Trauma Support & Trauma Focused Therapy

What Causes Trauma?

Trauma can stem from many different events. It can be caused by one single shock or a major life change, such as an accident, an assault, a sudden loss or a natural disaster. It can also build up over time through ongoing stress, such as childhood difficulties, bullying, long term illness or unhealthy relationship dynamics.

When our mind and body cannot fully process a painful event, the distress can show up in various ways, sometimes in daily life, sometimes when specific circumstances trigger our trauma responses.

Trauma is the lasting emotional and physical wound left behind after experiencing something deeply upsetting, scary or out of our control. It happens when a very stressful event overwhelms our normal ability to cope, leaving us feeling unsafe.

Understanding Trauma Informed Therapy

Trauma-informed therapy focuses on what has happened to you. When you experience deeply stressful events, the mind and body do their best to protect you and keep you safe. Sometimes, those protective responses stay active long after the threat has passed. This can leave you feeling constantly overwhelmed, stuck or disconnected from yourself.

Trauma focused practice is a gentle approach, rooted in understanding how difficult life events affect your mind and body. Trauma can change how you view yourself, the world around you and how you interact with other people.

I aim to co-create safety where your feelings are truly valued and validated. We would not rush into painful memories. Instead, I would work sensitively and collaboratively to help you slow the pace, make sense of what you carry and build practice tools to work towards achieving inner peace. You would always be in control of your journey.

Be Kind To Yourself…..

Recovery from trauma is not a straight line and may not feel like a smooth path from start to finish. Some days you can feel strong and steady, whilst others might feel stuck and heavy. This is completely normal. Looping back, revisiting strong emotions and exercising safety practices when needed is a natural part of the growth and healing process. It is not a sign of failure.

Self-compassion and kindness are your most important tools. Together we will practice ways for you to quieten the inner critic - replacing harsh judgements with soft, supportive affirmations. I will support you to reduce the pressure - there is no "perfect" way to heal and no set timeline. We will celebrate the small wins - every little step forward deserves to be noticed and praised.

You have survived the storm. Now you deserve to heal in the warmth and patience of self-care.

You are not alone. I would welcome the opportunity to support you in your recovery. Please make contact and we can arrange a consultation, thank you.

 

I'd not tried counselling before and was apprehensive about starting, but talking to Sarah felt safe and easy. After just a few sessions I felt calmer, like a weight was lifted and that encouraged me to keep going. My head space is much better and much less cluttered and that's made a huge difference.