Trauma Therapy in Chicago
You’ve been coping with your trauma on your own for a while. The irony is that for a long time, you might not have even characterized your experiences as “trauma.” You were simply living your life—doing your best to take care of yourself and survive.
Sometimes you actually manage to forget the painful events you’ve experienced or at least push them aside. Other times, you feel completely overwhelmed and frustrated about not being able to move forward and put all of this behind you.
But it’s the physical symptoms that bother you most—causing you to feel completely out of control in your own body.
You find yourself having flashbacks, panic attacks or waking up in the middle of the night because of nightmares. You may have constant pain or fatigue. You manage by avoiding exposure to situations or individuals that are particularly triggering for you. You often feel excessively fearful and anxious without completely understanding why. Other times, you just feel numb.
Maybe your professional life has been going fairly well for you. But you’re starting to feel the increased pressure of “holding it all together.” You’re afraid the cracks are starting to show. You find yourself exhausted with little motivation. You recognize that physical and emotional symptoms are negatively impacting your ability to show up at work.
Your personal relationships are also beginning to suffer. You have difficulty trusting others which has contributed to challenges in your friendships and romantic relationships.
You want healthy connections but deep down, are afraid to let anyone get too close—worried that you might recreate traumatic dynamics from your past.
The origins of your symptoms might be abuse or violence (emotional, physical, verbal or sexual), childhood neglect, accidents, life-threatening events. But you’ve told very few people about this trauma you experienced out of shame, discomfort or a lack of interest in dwelling on the past. In your darkest times, you might even blame yourself for the circumstances that led to your trauma or are terrified you may not ever be able to be and feel “normal.”
Recently, you’ve reached a point where you feel more capable of confronting the fear, pain and abuse from your past.
You believe that left unaddressed, the effects of trauma will continue to compound over time, making it harder for you to have the content and fulfilling life you want and deserve. What you want most is to release the emotional burdens weighing you down. You’re ready to move forward but are not sure about the next step.
I can be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it.”
~ Maya Angelou
Trauma Therapy in Chicago
You’ve been coping with your trauma on your own for a while. The irony is that for a long time, you might not have even characterized your experiences as “trauma.” You were simply living your life—doing your best to take care of yourself and survive.
Sometimes you actually manage to forget the painful events you’ve experienced or at least push them aside. Other times, you feel completely overwhelmed and frustrated about not being able to move forward and put all of this behind you.
But it’s the physical symptoms that bother you most—causing you to feel completely out of control in your own body.
You find yourself having flashbacks, panic attacks or waking up in the middle of the night because of nightmares. You may have constant pain or fatigue. You manage by avoiding exposure to situations or individuals that are particularly triggering for you. You often feel excessively fearful and anxious without completely understanding why. Other times, you just feel numb.
Maybe your professional life has been going fairly well for you. But you’re starting to feel the increased pressure of “holding it all together.” You’re afraid the cracks are starting to show. You find yourself exhausted with little motivation. You recognize that physical and emotional symptoms are negatively impacting your ability to show up at work.
Your personal relationships are also beginning to suffer. You have difficulty trusting others which has contributed to challenges in your friendships and romantic relationships.
You want healthy connections but deep down, are afraid to let anyone get too close—worried that you might recreate traumatic dynamics from your past.
The origins of your symptoms might be abuse or violence (emotional, physical, verbal or sexual), childhood neglect, accidents, life-threatening events. But you’ve told very few people about this trauma you experienced out of shame, discomfort or a lack of interest in dwelling on the past. In your darkest times, you might even blame yourself for the circumstances that led to your trauma or are terrified you may not ever be able to be and feel “normal.”
Recently, you’ve reached a point where you feel more capable of confronting the fear, pain and abuse from your past.
You believe that left unaddressed, the effects of trauma will continue to compound over time, making it harder for you to have the content and fulfilling life you want and deserve. What you want most is to release the emotional burdens weighing you down. You’re ready to move forward but are not sure about the next step.
“I can be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it.”
~ Maya Angelou
What Is Trauma?
Trauma is defined as an emotional response to a life event like an accident, natural disaster, war, physical or emotional abuse, neglect, crime or death of a loved one. Trauma can take many forms, including:
- Acute Trauma – Response to a single distressing event, such as an accident, medical procedure or natural disaster
- Chronic Trauma – Result of prolonged exposure to violent or abusive situations, such as domestic abuse
- Complex Trauma – Caused by multiple, repeated and long-term exposure to traumatic events like sexual and physical abuse often inflicted by care-givers as children
- Developmental Trauma – Refers to the emotional or psychological stress experienced during childhood due to abusive and violent treatment or the death/loss of a parent or care-giver
- Intergenerational Trauma – Identified by widespread, traumatic events (like the African slave trade and the Holocaust) affecting an entire culture beyond those who experienced them directly
- Identity Trauma – Occurs when an individual experiences prejudice, discrimination or traumatic interactions with others based on aspects of their individual identity like race, ethnicity, gender and sexual orientation
Trauma can leave a lasting impact on your emotional, mental and physical well-being. Whether it stems from a single event or prolonged stress, you may feel its ripple effects in every aspect of your life. Common trauma symptoms include:
- Ongoing feelings of fear, guilt or shame
- Difficulty trusting others or forming relationships
- Flashbacks, nightmares or intrusive thoughts
- Emotional numbness or detachment
- Physical symptoms like headaches or fatigue
- Increasing avoidance behaviors
- Negative changes in thinking and mood
- Volatility in physical and emotional reactions
Sources: National Institute of Health, American Psychological Association, Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic
Trauma therapy is a specialized collection of mental health interventions designed to help individuals process and heal from painful experiences. This specific form of therapy focuses on understanding the impact of trauma, identifying triggers and developing healthy coping mechanisms. The primary goals of trauma therapy are to process painful memories and emotions, regain a sense of control and create a more grounded and fulfilling life.
Trauma therapy will be tailored by your mental health professionals to meet your specific needs. Therapists use evidence-based techniques to address the psychological and physical effects of trauma. Some common approaches include:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – CBT focuses on identifying and challenging negative thought patterns contributing to feelings of helplessness and fear. By reframing these thoughts, you can develop a healthier outlook along with effective coping strategies.
- Somatic Interventions – Trauma can manifest both physically and emotionally in your body. Somatic therapy helps you become aware of bodily sensations to release stored tensions through sensation and movement.
- Mindfulness Techniques – Mindfulness practices encourage increased awareness and grounding to reduce anxiety and emotional overwhelm. This approach creates a greater sense of safety, relaxation and calm.
The Benefits of Trauma Therapy
Trauma therapy can be beneficial for anyone who has experienced distressing events that continue to impact their daily life. Trauma therapy offers a range of benefits, including:
- Emotional Healing – Process painful experiences to reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Improved Relationships – Increase ability to trust, develop healthier communication patterns and compassion for yourself and others
- Enhanced Self-Awareness – Gain insight into how trauma affects your thoughts, feelings and behaviors to connect with your authentic self
- Coping Skills – Obtain insights, resources and skills to manage triggers to reduce physical and emotional activation
- Increased Safety – Feel safer and more secure in your body and physical environments
Hi, I’m Tiffany Green & I’m a Trauma Therapist in Chicago
I specialize in trauma therapy in Chicago, providing compassionate, personalized care for individuals ready to begin the process of healing. Unresolved trauma can feel lonely and isolating, but you don’t have to face it alone. I offer an approach to trauma therapy emphasizing safety, empathy and collaboration to help you gain a greater sense of awareness and control in your life. As part of our work together, I will provide structured and supportive interventions for:
- Identifying Triggers – Understand what activates distressing feelings and how to decrease emotional and physical activation
- Processing Emotions – Safely explore and make sense of traumatic emotions and memories
- Building Embodiment – Helping you feel more comfortable, present, regulated and safe in your own body
- Developing Coping Mechanisms – Build healthier coping mechanisms and reduce emotional overwhelm
- Reclaiming Your Future – Shift from survival mode to thriving in your personal and professional life
I understand beginning trauma therapy can feel scary and uncomfortable. I also know how powerful therapy can be in allowing you to take back control of your life. I can help guide you on your unique journey toward greater understanding and healing at a pace that feels most comfortable to you. With support, you’ll be able to build resilience and create a future that feels safe and life-giving.
Contact me today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about trauma therapy in Chicago.
Trauma Therapy in Chicago FAQs
What is the difference between “trauma therapy” and “regular therapy?”
Trauma therapy focuses on reducing the psychological and emotional effects of trauma due to abuse, neglect, violence, accidents or other circumstances. Trauma therapy supports clients in processing painful memories, reducing trauma-related symptoms and increasing physical and emotional regulation. Regular Therapy addresses a broad range of mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression or relationship challenges.
How long does trauma therapy take?
The length of therapy varies depending on the individual. Some clients see significant improvements within a few months, while others benefit from longer-term care.
Is online trauma therapy effective?
Yes. Online therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy for many individuals and offers the added convenience of flexibility. Source: National Institute of Health
How do I know if trauma therapy is right for for me?
If you’re struggling with symptoms of trauma, such as anxiety, flashbacks or panic attacks, therapy can provide tools and support to help you heal. A free consultation with a mental health provider can help determine the best approach for you.
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