Complex trauma typically stems from repeated, prolonged exposure to traumatic events, often beginning in childhood. This includes experiences like emotional neglect, physical or sexual abuse, witnessing domestic violence, or living with caregivers struggling with addiction or mental illness.

One of the key elements of complex trauma is understanding that it occurs in the context of significant relationships. These repeated experiences make it hard to feel safe in the world, which can create lasting impacts on how you relate to yourself and others.

While PTSD often develops from specific traumatic events (think: a car accident, a natural disaster, or an assault), CPTSD emerges from sustained trauma, often in formative relationships.

And while “classic” PTSD comes with symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, and avoiding reminders of the event, the effects of CPTSD tend to be a bit wider-reaching. That’s not to say that one form of trauma is “worse” than the other; just that the impacts often show up differently.

Common signs or symptoms associated with CPTSD often involve things like difficulties with emotional regulation, a negative view of yourself, and trouble forming relationships with others. You might also struggle with feelings of guilt and shame, feel disconnected from yourself, and even notice unexplained physical issues like headaches or chronic pain—all while carrying the hypervigilance and intrusive memories of traditional PTSD.

P.S. Take our free trauma test for even more insight.

Our practice welcomes people with the full spectrum of trauma experiences, from the unique wounds that come from growing up in families affected by addiction, mental illness, or chronic instability, to adult experiences of betrayal, medical trauma, and systemic oppression.

Our team members have specialized experience working with veterans and active servicemembers, first responders, and people who hold marginalized identities, including those in the LGBTQ+ and Jewish communities.

Not sure if what you experienced is considered “trauma”? That’s okay, too. Contact us for a free consultation to discuss how we can help.

Our approach recognizes that complex trauma touches the body, mind, and spirit. Rather than simply managing symptoms, we focus on understanding how your trauma responses once served you while creating space for new ways of being.

Each of our therapists brings their own unique perspective to trauma work. From mindfulness practices and IFS to psychodrama and existential inquiry, our clinicians blend various practices to bring you a completely customized approach. What unites us all is our desire to walk this journey alongside you and help you craft a life that feels meaningful and connected—however that looks for you.

Navigating complex trauma isn't a linear process—it's more like tending a garden where growth happens in seasons (which also means there are seasons when nothing blooms—like, at all—and that’s totally normal and okay).

Our early sessions together will focus on building trust—with your therapist and with yourself—and developing a deeper awareness of how the impacts of trauma are currently showing up for you. As our work continues, we’ll explore how past experiences influence your present relationships and self-perception.

This makes it sound simple, but it’s anything but. There might be times when we’re focusing on the grief, hurt, and rage that often come with CPTSD. Other times, we’ll embrace the vulnerability that comes with discovering the authentic you beneath layers of survival strategies. There will be laughter, tears, moments of connection and disconnection, breakthroughs, and lots and lots of processing.

Our practice tends to resonate with folks who crave depth over surface-level solutions. You might be drawn to us if you're curious about life's bigger questions, seek therapists who honor both your pain and your wisdom, or feel called to approaches that integrate mind, body, and spirit.

If you’re looking for a philosophical, existential, holistic approach to therapy that’s all about embracing rather than “fixing,” we might be a good fit. We offer free consultations so you can make sure we’re a match before diving in.

Getting started is easy! (Well, as “easy” as reaching out to a stranger to talk about your feelings can be.) Book your free consultation here. This is a casual, 15-30 minute chat where we’ll ask a few questions about what brings you to therapy and what you’re hoping to gain from the process. We’ll also answer any questions you might have. The goal of this conversation is to make sure we feel like a good match for your needs. From here, we’ll schedule your first session if you decide to move forward.