Trauma-informed therapy is a type of therapy that recognizes the lasting impact of trauma (or extreme overwhelm) on a person’s mind, body, and behavior. It focuses on working with the nervous system, the body, and the mind to create a sense of safety and trust.

Trauma can look different for everyone, and it can manifest in a variety of ways. Whether we use the word “trauma” or “extreme overwhelm,” the experience involves being so overwhelmed that we don’t know how to make sense of our feelings. As a result, we create coping strategies to navigate through life.

Unfortunately, while these coping mechanisms may initially serve us well, they can also cause us to isolate ourselves or shut out the world.

Trauma-informed therapy focuses on unpacking why we created these coping strategies and finding new ways to get what we need. This type of therapy can also address attachment issues that may arise as a result of trauma and impact our relationships with friends,  coworkers, and romantic partners.