Treating Trauma

Trauma Therapy

Most people will experience trauma at some point in their lives. Trauma can result from experiences such as car accidents, abuse or neglect, the sudden loss of a loved one, violence, medical experiences, relationship trauma, or natural disasters. Some individuals may also experience ongoing trauma during childhood or within unhealthy adult relationships.

While many people begin to heal over time with support from family and friends, others continue to experience emotional pain long after the event has passed. Trauma can affect the way you think, feel, react, and connect with others. It may leave you feeling anxious, overwhelmed, emotionally disconnected, or constantly on edge.

When trauma continues to interfere with daily life, therapy can provide the support and tools needed to begin healing.

Common Symptoms of Trauma

Trauma affects everyone differently, but common symptoms may include:

Avoidance

• Avoiding places, people, conversations, or situations connected to the experience

• Emotional numbness or feeling disconnected

• Anxiety, depression, shame, or guilt

Re-Experiencing

• Intrusive thoughts or distressing memories

• Nightmares or flashbacks

• Feeling emotionally triggered by reminders of the event

Hyperarousal

• Irritability or anger

• Feeling constantly alert or unsafe

• Difficulty relaxing or sleeping

• Reckless or self-destructive behaviors

Changes in Mood & Thinking

• Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed

• Negative thoughts about yourself or the world

• Difficulty trusting others

• Trouble remembering parts of the traumatic experience

Trauma Treatment

Research shows that psychotherapy is one of the most effective treatments for trauma. Kim uses evidence-based approaches, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Internal Family Systems (IFS), to help individuals process trauma, reduce emotional distress, and address persistent negative self-beliefs.

The goal of trauma therapy is not to erase your experiences, but to help you move forward without feeling controlled by them.