 5 Behaviors That Might Signal a Need for Healing

Emotional trauma can affect every aspect of your life, often in ways you might not immediately recognize. Understanding these effects is the first step toward healing. This guide explores the physical, emotional, and behavioral signs of trauma that can help you identify how past experiences might be influencing your present. Learning to recognize these signs can be challenging at first, but it ultimately opens the door to recovery and renewed well-being. 

What Is Emotional Trauma?

Emotional trauma is a psychological response to a life-altering or distressing event. It can stem from many experiences, such as abuse, neglect, accidents, loss, or prolonged stress. While some people may recover with time and support, others may experience lingering effects that impact not only their mental health, but their emotional, and physical well-being.

Understanding the signs of emotional trauma and its impact on overall wellness is beneficial for everyone. Recognizing these signs is also the first step of the healing process. Even without a formal diagnosis, acknowledging trauma responses can open the door to recovery and improved quality of life.

Types of Emotional Trauma

Emotional trauma can take many different forms and can arise from various sources:

  • One-time traumatic event: Experiencing a natural disaster, car accident, assault, or witnessing a traumatic incident
  • Ongoing stressors: Chronic or long-term stressors like bullying, living in an unsafe environment, discrimination, prejudice, minority stress, chronic abuse or neglect
  • Childhood trauma: Family dysfunction, childhood abuse, or neglect
  • Combat or military trauma: Trauma sustained while in service as the result of combat or loss of comrades,including military sexual trauma (MST)
  • Sexual assault: Any nonconsensual sexual behavior or coercion
  • Medical trauma: Life-threatening illness, medical malpractice or negligence, chronic illness
  • Trauma from loss: Loss of a loved one, community members, or experiencing tragedy

How Trauma Manifests in Adults

Common signs of trauma can be broken down into 3 main categories: Physical, emotional, and behavioral. Each category includes many symptoms that can show up differently in your life. You might notice mostly physical signs like headaches or sleep problems, while someone else might primarily feel emotional effects such as anxiety or mood swings. These categories aren’t rigid—symptoms often mix together and affect each other. That’s why looking at the whole picture of your experience, rather than isolated symptoms, can be so helpful when understanding and healing from emotional trauma.

Physical Signs of Trauma

  • Chronic fatigue or tiredness
  • Insomnia or disturbances in sleep patterns
  • Headaches, migraines, or seizures
  • Muscle tension, stiffness, or chronic pain1
  • Gastrointestinal problems such as stomachaches, nausea, diarrhea, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  • Changes in appetite, including overeating or loss of appetite
  • Increased heart rate, heart palpitations, or chest pain
  • Shortness of breath, hyperventilation, or difficulty breathing
  • Dizziness, lightheadedness, or feeling faint
  • Skin problems such as rashes, acne, hives, or eczema

Emotional Signs of Trauma

The emotional impact of trauma can be profound and far-reaching, affecting how you process feelings, relate to others, and view yourself and the world around you.

Hypervigilance and Anxiety

Trauma survivors may remain in a heightened state of alertness, constantly scanning their environment for danger. This heightened state of the nervous system can manifest as restlessness, excessive worrying, difficulty concentrating, or a persistent sense of unease. Many people also experience anxiety disorders or panic attacks, characterized by rapid heartbeat, sweating, and difficulty breathing.2

Emotional Instability

People who have experienced emotional trauma often struggle with sudden and intense emotional shifts. They may feel overwhelming sadness, anger, guilt, or shame without an apparent cause. Mood swings, emotional numbness, or excessive crying can also indicate unresolved trauma. Survivors often say they feel their emotional reaction is not consistent with the situation.

Trouble Regulating Emotions

Emotional trauma can make it challenging to manage emotions effectively. Some people experience intense anger outbursts, frequent irritability, or extreme sensitivity to criticism. Others may feel emotionally numb, unable to experience joy or excitement.

Flashbacks and Intrusive Thoughts

Trauma can cause people to relive distressing memories through flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive thoughts. These recollections can feel vivid and overwhelming, making it difficult to focus on daily life and triggering strong emotional or physical reactions.

Low Self-Esteem and Negative Self-Perception

Emotional trauma can distort yours self-image, leading to feelings of worthlessness, self-doubt, self-blame, or persistent guilt. Some survivors start to believe they’re undeserving of love, success, or happiness because of their past experiences.

Difficulty Trusting Others

Trauma can make it hard for survivors to trust people, even those who genuinely care for them. Fear of betrayal, abandonment, or manipulation can lead to difficulty forming or maintaining close relationships, often resulting in loneliness.

Dissociation and Memory Gaps

Some individuals cope with trauma by dissociating,3 which means disconnecting from their thoughts, emotions, or surroundings. They may feel detached from reality, experience memory gaps, or have trouble recalling important details about their trauma.

Behavioral Signs of Trauma

Trauma often reveals itself through changes in behavior and daily habits, creating patterns that can be observed by both you and those close to you.

1. Avoidance and Social Withdrawal

    Many adults with emotional trauma tend to avoid people, places, or situations that remind them of the traumatic event. They may withdraw from social activities, isolate themselves, or struggle with maintaining relationships due to fear of getting hurt again. Some may also isolate due to feeling misunderstood or embarrassed about their symptoms. 

    Trauma can significantly impact your social cognition4—your ability to navigate social situations and understand others’ perspectives. You might notice changes in how you empathize with others or interpret social cues, which can make you feel even more socially excluded and isolated. This creates a cycle where social withdrawal reinforces trauma symptoms, making relationship-building more challenging over time.

    2. Self-Destructive Behaviors

      To cope with emotional trauma, some people turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as substance use or abuse, reckless behavior, overeating, or self-harm. These behaviors may provide temporary relief but often exacerbate emotional pain in the long run. Suicidal thoughts can also occur, especially if the person feels overwhelmed by their trauma or unable to see a way out of their pain.

      3. Aggressive or Impulsive Behaviors

      If you’ve experienced trauma, you might notice you’re more emotionally reactive than before, sometimes having sudden anger outbursts or feeling confrontational. This isn’t your fault—it’s connected to your brain’s fight-or-flight response staying on high alert because of past trauma. This means even small frustrations can trigger intense reactions.

      These responses often serve as your mind’s way of protecting itself—perhaps helping you feel more in control when you’ve previously felt powerless, or expressing pain you haven’t been able to put into words. Over time, though, these patterns of trauma-related anger and impulsivity5 can strain your relationships, create problems at work or home, and even affect your physical health.

      4. Repetitive Behavior or Rituals

      Some trauma survivors may engage in repetitive behaviors or rituals, such as checking things obsessively, repeating certain actions, or engaging in compulsive behaviors to regain a sense of control or safety. This can sometimes be a way of coping with feelings of helplessness or anxiety.

      5. Difficulties in Daily Functioning

        When you’re dealing with trauma, even everyday tasks might feel overwhelming. You might notice it’s harder to focus at work or school, your productivity drops, or you miss deadlines because emotional distress keeps getting in the way. Your motivation might disappear too, leaving you feeling disconnected from goals that once mattered to you.

        Day-to-day responsibilities like paying bills, keeping up with personal hygiene, or handling household chores might start slipping as you battle exhaustion, depression, or feelings that things won’t get better. This creates a difficult cycle—avoiding tasks leads to more stress, which can deepen feelings of not being good enough or doubting yourself.

        Keep in mind that these struggles are common responses to trauma, not personal failings. Understanding this connection is an important step toward healing.

        Recovery From Emotional Trauma

        Recovering from emotional trauma is a deeply personal and often long-term journey. While the path to healing can be challenging, it is absolutely possible with patience, self-compassion, and the right strategies. Healing from emotional wounds requires not only addressing the immediate distress but also working through the underlying emotions and experiences that contribute to the pain. It’s important to understand that recovery is not linear—there will be ups and downs, but every step forward counts.

        Empowering Your Healing Journey

        Here are some steps to support your recovery progress:

        • Acknowledge your trauma: Accepting and validating your experiences is an important first step toward healing.
        • Process emotions at your own pace: Allowing yourself to feel the emotions tied to trauma is essential. It’s okay to cry, be angry, or feel overwhelmed. Emotional expression helps release pent-up feelings, making space for healing.
        • Seek professional help: Therapists and mental health professionals can provide guidance and coping strategies to manage trauma. Regular psychotherapy or formal trauma therapy can help decrease or resolve even long-lasting symptoms of emotional trauma.
        • Practice self-care: Engaging in activities like exercise, meditation, relaxation techniques, journaling, and hobbies can help improve mental well-being and aid in trauma recovery.
        • Structure your routines: As you progress in your healing process, you’ll regain stability and gradually restore your ability to function effectively in daily life.
        • Create healthy boundaries: Setting boundaries with people and situations that may trigger past trauma is vital in protecting your emotional well-being. Boundaries allow you to take control of your healing process without being overwhelmed by others’ demands or behaviors.
        • Connect with supportive people: Surround yourself with a trusted support system of friends and family members who provide a safe and understanding space.
        • Develop healthy coping mechanisms: Focus on positive ways to manage stress, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, a new hobby, or creative expression.
        • Be patient with yourself: Healing is not linear, and setbacks are a part of the process. Allow yourself grace and time to recover.

        Clinical Approaches to Emotional Trauma Healing

        There are now several trauma treatment options led by clinicians who specialize in treating trauma and trauma-related mental health conditions. These help people cope with emotional and psychological trauma effectively.

        • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): Helps you reframe negative thoughts and develop healthier coping mechanisms
        • Cognitive processing therapy (CPT):6 A type of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) that focuses on helping individuals identify and challenge negative thoughts and beliefs related to their traumatic experiences
        • Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR): A specialized therapy used to help process traumatic memories
        • Narrative exposure therapy (NET):7 A structured, short-term therapeutic approach designed to help people process and integrate traumatic experiences (especially effective for people who have experienced prolonged trauma)
        • Prolonged exposure therapy (PE): A form of CBT focused on confronting memories, feelings, and situations related to trauma in a controlled and gradual way
        • Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT):8 Combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness practices. It is particularly effective for individuals who have difficulty regulating their emotions, which is common among those who have experienced trauma. DBT helps individuals develop skills in emotional regulation, distress tolerance, interpersonal effectiveness, and mindfulness.
        • Somatic therapy: Focuses on the connection between mind and body, helping to release stored trauma
        • Medication: In some cases, doctors prescribe antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications to help manage symptoms or other co-occurring mental health disorders
        • Group therapy and support groups: Provide a safe space to share experiences and receive support from others who have gone through similar struggles
        • Mindfulness and meditation: Techniques that promote relaxation and emotional regulation

        How Trauma-Informed Care Supports Your Healing

        Looking for healthcare providers who practice trauma-informed care (TIC) can be really helpful in your recovery journey. This approach isn’t a specific therapy type, but rather a philosophy where providers make a commitment to understand trauma’s effects and respond with sensitivity. When you find trauma-informed care, you’ll notice that providers create spaces where you feel safe, trusted, and respected, and they take special care to avoid triggering additional trauma during your treatment.

        Find Support for Your Healing Journey

        Recovering from emotional trauma takes time, patience, and often professional guidance. By recognizing the signs of trauma in your life and understanding that healing is possible, you’ve already taken an important first step. 

        If you’re struggling with the effects of emotional trauma, consider reaching out for professional support. The right treatment program can provide you with evidence-based therapies, compassionate care, and the tools you need to heal. 

        Ready to begin your healing journey? Find a trauma treatment program that’s right for you.

        FAQs

        Q: How do you know if you’re emotionally traumatized?


        A: Emotional trauma can show up as persistent feelings of fear, sadness, or helplessness. You may notice nightmares, flashbacks, difficulty concentrating, or a strong startle response. If these symptoms affect your daily life, it may signal unresolved trauma.

        Q: What does unresolved trauma look like in adults?


        A: Adults with unresolved trauma often struggle with trust, relationships, or regulating emotions. They may experience anxiety, depression, or substance use as ways to cope. A person living with trauma may avoid reminders of the event, feel hypervigilant, or withdraw from others. They may also seem irritable or easily startled.

        Q: What is emotional trauma?


        A: Emotional trauma is a response to distressing events that overwhelm a person’s ability to cope. It can affect thoughts, feelings, and physical health. Emotional trauma and psychological trauma are often used together to describe lasting harm to both emotional well-being and mental processes, such as memory or decision-making, after a distressing event.

        Q: What are the most common signs of childhood trauma in adults?


        A: Common signs include difficulty trusting others, low self-esteem, emotional reactivity, and challenges in relationships. Some adults also struggle with anxiety, depression, or substance use linked to early trauma.

        Q: How can I help a loved one with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?


        A: Offer consistent support, listen without judgment, and encourage professional care. Resources like therapy, peer support groups, and trauma-informed treatment programs can make a difference.

        Q: What are the long-term effects of emotional trauma in adults?


        A: Long-term effects may include chronic anxiety or depression, difficulty with relationships, substance use, and physical health problems. Some adults develop PTSD, a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing trauma. Symptoms include intrusive memories, avoidance, negative changes in mood, and hyperarousal. With proper treatment, many people can heal and build resilience.

        Posted on

        Strengths-Based Approach to Trauma Treatment

        A strengths-based approach focuses on a person’s behaviors, ways of thinking, and values that promote health1, instead of focusing on symptoms that can cause poor mental well-being. By emphasizing unique positive characteristics, patients’ recovery aligns with what will best help them heal. 

        For example, a patient who expresses their emotions freely through art may receive more art therapy sessions to play to their strengths. Another client may bond and open up to peers, so they would attend more peer support groups. If a trauma patient responds well to eye movement therapy, then they might add in 2 more sessions weekly.

        Trauma is highly specific to each patients’ experience, environment, and personality. A strengths-based approach acknowledges that people who have experienced trauma can access innate strengths to promote healing.  

        Key Components of the Strengths-Based Approach

        Some trauma treatment approaches use deficit or pathology-based methods, meaning they focus on addressing the negative symptoms; however, a strengths-based approach builds on existing strengths, resilience, and coping mechanisms to recover. 

        Trauma-Informed Care

        Notably, a strengths-based approach incorporates trauma-informed care principles,  which seek to address the effects of trauma and promote safety, self-regulation, and empowerment2. It recognizes and adheres treatment to the impact of trauma and creates a safe and supportive environment that fosters healing. Other methods might risk re-traumatizing the patient by treating trauma symptoms without sensitivity.

        Therapists using a strengths-based approach, such as Judy Crane3, tend to have specialized trauma training and incorporate the idea of the Trauma Egg into their practice. The Trauma Egg offers a visual framework to view how trauma affects a patient’s life4, and it aims to promote personal reflection and healing. Using this concept, patients can “talk” to and peel back each separate component that their traumatic experience has given them. Adopting practices like these into a strengths-based approach can help the patient feel in control of their recovery.

        Collaborative Decision Making

        A strengths-based approach encourages collaborative decision-making between patients and their treatment team. It actively involves patients in their recovery process, respecting their autonomy and choices. By building on a patient’s independence, this approach can help them flourish in recovery with strength, growth, and resilience.

        Empowerment

        A strengths-based approach bolsters a patient’s natural positive coping skills, emphasizing their ability to adapt in the face of adversity. This approach views patients as inherently capable of their own recovery and in control of their lives, particularly in the context of trauma. 

        Benefits of Strengths-Based Trauma Recovery

        Patients participating in a strengths-based recovery can gain control and build a new mindset of creating and rebuilding, rather than being broken. 

        Patients learn how to set goals, develop healthy coping skills to foster growth, and confront rather than avoid challenges. Their strengths and newfound resilience can then improve their personal, family, and community well-being5. It also builds self-esteem and competence in recovery and their daily lives.

        While a strengths-based approach has many positives, it’s also important to find and address personal weaknesses5. Ignoring these could lead to a less effective recovery.

        Find Treatment for Trauma

        Using your strengths, you can find healing from your trauma. Browse treatment centers providing trauma-specific care with pricing, insurance, and photos.

        Posted on

        What Is Complex Trauma? Causes, Signs, and Treatment

        Complex trauma, sometimes called complex post-traumatic stress disorder (c-PTSD), is caused by prolonged exposure to traumatic events and has subsequent effects on psychosocial functioning and neurodevelopment. It differs from PTSD, which is typically associated with a singular traumatic event. Complex trauma accumulates over time with repeated activation of the stress response during sensitive developmental periods1, creating a web of emotional and psychological challenges. 

        Usually, but not always, complex trauma forms in childhood. Professionals defined adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) as a set of potentially traumatic events that can happen during childhood2 and are linked to negative long-term health and well-being. The more ACEs a child has, the more likely they are to develop complex trauma. ACEs can negatively impact education and job opportunities and are associated with chronic health problems, mental health disorders, and substance use problems. 

        However, complex trauma can form in any stage of life through various circumstances.

        Causes of Complex Trauma

        Complex trauma comes in many shapes and forms, as it can develop during any sensitive time period, especially for vulnerable populations. 

        Childhood abuse: Complex trauma often stems from childhood abuse or neglect, including physical, emotional, or sexual abuse. This abuse can be caused by family or caregivers, disrupting a child’s sense of safety, attachment, and self-worth.

        Domestic violence: Long-term exposure to domestic violence, where one partner emotionally, physically, or sexually abuses the other, can lead to complex trauma. Children who witness domestic violence within their family may also experience this form of trauma.

        War and conflict: People living in areas affected by ongoing conflict and violence can develop complex trauma. This includes combat trauma, displacement, and loss of loved ones.

        Human trafficking: Victims of human trafficking, whether for sexual exploitation or forced labor, endure captivity, manipulation, and violence, contributing to complex trauma.

        Institutionalized abuse: Incarceration in prisons or detention centers with violence, isolation, and harsh conditions can cause complex trauma. Additionally, people who have been involved in cults or religious sects that use manipulation and emotional abuse can experience this type of trauma.

        Chronic medical trauma: People with chronic or life-threatening medical conditions who undergo multiple surgeries, treatments, or hospitalizations may experience complex trauma from the ongoing stress and pain associated with their illness.

        Symptoms and Effects

        Complex trauma can significantly impact psychological and emotional well-being. Often, it can mirror or result in the onset of other mental health conditions3 such as PTSD, eating disorders, and personality disorders like borderline personality disorder. People with complex trauma are also more likely to turn to drugs or alcohol4 to self-medicate and cope with emotional pain.

        In addition to mental health disorder symptoms, someone with complex trauma can have self-regulatory disturbances3, which can manifest as difficulties in emotion regulation and impulsivity. Complex trauma patients may also experience intrusive thoughts and dissociation, which is a disconnection from one’s thoughts, feelings, or surroundings. Physically, it can cause insomnia, gastrointestinal issues, headaches, and cardiovascular problems from the prolonged stress5. 

        Long-term, complex trauma can greatly hinder a person’s ability to trust and form close relationships because a lack of safety leads to hypervigilance to potential threats. They may experience challenges developing healthy and secure attachment patterns. Someone with complex trauma may also have low self-esteem and intense shame or guilt. 

        Trauma-Informed Care

        Trauma-informed care6 is an all-encompassing approach to providing services and support that accounts for the unique experiences of people with complex trauma history. Healthcare professionals take patients’ past traumatic events into consideration when asking questions, creating a treatment plan, and executing therapies. It creates an environment that is sensitive to the needs of those who have experienced trauma and aims to promote trust and empowerment. This helps the patient feel safe and supported throughout their recovery.

        Trauma-informed care aims to avoid retraumatization during recovery, which is key for complex trauma patients. To achieve this, healthcare providers will conduct an evaluation to screen for trauma history. Then, they can appropriately care for your needs though enforcing safety during treatment, avoiding triggering situations, and practicing crisis intervention. A cornerstone in treatment will also be trauma-informed therapy.

        Trauma-Informed Care Principles

        Trauma-informed care is based on several key principles7, as defined by The Center for Disease Control (CDC) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). Providers should strive to incorporate these ideas into their practices. 

        First, it emphasizes that trauma is prevalent, and many people seeking treatment have experienced trauma. This recognition helps create a non-judgmental environment for patients to share their experiences without retraumatization.

        This approach emphasizes the importance of trustworthiness and transparency between patients and providers. It involves building trust through clear communication, consistency, and reliability.

        Trauma-informed care is based on a holistic understanding of traumatic experiences. Physical, mental, and emotional well-being are interconnected, so it takes into account the patient’s unique strengths, needs, and cultural background.

        Trauma-informed care highlights collaboration and empowerment by actively involving patients in the decision-making process and providing them with opportunities for autonomy. This approach helps to restore a sense of control that may have been lost due to trauma.

        Therapeutic Approaches for Complex Trauma

        Recovering from complex trauma often requires talk therapy. These therapies allow you to practice emotional regulation and learn coping skills.

        Trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) is an evidence-based therapy designed to help patients process and manage the impact of trauma. It focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and managing uncomfortable emotions. This approach often includes techniques like exposure therapy, cognitive restructuring, and stress management.

        Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a specialized therapy for trauma. It incorporates bilateral stimulation, such as rapid eye movements or taps, to help patients process and integrate traumatic experiences, reducing their emotional charge.

        Many trauma-informed programs also integrate holistic and experiential therapies. Somatic experiencing emphasizes the mind-body connection in trauma and releases related physical tension and stress responses. You will also likely practice mindfulness techniques to develop greater self-awareness, emotional regulation, and stress reduction.

        Resilience and Post-Traumatic Growth

        Complex trauma could potentially lead to personal growth and positive changes8, also called post-traumatic growth (PTG). You may even look at the positive consequences in parallel with the negative, as opposed to its own separate island. 

        PTG doesn’t deny the pain and challenges of complex trauma but acknowledges that growth can occur alongside suffering. Through professional and personal healing, you can discover a sunnier outlook on life, leading to increased resilience, confidence, and improved relationships. It’s a testament to your strength and the capacity for positive change, even in the aftermath of severe adversity.

        So, how can you achieve PTG?—By making your healing a priority. Reach out for help from mental health professionals and trusted friends and family. Attend therapies that fit your needs, and openly communicate about your experiences. Work on developing healthy coping mechanisms for dealing with stress and emotional distress. And take time to do some deep self-reflection. Evaluate what’s truly important to you and your path to move forward by writing down recovery goals. 

        Support and Resources

        To find a trauma-informed provider, ask your primary care physician for referrals. They can guide you to a specialized professional or clinic that can address your specific needs. Look for professionals with relevant credentials and specializations, such as Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs), Psychologists (Ph.D. or Psy.D.), or Psychiatrists (MD). Additionally, check if they have certifications or training in trauma-focused therapies like eye movement therapy or trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy.

        After an evaluation, talk through your treatment options. Consider asking questions such as:

        1. Are there specific trauma-focused therapies you recommend?
        2. What qualifications should my treatment providers have?
        3. How can I actively participate in treatment and advocate for my needs throughout the process?
        4. Where can I reach out for support in case of a crisis?
        5. Are there coping skills I can practice outside of therapy? 
        6. Do you recommend any medications to manage my symptoms? 
        7. Do you recommend family therapy or couples therapy if complex trauma has affected my relationships?

        Peer support can allow you to share experiences, learn coping strategies, and connect with others who have faced similar challenges. CPTSD Community Safe Group9 offers private online support groups and resources to those in recovery. There may also be in person support groups in your area, and you can find those by asking your primary care physician.
        For assistance finding a provider near you, call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357)10, or text your zip code to 435748.

        Posted on

        Finding Freedom Through Gestalt Therapy

        You can’t be defined as just one thing. So healing requires looking at all of the things that make you, you. Gestalt therapy shows how all the facets in your life impact you. This approach honors that both you and your environment are always shaping each other. And you can learn how to make this relationship a positive one. 

        In rehab, gestalt therapy can empower you to move forward from what’s holding you back.  

        What Is Gestalt Therapy?

        A “gestalt” is a whole that’s greater than the sum of its parts.1 According to this approach, if you want to understand something, you have to look at its context. Gestalt therapy helps you realize how different areas of your life impact you. 

        This therapy works by bringing you into the present moment to heal.2 It focuses on the here and now. You can still look at past experiences that you want to work through. But by focusing on what you’re feeling right now, you’re better able to understand and regulate your feelings. Gestalt therapy aims to help you make peace with the past, so you can move on to a brighter future.

        This healing journey encourages you to reconnect with and accept buried parts of yourself. It also urges you to be accountable for how you live your life. While we can’t always control our circumstances, learning to adapt to the unpredictable can be hugely empowering.

        How It Works

        The key to Gestalt therapy is trust: trusting your therapist and trusting yourself. Doing so helps you develop the self-awareness to recognize patterns you want to change. 

        In session, your therapist focuses on empathizing with you. By giving unconditional acceptance, they’ll provide a safe space for you to heal. They’ll do much more listening than talking. 

        Gestalt Therapy Exercises 

        Gestalt therapy takes a hands-on approach to healing. This experiential therapy will have you do more than just talking. In a session, you might do exercises like the following, including some that focus on analyzing body movement:

        • “I” statements: Instead of “they were mean to me,” for example, you might say: “I feel that they’re being mean to me.” Using this kind of phrasing helps you take responsibility for your thoughts and emotions instead of blaming them on others. 
        • The empty chair: You’ll face an empty chair, representing someone or something, and have an open conversation with it. Here, you’ll work through your unprocessed experiences—what Gestalt therapy refers to as “unfinished business.” The empty chair method3 releases negative feelings, making life more joyful. 
        • The reversal technique: Your therapist will encourage you to act in ways you normally wouldn’t. If you’re normally passive, for example, you might act assertively. This allows you to overcome self-imposed labels and get in touch with your full self.
        • Top dog vs. underdog: You’ll speak as both the “top dog” and “underdog” of your personality. That is, you’ll speak as your own dominant side versus your submissive side. This exercise reveals internal conflict and empowers you to work toward a middle ground. 
        • Exaggeration: Your therapist will ask you to repeat certain actions, like your leg bouncing or picking your nails, that you do while talking. By doing this action again, you’ll see what emotion it’s tied to. Understanding this mind-body connection is grounding and allows you to develop control of your emotions. 

        Is Gestalt Therapy Right for You?

        Gestalt therapy treats a variety of mental health issues, including anxiety and depression. And you don’t have to have a diagnosis to benefit from it. Gestalt therapy is also used for low self-esteem4 and relationship problems. 

        Gestalt therapy is process-oriented,5 unlike many other therapies. This means that it follows the flow of the therapy session and does not have specific rules or a timeline. If you need more structure, Gestalt therapy may not be a fit.

        Gestalt Therapy for Mental Health

        When you’re in the present moment and self-aware, your mental health benefits. If you’re feeling stuck in old ruts, Gestalt therapy may be able to help you break out of them.

        Gestalt Therapy for Trauma and PTSD

        Your body stores trauma.6 And Gestalt therapy can help you safely explore it. Focusing on how your body is currently moving or feeling can help you process your past. As trauma expert Dr. Bessel van der Kolk explains: 

        “If you have a comfortable connection with your inner sensations—if you can trust them to give you accurate information—you will feel in charge of your body, your feelings, and yourself.”7

        For PTSD patients, Gestalt therapy revisits past emotions that are tied to traumatic events.8 By fully processing the effects on your mind and body, you can move beyond the hold your past has had on you. 

        If you have bodily or sexual trauma, approach Gestalt therapy with caution. Trauma sits differently for everyone, so what may work for others could be triggering for you. Your treatment team can help you decide which modalities are best suited for your goals. 

        Gestalt Therapy for Trauma Anxiety

        Anxiety often starts from stress about your past or about the unknown future. Gestalt therapy can decrease anxiety9 by helping you focus on the now. It can also increase self-love by showing you that all parts of you are worthy. For many, recovery is a lifelong process, and this therapy can support lasting healing. 

        Addiction and Gestalt Therapy

        Addiction might begin as self-medication to cope with stress or other mental health concerns. Learning to accept your life in the present through Gestalt therapy could be a powerful tool for setting yourself free. 

        Your therapist will look at you as a whole person, instead of just a set of addiction risk factors. Professionals at Monarch Shores explain that the biggest goal in recovery with Gestalt therapy is growth. As you grow to accept your life, you’ll also grow to embrace who you are. And in doing so, you’ll be more motivated to make positive changes. 

        The fundamental skills Gestalt therapy teaches are also useful for preventing relapse.10

        Healing Your Present–and Your Future

        You are a collection of every experience in your life. When you learn to love and accept all of the elements that make up who you are, you become a stronger whole. Radically accepting everything you feel can help you focus on the present moment—and find freedom from the past.

        Look for rehabs that offer gestalt therapy and reach out to their admissions staff directly.

        Posted on

        What Happens in Residential Rehab for Trauma?

        Rehab isn’t just for addiction recovery. That’s a common reason to start treatment, but it’s not the only one. You can also go to rehab to heal from trauma.

        Defining Trauma

        Traumatic events don’t always cause trauma symptoms.1 The same event that leaves you with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)2 could be annoying but forgettable for someone else. Certain qualities can make you more vulnerable to developing symptoms. Specifically, people who have a history of childhood trauma, mental health issues, or addiction may be at higher risk.  

        Trauma Symptoms

        Everyone reacts to trauma differently. But there are a few common effects you might experience after a traumatic event:3

        • Fatigue
        • Confusion
        • Anxiety
        • Emotional numbness
        • Loss of hope
        • Fear

        These are often short-term reactions in the immediate aftermath of the event. But for some people, they become ongoing symptoms. If that’s the case, you can ask your doctor to evaluate you for PTSD.  

        Post-traumatic Stress Disorder

        PTSD is a prolonged reaction4 to a finite traumatic experience. This could be a single event, like a car accident, or a period of time, like a tour of duty in the military. Symptoms of PTSD include the following:

        • Flashbacks 
        • Sleep problems like nightmares
        • Avoidance, where you stay away from reminders of your trauma
        • Feeling tense
        • Angry outbursts
        • Loss of interest in your passions

        To fit the criteria for PTSD, these symptoms need to last for more than a month and interfere with your quality of life. 

        Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

        Chronic trauma can lead to complex PTSD5 (c-PTSD), instead of PTSD. The 2 conditions are similar, but with a few key differences. Unlike PTSD, c-PTSD is the response to long-term circumstances. For example, teens or adults who survived child abuse might show signs of c-PTSD. 

        In addition to the symptoms of classic PTSD, people with c-PTSD may also experience the following: 

        • Dysregulated emotions
        • A negative self-image
        • Difficulty forming and maintain healthy relationships

        While treatment for these diagnoses is similar, c-PTSD can cause additional challenges. 

        Co-occurring Trauma and Addiction

        Studies indicate a strong link between addiction and traumatic experiences.6 There are several reasons for this. Drugs and alcohol can offer a temporary distraction from the pain of trauma. Or, you might decide to self-medicate in order to manage your symptoms. 

        It’s all too easy to get caught in a cycle of trauma and addiction. That’s true for a few reasons. First, drug and alcohol use can make your mental health worse. And second, addiction itself can be traumatic. You might find yourself in dangerous situations because of the way you obtain or take drugs. Those experiences can compound your trauma. But without support, drug use might be the only way you know how to manage your symptoms.

        What Happens in Rehab for Trauma?

        If you’re having a hard time healing on your own, you might benefit from residential treatment. There, you’ll have the time and space to focus on healing, instead of just surviving. 

        What is Trauma-Informed Care?

        Trauma-informed rehab programs provide treatment in a safe and empowering way. Clinicians are sensitive to your concerns, and may have special training in trauma recovery.

        Trauma symptoms can put you on high alert,7 even if there isn’t any danger. The tranquility of a trauma-informed treatment center can help you stay centered. For example, you might attend therapy in a soundproof room, so there’s a lower chance of loud noises. Or, your massage therapist might ask for consent before starting every session.

        This type of care accommodates your needs, but it won’t insulate you from all your triggers. Instead, you’ll learn how to navigate them while keeping yourself safe. Rehab gives you the chance to practice new coping skills before you reenter a less curated environment. 

        A Framework for Recovery

        While you can heal from your trauma in an outpatient setting, going to residential treatment offers unique benefits. For example, keeping a consistent schedule helps people with PTSD feel safe.8 And when you attend inpatient treatment, your days will have a set routine. It’s common for people to feel overwhelmed after trauma,9 so taking a break from making certain decisions can be a relief. That way, you can focus on your recovery, instead of what you’re going to have for dinner.

        A Calming Environment

        It’s much harder to heal in the same place where you got hurt. If your trauma happened close to home, a change of scenery might be necessary for recovery. Studies even show that changing your environment can improve your mood.10 

        If you travel for rehab, you can choose your ideal location. And some environments make healing even easier. Specifically, living in the midst of nature can help you process your thoughts11 and cope with stress. 

        Social Support During Treatment

        Trauma can be isolating.12 And when your symptoms interfere with relationships, it’s hard to ask for the help you need. Many residential rehabs offer a built-in community13 of patients with a similar experience of trauma. Some programs even cater to people with shared identities, like LGBTQ+ patients. And studies show that having robust social support can help your recovery14 from trauma. 

        Specific Therapies for Trauma 

        Everyone’s healing process is different. That’s why so many rehabs offer personalized care. During inpatient treatment for trauma, you can access several different types of therapy in the same program. This empowers patients to take control of the healing process, under the expert guidance of their care team.

        Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

        Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a popular treatment for trauma symptoms.15 In session, patients learn to recognize and work through thought patterns that no longer serve them. This is easiest to understand with triggers. For example, after an accident, you might feel intense fear about getting into a car. CBT can help you put that feeling in context. Instead of avoiding cars altogether, you could learn how to calmly assess whether it’s safe to drive. And then, additional CBT skills can help you stay centered while you’re on the road.

        Prolonged Exposure Therapy 

        Prolonged exposure therapy (PE)16 is a type of CBT. In PE, you’ll confront your trauma head-on. Patients do this by recounting their most painful memories in great detail. As you tell the story of what happened, your therapist may encourage you to engage your 5 senses. What did the room smell like? What noises did you hear? How did your body feel?

        PE isn’t easy. The goal is to trigger yourself, purposely causing an intense emotional response. But as you return to the same memory over and over again, you’ll become desensitized to it. Eventually, you’ll be able to think about what happened without feeling triggered at all. 

        If you’re healing from complex trauma, you may need to repeat this process with a few different memories. Over time, PE helps patients regulate their feelings in and outside of sessions. 

        Cognitive Processing Therapy

        Cognitive processing therapy (CPT)17 helps you address the emotional fallout of trauma. With a therapist’s guidance, you’ll explore the way you feel about what happened. Early in treatment, you’ll write a trauma impact statement.18 There, you’ll describe why you think your trauma happened, and list its lasting effects on your life. Then, you’ll recount a traumatic experience and talk through the way it makes you feel. 

        While this process is a lot like PE, the goal is a little different. Instead of desensitizing yourself, you’ll work to understand why you feel the way you do. For example, self-blame is a common response to trauma.19 If you feel guilty about what happened, you might practice self-compassion during CPT. You’ll also learn how to cope with the triggers you encounter in daily life. 

        Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing

        Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)20 uses visual or audio cues to help you process your trauma. First, you’ll learn more about trauma and coping skills. Then, you’ll identify a “target” traumatic event. For about 30 seconds, you’ll focus on that target as you pay attention to an external cue. 

        Studies indicate that EMDR helps patients reduce anxiety and other PTSD symptoms. But it can also be emotionally taxing to concentrate on your trauma. You might feel triggered or vulnerable after a session. But in residential treatment, you won’t have to jump right back into other tasks after EMDR.  

        Holistic Therapies for Survivors

        Trauma affects more than just your mental health. For example, trauma can cause physical pain,21 or interrupt your spiritual practice. Holistic therapies address all parts of your life,22 and help you heal in an integrated way. There are several different types of holistic treatment: 

        These methods aren’t replacements for talk therapy, but they can work well as complementary therapies. In rehab, you can combine holistic treatments with more traditional techniques. 

        What Are the Stages of Trauma Recovery?

        No matter what therapy you use, it still takes time to heal from trauma. And healing is nonlinear. As you grow and change, your feelings about what happened might change, too. For example, some people have trauma from romantic relationships. They might feel completely healed—while they’re single. But then new triggers might come up when they start dating again. 

        While everyone’s process is different, experts describe 5 distinct stages of trauma recovery.23 You might progress through these in order, or all at once. You might even revisit some stages more than once. But as you heal, it’s likely that you’ll touch on these different perspectives.

        Trauma Processing and Reexamination

        Processing your trauma is an important part of recovery. Therapies like CBT and PE help you understand the effects of what happened to you. By working through your past triggers, you can focus on the present, and start to build a meaningful future. Living on-site in a rehab program helps you focus on healing, without the distractions of daily life.

        Managing Negative States

        During rehab, you’ll learn more sustainable coping strategies. And when you encounter triggers, your care team will likely be on hand to help you practice them. As you develop those skills, you can let go of any behavior—like addiction—that doesn’t support your growth.

        Rebuilding the Self After Trauma

        Trauma can make you feel disconnected24 from yourself. During rehab, you can rebuild your confidence and self-esteem. There are several ways to work toward that goal. Holistic therapies, for instance, can help you reintegrate different parts of your identity. 

        Connecting With Others

        Trauma affects the way you relate to other people.25 And no one exists in a vacuum. On the contrary, healthy relationships are vital to recovery. There are countless ways to approach this part of healing. You might connect with other patients, or join a support group. But those options don’t work for everyone. Some high-profile clients, for instance, may need confidentiality during rehab. If privacy is a priority, you might consider family therapy with your closest loved ones.

        Regaining Hope and Power

        After you survive trauma, serious danger stops being theoretical. You know from personal experience that getting hurt is a real possibility. It’s happened before, and it might happen again. Recovery means learning to live a rich, beautiful life in the face of that uncertainty. Treatment can help you regain your power and hope for the future. 


        Compare rehabs that treat trauma and reach out to them directly to learn how you can get started on your healing journey.

        Posted on

        Trauma-Informed Care: How Rehab Can Support Post-Traumatic Growth 

        Trauma can be an isolating experience. When you go through something so painful that it changes you, it’s natural to feel like no one else can understand your new reality. You may have trouble connecting with the people around you, or no longer enjoy activities you once found meaningful. No matter how hard it is at first, remember: this is not the end of your story. You can always create a new beginning.

        By going to rehab, you can get help from experts in trauma, PTSD, and CPTSD. The simple fact that these experts exist is proof that trauma is extremely common. You may feel isolated, but you’re certainly not alone. Depending on your program, you can also spend time in rehab building community with people who have life experiences like your own.

        Diagnosis After Trauma: PTSD and CPTSD

        This process can teach you a great deal about your own perspective. There are countless kinds of trauma, and everyone’s response to it is unique. For the most part, however, people whose mental health has been severely impacted by trauma are diagnosed with PTSD and/or CPTSD. 

        PTSD

        Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder1 (PTSD) normally develops in response to trauma that occurred in a discrete, specific amount of time. It’s often diagnosed in veterans and survivors of sexual assault. This condition is characterized by many symptoms, including but not limited to the following: 

        • recurring, involuntary, and intrusive memories of the traumatic event
        • flashbacks and/or dissociation
        • avoidance of reminders of the traumatic event
        • dissociative amnesia
        • persistent negative beliefs and/or self-blame
        • feelings of alienation

        PTSD can be overwhelming. You may have the sense that one moment, or one brief period of time, permanently changed your emotional capacity. And that might even be true. But it doesn’t mean you’ll always be in pain. 

        paracelsus confidentiality
        Paracelsus Recovery in Zurich, Switzerland takes developmental trauma into account when addressing mental health and addiction issues.

        CPTSD

        Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder2 (Complex PTSD or CPTSD) is similar but not identical to PTSD. This describes people who have experienced prolonged trauma, such as long-term domestic abuse or long-term childhood trauma. While many veterans who served only one tour have PTSD, those who spent years in active service, and especially those who were detained in Prisoner of War camps, may in fact have CPTSD. The term may also apply to people who grew up in violent neighborhoods or spent time in prison. 

        CPTSD is not yet officially classified as a diagnosis by the DSM-V (the American Psychiatric Association’s manual for assessing and diagnosing mental health conditions). However, many clinicians use it as a framework for discussing their clients’ experience. The term has been in use since at least 1988, when Dr. Judith Hartman of Harvard University suggested that the symptoms of long-term trauma may require a different kind of treatment than those of PTSD. She referred to a number of specific symptoms: 

        • self-destructive behavior, such as impulsivity and substance misuse
        • emotional difficulties, including rage, depression, and panic
        • chaotic personal relationships
        • dissociation and personality changes

        Although CPTSD is not yet classified as a medical diagnosis, a growing number of healthcare providers use the concept as a therapeutic tool. It may very well be included in a future version of the DSM. Even now, many people in recovery identify with the term. Like any diagnosis, this is not only meant as a way of explaining ineffective or damaging behavior. Instead, it can help you define your experience in order to chart a path away from destructive patterns. 

        What Is Trauma-Informed Care?

        “Trauma-informed care“3 refers to a variety of healthcare practices that take into account the unique experiences of people with a history of trauma. Providers may be experts in treating PTSD and CPTSD, and they may offer special accommodations for certain clients. For example, when a survivor of assault sees a massage therapist who offers trauma-informed care, the therapist might make it a point to ask for verbal consent before touching any new area of their body. The provider’s goal is to treat the client with respect, making sure they feel as safe as possible throughout the healing process. 

        Trauma-informed care takes the client’s past, present, and future into account. It’s not productive or even possible to ignore the original traumatic event while trying to move forward. Jan Garber, the CEO of Paracelsus Recovery, explains:

        “When we’re looking at trauma, we often look at family of origin to understand how people were shaped and how that then informs how they react in life and how they relate to others.”

        He adds, “If someone’s coming to us, most of the time they’ve identified a set of symptoms that’s saying, ‘Hey, stuff in life isn’t well, or it’s not working the way it could.’ So that’s the smoke, and where there’s smoke, there’s fire. So we want to really look at where that fire is and how the fire started.”

        Looking at the root cause of trauma is not about assigning blame. It’s unlikely that you caused your own trauma, and it’s certainly not true that you’re responsible for other people’s behavior. You did not make this mess; or at least, you didn’t make it alone. Whatever or whomever the source of your pain may be, though, healing is your responsibility. That can feel very daunting, especially for people who experienced childhood trauma. Remember that you are not the first person to feel this way. There is a great deal of research that can guide you through PTSD and CPTSD, and your healthcare providers are there to help you navigate it.

        mclean fernside
        McLean Fernside in Princeton, Massachusetts recognizes clients’ need for trauma treatment as an essential part of recovery.

        Learning From Triggers

        Trauma-informed care is sensitive to triggers. This word has been co opted and even denigrated in recent years, so it’s important to define it in this context. 

        A trigger is an inciting event that elicits a strong emotional reaction which may be disproportionate to the present moment, but is a reasonable response to the past trauma you’ve experienced.

        It is not true that being triggered means you are weak, or fragile, or maladjusted. On the contrary, triggers exist for good reason. The extreme emotional reactions they cause used to serve you well. With time, effort, and therapy, many people can overcome these disproportionate reactions. 

        Triggers are unique to everyone. Some are very common; for example, many survivors of physical violence have trouble looking at gorey images. However, they can also be hard to predict. A bouncy pop song might be triggering if it was playing when you got in a terrible car accident. If you struggle with your family of origin, you may be triggered by a funny sitcom about a happy family.

        Simply avoiding triggers is both impractical and ineffective. Even if you never play the radio in your home, that same bouncy pop song might come on the speakers while you’re at a grocery store. Isolating yourself from situations in which you might be triggered can prevent you from living the life you want. The long-term goal of trauma-informed care is not to protect you from triggers—although that may be a useful short-term strategy. You will instead learn how to regulate your emotions and tolerate difficult situations.

        The first step toward building habits is to acknowledge your current patterns. From there, you can decide which of them are still helpful. The skills that got you to this point served an important purpose, but they may not be the skills you need to build a better life. 

        Trauma, Addiction, and Mental Health

        When you experience trauma, it’s natural to develop coping mechanisms that are appropriate to use in emergencies. These strategies are very important; they are designed to help you survive and ultimately escape. But life isn’t always an emergency. Some of these habits can become harmful if you keep using them after the danger has passed. For example, a person who grew up in a violent home might have learned to mistrust their family members. That skill was probably a very important defense mechanism during their childhood. In adulthood, however, that same skill has the potential to damage a romantic partnership. 

        If you’re living in an unsafe situation, it’s normal to want to escape. If physical escape is not an option, you may turn to other means of escape, such as substance use. Researchers have found “that there is high comorbidity between PTSD with substance abuse disorders4 and other mental disorders.” Because of this well-understood connection, many rehab centers are well-equipped to offer trauma-informed care. 

        “Even if the person doesn’t define for themselves that they have trauma history, we assume that they do,” says Dr. Monika Kolodziej, Program Director of McLean Fernside. She describes their trauma-informed approach:

        “What that means is being very respectful of space. It means being a clear communicator. It means not overstepping boundaries. And it means introducing the possibility that treatment for trauma might be an important part of their recovery. So in addition to being sensitive and interacting with the person in a way that’s respectful, that doesn’t overstep boundaries or is not aggressive or confrontational, it also means providing treatment and skills.”

        PTSD and CPTSD can also co-exist with or even cause other diagnoses, such as anxiety and depression. Scholars have also suggested a link between CPTSD and Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD);5 some even suggest that we stop differentiating between these two conditions.6 If you’re living through ongoing trauma, and develop an additional mental health issue as a result, it can be even harder to get out of danger. And once you do arrive at a safer place, these conditions can complicate the healing process. 

        Trauma-informed care takes these many complexities into account. Rehab is a place to not only move past substance use, but also learn to cope with the underlying cause that led you to use substances in the first place.

        Camino Recovery exterior pool
        Camino Recovery in Vélez-Málaga, Spain uses EMDR to help clients reduce the impact of traumatic memories.

        Trauma-Informed Behavioral Health Services

        Rehab is designed to be a safe, protected environment in which you can begin healing from trauma. You’ll have access to experts who can help you process your past experiences and learn new skills to use in the future. Without the added responsibilities of work, school, or caring for your family, you’re free to focus on yourself. This dynamic is especially important for people with a history of domestic violence, and anyone whose trauma has caused them to struggle with interpersonal dynamics. 

        PTSD and CPTSD can be extremely isolating, both during and after the original trauma. That isolation can even be a key indicator of whether or not you’ll develop one of these conditions in the first place. For instance, if a person gets in a car accident and then has to wait for hours before an ambulance arrives, that waiting period might be just as emotionally damaging as the accident itself. After that traumatic event, it could also be hard for them to explain why they’re triggered by sitting quietly at the side of a road.

        Rehab offers clients the opportunity to inhabit a safe and protected environment, without isolating them from care. By connecting with your cohort and your team of providers, you can learn how it feels to simultaneously exist in a private space and benefit from community support. 

        Various rehab facilities offer different types of therapy for people with a history of trauma. Behavioral therapy is a particularly effective treatment. This approach provides clients with very specific tactics for navigating difficult situations, coping with triggers and urges, and living in accordance with their personal values. Some common styles of therapy for healing from trauma7 include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), exposure therapy, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). 

        Each of these kinds of therapy looks at trauma from a slightly different vantage point, and it’s important to choose the one that’s right for you. EMDR, for example, aims to restructure the way memories are stored in the brain. Meena Lavender, Family Therapist and EMDR Practitioner at Camino Recovery, explains:

        “If you had a filing system in your brain, it would house traumas in different sections of your brain. What EMDR does is access it one by one and processes that to eliminate the emotional charge it has.”

        EMDR is just one example of trauma-informed care that simultaneously treats the mind and the body. This holistic approach can be helpful for clients who experience physical symptoms as a result of their emotional experience. In some cases, these symptoms can be extreme: panic attacks can be mistaken for heart attacks, and dissociative episodes can put a person at risk of physical harm. Ryan Soave, Director of Program Development at All Points North Lodge, states: 

        “We hold trauma in our body, and stress is really the symptom of trauma. we can start working some of that stress out of the body, utilizing things like yoga, breath work, meditation, massage, the sensory deprivation tank, exercise and other types of functional movement, then when that stress is released from the body, it makes it easier to deal with the stressors that are going to come on a daily basis.”

        The Ball, the Box, and the Button: A Metaphor for Healing

        Imagine that, at the moment you originally experienced trauma, someone handed you a box. Inside it, you find a bouncy ball and a big red button, which is mounted on one of the sides. Whenever the ball hits the button, you’re reminded of your painful experience. That may mean you get triggered, feel anxious, and/or have the urge to engage in destructive behavior. 

        At first, the ball and the box are almost the same size. The ball is constantly pressing down on the button, and you spend most of your time feeling the effects of what you’ve been through. This acute phase of healing from trauma can be very overwhelming. Without effective tools to regulate your emotions, it’s unfortunately easy to fall back on unhealthy coping mechanisms.

        Over time, though, you learn. You grow. The box gets bigger, and the ball has room to bounce around. It spends less and less time pressing on the button. Your feelings may still be intense every time the button gets pushed, but you’ll have some space to breathe in between those moments. You’ll develop skills to manage your own reactions, and be better prepared for the next time the ball hits. 

        This metaphor was originally developed to describe grief. And the process of healing from trauma is not unlike the process of grieving.8 Often, though, what you’re grieving is a version of yourself. As painful as that is, there is a well-charted path forward. 

        Trauma-informed care offers people the space they need to get to know themselves again. This is your opportunity to redefine yourself, your life, and your values. Healing is a-linear, and there will always be good days and bad days. This process is intended to help you navigate them both. 

        To learn more about your options for care, see our collection of residential rehabs offering trauma treatment here. 

        Frequently Asked Questions About Trauma-Informed Care in Rehab

        What is trauma-informed care in rehab?

        Trauma-informed care in rehab is an approach to treatment that recognizes the impact of past traumatic experiences on an individual’s mental, physical, and emotional health. It focuses on creating a safe and supportive environment for healing and recovery.

        What are the key principles of trauma-informed care in rehab?

        The key principles of trauma-informed care in rehab include safety, trustworthiness, choice, collaboration, empowerment, and cultural sensitivity. These principles inform every aspect of treatment, from the initial assessment to ongoing support after leaving rehab.

        What are the benefits of trauma-informed care in rehab?

        Trauma-informed care in rehab benefits individuals by taking their experiences and trauma into account to provide a safe and supportive environment for recovery. This can foster a sense of empowerment and autonomy, which may lead to improved mental health outcomes.