Trauma has a lasting impact on the way we perceive and interact with our world. But the good news for you is that you already have the courage it takes to work through those traumatic events and emerge healthier, happier, and whole.
How do I know this? Because you are here.
Searching for help takes a great deal of courage and self-awareness, two characteristics that are essential in helping you break free of trauma and its ongoing effects.
There are many forms that trauma can take over the course of a lifetime. It can manifest as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) which can occur after experiencing a single, terrifying event such as an act of violence, the death of someone you love, a medical diagnosis, or any number of incidents.
Traumatic stress, on the other hand, often involves repeated, chronic experiences that center on abuse — either physical, emotional, sexual, or psychological. These incidents often become ingrained in our minds and how we move through life, coloring our experiences and keeping us from moving forward from the event.
Another specific type of trauma that I often address is Narcissistic Abuse, where someone that suffers from narcissistic personality disorder or traits controls and/or abuses you in a psychological, sexual, physical, or even financial way.
There are various approaches to working with traumatic events, childhoods, and relationships and each requires an individualized, trauma-informed approach based on each client's needs and mental health goals.
I work closely with you to get to the root of your trauma, applying the therapy tools that will provide the greatest benefit and the quickest return to health.
Because one size does not fit all when it comes to therapy, I have several modalities available to help ease the transition as we work through your trauma. These range from talk therapy and bodywork to expressive arts or even a combination of all. Sessions can be individual, include a partner, or encompass the whole family — you may choose which modalities fit your comfort level the best.
Sandra is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of Texas and founder of Instilling Hope Counseling Services. With a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and Arabic Literature from The University of Texas at Austin and her Master of Science in Counseling from Southern Methodist University, Sandra sees individuals ages 13 and up, couples, and families.
As a therapist, Sandra's personal goal is to help eliminate the negative stigma that surrounds mental health and to encourage inclusivity and positivity across a wide range of personal relationship choices.
