Jessica Trapp, LCSW, LCADC

Trauma occurs when we experience a distressing or disturbing event that is beyond our window of tolerance. This overwhelms our ability to cope, creates feelings of helplessness, negatively affects our sense of self and our ability to feel the full range of emotions and experiences. When left unresolved, present-day triggers activate the emotions, bodily sensations and cognitions that occurred at the time of the event and create disruption in the here and now. This leads us to feel as if the trauma is occurring, again, in real time. Because trauma is stored in the nervous system, traditional forms of talk therapy do not allow for the complete healing of symptoms. Both Somatic Experiencing (SE) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) are two therapeutic approaches shown to resolve traumatic symptoms. 

Have you attempted to manage your feelings through the use of drugs and/or alcohol? Have you tried to abstain only to find you were powerless? Addiction is a cunning disease. 

If you are not sure if you want to stop or enter a program, together we can explore the ambivalence that often comes with the idea of sobriety. When necessary, I can provide referrals for the appropriate level of care. 

Unfortunately grief is something we cannot avoid. As if the loss of a loved one is not difficult enough, it creates a ripple effect that we are not prepared for. Even more challenging is when we have complicated grief. Learning how to adapt to the "new normal" can be overwhelming but therapy offers a safe space to process your emotions, reactions and any unresolved feelings.

Depression, fear, stress and anxiety are some of the most common and uncomfortable emotions that we all experience at some point in our lives. Often we are unaware of how our thoughts impact our feelings, and how those feelings affect our behavior. Becoming aware of this connection and learning how to change it can lead to a more hopeful outlook.