Calm the inner storm with virtual trauma therapy.

Trauma isn’t always obvious.​

Not long ago, when the average person thought of “trauma,” they usually pictured someone in a war zone, military combat, or a natural disaster. Now, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, the world has been exposed to a collective trauma. Still, there are questions as to what trauma is. 

According to the American Psychological Association, “Trauma is an emotional response to a terrible event like an accident, rape or natural disaster. Immediately after the event, shock and denial are typical. Longer-term reactions include unpredictable emotions, flashbacks, strained relationships, and even physical symptoms like headaches or nausea.”

A more simple definition that I prefer: Trauma is anything that is too much, too soon, or too fast for our nervous system to handle, especially if we can’t reach a successful resolution.

If you have experienced a traumatic event that keeps you feeling disconnected, fragmented, or stuck in the past, don’t hesitate to reach out to me. Virtual trauma therapy with Kellyn Brooks, LPC could be a good option for you. If there is anything you are curious about, I want to chat with you.

Common Signs of Trauma

Trauma can show up both emotionally and physically. Check out this list of common symptoms of trauma. 

• Feeling numb, out of control, or hopeless
• Feeling guilt or shame
• Feeling disconnected from other people
• Physical symptoms (e.g., headaches, chest pain, stomach problems) that are unexplained
• Destructive or risky behavior, like alcohol/drug use or overspending
• Having a hard time concentrating or staying in the present moment
• Not being able to be present in your relationships
• Repeated thoughts like “I’m bad” or “I’m broken”
• Easily startled
• Feeling detached from your body, emotions, and senses

Types of Trauma​

Developmental Trauma. Also known as childhood trauma, developmental trauma refers to experiences that occur during critical periods of a child’s development, such as abuse, neglect, alcoholism or drug addiction, or instability and chaos in the child’s home. Developmental trauma can leave impacts lasting beyond childhood.

Vicarious Trauma. This occurs when individuals are exposed to the traumatic experiences of others, such as mental health professionals, first responders, or journalists. Constant exposure to others’ suffering can lead to symptoms similar to those of direct trauma, including emotional distress, burnout, and compassion fatigue.

Acute Trauma. This type of trauma occurs as a result of a single distressing event, such as an accident, natural disaster, or assault. It usually has a clear onset and can lead to symptoms like shock, disbelief, and emotional distress.

Medical Trauma. Arises from experiences within the healthcare system, such as serious illness, surgery, medical procedures, or diagnostic tests. It can result from feelings of powerlessness, loss of control, or adverse outcomes and may lead to fear of medical settings or procedures.

Complex Trauma.  Complex trauma results from exposure to multiple traumatic events, often occurring within interpersonal relationships or environments characterized by instability and dysfunction. It can include both acute and chronic trauma and may lead to complex PTSD and difficulties in regulating emotions and forming healthy relationships.

How Can Virtual Trauma Therapy Help?

Trauma can impact us to our core. It can shape our personality, and even change our brain’s wiring. It can send our nervous system into a frenzy, and we struggle to feel calm and regulated.

No two people will experience trauma in the same way. Therefore, my approach to working with trauma is highly personalized. As a trauma therapist in Augusta, GA, I value your emotional safety before everything else. When you experience trauma, it’s tough to open up to someone new, and it takes a level of trust. Therefore, I work at your pace, always. During our time together, we will strive to develop rapport and build a relationship based on respect, trust, and safety. I will always try to walk by your side—that means I won’t push you in a direction you don’t want to go, nor will I abandon you to navigate the way alone. 

At my Georgia-based online counseling practice, together we’ll explore how the traumatic experience has impacted how you view the world, your relationships, and your Self. We’ll also explore how it impacts your brain and body, especially your nervous system. I’ll help normalize your experiences and create a safe space, because trauma makes us feel anything but normal or safe. You feel safe and humanized again, and you won’t feel defined by your experiences. I will empower you and help you unlock your body’s innate wisdom (in the form of coping skills) to help you get a greater handle on your daily life. I will use various approaches such as compassion-focused therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, and somatic-oriented approaches. You will be amazed at how quickly your body (and brain!) can achieve calm and groundedness once you are in a safe therapeutic space. Over our time together, no matter how long it is, we are going to help you create a purposeful and meaningful life.  

Reach out to a trauma therapist in Augusta, GA today.

It’s a joy in my life to work with folks struggling with trauma and PTSD. The moment when the nervous system is able to experience safety and peace again is nothing short of magical. Be aware, though: there is no quick and straightforward path through trauma. It’s challenging at times, but not scarier than being defined by your traumatic history forever. The journey is sometimes tough, but there is a greater ease on the other side. I believe that anyone is capable of experiencing that ease and freedom from trauma. No one is broken, including you. 

If you’re ready to start virtual trauma therapy in Georgia South Carolina, or Florida, here’s what to do:

1.    Contact Kellyn for a free 15-minute phone meet-and-greet.

2.   Meet with Kellyn, an online therapist.

3.   Begin online therapy from anywhere in Georgia, South Carolina, and Florida.

Other Mental Health Services with Kellyn Brooks

Not looking for virtual trauma therapy or PTSD treatment? I provide other mental health services in my online Georgia counseling practice. Other focus areas include therapy for grief and loss, therapy for anxiety, codependency counseling, therapy for depression, and walk-and-talk therapy. These therapy services are available via online counseling in Georgia from anywhere in the state, including Augusta, Atlanta, Savannah, Columbus, Macon, Athens, or Statesboro. I also post psychoeducational material on the website blog. I look forward to meeting you and discussing how we can work together.