What Is Trauma? ✨
Trauma happens when overwhelming experiences—such as abuse, neglect, accidents, or loss—leave a lasting impact on the mind and body. Even years later, trauma can feel like it lives inside you, resurfacing through memories, body tension, or emotional triggers.
One evidence-based way we work with trauma is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). EMDR helps the brain reprocess painful memories so they no longer feel as raw or overwhelming. Instead of being stuck in the past, EMDR allows you to experience those memories with more distance and less intensity. Many people find that EMDR reduces anxiety, nightmares, or body tension connected to trauma, and helps them move toward greater peace and resilience.
Signs and common concerns in Trauma:
Carrying silence: Many grew up in environments where painful experiences were not spoken about, leading to shame or secrecy.
Intergenerational trauma: Family histories of migration, war, displacement, or poverty that still impact emotional wellbeing.
Somatic symptoms: Trauma may show up as body pain, chronic stress, or health issues.
Stigma: A belief that seeking help means dishonoring family or showing weakness.
Relationship struggles: Difficulty trusting, setting boundaries, or feeling safe in closeness.
Our Approach 🌈
Healing trauma requires gentleness and care. At Spiral Up Therapy, we approach trauma therapy with both practical tools and deeper exploration.
Creating safety and grounding: We start by building techniques that help you feel steady and in control before working with painful memories.
Using EMDR and other trauma-informed approaches: EMDR allows us to reprocess distressing memories in a structured, supportive way, while other methods—like body-based practices and mindfulness—help calm the nervous system.
Exploring identity and patterns: We’ll look at how trauma has shaped your relationships, self-image, and daily life.
Addressing cultural layers: We acknowledge how immigration, generational expectations, and cultural beliefs play into your experience of trauma.
Building resilience: You’ll learn to create new experiences of safety and empowerment.
Moving toward connection: Our work also focuses on rebuilding trust and creating stronger, healthier relationships—with yourself and with others.
You Belong Here 🌟
Whether you’re the first in your family to seek therapy, or you’ve been on this journey for a while, we’re here to walk alongside you. Think of us as a mix of thought partners, compassionate guides, and cheerleaders—here to help you rewrite the story you want to live. Your culture, your struggles, and your dreams all matter—and we’re honored to hold space for them.