By Marta Hatter, LCSW — licensed clinical social worker and certified EMDR therapist with nearly three decades of experience.
Trauma is one of the most avoided, ignored, denied, misunderstood, and untreated causes of human suffering. This is deeply unfortunate, as trauma counseling can provide significant relief. When it comes to trauma, no two people are exactly alike. Experiences that prove harmful over the long run to one person may be positive or even exhilarating to another.
Symptoms of trauma
Trauma does not have to stem from a major catastrophe. We are traumatized when our ability to respond to a perceived threat is in some way overwhelmed. This inability to adequately respond can impact us not only in obvious ways but also in ways that are subtle. Trauma sometimes affects us in ways that don’t show up for years. Traumatic experiences can take many forms, including war, child abuse, crimes, medical procedures, humiliation, physical injury, and embarrassment—the list is truly endless.
Symptoms of trauma and traumatic stress may include:
- Rapid heart beat
- Moist hands
- Re-experiencing original trauma
- Avoidance of situations similar to traumatic event
- Startle response
- Perceiving threats in situations when none exist
- Nightmares
- Flashbacks
Research has shown that survivors of accidents, disasters, and childhood trauma often endure lifelong symptoms ranging from anxiety and depression to unexplained physical pain, fatigue, illness, and harmful behaviors. Trauma is a fact of life, but its effects can be treated, and healing is a realistic and achievable hope.
When to seek help
There are many factors involved in the wide range of ways people respond to potentially traumatic events. These responses depend upon genetic makeup, an individual’s history of trauma, and even his or her family dynamics. In treatment, it is vital that we appreciate these differences.
It is my professional observation that not only is trauma curable, but the healing process can be a catalyst for profound awakening—a gateway to emotional and genuine spiritual transformation. A widely recommended treatment for trauma is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). This approach is often highly effective, as it addresses the interconnectedness of the brain, mind, and body.
Read more about the current research and the efficacy of EMDR at the EMDR Institute or the EMDR International Association.
If you are struggling with unresolved trauma or the symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), know that you don’t have to continue to suffer. Relief is available. To find out more, schedule an appointment today.
Resources related to trauma treatment
Briere, J. (1992). Child Abuse Trauma: Theory and Treatment of the Lasting Effects. New York: Sage.
Shapiro, F., & Forrest, M.S. (1997). EMDR: The Breakthrough Therapy for Overcoming Anxiety, Stress, and Trauma. New York: Basic.
Scaer, R. (2005). The Trauma Spectrum: Hidden Wounds and Human Resiliency. New York: Norton & Co., Inc.
Van der Kolk, B. A. (1994). The Body Keeps the Score: Memory and the Evolving Psychobiology of PTSD. Harvard Review of Psychiatry, 1, 253-265.
Van der Kolk, B. A., & Mc Farlane, A. C. (1996). Traumatic Stress: The Effects of Overwhelming Experience on Mind, Body, and Society. New York: Guilford.
By Marta Hatter, LCSW.
She is a Certified EMDR Therapist and a member of NASW and EMDRIA. Her background also includes leadership roles in treatment programs, clinical supervision, and community education.