In 1789, Benjamin Franklin famously wrote, “In this world, nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” While this sentiment is concise and true, there are other certainties in life, one of which is that all of us, at some time or another, will experience a traumatic event.
Every single person will experience some form of trauma in their lives. It is an inevitable and inescapable side effect of being a human being. How we respond to traumatic events, however, will vary greatly among every individual based on the severity of the trauma, our backgrounds, our support systems, and our environments.
The Many Faces of Trauma
Trauma can be simply defined as a stressful, frightening, or distressing event that is difficult to cope with and outside of one’s control. Trauma can happen at any age, and it ranges from severe, life-altering life events to smaller, emotionally damaging everyday moments. In short, trauma isn’t one-size-fits-all, and because of this, healing from trauma will take a different, multi-faceted approach for everyone.
Trauma does not manifest in every individual in the same way. Some go through obvious traumatic events that are easy to trace and identify, while others may be unaware that an event or experience that happened to them was traumatic. Unhealed traumatic experiences can be more difficult to pinpoint. Understanding the underlying symptoms as potentially related to trauma is a first step, but how to then process those emotions and get to the root cause of the traumatic experience is where a licensed trauma therapist is beneficial to healing.
Symptoms of Unhealed Trauma
So, how do you know if you’re suffering from unhealed trauma? Signs and symptoms may include the following:
Depression
Anxiety
General irritability
Anger
Overwhelming fears
Obsessive behaviors
Withdrawing from everyday life activities
Insomnia
Loss of appetite
Seeking coping mechanisms through unhealthy means
PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder)
If you recognize any of the above symptoms in yourself, or in a loved one, it may be a good time to consider looking for a licensed, trauma-informed therapist who can help you walk through the experiences that shaped you and get to the root cause of the problem behavior or struggles. Seeking our expert guidance regarding healing from trauma is extremely important.
The Physical and Emotional Impact of Trauma
Traumatic events lead to more than just heightened emotions. Trauma affects the entire body, both physically and emotionally. When you experience trauma, your brain releases cortisol into the body. This chemical response is your body’s defense mechanism, meant to help you flee dangerous situations. Still, when you experience heightened trauma or extended exposure to traumatic experiences, those cortisol levels remain elevated in the body leading to increased inflammation, which can ultimately lead to physical health problems such as poor cardiovascular health, stroke, high blood pressure, or heart attacks. Elevated cortisol and inflammation in the body can also lead to autoimmune disorders and cancers.
In addition to the physical side effects of stress, unresolved trauma also puts a person at risk for mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. An individual suffering from trauma is more likely to look for ways to cope with the stress and strain, leading to potential substance abuse problems. A trauma-informed christian therapist trained in recognizing these symptoms and stresses guides someone suffering from overwhelming stress through the events that shaped them.
Many people can likely point to one of the symptoms listed above as something they struggle with, but that doesn’t mean all people are suffering from trauma. It’s important to assess the whole picture of your life to best understand the signs and symptoms of potential trauma-related emotions.
Trauma-Informed Therapy in Tampa, FL
A licensed, trauma-informed therapist is beneficial when looking to face the stresses of daily life. Utilizing the tools that trained trauma-informed therapists have offers you the best opportunity to face the trauma you have experienced in the past, or that you continue to experience today.
Here at Christian Counseling of Tampa, we offer counseling services for various categories such as, but not limited to:
Abuse/Trauma
Addictions
Anger Management
Anxiety Assessments
Children/Adolescents
Crisis
Depression
Divorce
Eating Disorders
Family/Family Issues
Grief
Life Coaching
Marriage
Men’s Issues
Parenting Issues
Premarital
Remarriage
Spiritual
Teen Counseling
Women’s Issues
Conclusion
A solidly trained therapist has the tools necessary to help you navigate the murky waters of a traumatic experience, and then better understand how to heal from that event. When looking for a therapist to help you on your journey of healing, it’s important to find someone who is well-trained and experienced in trauma-informed care, as well as someone you feel comfortable talking with. A Christian Counseling of Tampa, our licensed, trauma-informed specialists utilize several different therapy techniques based on the individual and their specific trauma-related needs. Call us today to set up your appointment with a licensed trauma counselor.
Begin Your Healing Journey Today at Christian Counseling of Tampa
If you're interested in exploring personalized guidance and counseling services, consider connecting with Christian Counseling of Tampa. Our compassionate team is here to support you every step of the way offering support and guidance, combining faith-based principles with evidence-based techniques to help you navigate the path to healing from trauma. Reach out today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you.
Read more about Counseling for Trauma in Tampa, FL
Exploring Trauma Therapy Options at Christian Counseling of South Tampa
Understanding the Four Trauma Responses
You don't have to suffer in silence or feel overwhelmed from your trauma. Our therapists can offer support for trauma from our North Tampa, FL office located in the Northdale neighborhood and our South Tampa, FL office. To start trauma therapy, follow these simple steps:
Contact Christian Counseling of Tampa
Meet with a caring therapist
Start learning to manage your symptoms associated with your trauma.
OTHER SERVICES OFFERED WITH CHRISTIAN COUNSELING OF TAMPA
Counseling for trauma individuals isn't the only service offered by our Tampa, FL-based practice. Our team is happy to offer a variety of services in support of your mental health. Other services offered include child therapy, premarital counseling, Christian counseling, therapy for anxiety, marriage intensives, trauma, and therapy for depression. We use a variety of treatment modalities including CBT, EFT, grief therapy, and more! Feel free to learn more about us by visiting our FAQ or blog today!