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Trauma Informed Coaching & Therapy

Lynn Brookes


Trauma Informed Therapy
Trauma Informed Therapy

As a seasoned Counsellor of 24 years post qualifying, as well as a Hypnotherapist & Health Coach, I have become increasingly aware of the impact on the wellness of clients with visible and hidden traumas. And lets face it, if we have had a childhood then there will be some small 't' traumas that impact on us. Let me expand on that a bit more, as some of you will be dismissive of that and not appreciate what I mean. And often those are the very people who will have a lightbulb moment themselves, suddenly understanding why they do the things that they do, and behave in certain ways. Plus if none of this applies to you, then you probably will begin to recognise certain traits in others.


In the field of coaching and therapy, one of the most essential aspects of practice is understanding trauma. Trauma is not a one-size-fits-all experience. It manifests differently for everyone and can shape the way we perceive the world, interact with others, and navigate our own sense of self. As a trauma-informed coach and therapist, I strive to create a safe, empathetic, and empowering environment for my clients to explore their paths toward healing and growth.


Trauma with a Big 'T'

Trauma with a big 'T' refers to events or experiences that are widely recognized as traumatic. These are often significant, life-altering occurrences such as:

  • Physical or sexual abuse

  • Natural disasters

  • Car accidents

  • War or violent crime

Big 'T' trauma is often visible to others, not just in its immediate aftermath but also in the lingering effects it can have on an individual’s mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Symptoms like flashbacks, hypervigilance, and anxiety are common, and these responses are often more easily recognized and validated by society.


Trauma with a Small 't'

On the other hand, trauma with a small 't' is subtler, often flying under the radar. These are the more cumulative experiences that might not seem significant on their own but can deeply affect an individual over time. Examples include:

  • Chronic criticism during childhood

  • Feelings of neglect or emotional invalidation

  • Experiencing microaggressions

  • Relational challenges, such as repeated rejection or betrayal

Small 't' trauma is less visible and often minimized—even by the individuals experiencing it. However, its impact can be profound. A series of seemingly minor events can accumulate, leading to stress, anxiety, and deeply ingrained beliefs about unworthiness or failure.


Understanding Trauma’s Impact

Both Big 'T' and small 't' traumas influence how we process emotions, engage in relationships, and respond to challenges. Trauma can:

  • Affect our nervous system, keeping us stuck in states of fight, flight, or freeze.

  • Lead to self-protective behaviors that may appear as “bad habits” but are actually coping mechanisms.

  • Impact our capacity for trust, joy, and connection.

As a trauma-informed coach and therapist, I recognize that trauma is not about the event itself but how the individual experienced and processed it. It’s about the story our nervous system tells in response to overwhelming stress.




Vulnerable & Exposed to Hurt
Vulnerable & Exposed to Hurt

"Trauma can affect individuals in vastly different ways. For some, it leaves them deeply sensitive and easily hurt, while for others, it can amplify their sensitivity to the world around them. This heightened sensitivity can significantly influence their behavior and emotions. On the other hand, individuals who are less sensitive or less attuned to others’ emotions may unknowingly say or do things that deeply wound those who are more vulnerable. This lack of awareness can create challenges in relationships and further impact those already affected by trauma."



Creating a Trauma-Informed Space

In my work, I prioritize creating a safe and nonjudgmental environment where clients can explore their experiences without fear of retraumatization. This involves:

  1. Empathy and Validation: Honoring my clients’ unique experiences and emotions, regardless of how “big” or “small” they perceive their trauma to be.

  2. Safety First: Ensuring that clients feel physically and emotionally safe, which is the foundation for any healing work.

  3. Collaboration: Empowering clients to take an active role in their healing journey. This might involve setting boundaries, exploring coping strategies, or redefining personal narratives.

  4. Understanding the Body-Mind Connection: Recognizing the physiological effects of trauma and incorporating somatic (body-based) approaches to help clients regulate their nervous systems.

  5. Ongoing Education: Staying informed about the latest research and best practices in trauma-informed care, ensuring that my approach is both compassionate and effective.


But There is Good News - Healing Is Possible

Trauma’s impact can feel overwhelming, but healing is not only possible—it’s transformative. By addressing both the visible and invisible wounds, we create space for resilience, self-discovery, and empowerment. As a trauma-informed professional, I am honored to guide clients on this journey, helping them reclaim their sense of safety, self-worth, and joy.

If you’ve experienced trauma—whether with a big 'T' or a small 't'—know that your feelings are valid, your story matters, and support is available. Together, we can navigate the complexities of your experiences and move toward a brighter, more fulfilling future.


Until next time - Go Well X


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