Types of Trauma We Support

Trauma comes in many forms, from overwhelming life experiences to relational wounds that linger beneath the surface. At Patricia Berendsen and Associates, we recognize that no two trauma journeys are the same. That’s why we offer an integrative, compassionate approach that supports healing across all levels of the self, emotional, physical, spiritual, and relational. Below are six key categories of trauma we commonly address through a range of specialized therapies.

Psychological & Emotional Trauma

This category includes trauma caused by overwhelming life events that leave emotional and psychological imprints. It may stem from acute incidents like accidents or medical procedures, or from ongoing experiences like neglect or chronic stress. Symptoms often include anxiety, dissociation, intrusive thoughts, emotional numbness, or difficulties with concentration and self-regulation.

We support clients experiencing:
• Panic attacks and phobias
• PTSD and trauma flashbacks
• Depression and emotional overwhelm
• Chronic stress or burnout
• Medical trauma and post-surgical anxiety

Our therapists use approaches like Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, and IFS to gently support emotional processing and nervous system regulation.

Abuse, Assault, and Boundary Violations

Trauma rooted in violation of boundaries, whether emotional, physical, sexual, or spiritual, can have lasting impacts on self-worth, trust, and the ability to feel safe. Survivors of abuse often experience deep shame, hypervigilance, anxiety, and difficulties in relationships.

This includes:
• Sexual abuse or assault
• Domestic violence
• Emotional, physical, or religious abuse
• Rape and coercion
• Spiritual or institutional betrayal

We create a safe, confidential space where survivors can reclaim their voice, rebuild boundaries, and begin their journey to healing without fear of judgment.

Developmental & Identity-Related Trauma

Early attachment wounds or identity-based struggles can deeply shape how we see ourselves and interact with the world. Trauma in this category often stems from childhood, family dynamics, or societal pressures, affecting confidence, boundaries, and emotional stability.

Concerns may include:
• Codependency and boundary challenges
• Struggles with ADHD or emotional regulation
• Trauma from adoption or foster care
• Challenges related to 2SLGBTQIA+ identity
• Low self-esteem or chronic self-doubt

Through trauma-informed counselling, clients can explore these patterns with compassion and begin to rebuild a healthier, more connected sense of self.

Chronic Physical Conditions & Health-Related Trauma

Living with chronic illness or pain can be traumatic in itself, particularly when it leads to isolation, medical invalidation, or loss of independence. This form of trauma affects both the body and psyche, often contributing to depression, anxiety, or grief.

Common experiences include:
• Chronic pain or invisible illness
• Cancer and ongoing treatment stress
• Fibromyalgia, autoimmune conditions
• Misdiagnoses or medical neglect

Our body-based and mind-body therapies support emotional release, self-compassion, and nervous system recovery, helping clients find relief, even when symptoms remain.

Family & Interpersonal Relationship Trauma

Relational trauma often stems from close relationships, parents, partners, children, or other family members. These wounds can be long-lasting, shaping our attachment style, trust capacity, and communication patterns.

This category includes:
• Childhood emotional neglect
• Divorce, separation, or co-parenting strain
• Blended family conflict
• Intimate partner conflict or loss
• Enmeshment, abandonment, or betrayal

We use emotionally focused and attachment-based therapies like PACT and EFCT to support clients and couples in rebuilding connection, boundaries, and trust.

Situational or Life Transition Trauma

Sometimes trauma emerges not from a single incident, but from major life changes or persistent uncertainty. These transitions can be destabilizing and emotionally taxing, especially when layered with unresolved past experiences.

Examples include:
• Car accidents or near-death experiences
• Job loss, retirement, or relocation
• Infertility, miscarriage, or pet loss
• Coming out or redefining identity
• Loss of faith or religious community

Our therapists support clients in processing the shock and grief that often accompany these transitions, helping to build new meaning and resilience in the aftermath.

Patricia Berendsen and Associates, London, Ontario

Proudly Supporting Diversity

Diversity is a superpower. Embracing and celebrating difference is what makes our community, country, and world so great.

Patricia Berendsen & Associates Trauma Healing Centre of London unambiguously stands in love and solidarity with the BIPOC/ 2SLGBTQIA+ community. We support and uphold your right to exist free from discrimination and hate. We challenge and invite our community to do the same. We are better and braver together and can co-create inclusive, compassionate, and caring communities that uplift and support our authenticity and well-being.

BIPOC/2SLGBTQIA+ people are our friends and family. They are our neighbours and members of our communities. Here at Patricia Berendsen & Associates Trauma Healing Centre of London, they are our team members, partners, and valued clients/collaborators.

We whole-heartedly affirm our commitment to the respect and dignity of our BIPOC/2SLGBTQIA+ community members and family. As Mahatma Gandhi said, “Our ability to reach unity in diversity will be the beauty and the test of our civilization.”

Adapted by Patricia Berendsen and Ann Bayly Bruneel from an Instagram post, by Lily Zheng ~ with appreciation.

About Our Practice

Rooted in Care, Guided by Experience

Types of Trauma We Support

Psychological & Emotional Trauma

Abuse, Assault, and Boundary Violations

Developmental & Identity-Related Trauma

Chronic Physical Conditions & Health-Related Trauma

Family & Interpersonal Relationship Trauma

Situational or Life Transition Trauma

Proudly Supporting Diversity

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