Effects of Childhood Trauma: Frozen In Time
What is frozen in time? Severe, ongoing childhood trauma can cause a person to live with the sense that they are moving through life in a fog. The past overlaps the present. You have no sense of place. You have no sense of the present. You have no sense of time....
When the Client’s Body Reacts, but the Story Isn’t True
Tears, tremors, and vivid descriptions can be compelling. They are not proof. In complex trauma, memory is less a film reel and more a patchwork of emotional flashbulbs, fragments, and protective edits. Somatic reactions tell us that something mattered to the nervous...
Everyday Triggers: The Stuff we don’t Talk About
But living in a complex world that has news broadcasting horrific events 24/7 is not easy, no matter how hard we try to avoid the media. The news is everywhere. Did you hear about the war? Isn’t it shocking that he murdered his wife? You hear people talk about...
The Pomodoro Technique for Trauma Survivors: Finding Focus and Self-Care at Work
Hello, my friends! I’ve recently stumbled upon something that has absolutely transformed my work life, and I’m bursting with excitement to share it with you. As someone who struggles tremendously with ADHD and my focus at work, this has been a lifesaver for me. As we...
Why AI Can’t Be Your Therapist
A Trauma-Informed Perspective on the Limits of Artificial Intelligence in Mental Health By Robyn Brickel, MA, LMFT In a world increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence (AI), it’s not surprising that AI is beginning to find its way into mental health spaces. From...
Rebuilding Confidence: Overcoming Imposter Syndrome When Returning to Work
Returning to work after a break can be both exciting and daunting. As you step back into the professional world, you might find yourself grappling with feelings of self-doubt and inadequacy — the telltale signs of imposter syndrome. Know that you’re not alone in this...
The Silent Majority-and Finally Self Love
The Silent Majority – and Finally, Self-LoveBy Jesse Donahue 2024 © No matter what you think, believe, feel, say, or do, there will be a percentage of people out there who disapprove, possibly vehemently disagree with what you do, and/or who you are This essay...
What Losing All My Files Taught Me About Letting Go
The scene: a quiet Sunday evening at home. I was doing a routine password change on my online accounts. The first password to change was for my email and its cloud backup. This is where I store my entire digital life. My attempt to change the password threw an...