Trauma Treatment in California
Online Therapy and In-person Therapy in Menlo Park, CA
Different Types of Trauma
Trauma can manifest in various forms and impact individuals differently. Here are some common types of trauma:
Acute Trauma: This refers to a single traumatic event, such as a car accident, natural disaster, or physical assault. Acute trauma can cause immediate distress and may lead to symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) if not adequately addressed.
Chronic Trauma: Chronic trauma involves ongoing exposure to traumatic events or environments. Examples include living in an abusive household, being a victim of prolonged bullying, or enduring repeated experiences of violence. Chronic trauma can have lasting effects on a person's sense of safety, trust, and well-being.
Complex Trauma: Complex trauma typically occurs during childhood and involves exposure to multiple traumatic events or adverse experiences over an extended period. It often happens within the context of a caregiver relationship, such as experiencing neglect, physical or sexual abuse, or witnessing domestic violence. Complex trauma can lead to significant emotional and psychological challenges that persist into adulthood.
Developmental Trauma: Developmental trauma occurs when traumatic experiences disrupt normal developmental processes during childhood. It can occur due to factors such as early separation from caregivers, neglect, chronic illness, or exposure to violence. Developmental trauma can impact a child's cognitive, emotional, social, and physical development, leading to long-term consequences.
Vicarious Trauma: Vicarious trauma refers to the emotional and psychological impact of witnessing or hearing about traumatic experiences of others, such as healthcare providers, first responders, therapists, or individuals in caregiving professions. Continuous exposure to others' trauma can result in symptoms similar to those experienced by direct trauma survivors.
Collective Trauma: Collective trauma occurs when a traumatic event or experience affects a group, community, or society as a whole. Examples include natural disasters, acts of terrorism, war, or systemic oppression. Collective trauma can have far-reaching effects on individuals' sense of safety, trust, and identity, impacting the collective consciousness of a community or society.
It is important to note that trauma is a deeply personal and individual experience. Each person may respond to trauma differently, and the effects can vary widely. Seeking professional help from a qualified therapist or counselor who specializes in trauma can provide support, understanding, and guidance in navigating the healing process.
Impacts of Trauma
Traumatic events—such as an accident, assault, military combat or natural disaster—can have lasting effects on a person’s mental health. While many people will have short term responses to life-threatening events, some will develop longer term symptoms that can lead to a diagnosis of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). PTSD symptoms often co-exist with other conditions such as substance use disorders, depression and anxiety.
If you have experienced traumatic events during your childhood, research on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) have shown that early life traumatic experience has a tremendous impact on future relationships, life quality and lifelong health and opportunity. Adverse Childhood Experiences have been linked to:
Risky health behaviors
Chronic health conditions
Low life potential
Early death
We understand that the path to healing from trauma can feel lonely and isolated, especially trauma from childhood. We strive to create a safe and nonjudgmental space to help you process various aspects of your traumatic experience. We will collaborate with you to identify situations that may trigger negative or anxious feelings and/or memories, and provide you the tools to recognize those feelings, and respond with healthy coping skills and self-compassion.
Qualifications
Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE) for PTSD
Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics Training
California Domestic Violence Counselor Certification