Trauma

Diagnosis & Counseling for Trauma in Columbus, OH

Trauma* can be defined as a psychological, emotional response to an event or an experience that is deeply distressing or disturbing. Longer term reactions include unpredictable emotions, flashbacks, strained relationships and even physical symptoms like headaches or nausea. While these feelings are normal, some people have difficulty moving on with their lives. At Safe Harbour Counseling, trauma is treated with specialized, evidence-based care so that clients can move forward without being defined by what happened to them.

* Stated from American Psychological Association

There are two types of trauma reactions; emotional and physical.

Emotional Symptoms of Trauma 

Emotion is one of the most common ways in which trauma manifests. Some common emotional symptoms of trauma include denial, anger, sadness and emotional outbursts. Victims of trauma may redirect the overwhelming emotions they experience toward other sources, such as friends or family members. This is one of the reasons why trauma is difficult for loved ones as well. It is hard to help someone who pushes you away, but understanding the emotional symptoms that come after a traumatic event can help ease the process.

Physical Symptoms of Trauma

Trauma often manifests physically as well as emotionally. Some common physical signs of trauma include paleness, lethargy, fatigue, poor concentration and a racing heartbeat. The victim may have anxiety or panic attacks and be unable to cope in certain circumstances. The physical symptoms of trauma can be as real and alarming as those of physical injury or illness, and care should be taken to manage stress levels after a traumatic event.

* Stated from Psych Guides

Common Triggers:

  • Rape
  • Domestic violence
  • Severe Illness or injury
  • The death of a loved one
  • Witnessing an act of violence Abuse (sexual, emotional, physical)
  • Car Accident
  • Natural disaster

* Stated from MentalHelp.net

Symptoms of trauma

Therapy can help those with Trauma to:

  • Decrease emotional distress

  • Manage PTSD

  • Process childhood trauma

  • Find hope

  • Improve Relationships

  • Improve confidence & self-worth

  • Increase energy levels

  • Manage stress levels

  • Gain motivation

  • Live a happier life

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    Learn More About Therapy

    Common Counseling Methods to Help with Trauma:

    Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

    Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT)

    Eye Movement Desensitization and Processing (EMDR)

    Psychotherapy session in Columbus, OH, woman talking to his psychologist in the studio

    Getting Help:

    If you or someone you know is experiencing trauma, please reach out to a professional that you can connect with and trust. You do not have to suffer alone - there are treatments that can help lessen the symptoms while you continue to heal. Seeking treatment can change your life.


    We offer trauma counseling in Columbus, OH and via video.

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    Frequently Ask Questions

    What counts as trauma? Does it have to be a major event?
    Trauma is not defined by the size of the event but by its impact. Big, single incidents like accidents or violence are commonly associated with trauma, but repeated experiences of emotional harm, neglect, or instability can also cause significant trauma responses. If something from the past is still affecting how you feel and function today, it is worth exploring in therapy.
    What is EMDR and how does it help with trauma?
    EMDR is a structured therapy that uses guided eye movements or other bilateral stimulation to help the brain process traumatic memories. It is recognized by the WHO and the American Psychological Association as an effective trauma treatment. Christine Railsback, founder of Safe Harbour Counseling, is trained in EMDR and has used it to help clients heal from a wide range of traumatic experiences.
    How is trauma therapy different from regular talk therapy?
    Trauma-focused therapy is specifically designed to address the way traumatic experiences are stored in the brain and body. It goes beyond talking about what happened to actively helping the nervous system release and reprocess the experience. Safe Harbour Counseling uses trauma-informed approaches across all its services.
    Can trauma therapy make things feel worse before they feel better?
    It is not uncommon to feel some emotional activation during trauma work, particularly as difficult memories come into focus. The counselors at Safe Harbour Counseling move at a pace that feels safe for each client and build a foundation of trust and stability before going into deeper trauma processing.
    Is telehealth trauma therapy available?
    Yes. Telehealth sessions are available throughout Ohio for clients who prefer to work from home or cannot access the Columbus office.