When we work with trauma from a top-down perspective, we start with the brain—specifically the neocortex, the part responsible for thinking, meaning-making, and language. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), recommended by the American Psychiatric Association to treat PTSD, helps us reframe …
Category: Healing
A Bottom-Up Approach to Trauma
Top-Down vs Bottom-Up Healing When it comes to trauma therapy, the order matters. A top-down approach starts with the thinking brain (neocortex). Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a good example—reframing thoughts to shift behaviour. But here’s the challenge: when you’re …
What is an Attachment Injury
An attachment injury happens when the person you rely on most—your partner, parent, or caregiver—fails to respond in a moment of deep need. These moments leave emotional bruises that say: “I can’t trust you to be there for me.” …
When to Seek Help for Trauma
Trauma can feel like a crack in your energy system—sometimes it heals naturally, and sometimes it doesn’t. When symptoms persist or worsen after a month, it’s time to seek support. Flashbacks, numbness, anxiety, anger, and self-medicating are all signs your …
One in Three Black American Men Go to Prison in Their Lifetime
Symptoms of Trauma can include: As I look at this list, I think about the shocking statistic that 1 in 3 Black American men will go to prison in their lifetime. I first heard this while watching @13thfilm, a powerful …
Physical and Emotional Signs of Trauma
There’s no one “right” way to respond to trauma.Your response is normal for you—whether it’s emotional, physical, or behavioural. Trauma can affect us all differently, and symptoms may show up in many ways, whether the event was big or small.Most …
How do American Indian’s Heal Trauma?
As a psychotherapist and healer specialising in trauma, I’ve often found myself wondering—how do other cultures heal trauma? After all, trauma is not new. Throughout history, people have lived through war, illness, displacement, and abuse. So, how did our ancestors …
Causes of Psychological Trauma
Not all trauma is the same. And the type of trauma we experience can shape how we heal. Shock trauma is usually the result of a one-off, overwhelming event—like an accident or a sudden loss. It can cause intense emotional …
You Don’t Have to be “Broken” to See a Therapist.
Working with a therapist can be one of the most empowering experiences of your life.Many people have never had the chance to be truly seen, heard, and held in a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space. That in itself is healing.While …
When You Compare Yourself To Others, You Can Inadvertently
Comparing ourselves to others can be such a waste of energy! Let us first differentiate between being inspired by someone and comparing yourself to someone. When we feel inspired by someone, we feel uplifted, hopeful, as though anything is possible. …