Understanding Trauma-Informed Practice: A Guiding Principle at GDS Health

Understanding Trauma-Informed Practice: A Guiding Principle at GDS Health
As a trauma-informed practitioner, my approach to care at GDS Health is rooted in understanding and compassion for those who have experienced trauma. But what does it truly mean to be trauma-informed?

When we talk about trauma, we often think of “Big T trauma, clear, explicit traumatic events such as acts of violence, threats to life, or exposure to disturbing images. These are undeniably impactful. However, it’s equally important to recognize the influence of “small t traumas,” which may be more subtle but can accumulate over time and significantly shape a person’s thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

Big T vs. Small t Trauma

“Small t trauma” are often less obvious but equally damaging. They involve experiences where emotional needs are not met, where individuals feel unseen or unheard, or where there is a denial of their true selves. These experiences may not be dramatic or catastrophic but can slowly erode self-confidence, disrupt relationships, and create a persistent sense of insecurity. This can lead to a chronic state of hyper-vigilance, stress, or dissociation, making it difficult to navigate everyday life.

In my work as a trauma-informed therapist, I am continually amazed by the resilience of the human spirit in processing and recovering from trauma, whether big or small. Often, the most challenging aspect isn’t the explicit events themselves, but the relational dynamics that hinder a person’s ability to make sense of and recover from their experiences. Feeling disregarded, unsupported, or powerless are common barriers to healing.

Recognizing Trauma Responses

Trauma responses are survival mechanisms designed to protect us from perceived threats. These responses—fight, flight, or freeze—are effective when they allow us to manage danger and return to safety. However, some individuals may find themselves stuck in these responses, feeling as though the threat never truly subsides. This can manifest in various ways, such as distrust in others, confrontational behavior, self-medication, or excessive people-pleasing to avoid conflict.

In my practice, I approach each client with a non-judgmental attitude, recognizing the diverse and often complex ways people adapt to trauma. Even the most destructive behaviors likely began as attempts to cope and protect oneself. Exploring these responses with empathy and without judgment is key to understanding and healing.

Understanding Triggers

Triggers can be as varied as the traumas themselves, with both “Big T triggers” and “small t triggers” affecting individuals. A “Big T trigger” might be something overt, like the smell of smoke reminding someone of a house fire they survived. In contrast, a “small t trigger” could be more subtle, such as being overlooked for a project at work, which may reignite feelings of inadequacy or mistrust.

Being trauma-informed means appreciating how these triggers can cause physiological responses that mimic those of major threats, even when logically the situation doesn’t pose a real danger. At GDS Health, we explore all triggers with curiosity and kindness, helping clients understand and manage their reactions.

Creating a Enough Safe, Supportive Space

At GDS Health, our trauma-informed approach involves shifting the conversation from “what is wrong with you?” to “what happened to you?”. This perspective fosters a non-blaming, supportive environment where clients can safely explore their experiences.

While trauma responses and adapted behaviors are not the individual’s fault, taking responsibility for healing is a powerful step toward self-care. Therapy offers a safe space to normalize these responses, honor the ways your brain has tried to protect you, and embark on a journey of recovery filled with compassion and hope.

Being trauma-informed at GDS Health means respecting and holding space for each person’s unique experiences, allowing them to heal in their own way, without judgment. Together, we can find acceptance and work toward a future beyond trauma.