Trauma-Informed Therapy is a compassionate approach aimed at recognizing and addressing the deep impact trauma can have on a person’s overall well-being and life experiences. At its core, this method emphasizes a shift from a problem-focused perspective ("What is wrong with you?") to one that seeks understanding and context ("What happened to you?"). This shift acknowledges that people’s behaviors and emotions often stem from past trauma rather than inherent flaws.

By focusing on these principles, Trauma-Informed Therapy not only addresses the symptoms of trauma but also acknowledges the broader, often unseen effects of trauma on a person's identity, relationships, and sense of self. This holistic approach facilitates a safe and effective therapeutic experience.

By centering the individual’s lived experiences, Trauma-Informed Therapy operates with a set of guiding principles designed to foster healing and growth:

1. Safety: A therapeutic environment that prioritizes physical and emotional safety is fundamental. This means creating a supportive, predictable space where individuals feel respected and understood, reducing the likelihood of re-traumatization.

2. Trustworthiness and Transparency: Building a relationship of trust is vital, especially as many individuals affected by trauma may have experienced betrayal or instability. Trauma-informed practitioners strive for clear, open communication and uphold professional integrity, helping clients feel secure and respected in the therapeutic relationship.

3. Choice and Empowerment: Trauma-Informed Therapy values giving individuals control over their treatment process, supporting autonomy and self-determination.

4. Collaboration and Mutuality: By viewing the therapeutic relationship as a partnership, Trauma-Informed Therapy emphasizes shared decision-making and mutual respect.

5. Acknowledgment of Cultural and Structural Contexts: Recognizing that trauma is not experienced in a vacuum, this approach considers cultural, societal, and structural factors that may contribute to or compound trauma. By integrating awareness of these influences, therapists can better understand and address the unique challenges individuals face in their healing journey.

6. Inclusivity and Recognition of Identity: Trauma can intersect with aspects of identity, such as race, gender, and culture. Trauma-Informed Therapy strives to be inclusive, addressing the different ways that trauma can affect various identities and experiences. .

Some examples of issues that might be addressed in individual therapy are:

• Trauma

• Anxiety and worry

• Depression

• Relationship/Attachment concerns

• Life Decisions/Stressors

• Work and career issues

• Anger and Rage

• Grief & Loss

• Self-esteem

• Cross Cultural and Diversity Issues

• Identity Development

• Women’s Issues