Trauma Counseling

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As a Christian mental health therapist, I’ve seen firsthand how debilitating trauma can be. It can often deeply affect an individual's well-being and take away their sense of purpose and hope in life. As believers in Christ Jesus, we are called to respond to the brokenness within us with compassion and healing - but many feel like that just isn't possible during times of such hurt and confusion. However, God is faithful and has provided us with ways that He heals our hearts. Today I'd like to share some insight into how you can begin your own journey of healing from past pains through self-care and spiritual practices rooted in His grace. This deep distress can cloud your sense of self-worth while also muffling emotions, making it hard for them to come through in their fullness. Let's work together towards understanding this trying experience better so that healing may eventually follow.

I've had the opportunity to walk alongside two individuals as they journeyed through their trauma. One was a Vietnam veteran and another who, at nine years old, endured countless instances of betrayal after experiencing family separation due to divorce. Together we sought solace in working toward finding resolution and achieving peace within themselves.

In order to help someone resolve a traumatic experience, it is important for us as counselors to journey with them back in time. We can assist the individual in revisiting and unpacking what transpired at that moment - be it an instance of war or heartache from long ago. For each person's story there lies unique yet vivid memories which can act as a window into understanding past traumas more profoundly, prompting healing within oneself so they may reach their maximum potential going forward.

For many, holidays and special days like birthdays can be especially difficult times. As we associate these occasions with celebrating togetherness it's no wonder that emotions of sadness, fear or shame may arise when they do not live up to our expectations. It is ok to grieve in order for us to heal as well find a way forward.

With the heart wounds caused by trauma, it is essential that we also seek to heal with a kind and gentle hand. As such, I often find myself walking side-by-side my patient in navigating their story while helping them rediscover lost emotions; connecting spiritually through prayer may be one of these pathways towards emotional reconnection. After all, what better way than prayer to acknowledge our need for Divine help as we strive an effortful journey back into ourselves?

Our therapeutic journey begins with understanding the source of our problems—helping us connect on an emotional level. Then, together we identify what may be underlying beliefs; loneliness, fear or powerlessness as well as emotions like rejection and abandonment that might be present in certain individuals’ stories. We must create a complete image before tackling these issues head-on and progressing further along this path towards healing!

Jesus knows we all have experienced trauma in our lives and He gently calls us to turn to Him. The Lord stands at the door ready, yet patiently waiting for each of us who are feeling wretched and miserable, poor blind or naked by circumstance, emotion or loss; come with open hearts so that together you can know His peace which surpasses understanding. Hear Jesus' call: "If anyone hears my voice and opens the door I will come into him." (Rev 3:20)

I tell folks that Jesus isn't waiting to enter the room of those who think they have everything under control. He reserves His knocking for those living in need and willingness to listen, so when I acknowledge my weaknesses, surrendering what little control has been taken out of His hands—Jesus stands at the door ready with open arms. With one emotional knock on our hearts' doors comes a voice calling us all into intimacy; an invitation shared between friends over conversation around communion.

Exploring Jesus's teachings, we can gain insight into the sacred power of intimate relationships. It was in mealtimes together that his followers shared tender moments and expressed deeper connections with one another. He invites us to take ownership of our traumas and have faith by opening ourselves up – listening for His knock, accepting Him as part of any healing process needed - all essential steps towards finding spiritual harmony despite past struggles.

I witness day after day the long-term repercussions of trauma, both large and small. From my experience in helping many individuals on their journeys to peace, I consistently find that it is possible for them to heal. Let me continue the story from earlier - the Vietnam veteran who had been struggling with his experiences over 30 years when he came to see me. And even though some of what we encountered together was incredibly difficult, by exploring these scenes during our two days working together while using evidence based techniques – healing prevailed!

Working through trauma can be an incredibly difficult road, but true healing lies in trusting the Lord and having faith. This was exemplified when our client returned to us after a week's time: not only had his nights of cold sweats ceased, he'd been sleeping like a baby! Ultimately it is God who grants this peace that passes understanding—with Him at our side no obstacle seems too daunting or insurmountable.