teen trauma

COUNSELLING SUPPORT IN EDMONTON & SHERWOOD PARK

A traumatic experience is any incredibly stressful event that causes a threat to our safety, this can be life threatening, however any event that leaves an individual feeling overwhelmed and isolated can be traumatic. As a result, your teen might experience heightened emotional, physiological and physical distress that can upset their ability to function normally in every day life. Some common reactions to trauma might include strong feelings of sadness, anger or guilt, nightmares, flashbacks, intense anxiety and difficulties with memory and concentration.

Each teen may react differently to trauma. A traumatic reaction may become unhealthy if the behaviour/mood is prolonged and beginning to affect your child’s life. While healing from trauma your teen can learn tools to manage distressing emotions, regain healthy ways of expressing feelings and communicate challenging thoughts

Examples of trauma may include:

• Family divorce or separation

• Loss of a loved one

• Recent surgery

• Physical assault

• Sexual assault

• Bullying

• Family violence

• Car accident

• Breakup from a significant relationship

Our trauma therapists have extensive training in evidence based trauma modalities, including Somatic Experiencing in order to help process and heal from your trauma.

When a teen has gone through something overwhelming, it can affect how they see themselves, how they relate to others, and how they move through the world. Counselling offers a steady, grounding place where they can begin to untangle the confusion and intense emotions that trauma often leaves behind. With gentle guidance, your teen can learn to recognize their body’s stress signals, understand why certain reactions show up, and find healthier ways to manage moments that feel too big or too heavy.

Over time, therapy can help your teen rebuild a sense of stability and reconnect with parts of life that may have felt out of reach. They can explore their strengths, rediscover what brings them comfort or joy, and develop coping strategies that support them in school, at home, and in their relationships. Trauma may change the way a teen navigates life for a while, but with the right support, they can heal, grow, and step forward with greater confidence and emotional resilience.

Thrive Trauma THERaPIsts Edmonton & Sherwood Park