Help Finding Your Way Through: Healing from Complex Trauma

Do you experience intrusive thoughts, memories or tiggers that interfere with your daily life?
Is emotional dysregulation, people pleasing, or difficulty trusting others getting in the way of your relationships?
Have you experienced multiple adverse experiences, often from childhood, and are struggling to find your way forward? 

At Wild Hope Therapy, we understand the profound impact that complex trauma can have on your mental health and overall well-being. Our mission is to provide compassionate, trauma-informed care specifically designed to support women and female-identifying individuals in their healing journey.

The Challenges of Complex Trauma

Complex trauma, often resulting from prolonged or repeated traumatic events, can significantly disrupt your life. This type of trauma often stems from adverse childhood experiences, such as abuse, neglect, or witnessing violence, but can also include ongoing domestic violence, systemic oppression, and other chronic stressors. The effects of complex trauma can be pervasive, influencing your sense of self, relationships, and ability to function day-to-day.

You might find yourself asking, "Why can't I move past my past experiences?" or "How do I deal with these overwhelming feelings?" It's common to struggle with trust, intimacy, and self-worth. Flashbacks, anxiety, depression, and dissociation are just a few symptoms that might dominate your life. At Wild Hope Therapy, we recognize these challenges and are here to help you understand and manage your trauma. With the help of counseling, you can regain control over your life and begin to heal.

Complex Trauma is Pervasive in our Culture

The Prevalence of Complex Trauma

It's important to know that you are not alone in experiencing complex trauma. Many women and female-identifying individuals face similar challenges. Research shows that approximately 61% of adults report experiencing at least one adverse childhood experience, and nearly 16% have experienced four or more. These statistics highlight the widespread nature of trauma and its impact on mental health.

Common Symptoms and Reactions

Complex trauma can manifest in various ways, including emotional dysregulation, difficulty maintaining relationships, negative self-perception, and physical health issues. These reactions are normal responses to prolonged trauma, and understanding this can be a crucial step in your healing journey. Recognizing that your experiences are shared by many can help reduce feelings of isolation and shame.

At Wild Hope Therapy, we provide a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your emotions and experiences. Our goal is to help you understand that your feelings are valid and that seeking help is a courageous step toward healing.

How Wild Hope Therapy Can Help: Support for Complex Trauma

The Benefits of Therapy for Trauma Survivors

Therapy can offer a lifeline for survivors of complex trauma, providing a supportive environment where you can process your experiences and begin to heal. At Wild Hope Therapy, we use a variety of therapeutic approaches to meet your specific needs, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), strengths-based psychodynamic therapy, feminist therapy, and trauma-informed care.

Our Therapeutic Approaches

EMDR helps you process and integrate traumatic memories, reducing their emotional charge and enabling you to move forward.

DBT focuses on building skills in mindfulness, emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness, which can be especially helpful in managing intense emotions and improving relationships.

ACT encourages you to accept your emotions and thoughts without judgment, fostering a healthier relationship with your trauma.

CBT helps you identify and change negative thought patterns, empowering you to manage anxiety and depression more effectively.

Strengths-Based Psychodynamic Therapy focuses on understanding the underlying emotional struggles and leveraging your strengths to facilitate healing.

Feminist Therapy emphasizes the importance of understanding the social and cultural context of your experiences, promoting empowerment and self-advocacy.

What to Expect in Therapy Sessions

Through virtual telehealth sessions or in-person at our Columbus or Cleveland, Ohio locations, we take a holistic approach to therapy, considering all aspects of your identity and experiences. Your therapist will start by taking a detailed history to understand your background and current challenges. We believe in the power of self-determined goals, so you will play an active role in setting the direction of your therapy.

Our therapists are specially trained in trauma-informed care, ensuring that we provide a safe and affirming environment. We understand that processing complex trauma is a deeply personal journey, and we are here to support you every step of the way. By focusing on your strengths and resilience, we aim to help you find a path forward through the pain.

Experience and Expertise at Wild Hope Therapy

Our team of therapists has extensive experience working with women and female-identifying individuals who have experienced complex trauma. We understand the unique challenges you face and are dedicated to providing compassionate, knowledgeable care. Our evidence-based approaches and commitment to inclusivity make us well-equipped to support you on your journey to healing.

Remember, no matter what challenges you’re facing, there is hope. With the right support, you can find healing and thrive. At Wild Hope Therapy, we are here to help you every step of the way.

Addressing Common Concerns About Therapy for Complex Trauma

I’m Not Ready to Discuss My Trauma

It's completely normal to feel apprehensive about discussing your trauma. At Wild Hope Therapy, we prioritize creating a safe, comfortable environment where you can take things at your own pace. Our therapists are trained to handle sensitive topics with compassion and understanding, ensuring that you never feel rushed or pressured.

I’ve Tried Everything, Why Will It Be Different This Time?

It’s understandable to feel skeptical if past attempts at therapy haven’t met your needs. At Wild Hope Therapy, we use evidence-based, trauma-informed approaches tailored to your unique situation. Our therapists are committed to finding the right strategies to help you heal, and we continuously adapt our methods to ensure they are effective for you.

My Trauma Isn’t “Serious” Enough

Every trauma experience is valid, and it's important to address any feelings or symptoms that impact your well-being. No matter the severity or nature of your trauma, seeking help is a courageous step toward healing. Our therapists are here to support you, no matter where you are on your journey.

Why Choose Wild Hope Therapy?

At Wild Hope Therapy, we pride ourselves on our strengths-based lens, specialty in treating women, and commitment to creating an affirming, inclusive space. Our therapists are experienced in addressing complex trauma, providing compassionate and effective care tailored to your needs. To help you get started, we offer a no-pressure, free, 15-minute phone consultation to help you feel more comfortable making contact. Let us support you on your journey to healing and self-acceptance.