Trauma is something many of us will face at some point in life. It’s what happens when we go through something deeply upsetting or scary, and it can affect our mind, body, and emotions in big ways. According to the American Psychological Association, trauma can stem from a single event or a long period of stress, and it doesn’t discriminate—it can impact anyone.
There are several types of trauma. Acute trauma comes from one major event—like a car crash, natural disaster, or assault. The effects can hit right away, but symptoms sometimes linger or come back later. Chronic trauma results from ongoing stress, such as domestic violence, bullying, or living in a war zone. Complex trauma involves repeated, invasive events, often beginning in childhood, that shape how someone experiences relationships and emotions. Developmental trauma occurs early in life and disrupts emotional and psychological growth, especially when it involves harm from caregivers. Then there’s secondary or vicarious trauma, which impacts those who witness or support others through their traumatic experiences, such as therapists, first responders, or family members.
Fortunately, we know more than ever about how to treat trauma. Evidence-based therapies like Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) help people of all ages by combining cognitive techniques with trauma-sensitive interventions (Cohen, Mannarino, & Deblinger, 2006). Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) supports the brain in processing traumatic memories using guided eye movements (Shapiro, 1989). Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE) works by safely revisiting trauma memories to reduce fear over time (Foa, Hembree, & Rothbaum, 2007). Somatic Experiencing (SE) brings attention to body sensations, supporting the release of trauma stored physically in the nervous system (Levine, 1997). Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) helps people—especially those with multiple traumas—create a coherent life story that includes but isn’t dominated by traumatic experiences (Neuner et al., 2004). In some cases, medication like SSRIs is also used to manage symptoms alongside psychotherapy (VA/DOD Clinical Practice Guideline, 2017).
Just as important as the treatment itself is the connection with a therapist who is attuned to a client’s emotional needs. Being in a relationship with someone who can offer a sense of safety, empathy, and presence can be incredibly healing—especially for those whose trauma involved a loss of trust or relational harm. At Attunement Psychotherapy, clients are met with this level of care. The therapists not only apply scientifically supported treatments but do so within a deeply supportive and emotionally attuned therapeutic relationship, which research shows is a critical factor in recovery.
Trauma is complex, and recovery looks different for everyone. But with the right tools, a safe and supportive environment, and a trusted therapist who truly understands, healing becomes not just possible—but sustainable. Knowing the kind of trauma someone has faced is the first step. From there, a combination of evidence-based therapy and compassionate care can help people move forward with strength, connection, and resilience.
References
- American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Trauma.
- Cohen, J.A., Mannarino, A.P., & Deblinger, E. (2006). Treating Trauma and Traumatic Grief in Children and Adolescents.
- Shapiro, F. (1989). Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing: Basic Principles, Protocols, and Procedures.
- Foa, E.B., Hembree, E.A., & Rothbaum, B.O. (2007). Prolonged Exposure Therapy for PTSD.
- Levine, P.A. (1997). Waking the Tiger: Healing Trauma.
- Neuner, F., et al. (2004). Narrative Exposure Therapy for trauma spectrum disorders.
- VA/DOD Clinical Practice Guideline for the Management of PTSD (2017).