the path to empowering your future
Trauma can affect your life in many ways such as influencing your thoughts, emotions, and relationships. At Element Counseling, we provide a supportive environment where you can explore and heal from various forms of trauma.
Trusted Trauma Therapist in Chicago
Types of Trauma
Religious Trauma
Growing up in a strict religious environment can lead to feelings of losing control and deep-seated shame, leaving lasting emotional scars.
We provide a safe and supportive space to validate your experiences, explore and challenge limiting beliefs, and help rebuild your identity.
Our focus is on addressing grief and loss, encouraging the development of a new support system, and empowering your autonomy for healing and well-being.
Assault and Emotional Abuse
Experiences of assault and emotional abuse can leave lasting emotional scars, affecting your self-esteem and relationships. We provide support and strategies to help you overcome these challenges and rebuild your sense of self.
Vicarious Trauma
Vicarious (or secondary) trauma refers to the emotional and psychological impact experienced by individuals exposed to the traumatic experiences of others.
This occurs when someone, often a professional such as a therapist, social worker, medical professional or emergency responder, repeatedly hears or witnesses the trauma experienced by others, leading to changes in their worldview, emotional state, and behavior.
Over time, this can lead to symptoms similar to those of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), including anxiety, depression, and emotional exhaustion. It differs from burnout in that it is directly related to exposure to another person’s trauma rather than the stress or fatigue from work.
Less Obvious Trauma
Not all trauma involves extreme events. Life changes like divorce, family conflicts, or prolonged stress can also be traumatic.
We address these experiences with understanding and care, helping you to process and move forward.
Our Approach
We use a variety of techniques to support your healing process
Trauma-Informed Care
Sensitivity to Trauma History - We ensure that all interactions are aware of and respectful of your past experiences. This means we are always considerate of your needs and boundaries, creating a safe space for you to explore your trauma without fear of re-traumatization.
Supportive Environment - Our approach focuses on building trust and making you feel comfortable and understood. We acknowledge the impact of trauma on your life and aim to provide a nurturing environment where you can heal at your own pace.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Reducing Trauma Intensity - EMDR is a specialized therapy that helps process and diminish the emotional intensity of traumatic memories. It involves guided eye movements that are believed to help the brain reprocess traumatic experiences, making them less vivid and distressing.
Long-term Relief - Over time, EMDR can help make traumatic memories less distressing, allowing you to integrate these experiences into your life narrative in a way that feels less overwhelming.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Processing Trauma - CBT practice challenges you to look at and act against those negative thinking patterns that come to the realization of your traumas. Through altering those cognitive schemas, you make it possible to recondition your emotions and behaviors.
Developing Coping Strategies - We work with you to develop practical coping strategies that can help you manage stress and anxiety. These strategies can include relaxation techniques, problem-solving skills, and ways to break the cycle of negative thinking.
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Emotion Regulation - DBT provides tools to help you regulate intense emotions. This can be especially useful if you experience strong feelings of anger, sadness, or anxiety as a result of trauma.
Interpersonal Effectiveness - DBT also focuses on improving your relationships with others. You’ll learn skills for assertive communication, setting healthy boundaries, and maintaining balanced relationships.
