Trauma

Trauma can stem from a host of very difficult, distressing experiences in life that ultimately have a profound effect on one’s psychological, emotional, and physical well-being. Whether from childhood or more recently, from a single traumatic event or prolonged, repeated exposure to the trauma, the imprints can be long-lasting, complex, and multifaceted; such experiences can affect our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, as well as how we engage in relationships with others, see ourselves, and envision the future. We can become stuck in the past, the fear of danger and feeling of helplessness constantly sending our nervous system into a state of either hyper- or hypo-arousal (overly aroused or numb). Some typical symptoms of trauma include:

• Intrusive, distressing memories or flashbacks

• Nightmares, trouble sleeping

• Difficulty forming and maintaining relationships, feeling distant from others and withdrawn

• Gastrointestinal issues, rapid breathing, headaches, chronic pain

• Anxiety, depression

• Difficulty concentrating, easily startled, irritable

Our therapists at Manhattan Psychotherapy Services know that there is no “one size fits all” approach when it comes to trauma, we understand that seeking support takes a great deal of courage. We are here to provide compassionate, individualized care tailored to you and your healing process. Having a safe, supportive space to process past experiences and the resulting effects of the trauma at your own pace is key; we may incorporate mindfulness and relaxation techniques in our sessions and help you to develop coping mechanisms that work best for you to heal, feel better, and make your future one that is no longer frozen in time but instead feels fulfilling, empowered, and connected.