Trauma is what happens when our mind is pushed beyond its ability to cope with stress. This can be one BIG stressful event or many bits of stress over time. As a result, our minds change the way they work to protect us from taking further damage. The same event may influence people differently and may not always cause trauma. However, when we experience traumatic stress, long-term mental health concerns can emerge. We may become hardened or hypersensitive, aloof or paranoid, depressed or anxious, or maybe some combination of the above.

I work from a trauma-informed approach, meaning two things. For one, I specifically treat the symptoms and root causes of traumatic stress and the lost ability to regulate emotions. Additionally, I begin my work with a broad understanding of common traumatic responses and the appropriate interventions for each. This guides me to create a safe and considerate space for everyone stepping through my door.