Individual Therapy

Relational trauma is a byproduct of abuse, neglect, and maltreatment experienced in meaningful and personal relationships. It can profoundly affect a person’s mental and emotional well-being, hindering their ability to form meaningful connections with others. Relational trauma distorts a person’s self-image, negatively impacts their capacity to trust others and creates an intense fear of intimacy and closeness, often paired with chronic feelings of insecurity.

There are two main categories of relational trauma: childhood relational trauma and adulthood relational trauma. Childhood relational trauma often occurs from child abuse, neglect, or inconsistent parenting. Children raised in chaotic, stressful, and unpredictable environments often struggle with the impact of relational trauma. Sadly, children can also create unsafe experiences for other children, which can result in relational trauma; experiences such as chronic bullying and teasing at school can have a profound impact on a child’s mental health.

Adults who struggle with the impact of relational trauma often report that they have experienced childhood trauma. In adulthood, relational trauma occurs due to workplace bullying, intimate partner violence, maltreatment in relationships, sexual violence, neglect, or abandonment.

Common symptoms of relational trauma include fragile self-esteem, fear of intimacy, social anxiety, excessive dependence on others, pleasing people, excessive independence, difficulties managing one’s emotions, a pessimistic outlook on life, reliving trauma memories, poor sleep, stomach disturbances, and depression. Behavioral problems, learning difficulties, mistrust, or anger towards authority figures are common symptoms of relational trauma in children.

If left untreated, the effects of relational trauma linger and cause ongoing disruptions in a person’s life. However, with the help of therapy and a commitment to healing, individuals can overcome its effects and build more satisfying and sustainable relationships with themselves and others.

If you or someone you know matches the trauma symptoms listed above, We are confident that we maybe able to help. Contact us to book your first session.