Trauma may be defined as “an experience that produces psychological injury or pain.” (Dictionary.com). While this suffices as a general definition of trauma, the understanding used in lifespan integration therapy is far more complex and nuanced. It includes both the initial trauma as well as its lingering effects. Trauma that occurred in the distant past can profoundly affect the present.
For example, consider victims of the violence of war (whether military personnel or civilians). Even though the war may have ended, the trauma of their experiences often affects their minds and bodies to such a point that they have difficulty adjusting to peacetime.
Not all trauma responses involve panic attacks or waking up screaming in the middle of the night. Some reactions to trauma can be much more subtle, such as abusive behavior, emotional neglect, or flat emotional responses. A counselor at Texas Christian Counseling can help you detect what behaviors might be rooted in a trauma.