You’ve likely landed on this page to learn more about trauma therapy. Before we get into trauma therapy, let’s dig into the meaning of the word trauma. From it’s Greek, 17th century origins, the word trauma means wound. It wasn’t until the 1900’s that the word was applied to the psychological realm. Today, the word trauma is a buzz word, widely used and variably defined. The dictionary defines trauma in simple terms: a deeply distressing or disturbing experience. 

There are several types of trauma including acute, chronic, complex, and secondary. Acute trauma describes the experience following a one-time event. The distress that occurs as the result of acute trauma is of short duration. Chronic trauma captures the effects of prolonged or repeated harmful events. Complex trauma is similar to chronic trauma but develops when traumatic events are experienced repeatedly and escape was not an option. Secondary trauma (or vicarious trauma) is the experience of repeatedly bearing witness to the traumatic experiences of others, which can lead to compassion fatigue.  >> Read the full article from Psychology Today)

Acute trauma may resolve naturally with time, self-care, and social/relationship support. Chronic and complex trauma are usually best resolved through counseling, lifestyle changes, and, for some, through spiritual healing. Trauma therapy is a focused type of counseling, the equivalent of being referred to a specialist by your primary care physician. Life coaching is a helpful model to address secondary trauma and compassion fatigue.