Healing from Childhood Trauma: Pathways to Recovery

Childhood trauma can cast a long shadow over our lives, affecting our mental, emotional, and even physical well-being. But healing is possible, and understanding the process can empower us to reclaim our lives and move towards a healthier future. Here, we’ll explore some of the top ways to heal from childhood trauma, emphasizing holistic, somatic, and compassionate approaches.

Understanding Childhood Trauma

Childhood trauma can result from various experiences, such as abuse, neglect, loss, or witnessing violence. These experiences can disrupt a child’s sense of safety and security, leading to long-term effects on their emotional and physical health. Healing from such trauma involves addressing both the psychological and physiological impacts, creating a comprehensive path to recovery.

Top Ways to Heal from Childhood Trauma

  1. Somatic Experiencing (SE) Somatic Experiencing focuses on the body’s natural ability to heal itself. By paying attention to physical sensations and releasing stored stress, SE helps individuals process trauma without being overwhelmed by it. This approach allows for gradual healing, reducing the risk of retraumatization.
  2. Mindfulness and Meditation Mindfulness practices help individuals stay present and grounded, reducing anxiety and stress. Techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and guided imagery can create a sense of calm and safety, essential for trauma recovery.
  3. Internal Family Systems (IFS) IFS therapy helps individuals explore their internal world and understand the different “parts” of themselves. By recognizing and healing the wounded inner child, IFS fosters self-compassion and integration, allowing for deeper emotional healing.
  4. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) EMDR is a structured therapy that uses bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, to help process and integrate traumatic memories. It can reduce the emotional intensity of these memories, enabling individuals to move forward with less distress.
  5. Holistic Approaches A holistic approach to healing considers the mind, body, and spirit. Incorporating practices such as yoga, acupuncture, and nutrition can support overall well-being and enhance the healing process. These approaches acknowledge that trauma affects all aspects of our being and that healing must be equally comprehensive.
  6. Therapeutic Relationships Building a trusting relationship with a skilled therapist is crucial for trauma recovery. A compassionate and empathetic therapist can provide a safe space for exploring painful memories, validating experiences, and guiding the healing journey. The therapeutic alliance itself can be a powerful catalyst for change.
  7. Support Groups and Community Connecting with others who have experienced similar trauma can provide a sense of validation and support. Support groups offer a safe space to share experiences, gain insights, and build a community of understanding. Healing is often fostered through connection and shared humanity.
  8. Creative Expression Engaging in creative activities such as art, music, and writing can be therapeutic. These forms of expression allow individuals to process and release emotions in a non-verbal way, tapping into the healing power of creativity.
  9. Self-Care and Compassion Prioritizing self-care is vital for trauma recovery. Activities that promote relaxation, joy, and self-nurturing help build resilience and restore balance. Practicing self-compassion, especially during difficult times, fosters a kinder and more supportive relationship with oneself.
  10. Education and Empowerment Understanding trauma and its effects can be empowering. Learning about trauma responses, coping mechanisms, and healing strategies provides a roadmap for recovery. Knowledge is a powerful tool in regaining control and fostering a sense of agency.

Final Thoughts

Healing from childhood trauma is a journey, not a destination. It requires patience, self-compassion, and a willingness to explore and integrate various healing modalities. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. With the right support and resources, you can heal from the wounds of the past and build a brighter, more resilient future.

At Metta Holistic Therapy, we are committed to supporting you on this path. Our compassionate, holistic, and research-backed approaches are designed to help you heal from childhood trauma and empower you to live a fulfilling life.

If you’re ready to take the first step towards healing, contact us today. If you have any more questions about triggers, trauma, or trauma/ptsd therapy please reach out via the Metta Holistic Therapy contact page or email me directly at reneeminxtherapy@gmail.com – if you’re in crisis or an emergency please call 911.

Therapy for Childhood Trauma

How Therapy Can Help Slowly Heal Trauma Symptoms from Childhood Trauma

Childhood trauma can leave lasting scars that affect various aspects of life, often manifesting as anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties, and more. However, there is hope. Therapy offers a path to healing, providing tools and support to navigate and eventually overcome these challenges.

Understanding Childhood Trauma

Childhood trauma refers to distressing experiences that occur during one’s formative years. The effects of such trauma can be profound and long-lasting, influencing how individuals perceive themselves and the world around them.

How Therapy Helps Heal Trauma Symptoms

Creating a Safe Space

    • Trust and Safety: One of the primary benefits of therapy is the creation of a safe, non-judgmental space where you can express your feelings and experiences. Building a trusting relationship with your therapist is foundational for healing.
    • Validation: A therapist provides validation of your experiences and emotions, which can be incredibly empowering and affirming.

    Processing Trauma Through the Body

      • Somatic Experiencing: This approach focuses on the body’s sensations to release stored trauma energy. By tuning into physical sensations, you can begin to process and release trauma.
      • Mindfulness and Body Awareness: Practices like mindfulness meditation and body scanning help you become more aware of your bodily sensations and how they relate to your emotions and memories.

      Developing Coping Skills

        • Grounding Techniques: Techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and grounding exercises help manage overwhelming emotions by anchoring you in the present moment.
        • Movement Therapy: Engaging in physical activities like yoga, dance, or tai chi can help release tension and trauma stored in the body.

        Building Resilience

          • Self-Compassion: Therapy encourages self-compassion and self-care, which are essential for healing and building resilience.
          • Empowerment: By setting and achieving small goals in therapy, you gain a sense of control and empowerment over your healing journey.

          Improving Relationships

            • Interpersonal Skills: Therapy can enhance your communication and relationship skills, helping to improve your interactions with others.
            • Boundaries: Learning to set and maintain healthy boundaries is crucial for protecting yourself and fostering healthy relationships.

            Long-Term Support

              • Continued Growth: Healing from trauma is a gradual process, and therapy provides ongoing support throughout your journey.
              • Relapse Behavioral Prevention: Therapists can help you identify potential setbacks and develop strategies to prevent relapse into old patterns.

              Practical Steps to Start Therapy

              1. Find a Qualified Therapist: Look for a therapist who specializes in trauma and uses holistic and somatic approaches.
              2. Schedule an Initial Consultation: This meeting will allow you to gauge your comfort level with the therapist and discuss your needs and goals.
              3. Commit to the Process: Healing takes time, so be patient with yourself and commit to regular therapy sessions.
              4. Engage Actively: Participate actively in your therapy sessions and practice the skills and techniques learned outside of sessions.

              A Message of Hope

              Healing from childhood trauma is possible, and therapy can be a powerful catalyst for change. By providing a safe space, helping process past experiences, and teaching valuable coping skills, therapy can guide you towards a healthier, more fulfilling life. Reaching out for help is a courageous step towards healing and regaining control of your life. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone—support is available, and recovery is within reach.

              If you’re ready to take the first step towards healing, contact us today. If you have any more questions about triggers, trauma, or trauma/ptsd therapy please reach out via the Metta Holistic Therapy contact page or email me directly at reneeminxtherapy@gmail.com – if you’re in crisis or an emergency please call 911.

              Why Am I So Triggered All The Time?


              As a trauma therapist specializing in helping adults work through childhood trauma, I often hear a common question from my clients: “Why am I so triggered all the time?” This is a crucial question to explore, as understanding triggers and their origins can be a significant step toward healing.

              What Does Being Triggered Look Like?


              Being triggered can manifest in various ways. Here are some common signs:

              Emotional Reactions: Sudden feelings of anger, sadness, or anxiety that seem disproportionate to the current situation.
              Physical Responses: Symptoms such as a racing heart, sweating, shaking, or feeling nauseous.
              Behavioral Changes: Reacting impulsively or withdrawing from situations and people.
              Cognitive Disruptions: Difficulty concentrating, experiencing flashbacks, or intrusive thoughts.
              Relational Strain: Conflicts in relationships, feeling misunderstood, or isolating oneself.


              Why Are We Triggered by Trauma?
              Understanding why we are triggered can help us address and manage these reactions. Here are some reasons why past trauma can lead to being triggered in the present:

              Unprocessed Trauma: Trauma that hasn’t been fully processed can linger in the subconscious, making us more susceptible to triggers.
              Hypervigilance: Trauma survivors often develop a heightened state of alertness, always on the lookout for potential threats, leading to frequent triggers.
              Associative Memories: Triggers can be linked to sensory experiences (sights, sounds, smells) that remind the brain of the traumatic event.
              Emotional Memory: The emotions felt during the trauma can be reactivated by similar emotions experienced in present situations.
              Body Memories: The body can hold onto trauma, leading to physical sensations that trigger past memories.
              Nervous System Sensitization: Trauma can make the nervous system more sensitive, causing it to react more intensely to stimuli.


              Managing Triggers
              Recognizing and managing triggers is essential for healing. Here are some strategies that can help:

              Grounding Techniques: Practices like deep breathing, mindfulness, and focusing on the present can help manage immediate reactions.
              Therapy: Working with a therapist can provide a safe space to process trauma and develop coping strategies.
              Self-Care: Regular self-care practices can strengthen resilience and reduce the impact of triggers.
              Support Systems: Connecting with supportive friends, family, or support groups can provide comfort and understanding.
              Education: Learning about trauma and its effects can empower you to better understand and manage your reactions.


              Conclusion
              Triggers are a natural response to past trauma, and understanding them is a crucial step toward healing. By recognizing what being triggered looks like and understanding the reasons behind these reactions, you can begin to manage and reduce their impact on your life. Remember, healing is a journey, and seeking support is a strength, not a weakness.

              If you have any more questions about triggers, trauma, or trauma/ptsd therapy please reach out via the Metta Holistic Therapy contact page or email me directly at reneeminxtherapy@gmail.com – if you’re in crisis or an emergency please call 911.

              Impacts of Verbal Abuse


              Verbal abuse is a deeply damaging form of mistreatment that often leaves lasting scars on individuals’ mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Unlike physical abuse, which leaves visible marks, verbal abuse can be insidious, leaving victims grappling with invisible wounds that can be just as debilitating. In this article, we delve into the profound effects of verbal abuse on the brain, body, and attachment relationships, shedding light on the importance of recognizing and addressing this pervasive issue.

              The Impact on the Brain:
              The brain is highly susceptible to the effects of verbal abuse, with research indicating that consistent exposure to verbal aggression can lead to structural and functional changes. Chronic verbal abuse activates the brain’s stress response system, triggering the release of stress hormones such as cortisol. Over time, prolonged exposure to elevated cortisol levels can impair neural pathways responsible for regulating emotions, leading to increased anxiety, depression, and even PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder).

              Furthermore, verbal abuse can also affect brain regions involved in self-esteem and self-worth, leading to feelings of inadequacy and low self-confidence. Negative verbal messages can become internalized, creating a distorted self-image that perpetuates the cycle of abuse both internally and externally.

              The Impact on the Body:
              The effects of verbal abuse extend beyond the realm of the mind, manifesting in tangible physical symptoms and health outcomes. Studies have shown that individuals subjected to ongoing verbal abuse are at a higher risk of developing a myriad of health issues, including cardiovascular problems, gastrointestinal disorders, and compromised immune function.

              Moreover, the stress induced by verbal abuse can weaken the body’s ability to cope with illness and injury, exacerbating existing health conditions and impairing overall well-being. The toxic stress of verbal abuse can also contribute to the onset of chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders, further highlighting the interconnectedness of mental and physical health.

              The Impact on Attachment Relationships:
              Verbal abuse not only inflicts harm on the individual directly targeted but can also undermine the fabric of attachment relationships. Whether it occurs within familial, romantic, or social contexts, verbal abuse erodes trust, intimacy, and emotional connection, creating rifts that are often challenging to repair.

              For children, exposure to verbal abuse within the family dynamic can have profound implications for their attachment style and future relationships. Growing up in an environment characterized by verbal hostility can disrupt the development of secure attachments, leading to difficulties in forming healthy connections later in life.

              Similarly, in romantic partnerships, verbal abuse can erode the foundation of mutual respect and support, fostering an atmosphere of fear, resentment, and emotional distance. Over time, the cumulative effects of verbal abuse can erode the bonds that hold relationships together, leaving individuals feeling isolated and emotionally depleted.

              Conclusion:
              Verbal abuse is a pervasive and damaging form of mistreatment that exacts a heavy toll on individuals’ mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Its impact extends beyond the realm of immediate verbal exchanges, shaping the structure and function of the brain, compromising physical health, and undermining attachment relationships.

              As mental health professionals, it is imperative that we recognize the signs of verbal abuse and provide support and resources to those affected. By raising awareness, fostering empathy, and promoting healthy communication, we can work towards creating a world where verbal abuse has no place, and individuals can thrive in relationships characterized by respect, compassion, and understanding.

              If you have any more questions about verbal abuse, mental health therapy or trauma/ptsd therapy please reach out via the Metta Holistic Therapy contact page or email me directly at reneeminxtherapy@gmail.com – if you’re in crisis or an emergency please call 911.

              How to Heal From Childhood Trauma

              10 Evidence-Based Strategies for Healing from Childhood Trauma as an Adult:


              Healing from childhood trauma as an adult can be a complex journey, but it’s a journey worth embarking on for your mental and emotional well-being. With advancements in trauma research and therapy techniques, there are now effective tools available to help individuals navigate this process. Here are ten evidence-based strategies supported by the latest research to aid in healing from childhood trauma or abuse.

              1. Therapy: Seeking professional help from a therapist trained in trauma-focused therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), or Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) can provide crucial support and guidance in processing traumatic experiences.

              2. Mindfulness and Meditation: Mindfulness practices have shown promising results in reducing symptoms of trauma by promoting present-moment awareness and acceptance. Techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, and body scans can help regulate emotions and decrease reactivity to trauma triggers.

              3. Emotional Regulation Skills: Learning how to regulate emotions is vital in managing the intense feelings often associated with childhood trauma. Techniques such as grounding exercises, emotion identification, and distress tolerance skills can empower individuals to navigate difficult emotions more effectively.

              4. Self-Compassion: Cultivating self-compassion involves treating oneself with kindness and understanding, especially in moments of distress. Research indicates that self-compassion practices can foster resilience and facilitate the healing process by promoting feelings of worthiness and acceptance.

              5. Establishing Boundaries: Setting and maintaining healthy boundaries is essential for survivors of childhood trauma to protect themselves from further harm. Learning to assert boundaries in relationships and recognizing when boundaries have been crossed are crucial steps in reclaiming personal agency and safety.

              6. Trauma-Informed Yoga: Yoga practices tailored to address trauma-related symptoms can be beneficial in promoting relaxation, body awareness, and empowerment. Trauma-informed yoga emphasizes safety, choice, and mindfulness, offering a gentle approach to healing the mind-body connection.

              7. Narrative Therapy: Engaging in narrative therapy techniques, such as journaling, storytelling, or creative expression, can provide individuals with a sense of agency in reshaping their personal narratives. This process allows for the exploration and reinterpretation of past experiences, fostering a greater sense of coherence and meaning.

              8. Social Support: Building a supportive network of friends, family, or fellow survivors can be instrumental in the healing journey. Connecting with others who understand and validate your experiences can provide a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of isolation.

              9. Trauma-Informed Education: Educating oneself about the neurobiological and psychological effects of trauma can help individuals make sense of their experiences and reduce self-blame. Understanding how trauma impacts the brain and body can foster self-compassion and promote a sense of empowerment in the healing process.

              10. Self-Care Practices: Prioritizing self-care activities that nourish the mind, body, and spirit is essential for overall well-being. Engaging in activities such as hobbies, exercise, nature walks, or relaxation techniques can replenish energy reserves and foster resilience in the face of adversity.


              Healing from childhood trauma as an adult is a deeply personal journey that requires patience, courage, and support. By incorporating evidence-based strategies such as therapy, mindfulness, self-compassion, and social support, individuals can embark on a path towards healing, reclaiming their sense of self, and building a brighter future. Remember, healing is possible, and you are deserving of a life filled with hope, resilience, and inner peace.

              If you have any more questions about childhood trauma, mental health therapy or trauma/ptsd therapy please reach out via the Metta Holistic Therapy contact page or email me directly at reneeminxtherapy@gmail.com – if you’re in crisis or an emergency please call 911.

              Overcoming Childhood Emotional Abuse

              Emotional abuse is a silent vampire that can haunt its victims long into adulthood. Unlike physical abuse, its scars are often hidden, etched into the very fabric of one’s emotional well-being. For those who have experienced childhood emotional abuse, the road to healing can be arduous, but it is a journey worth taking. This blog explores the profound impact of childhood emotional abuse and offers insights into overcoming its lingering effects.

              The Silent Struggle:

              Childhood emotional abuse is like a stealthy thief, stealing a child’s sense of self-worth and security. It takes various forms, such as constant criticism, belittlement, manipulation, or neglect. Unlike physical abuse, emotional wounds may not leave visible marks, but the damage can be deep and enduring.

              Recognizing the Patterns:

              The first step towards healing is acknowledging the presence of emotional abuse. Many survivors spend years rationalizing or denying the impact of their past experiences. Understanding the patterns of abuse and recognizing its effects on one’s mental health is crucial to breaking free from its grasp.

              Seeking Professional Help:

              Overcoming childhood emotional abuse often requires professional guidance. Therapists specializing in trauma can provide a safe space for survivors to explore their emotions, confront painful memories, and develop coping mechanisms. Therapy can be a powerful tool for unraveling the complex web of emotions left in the wake of abuse.

              Building a Support System:

              Isolation is a common aftermath of emotional abuse, with survivors often feeling a profound sense of loneliness. Building a support system is instrumental in the recovery process. Connecting with understanding friends, family members, or support groups can provide validation and encouragement.

              Cultivating Self-Compassion:

              Survivors of childhood emotional abuse frequently internalize negative messages, leading to a distorted self-image. Cultivating self-compassion is an essential part of the healing journey. Learning to treat oneself with kindness and understanding is a gradual process but a crucial one in rebuilding a positive self-concept.

              Establishing Boundaries:

              One of the lasting effects of emotional abuse is a difficulty in establishing healthy boundaries. Learning to set and enforce boundaries is a vital skill in breaking the cycle of abuse. It involves recognizing one’s own needs and asserting them without guilt.

              Embracing Self-Discovery:

              The healing journey is an opportunity for self-discovery. As survivors work through their pain, they often uncover strengths and resilience they didn’t know they possessed. Embracing self-discovery involves rediscovering passions, setting goals, and finding joy in life.

              Moving Forward:

              Overcoming childhood emotional abuse is not a linear path; it’s a journey with twists and turns. Celebrate small victories and acknowledge the progress made. Moving forward involves embracing a new narrative, one of resilience, strength, and the power to shape one’s own destiny.

              Conclusion:

              The journey to overcome childhood emotional abuse is a courageous pursuit of healing and self-discovery. By acknowledging the impact of past experiences, seeking professional help, building a support system, and cultivating self-compassion, survivors can break free from the chains of their past and emerge stronger, more resilient, and capable of creating a brighter future. The path may be challenging, but with perseverance and self-love, the scars of the past can become a testament to the strength found within.

              If you have any more questions about childhood emotional abuse, mental health therapy or trauma/ptsd therapy please reach out via the Metta Holistic Therapy contact page or email me directly at reneeminxtherapy@gmail.com – if you’re in crisis or an emergency please call 911.

              How can I embrace my inner child?

              In the hustle and bustle of adult life, it’s easy to lose touch with the carefree, imaginative spirit of our inner child. However, reconnecting with this playful side can be a powerful and transformative experience on our journey to emotional well-being.

              The Importance of Embracing Your Inner Child

              1. Healing from Past Wounds:
                Many of us carry unresolved emotions and experiences from our childhood. By revisiting and acknowledging these moments, we can begin the process of healing and understanding ourselves on a deeper level.
              2. Rediscovering Creativity:
                Children are naturally creative and curious. Embracing your inner child can reignite your imagination and help you approach life with a fresh perspective, fostering creativity in both personal and professional aspects.

              Practical Steps for Embracing Your Inner Child

              1. Reconnect with Playfulness:
                Engage in activities that bring you joy and evoke a sense of playfulness. Whether it’s playing a sport, doodling, or dancing, these activities can help you tap into the lightheartedness of your inner child.
              2. Mindful Reflection:
                Take time for introspection. Reflect on your childhood memories, both positive and challenging. Understanding the roots of certain behaviors or beliefs can be a crucial step in personal growth.
              3. Create a Safe Space:
                Establishing a safe and nurturing environment is essential for embracing your inner child. This might involve setting aside time for self-care rituals or surrounding yourself with positive influences.

              Benefits of Embracing Your Inner Child in Therapy

              1. Improved Emotional Resilience:
                Connecting with your inner child allows you to develop emotional resilience, enabling you to navigate life’s challenges with a more balanced and adaptable mindset.
              2. Enhanced Self-Expression:
                By tapping into the uninhibited expression of your inner child, you can discover new ways to communicate and express your emotions, fostering healthier relationships with those around you.

              Embracing the Journey

              Embracing your inner child is not a one-time event but an ongoing process. It requires patience, self-compassion, and a willingness to explore aspects of yourself that may have been buried over the years. Therapy provides a supportive space for this exploration, guiding you on a journey of self-discovery and healing.

              As you embark on this therapeutic adventure, remember that embracing your inner child is not about escaping adulthood but integrating the qualities of youth that contribute to a more vibrant and fulfilling life. Through this process, you may find a renewed sense of joy, creativity, and resilience, ultimately leading to a more authentic and connected version of yourself.

              If you have any more questions about inner child therapy, mental health therapy or trauma therapy please reach out via the Metta Holistic Therapy contact page or email me directly at reneeminxtherapy@gmail.com – if you’re in crisis or an emergency please call 911.

              What is the science of PTSD?

              Trauma is a complex and profound experience that can have lasting effects on an individual’s mental and physical well-being. In recent years, scientific research has delved into the intricate ways in which trauma, particularly post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), affects both the brain and the body. Understanding these processes not only sheds light on the challenges faced by those with PTSD but also points the way towards innovative therapeutic interventions. In this exploration, we’ll unravel the science behind trauma and examine how PTSD leaves its indelible mark on the intricate systems of our brains and bodies.

              The Brain’s Response to Trauma:

              When confronted with a traumatic event, the brain’s intricate defense mechanisms are triggered. The amygdala, a region responsible for processing emotions, and the hippocampus, vital for memory formation, are immediately engaged. In the face of danger, the brain initiates the “fight or flight” response, flooding the body with stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline.

              For individuals with PTSD, this stress response can become hypersensitive, causing the brain to overreact to non-threatening stimuli. The amygdala may become hyperactive, leading to increased emotional reactivity, while the hippocampus may shrink, impairing the ability to differentiate between past trauma and present safety. The result is a persistent state of heightened arousal, where even everyday situations can evoke overwhelming anxiety and fear.

              Neurotransmitters and the PTSD Brain:

              The brain’s communication network relies on neurotransmitters, chemical messengers that transmit signals between neurons. In the context of trauma, imbalances in neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine can occur. These imbalances are associated with mood disorders, contributing to the emotional dysregulation often seen in individuals with PTSD.

              Moreover, chronic stress can lead to neuroinflammation—a process where the brain’s immune cells become activated. This inflammation has been linked to a range of mental health conditions, including PTSD. Understanding these neurobiological changes is crucial for developing targeted treatments that address the root causes of PTSD symptoms.

              The Impact on Memory and Cognitive Function:

              Trauma can profoundly affect how the brain processes and stores memories. Flashbacks and intrusive memories, hallmark symptoms of PTSD, are thought to stem from the way traumatic memories are encoded and retrieved. The fragmented and vivid nature of these memories can make it challenging for individuals with PTSD to distinguish between past trauma and present reality.

              Cognitive functions such as attention, concentration, and decision-making may also be compromised. The constant state of alertness and hypervigilance can lead to difficulties in focusing on day-to-day tasks, impairing overall cognitive performance.

              The Body’s Response to Trauma:

              The effects of trauma extend beyond the confines of the brain, manifesting in tangible ways throughout the body. The perpetual state of stress associated with PTSD can contribute to a range of physical health issues.

              1. **The Stress Hormone Cascade:**

                 – Prolonged exposure to stress hormones like cortisol can disrupt the body’s natural balance, impacting immune function, metabolism, and sleep patterns.

              2. **The Immune System and Inflammation:**

                 – Chronic stress weakens the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to illnesses. Additionally, inflammation, a natural response to stress, can become chronic and contribute to various health problems.

              3. **Cardiovascular Impact:**

                 – PTSD has been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular issues, including hypertension and heart disease. The persistent activation of the stress response can put a strain on the cardiovascular system.

              4. **Sleep Disturbances:**

                 – Trauma and PTSD often accompany sleep disturbances, such as nightmares and insomnia. The resulting sleep deprivation further exacerbates both mental and physical health challenges.

              Conclusion:

              The science of trauma and its impact on the brain and body is a complex and evolving field of study. Recognizing the profound interplay between psychological and physiological processes is a crucial step toward developing comprehensive and effective interventions for individuals with PTSD. By understanding the intricate ways in which trauma leaves its mark, we can pave the way for trauma-informed approaches that address the root causes and provide holistic healing for those on their journey towards recovery.

              If you have any more questions about the science of PTSD, mental health therapy or trauma therapy please reach out via the Metta Holistic Therapy contact page or email me directly at reneeminxtherapy@gmail.com – if you’re in crisis or an emergency please call 911.

              What is best treatment for mental health therapy?

              I receive this question quite often from incoming clients or people that are just curious about mental health treatment and therapy. We tend to be pretty goal oriented and solution focused in this country so of course when we think about healing, we want to know about the best treatment possible.

              There are two main components in my professional opinion that lead to the best treatment for mental health therapy. I’ve listed them below:

              1. The therapeutic relationship. There has been research done over and over and over again that proves that the relationship between therapist and client is the most important indicator for success in treatment. I value and adore every single one of my clients, and feel so grateful and lucky to work with them. That sense of trust, connection, understanding, and unconditional positive regard is so important. I’ve had clients who switch from another therapist to me because they say that they just didn’t feel connected to their old therapist. Some ways that the therapeutic relationship can be strengthened are if your therapist makes you feel really seen, heard, and it’s clear that you have their undivided attention. It also builds a solid relationship when it’s clear that they remember things that you’ve told them in parts of your story. Some ways to hurt the therapeutic relationship is if you see that your therapist is distracted, they make you feel invalidated, they try to tell you what to do or you don’t feel that they are competent. I can’t overstate how important it is to choose a therapist that you feel connected and seen by. This leads to the best mental health treatment possible.

              2. Somatic therapy and bottom up techniques. I believe wholeheartedly that if we do not treat the mind and body holistically then we are missing a huge part of the picture. 80% of the information center nervous system is sent from our body and only 20% is in from our brain. What that means is that our body has stored a lot of the negative experiences we’ve been through and in order to fully heal we need to listen to the signals and wisdom of our body. There are some therapies that just purely focus on trying to change thoughts, which no doubt is part of the picture, but it definitely is not the whole picture. I would go so far as to say some therapies that just focus on thoughts can feel in validating, because they make you feel like if you just change your thoughts, then your anxiety will go away. But this is not the case. It’s like that situation where our mind knows some thing and we intellectually know why someone did some thing that harmed us, but it still hurts in our body and emotionally.

              These are the two most important part of affective mental health therapy in my professional opinion. If you don’t feel a connection to your therapist, then I would suggest telling them that and trying to work through it first and then if nothing changes find a therapist that you do feel connected to. It’s very important that folks are getting the treatment that they deserve.

              If you have any more questions about somatic therapy, mental health therapy or trauma therapy please reach out via the Metta Holistic Therapy contact page or email me directly at reneeminxtherapy@gmail.com – if you’re in crisis or an emergency please call 911.

              Why can’t I remember my trauma?

              It’s extremely common to not remember part or all of the trauma that you’ve experienced. This can happen in instances of childhood abuse, childhood neglect, childhood sexual abuse, adult domestic violence, or rape and sexual assault in adulthood.

              As a trauma therapist, many of my clients have gaslit or discredited themselves over the years because they couldn’t remember parts or all of the trauma they’ve been through.

              So why does our brain block out traumatic memories? Below I’ve listed the top three facts related to the blocking out traumatic memories that are helpful for trauma survivors to know…

              1. Blocking out memories is different than blacking out memories. Let me explain: When we are extremely under the influence of alcohol or drugs, some of us of experience what it is like to ”black out.” We might look back on the night before and not remember what happened after we had a certain amount to drink or use. When we black out, our brain is not even recording what is going on in the present. We might have trauma when we wake up from a blackout, but the actual experiences that we had while blacked out are not being recorded by her memory. This is very different than when we block out a memory because our brain has recorded everything that has happened but it is just protecting us from those memories. The main difference here is that our brain is using the danger that happened during the memories that we blocked out in our present day reactions so even though we don’t remember everything, it is still having an extreme effect on us.

              2. Our brain is trying to protect us. If a certain event happened that we are unable to process emotionally at the time because it was too damaging to us or felt too dangerous. Then our brain is now going to be recording this memory, and storing it in a part of our brain that we can’t access. It doesn’t actually mean that we can never access the memories although sometimes that is the case. Some folks in their 70s are having flashbacks for the first time about childhood sexual abuse that happened when they were eight years old. Other folks start having flashbacks in their early 20s from childhood sexual abuse that happened when they were six. Other folks just know that some thing happened because of the reactions they have to sex and the nightmares they have, but they may never remember exactly what happened. Our system can only process so much at a time, and if the trauma was out of our window of tolerance, and our nervous system could not process it, but it is likely that we will block out some or all of it. But again, as stated above, it still has an extreme affect on us and our present behavior, even if we can’t remember what happened.

              3. It is still possible to heal from trauma where we don’t know the details of what happened. This is because we use the body as a starting point. 80% of the information sent to our nervous system is sent from our body to our brain. Only 20% is sent from our brain to our body. This is why a lot of trauma therapist believe that trauma is held in our body. That’s why in a certain situation we might not intellectually know what triggered us, but our body is extremely triggered because of something that happened. So even if we don’t remember everything that happened, we can still do somatic therapy such as Emdr, IFS, somatic, experiencing and mindfulness to heal.

              Most importantly I want to state that IT IS NORMAL and THERE IS HOPE. Believe yourself! Your body knows what happened. Don’t second guess yourself or gaslight yourself.

              Some people get so caught up in trying to remember every detail of what their brain blocked out and that is not the way to heal. If it was helpful for you to remember what happened, then your brain will give you access to it. Trust your body.

              Remember that your body loves you and is always only trying to protect you. And seek therapy for trauma you don’t remember! It is still possible to heal even without all the nitty gritty details.

              You deserve healing!

              If you have any more questions about childhood trauma therapy, childhood abuse therapy or trauma therapy please reach out via the Metta Holistic Therapy contact page or email me directly at reneeminxtherapy@gmail.com – if you’re in crisis or an emergency please call 911.