Tag: trauma healing

What Is Childhood Trauma? Understanding the Impact of Early Wounds

You’ve probably heard the term but what is childhood trauma, really?

Childhood trauma refers to emotional or physical pain experienced during your early years, especially when it’s ongoing and happens in a context where you had no control or support. This could include abuse, neglect, or chronic stress…anything that made you feel unsafe, unseen, or unworthy.

It’s More Than One Event

Trauma in childhood often isn’t just a single moment. It’s the stress of growing up in unsafe environments, the fear of unpredictable caregivers, or the quiet hurt of having your emotional needs ignored. Even poverty, frequent moves, or emotional isolation can leave lasting marks.

Why It Stays With You

When you’re a child, your brain and body are still learning how to feel safe and loved. Trauma during these years interrupts that process, often leaving you stuck in survival mode. That’s why the effects can last well into adulthood even if you don’t always recognize them as trauma.

Your Experience Is Real

If you’ve ever found yourself saying, “It wasn’t that bad,” you’re not alone. But minimizing pain doesn’t make it disappear. You don’t have to call it trauma but you do deserve support if it hurt you.

For more on this topic, check out this video:

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Returning to Wholeness Journal Course

A journey for survivors of childhood trauma of learning to trust and embody the TRUTH of who you’ve always been.
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Connecting Within

Guided meditations to help heal mind, body & soul.
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Sacred Boundaries

A journey of honoring heart, mind, body & soul. Boundaries are hard. This course will help you recognize what you need and how to move through the obstacles keeping you from implementing it.
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August 18, 2025
Can Mental Health Advice on Social Media be Trusted?
There is an abundance of mental health advice on social media. But, not all of it is safe or helpful. For survivors, messaging that oversimplifies healing or focuses only on “positivity” can reinforce shame and the idea that struggling means you’re doing something wrong.

How to Think Critically About Mental Health Advice on Social Media

Before taking advice to heart, ask:

Who is giving this advice?

Are they trained or licensed in mental health?

Does this feel helpful or does it leave you feeling judged?

Peer support matters. But expert guidance matters too. And not everyone sharing mental health advice on social media has the background to do it safely.

Bottom line:
You’re allowed to feel your feelings. Healing isn’t about being positive all the time. It’s about being real and supported by voices that understand trauma, not shame it.
For more on this topic, check out this video:

Read all blogs here

Returning to Wholeness Journal Course

A journey for survivors of childhood trauma of learning to trust and embody the TRUTH of who you’ve always been.
Learn more

Connecting Within

Guided meditations to help heal mind, body & soul.
Learn more

Sacred Boundaries

A journey of honoring heart, mind, body & soul. Boundaries are hard. This course will help you recognize what you need and how to move through the obstacles keeping you from implementing it.
Learn more
August 11, 2025
Can You Really Heal Shame? Understanding the Process of Releasing It After Trauma

Can you really heal shame?

If you’ve lived with trauma, you’ve probably asked yourself that. Healing can feel slow, and shame often sticks around longer than we’d like. But yes, you can heal shame. And when you understand how that process works, it becomes more possible to believe in it.

What does it mean to heal shame after trauma?

Many people assume healing shame means learning to tolerate it or cope better. But healing isn’t about enduring. It’s about releasing. When you begin to heal shame, you’re letting go of beliefs that never belonged to you. You’re shedding layers not fixing yourself.

Think of it like a snake shedding its skin. You’re still you, but free of the parts that kept you stuck in shame.

Healing shame is a layered process but it works.

It doesn’t happen all at once. Sometimes, you work on one area and suddenly notice old shame in another part of your life. That’s not a setback it’s part of how healing unfolds. The more awareness you bring, the more deeply you heal.

You don’t have to carry shame forever.

There may be regret, embarrassment, or guilt. But shame? That can go. It doesn’t define you, and it isn’t something you were meant to live with. When you heal shame, you make space for your wholeness to shine.

For more on this topic, check out this video:

Read all blogs here

Returning to Wholeness Journal Course

A journey for survivors of childhood trauma of learning to trust and embody the TRUTH of who you’ve always been.
Learn more

Connecting Within

Guided meditations to help heal mind, body & soul.
Learn more

Sacred Boundaries

A journey of honoring heart, mind, body & soul. Boundaries are hard. This course will help you recognize what you need and how to move through the obstacles keeping you from implementing it.
Learn more

August 4, 2025
Recovering from Sexual Abuse: A Therapist’s Personal Journey

Healing from childhood sexual abuse can feel impossible, especially when shame and self-doubt are ever present. As a survivor, I experienced it first hand. As a therapist, I witness it through my work with every client.

What Recovering from Sexual Abuse Looked Like for Me

I had nearly every symptom: anxiety, depression, self-harm, and a deep belief that I was unworthy. For years, I minimized what happened and assumed I’d never be okay. But through my healing journey, I started to see myself differently. I didn’t become someone new, I became more of, and trusted in, who I really was, without the fog of trauma clouding everything.

You Can Heal Too

Healing from sexual abuse isn’t about perfection or forgetting the past. It’s about reconnecting with yourself, little by little. No matter how far gone you feel, healing is possible. You don’t need to believe it fully today, just enough to stay curious about what might be ahead.

You are not broken. And you’re not alone.

For more on this topic, check out this video:

Read all blogs here

Returning to Wholeness Journal Course

A journey for survivors of childhood trauma of learning to trust and embody the TRUTH of who you’ve always been.
Learn more

Connecting Within

Guided meditations to help heal mind, body & soul.
Learn more

Sacred Boundaries

A journey of honoring heart, mind, body & soul. Boundaries are hard. This course will help you recognize what you need and how to move through the obstacles keeping you from implementing it.
Learn more

July 28, 2025
The Lasting Impact of Sexual Abuse
The Impact of Sexual Abuse Goes Deeper Than Most People Realize

The effects of trauma aren’t just about what happened, they’re about what it made you believe about who you are. The impact of sexual abuse often begins with the painful question survivors try to answer: Why did this happen to me? And without real answers, many blame themselves.

That internal story (“I’m bad,” “It’s my fault,” or “I’m unlovable”) becomes more damaging than the event itself. It shapes your identity, relationships, and ability to feel safe in the world.

Understanding the Impact of Sexual Abuse on Self-Worth

Survivors often carry beliefs formed in silence and shame. Even without remembering the details, the emotional impact lingers. You may:

Struggle to name what you want or need.

Stay in unhealthy relationships.

Avoid closeness, assuming others will hurt you.

Numb out or self-sabotage.

These are not personality flaws, they’re survival responses. And naming them is the first step toward healing.

You Can Learn to See Yourself Differently

The impact of sexual abuse does not define who you are. Those beliefs were never yours to carry. They were shaped by what someone else did. Healing isn’t about forgetting; it’s about reclaiming your sense of self and choosing to believe you deserve more.

Let’s talk about this. What part of the impact has been hardest to put into words? You’re not alone and we all need support as we work to heal the wounds of childhood trauma.
For more on this topic, check out this video:

Read all blogs here

Returning to Wholeness Journal Course

A journey for survivors of childhood trauma of learning to trust and embody the TRUTH of who you’ve always been.
Learn more

Connecting Within

Guided meditations to help heal mind, body & soul.
Learn more

Sacred Boundaries

A journey of honoring heart, mind, body & soul. Boundaries are hard. This course will help you recognize what you need and how to move through the obstacles keeping you from implementing it.
Learn more
July 21, 2025
Is Anger Normal When Healing from Trauma?

Is anger when healing from trauma something to worry about?
Not at all. Anger is a natural response especially after experiences that involve pain, injustice, or fear. Many trauma survivors struggle with what to do when anger shows up. But feeling it doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong. It means you’re human.

Why Anger Shows Up in Trauma Recovery

Anger when healing from trauma is often misunderstood. It’s not always about rage. Sometimes it surfaces as irritation, resentment, or the quiet thought, “This isn’t fair.” Anger can be a signal pointing to deeper feelings like hurt or fear that haven’t been fully processed yet.

Do You Need Anger to Heal from Trauma?

No, not everyone will feel intense anger and that’s okay. What matters most is what you do if it’s present. When anger is acknowledged, validated, and expressed safely, it can help release shame and restore a sense of power. But if it’s repressed, it may build and come out sideways hurting you or others.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need to feel anger to heal but if it shows up, it can be a valuable part of the process. Anger when healing from trauma isn’t bad. It’s a message. And with the right support, it can even lead to powerful growth.

For more on this topic, check out this video:

Read all blogs here

Returning to Wholeness Journal Course

A journey for survivors of childhood trauma of learning to trust and embody the TRUTH of who you’ve always been.
Learn more

Connecting Within

Guided meditations to help heal mind, body & soul.
Learn more

Sacred Boundaries

A journey of honoring heart, mind, body & soul. Boundaries are hard. This course will help you recognize what you need and how to move through the obstacles keeping you from implementing it.
Learn more

July 14, 2025
What to Prepare for Therapy: What You Actually Need to Know

What to Prepare for Therapy: A Simple Guide

If you’ve ever wondered what to prepare for therapy, you’re not alone. Many people worry they need to have deep insights or a list of things to talk about. But the truth is: you don’t need to show up with a plan.

So, What Should You Actually Prepare for Therapy?

The only thing you really need to bring is yourself. You don’t need a script. You don’t even need to know where to start.

If something’s been on your mind, that’s great. If not, that’s okay too. Saying “I’m not sure what to talk about today” is still helpful. A skilled therapist will guide the conversation and help you make sense of what’s coming up, even if it seems small or unrelated.

Sometimes, the feeling of not having anything to say is part of the work. It might reflect feeling stuck, numb, or unsure… all very common parts of trauma healing.

You Don’t Need to Do More

If you’re wondering what to prepare for therapy, remember this: You’re not expected to lead the session or have all the answers. Just showing up is enough.

Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, calm, confused, or that everything is running smoothly…every version of you is welcome in the room.

So no, you don’t need to prep. You just need to arrive.

For more on this topic, check out this video:

Read all blogs here

Returning to Wholeness Journal Course

A journey for survivors of childhood trauma of learning to trust and embody the TRUTH of who you’ve always been.
Learn more

Connecting Within

Guided meditations to help heal mind, body & soul.
Learn more

Sacred Boundaries

A journey of honoring heart, mind, body & soul. Boundaries are hard. This course will help you recognize what you need and how to move through the obstacles keeping you from implementing it.
Learn more

July 7, 2025
Recognizing Toxic Relationships and How to Break Free

Toxic relationships can be emotionally exhausting and leave you questioning your worth. One of the most confusing aspects of these relationships is how manipulation can make you feel like you’re always at fault. A common tactic used by those in toxic relationships is shifting blame.

But here’s the truth: You are not responsible for someone else’s toxic behavior. Recognizing this fact is the first step toward healing and protecting yourself.

Signs of Toxic Relationships

In a toxic relationship, manipulation can look like deflecting blame, denying accountability, and making you feel guilty for things that aren’t your fault. These dynamics often leave you feeling unsure of yourself, second-guessing your actions, and even apologizing for things that weren’t your doing.

It’s vital to recognize these patterns as red flags. When someone consistently refuses to take responsibility for their actions, it can create an unhealthy, one-sided relationship. This dynamic can affect your mental health and make it harder to set boundaries.

How to Protect Yourself from Toxic Relationships

If you’re stuck in a toxic relationship, it’s essential to take a step back and prioritize your well-being. Start by recognizing the toxic patterns and allowing yourself to step back and take care of yourself. You deserve respect, empathy, and understanding.

Healing from toxic relationships starts with setting clear boundaries and refusing to tolerate behavior that harms you. It’s okay to walk away, even if someone tries to guilt-trip you. Trust yourself and your feelings, they are valid, and your emotional health matters.

Setting Healthy Boundaries

One of the most powerful tools in protecting yourself is setting healthy boundaries. This can be challenging, especially if you’ve been in a toxic relationship for a long time, but it’s a necessary step in reclaiming your power. Remember, boundaries are about protecting your emotional space and ensuring that you’re not compromising your well-being for someone else’s comfort.

If you’re not sure where to start, I created a free mini course on boundaries to help you take those first steps with more clarity and confidence. Click HERE to start your journey.

The Path to Healing

Healing from a toxic relationship isn’t an overnight process, but by recognizing the toxicity, setting boundaries, and prioritizing self-care, you’ll begin to feel more empowered and in control. Surround yourself with people who support your growth and well-being. Seek professional support if needed, and allow yourself the time and space to heal.

Toxic relationships don’t have to define your future. Recognizing the manipulation and breaking free from it is a brave and empowering step toward healing. You are deserving of love and respect, never forget that.

For more on this topic, check out this video:

Read all blogs here

Returning to Wholeness Journal Course

A journey for survivors of childhood trauma of learning to trust and embody the TRUTH of who you’ve always been.
Learn more

Connecting Within

Guided meditations to help heal mind, body & soul.
Learn more

Sacred Boundaries

A journey of honoring heart, mind, body & soul. Boundaries are hard. This course will help you recognize what you need and how to move through the obstacles keeping you from implementing it.
Learn more

June 30, 2025
How Self-Care Helps Mental Health: Creating Safety from the Inside Out

When we think of self care, it’s easy to picture bubble baths, candles, or a cozy night in. But how self-care helps mental health goes far beyond surface-level comfort. Real self-care is about creating a life that feels safe, steady, and nourishing.

Supporting the Nervous System Through Self-Care

If you have experienced trauma, you might find yourself stuck in patterns of hypervigilance or emotional shutdown. This is where consistent and intentional self-care becomes powerful. Practices like getting enough sleep, following a gentle routine, journaling, or moving your body mindfully help your nervous system settle. This is one way self-care helps mental health from the inside out. It creates a sense of internal safety, even when the outside world feels overwhelming.

Emotional Self-Care and Boundaries

Self-care also includes emotional well-being. This means saying no when you need to, taking breaks without guilt, and letting yourself feel without judgment. Emotional self care helps you create boundaries, choose supportive relationships, and show yourself compassion on the hard days. These are all key ways that self-care supports your mental health.

What Self-Care Looks Like for You

There is no single version of self-care. It might be mindfully doing the dishes, canceling plans, going to therapy, making time for deep breaths throughout your day, or unfollowing harmful content online. The most important part is whether it nourishes your mental health. How self-care helps mental health will look different for everyone, but the purpose remains the same: to help you feel safe, grounded, and supported.

Your needs are valid. And the small steps you take to meet them matter deeply. They are signs of healing, strength, and self respect.

Read all blogs here
Responsive Cards

Returning to Wholeness Journal Course

A journey for survivors of childhood trauma of learning to trust and embody the TRUTH of who you’ve always been.
Learn more

Connecting Within

Guided meditations to help heal mind, body & soul.
Learn more

Sacred Boundaries

A journey of honoring heart, mind, body & soul. Boundaries are hard. This course will help you recognize what you need and how to move through the obstacles keeping you from implementing it.
Learn more

June 23, 2025
Breaking the Stigma Around Mental Illness: How Conversations Can Lead to Healing

The stigma surrounding mental illness and sexual trauma often keeps survivors in silence, burdened by shame. But what if there was a way to change it? By talking openly about trauma and the impact it creates, we can start dismantling the stigma… and shame and create a space where survivors feel supported and empowered.

The Destructive Power of Shame

Shame is one of the most damaging aspects of sexual trauma. It thrives in silence, keeping survivors isolated. When society stigmatizes trauma, it deepens this sense of shame, making it harder for survivors to seek help or share their experiences.

Normalizing Conversations Around Trauma

To combat stigma, we need to normalize conversations about sexual trauma. The more openly we talk, the less shame survivors experience and the more awareness it builds in society. As these discussions become more common, survivors will feel safe enough to seek help and heal.

How Silence Feeds Stigma and Shame

Silence breeds shame. When survivors keep their trauma hidden, they internalize the belief that their experience is something to be ashamed of. Breaking the silence helps release that burden, allowing survivors to take back control of their stories.

Empowering Survivors to Break the Silence

Empowering survivors starts with breaking the silence. Survivors reclaim their power by sharing their stories without fear of judgment. As we continue these conversations, we create a space where healing can truly begin and deepen over time.

The Road to Healing Starts with Conversation

Healing begins with the courage to speak. When we break the silence, we create a world where survivors feel safe to share, heal, and thrive. Together, we can change the narrative and end the stigma around sexual trauma.

For more on this topic, check out this video:

Read all blogs here
Responsive Cards

Returning to Wholeness Journal Course

A journey for survivors of childhood trauma of learning to trust and embody the TRUTH of who you’ve always been.
Learn more

Connecting Within

Guided meditations to help heal mind, body & soul.
Learn more

Sacred Boundaries

A journey of honoring heart, mind, body & soul. Boundaries are hard. This course will help you recognize what you need and how to move through the obstacles keeping you from implementing it.
Learn more

June 16, 2025