Trauma-informed Counselling in Dorset
Grounded in an understanding of how trauma affects the brain, body, and relationships. The focus is on safety, where healing naturally unfolds without re-traumatising you. Healing occurs when our minds and bodies are in sync. – where we can think more clearly and observe what’s actually going on in the moment, and respond appropriately.
Trauma comes in many shapes and forms; hence, all counselling with me is within a trauma framework.
Some people find that time is a greater healer, especially if life in general is stable enough to allow them to heal. However, distressing experiences can continue to affect some long after the event has passed, depending on current life stressors, past relational patterns and how stress affects them in general.
Common signs of trauma include flashbacks, being on edge or having strong physical reactions, struggling with sleep, or feeling numb and disconnected from themselves and the world around them.
Trauma-Informed Framework
Therapy should always be working to ground you and stay in your safety/comfort zone. Physically and mentally shifting your body out of survival mode and into a state of calm.
You do not need to talk about or describe past experiences at any point unless you wish to. You can talk about whatever you feel comfortable with. It may sound counterintuitive, but we are fundamentally helping your nervous system recognise safety.
Physical sensations can be terrifying, which is why some people find they can’t connect with any emotions because their nervous system has stopped access to them, but others find they are easily flooded by intense feelings.
We always go at your pace, reconnecting you with the present, helping your mind and body to recognise safety again. You may find it helpful to use imagery, metaphors, and visualisations or grounding techniques to help you stay present or distraction techniques that act like a brake if you experience intense feelings.
If you do tap into any sensations, we acknowledge them briefly but return quickly to your comfort zone. Ultimately, creating an effective braking system, so if a topic suddenly feels too much or if you just need a moment, you can hit the brake, or I may step in if you can’t.
We can discuss ways that work for you when we meet.
If you would like to chat about how counselling can support you, please get in touch to arrange an informal conversation.
Ready to take that first step?
Nicky x
Anxiety Approved Therapist
Approved Vitality Health Insurance Provider