Trauma-informed counselling is a therapeutic framework that prioritises understanding the pervasive impact of trauma on an individual's physical, psychological, and emotional well-being. The starting point is to ask what has happened to you, without assumptions, judgement or querying the facts. When we experience trauma, our brains can go into survival mode. This is due to the amygdala part of the brain being activated. You won’t be in control of this – your brain will adapt to survival strategies to keep you safe. Sometimes, this can mean that our responses are confusing.

I work with clients to help them understand these responses, their triggers, ensure their safety, prevent re-traumatisation and help to empower them. Healing from trauma can be blocked by all sorts of factors – circumstances, lack of support, myths and stereotypes in society, and more. I work to break down these challenges and help clients to see options and regain control of their lives.

What does this look like in the therapy room? Well, I use a number of methods to help clients to process what has happened to them and work through symptoms. This includes;

• Grounding & Stabilization: Techniques like the 5-4-3-2-1 method to help bring clients back to the present moment when they feel overwhelmed or dissociated.
• Psychoeducation: Educating clients on how trauma affects the brain to reduce self-blame and shame.
• Nervous System Regulation: Using Polyvagal Theory and breathwork to manage the body's stress response.

I always work at a client’s pace and will only ever do what they feel comfortable with. If you would like to ask more about how I work in a trauma-informed way, I am always happy to discuss this with you prior to or during the work.