What Is Trauma?
Trauma refers to the emotional and psychological response to a deeply distressing or disturbing experience, whether it is encountered directly or indirectly. Traumatic events can significantly impact a person’s mental health, and research shows that up to 70% of American adults have experienced at least one traumatic event in their lives.
Trauma takes many forms, ranging from physical abuse, sexual assault, community violence, natural disasters, medical emergencies, and wartime stress. There are also less explicit traumas, such as attachment wounds, family conflict, financial stress, or legal problems. Whether stemming from a single incident or prolonged exposure, trauma is a risk factor associated with nearly all behavioral health and substance use disorders.
What is PTSD?
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a condition that develops in some individuals after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic or challenging event. It occurs when the brain and body struggle to process the experience, leading to prolonged emotional, psychological, and physical distress. PTSD can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or the type of trauma experienced.
PTSD Symptoms
PTSD symptoms vary but often include:
- Hypervigilance
- Avoidance of triggers
- Intrusive flashbacks
- Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Disruptions in sleep
- Difficulties in relationships, school and work
While some individuals process trauma and move forward quickly, others find themselves feeling stuck or overwhelmed by their experiences. PTSD can arise from a variety of events, including sexual assault, prolonged exposure to stress, or other life transitions. If left unaddressed, the negative effects of PTSD can interfere with personal growth, mental health, and overall well-being.
The Benefits of Trauma Counseling
Trauma therapy can help you:
Whether your trauma occurred a week ago or decades ago, I am here to help you navigate the recovery process. I understand that healing looks different for everyone, and there is no timeline or one-size-fits-all solution. Therapy provides a safe space to explore your feelings, work through your pain, and focus on personal growth.
How Trauma Therapy Can Help
Healing from trauma is a unique journey. At Karen Geren Counseling, I offer a supportive environment where you can process the traumatic experiences at your own pace. Trauma therapy helps individuals move through the pain of the past while building resilience and hope for the future. I am experienced in treating PTSD, complex trauma, and other mental health disorders associated with traumatic memories and events.
Meet Your St. Louis Trauma Therapist
Karen Geren is a licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience. She holds a Bachelor’s in Psychology from Purdue University and a Master’s in Social Work from Washington University. Karen specializes in trauma therapy, offering a compassionate, non-judgmental approach to help clients build resilience and navigate life’s challenges. Learn more about Karen Geren’s background.
My Approach to Trauma and PTSD Therapy
Depending on your needs, we may utilize a combination of evidence-based interventions and creative techniques to promote trauma healing. Some effective approaches include:
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): A structured therapy model that helps reduce the emotional intensity of traumatic memories and promotes recovery.
- Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): A specialized form of CBT aimed at helping individuals process and reframe trauma-based thought patterns.
- Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT): A method designed to address negative thoughts and beliefs stemming from trauma.
- Prolonged Exposure Therapy: A technique that helps individuals safely confront and process traumatic memories.
- Creative Interventions: Art therapy, journaling, and experiential exercises to facilitate emotional expression and healing.
It is essential to approach trauma treatment with sensitivity, ensuring that therapy sessions progress at a pace that feels safe and manageable for you. As a licensed clinical social worker, I am trained to help you regain a sense of control and move forward with confidence.
A Supportive Environment for All
At Karen Geren Counseling, I am committed to providing mental health services that honor your unique needs. I welcome individuals from diverse backgrounds, including BIPOC communities, and aim to create a space where you feel understood and valued. My approach emphasizes compassion, collaboration, and a focus on the present moment to help you feel grounded and supported.
Start Your Journey Toward Healing
If you’re searching for mental health services or trauma therapy in St. Louis, Karen Geren Counseling is here to help. I offer professional counseling to address trauma, PTSD, and other mental health challenges. Whether you’re experiencing symptoms of PTSD, feeling disconnected, or simply seeking emotional support, I can guide you toward recovery and resilience.
Take the first step toward healing today. Contact me to schedule a therapy session and begin reclaiming your life. Challenging experiences do not need not define your future—together, we can create a path forward.