Generational & Childhood Trauma

Psychological trauma is often described as an experience that is so overwhelming it exceeds our ability to cope or integrate it. In this case, by nature of being new to a complex and confusing world, almost everyone has some form of childhood trauma.

Generational trauma is a term informed by the field of epigenetics— the study of how the environment and behaviors influence gene expression.  Research shows that traumatic experiences change DNA which is then inherited by offspring. Therefore, we are biologically tethered to our ancestors’ trauma and, if uncleared, it exists within our emotional and physical subconscious. 

Generational trauma is also acquired psychologically through observation and experience. For example, if we were raised watching a parent tense every time they left the house, we will make meaning out of this subtle or not-so-subtle noticing. Then, we often unconsciously move through life with the belief we formed (in this case, perhaps it is that the world is unsafe) from our family members’ behavior. 

Feel It to Heal It

In working with generational and childhood trauma, discharging trapped emotions around these experiences and beliefs is essential for integration. Rest assured, this doesn’t have to happen all at once. The process can be a gentle titration in and out of feeling, involving techniques like visualization to help support the transfer of energy.

I use inner child work (creating a relationship between you and your inner child) to support healing. You and your inner child will learn over time that you can provide for their safety, love, and other missing needs so that they can relax. We will also explore corrective experiences by inviting what was lost along the way (i.e. play, connection, boundaries, etc.) Ultimately, this work creates new neural pathways that free you from old patterns and allow you to do things differently.

I am deeply passionate about and invested in this work. I consider therapy to be individually-focused liberation work where foundations are laid for us to live more peacefully in ourselves and with each other. I would be honored to support you in this.