Focus Areas

Complex Trauma

Complex trauma refers to prolonged exposure to traumatic events, often starting in childhood and continuing into adulthood. This type of trauma typically involves repeated interpersonal trauma, such as abuse or neglect from caregivers.

These experiences include attachment injuries that can manifest in various ways, such as difficulties in trusting others, challenges in regulating emotions, and a persistent sense of fear of abandonment or rejection.

Relational and/or Betrayal Trauma

Relational trauma is experienced when a person endures distressing events within interpersonal relationships, leading to deep emotional wounds. It can stem from childhood experiences or adult relationships marked by betrayal and manipulation.

Betrayal trauma specifically refers to the profound sense of betrayal felt when a trusted person violates that trust, causing immense psychological harm. Both types of trauma can have lasting effects on one's sense of safety, self-worth, and ability to form healthy connections with others.

Self-Esteem

Self-esteem issues often lie at the heart of complex trauma. You may struggle deeply with self-worth, feeling inadequate or undeserving of love and success. This can manifest in persistent feelings of shame, self-criticism, and a pervasive sense of emptiness or unworthiness.

Individuals struggling with self-esteem often seek external validation, struggle to set boundaries and perfectionism. These experiences can profoundly impact one's relationship with their body, leading to struggles with body image, disordered eating patterns, and difficulty nurturing a positive self-image.

Body Image

Individuals experiencing challenges with body image or body dissatisfaction often perceive their bodies negatively, feeling uncomfortable or ashamed of their appearance. This can lead to persistent feelings of inadequacy, self-consciousness, and even avoidance of social situations.

Individuals may find themselves caught in a cycle of negative self-talk, constantly critiquing their body and feeling inadequate. This can affect self-esteem, relationships with others and oneself, and overall quality of life. These feelings can arise from societal pressures, media influences, past traumas, or comparisons with others.

Disordered Eating

Disordered eating, particularly emotional eating, often arises as a coping mechanism in response to stress, anxiety, or unresolved emotions. It involves using food not just for physical nourishment but also to manage emotional distress. This pattern can lead to cycles of guilt, shame, and discomfort, exacerbating existing emotional struggles.

Emotional eating is often intertwined with deeper issues such as low self-esteem, trauma, or difficulties in relationships. It can distort one's relationship with food and body image, perpetuating a harmful cycle of using food to temporarily soothe emotional pain.