Trauma has a profound impact on how individuals think, feel, and interact with the world. Peer-reviewed research shows that trauma affects the brain, nervous system, and relational patterns (American Psychiatric Association, 2022; van der Kolk, 2014).
At Faith Works Counseling, we approach trauma therapy through a systems lens. Research demonstrates that trauma not only affects individuals but also influences relationships and family dynamics.
People seek trauma therapy after experiences such as abuse, loss, violence, or chronic stress. Research shows that trauma can lead to symptoms such as anxiety, hypervigilance, emotional dysregulation, and difficulty trusting others.
Evidence-based treatments such as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR have been shown to reduce trauma symptoms and improve functioning (Bisson et al., 2013; Shapiro, 2018).
Through a systems lens, we help you understand how trauma has affected not only your internal experience but also your interactions with others. Research supports that healing occurs through both individual processing and rebuilding safe relationships.
We do this work because we care deeply. Research consistently shows that the therapeutic relationship is a major factor in recovery from trauma.
If you are carrying the weight of trauma, you are not alone. Research confirms that trauma is widespread and that recovery is possible.
Healing can feel challenging, but research shows that individuals can experience post-traumatic growth (Tedeschi & Calhoun, 2004).
At Faith Works Counseling, we want more than healing for you. We want you to thrive.
Your challenges can become sources of strength. Your experiences can shape resilience. Your future is not limited by your past.
You are important. You are loved. You are valued.
Research & Evidence
American Psychiatric Association. (2022). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed., text rev.; DSM-5-TR). American Psychiatric Publishing.
Bisson, J. I., Roberts, N. P., Andrew, M., Cooper, R., & Lewis, C. (2013). Psychological therapies for chronic post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in adults. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, 2013(12), Article CD003388. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD003388.pub4
Cohen, J. A., Mannarino, A. P., & Deblinger, E. (2017). Treating trauma and traumatic grief in children and adolescents (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.
Shapiro, F. (2018). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy: Basic principles, protocols, and procedures (3rd ed.). Guilford Press.
van der Kolk, B. A. (2014). The body keeps the score: Brain, mind, and body in the healing of trauma. Viking.
Tedeschi, R. G., & Calhoun, L. G. (2004). Posttraumatic growth: Conceptual foundations and empirical evidence. Psychological Inquiry, 15(1), 1–18. https://doi.org/10.1207/s15327965pli1501_01
What this means for you
What happened to you matters, but it does not define you. With the right support, your brain and body can heal, your relationships can strengthen, and your life can move forward in meaningful and powerful ways.
Dr. Christine L. R. Gallegos (Dr. G.)