Trauma Therapy in East Lansing & Online in Michigan

Trauma: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

by Amy Campbell, LMFT, Founder of Campbell Therapy

A painful or frightening experience can continue affecting you long after the event is over. You might feel constantly on edge, emotionally numb, disconnected from loved ones, or like your mind never fully relaxes.

Whether your experiences happened recently or years ago, trauma is treatable, and healing is possible.

What Is Trauma?

Trauma is your mind and body's response to an experience that felt overwhelming, frightening, or deeply distressing. It can result from abuse, violence, accidents, medical experiences, military service, the loss of a loved one, childhood adversity, or other events that left you feeling unsafe.

Some people recover naturally over time. For others, symptoms continue to interfere with daily life. When they persist for more than a month and significantly affect daily functioning, they may be diagnosed as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

You don't need a PTSD diagnosis to benefit from trauma therapy.

Signs of Trauma

Common symptoms include:

  • Intrusive memories, nightmares, or flashbacks

  • Feeling constantly on edge or easily startled

  • Avoiding reminders of what happened

  • Feeling emotionally numb or disconnected

  • Trouble sleeping or concentrating

  • Irritability or difficulty managing emotions

  • Shame, guilt, or self-blame

  • Difficulty trusting others or feeling safe

These are common responses to overwhelming experiences—not signs of weakness.

How Therapy Can Help

Healing isn't about forgetting the past. It's about helping your mind and body recognize that you don't have to stay in survival mode.

At Campbell Therapy, we tailor therapy to your unique experiences and goals. Depending on your needs, treatment may include EMDR, CBT, attachment-focused therapy, EFT, mindfulness, and other trauma-informed approaches.

Some people also benefit from medication, which can be discussed with your primary care provider or psychiatrist.

When Should You Reach Out?

If a past experience is affecting your relationships, work, sleep, or everyday life, therapy can help. You don't have to wait until things feel unbearable or wonder whether what happened was "bad enough." If it's still affecting you, it's worth talking about.

Trauma Therapy in East Lansing & Online Throughout Michigan

Campbell Therapy provides trauma therapy in East Lansing and secure online therapy throughout Michigan. We're here to help you process difficult experiences, rebuild a sense of safety, and move forward with confidence.Crisis Resources

Crisis Resources

If you are experiencing a mental health emergency or having thoughts of suicide:

  • Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (available 24/7)

  • If you're in immediate danger, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department

This page is for general information only and isn't a substitute for professional medical advice. If you're struggling, please talk to a qualified healthcare provider.

Sources: