Complex Relational Trauma

Relational trauma can be the result of abuse, neglect, abandonment, or enmeshment in either childhood, adolescence or adulthood. The trauma takes place consistently and over a long period of time, involves a power imbalance usually with a caregiver or parent, and also the person cannot leave the relationship so there may be a feeling of being trapped. I am an advocate for trauma survivors and relational trauma recovery therapist focused on empowering clients who have relational trauma be able to live fully and regain the ability to connect deeply with others.

Process

Establishing Safety in the present

The initial step involves creating a safe and secure therapeutic environment. This includes establishing a trusting and non-judgmental relationship between you and I. Emphasis is placed on building a sense of safety and stability in the present moment, ensuring that the client feels secure enough to explore and share their experiences.

Psychoeducation

Providing psychoeducation is essential for clients with relational trauma. This step involves offering information about trauma, its effects on your brain and body, and common coping mechanisms. Relational trauma can seem confusing and jarring when learning about the complex dynamics in family systems. Having a clear understanding of our reality within our family background is vital to healing and understanding ourselves.

Processing of Trauma and Grief

This step involves facilitating the exploration and processing of the client's traumatic experiences. Healing and grieving the past will help you make sense of your past, express your emotions, and reframe your understanding of the events. Grief work is also integral, allowing you to mourn losses associated with the trauma and move towards healing.

Reparative experiences through relationship

Building on the therapeutic foundation, this step focuses on creating positive and reparative experiences. Firstly, our relationship in therapy is a central piece of this. I am an advocate and will be a reliable witness for you which is what trauma survivors did not have when they needed it most. The emphasis is on fostering resilience, self-compassion, and a sense of empowerment. Reparative experiences contribute to the client's overall healing and the cultivation of healthier relational patterns.

Signs you may be experiencing relational trauma

You may struggle with your identity and wonder "who am i"?
You struggle with having respectful, reciprocal and balanced loving relationships with romantic partners, friends and more
You grew up in a home where addictions were present but unrecognized by parents or caregivers
You may be hypervigilant in monitoring others moods around you
You may struggle to find a career path
You may have trouble sleeping, experience panic attacks, nightmares, and have trouble concentrating
You struggle with identifying, setting and maintaining your boundaries in relationships
You experience overwhelming feelings of guilt and shame