Trauma

Trauma can profoundly affect your life, but healing is possible. Our specialized therapy provides compassionate support to help you recover and regain control.

What is Trauma?

Trauma can stem from a single event or ongoing situations in our lives. It can impact how we think, feel, and interact with the world around us. It might affect our relationships, our work, or how we see ourselves. Yet, it’s important to remember that experiencing trauma doesn’t define you—it’s something that happened to you, not who you are.

You might be wondering if what you’ve experienced “counts” as trauma. At Hope Springs, we understand that trauma looks different for everyone. We believe that if an experience has deeply affected you, it matters. Your feelings are valid, and your story deserves to be heard. 

The Impact of Trauma

Trauma can profoundly affect how we relate to ourselves, respond to our environment, and form attachments to others. It can be intergenerational (passed down through families), arise from chronic ongoing adverse experiences, or occur due to a single traumatic event.

Trauma changes our brain’s structure and function, influencing our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in ways that may feel beyond our control. Some common impacts of trauma include:

  • Altered stress response
  • Difficulty regulating emotions
  • Challenges in forming and maintaining relationships
  • Changes in brain functioning contributing to anxiety, depression, and addictive behaviors
  • Negative self-perception and low self-esteem
  • Physical and cognitive difficulties and health issues 
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woman looking at sunrise

Overcoming "Big T" Trauma

“Big T” trauma refers to major, often life-threatening or extremely distressing events such as natural disasters, physical or sexual assault, combat experiences, serious accidents, or witnessing violence. These events can lead to symptoms associated with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), including flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety. 

At Hope Springs, we understand the profound impact these experiences can have and offer specialized treatment to help you process and heal from Big T trauma.

Addressing "Little t" Traumas

“Little t” traumas are less pronounced negative experiences that accumulate over time. The cumulative effect of these experiences can lead to Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) and other mental health issues.

Identifying Your Attachment Style

Exploring your attachment style is crucial for personal growth and relationship health. Originating from early life experiences and significant relationships, attachment styles shape how we connect with others. At Hope Springs, we provide insightful guidance to help you understand and improve your attachment patterns for healthier, more fulfilling interactions.

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Insecure Attachment Style

Often results from inconsistent or negative early interactions with caregivers and encompasses avoidant, anxious, disorganized, and other attachment styles. It may lead to difficulties in trusting others and maintaining stable relationships. Understanding and addressing a specific attachment style can unlock pathways to more secure, trusting, and satisfactory interactions.

Secure Attachment Style

Develops from a foundation of consistent love and support during early childhood. This style leads to trusting, long-lasting relationships and a positive self-image. Identifying and fostering a secure attachment can enhance personal resilience and emotional health.

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How Trauma is Treated

Trauma treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all. While traditional talk therapy can be helpful for some, others may find it difficult or uncomfortable. In our experience, a blend of approaches often yields the best results. We incorporate talk therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), parts work, and somatic techniques to create a comprehensive healing experience. 

To accommodate different needs and preferences, we offer both traditional 50-minute sessions and extended 2-4-hour sessions. This flexibility allows for deeper work when needed. Our goal is to provide you with a treatment plan that respects your comfort level while effectively addressing your trauma.

Our Approach to Trauma Treatment

We believe in creating a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and goals. Our aim isn’t just to manage symptoms, but to help you heal at the root level, empowering you to live a fuller, more connected life.

Talk Therapy

A collaborative process where we explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors to gain insights and develop strategies for positive change.

Cartoon of therapist doing EMDR with a client

EMDR Therapy

A powerful approach to processing traumatic memories and reducing their emotional impact.

Groups

We offer specialized interpersonal group sessions designed to address specific needs and shared experiences.

Take the First Step

Ready to begin your journey towards healing and empowerment? Schedule a 15-minute consultation today and discover how Hope Springs can support your path to wellness.