Trauma affects the entire nervous system. At Sunshine Consulting & Counseling, Inc., I believe that healing requires more than traditional talk therapy. By incorporating body-based, attachment-focused, and neurologically informed therapy and trauma treatment in Silver Spring, Maryland, I help clients safely reconnect with themselves and the world around them.
How Trauma Affects the Nervous System
Trauma can develop after a single overwhelming event or through repeated experiences that cause a person to feel unsafe, powerless, unsupported, or emotionally distressed. While some individuals associate trauma with major accidents, abuse, or violence, trauma can also stem from:
- Childhood neglect
- Chronic stress
- Medical conditions
- Grief and loss
- Relational conflict
- Emotionally unpredictable environments
Because trauma dysregulates the nervous system, its effects often extend beyond emotions and thoughts. Many individuals experience physical symptoms such as muscle tension, fatigue, headaches, and digestive issues. Others may experience:
- Emotional numbness
- Panic attacks
- Difficulty trusting others
- Irritability
- Hypervigilance
- Dissociation or feeling disconnected from themselves
Trauma responses are survival mechanisms that the nervous system develops to protect the body during overwhelming situations. However, they can interfere with emotional health and personal growth. Trauma treatment helps calm the nervous system and restore a sense of safety.
Our Therapeutic Techniques
There are a variety of trauma treatment approaches, no matter the diagnosis. At Sunshine Consulting & Counseling, Inc., I take a holistic approach to therapy based on Dr. Stephen Porges’ Polyvagal Theory and offer a range of trauma-informed treatments designed to support healing on every level: mind, body, and nervous system. Each of my approaches is grounded in research, safety, and compassion.
Because no two individuals experience trauma in the same way, I tailor each treatment plan to meet your unique needs and history. Below are several of the modalities I use to help my clients heal, grow, and thrive.
Somatic Experiencing® (SE™)
Somatic Experiencing® (SE™) is a body-oriented therapeutic model that helps heal trauma and other stress disorders. Developed by Dr. Peter Levine, Ph.D., Somatic Experiencing uses an integration of sensations, emotions, and thoughts to bring integration into the nervous system, allowing it to relax and experience a calm enjoyment of life. Somatic therapy enables the body to complete defensive responses that were interrupted during past trauma, leading to a natural restoration of regulation.
Transforming the Experience-Based Brain (TEB)
Transforming the Experience-Based Brain (TEB) using Transforming Touch® is a trauma treatment modality with a specific protocol that has supported healing in thousands of clients. Developed by Stephen Terrell, PsyD, SEP, Transforming Touch® creates a milieu of safety where a client can begin to feel a difference in their life through subtle yet profound changes.
In this place of safety, the client experiences attachment-focused protocols that are consistent and measured for repairing early ruptures and their consequences, which is especially effective for developmental and early childhood trauma. Developmental trauma, such as inconsistent caregiving, neglect, or instability, can affect attachment styles, self-esteem, and emotional regulation. By working with the body’s memory and attachment systems in trauma treatment, clients can slowly rebuild trust and stability.
Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP)
Developed by Dr. Stephen Porges, the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) is an evidence-based therapeutic tool designed to reset the nervous system and return it to a state of safety. Designed to work with other therapeutic approaches and modalities, the SSP features specially filtered music that stimulates the vagus nerve.
The vagus nerve regulates heart rate, digestion, emotions, and social engagement. When the nervous system becomes dysregulated, it can affect the vagus nerve, leading individuals to feel anxious, sensitive, withdrawn, or overwhelmed by sensory input.
The SSP has demonstrated benefits for individuals with trauma, anxiety, sensory processing differences, and more. It teaches the nervous system to recognize safety cues and shift out of a defensive state and can be integrated into trauma therapy for both adults and children.
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
Internal Family Systems (IFS), developed by Richard Schwartz, is a powerfully transformative, evidence-based psychotherapy model that has recently become popular. It uses a gentle approach to bridge the gap between somatic work and emotional awareness. IFS is well-suited for individuals who feel fragmented, reactive, or stuck in repetitive emotional cycles.
IFS recognizes that people often develop protective “parts” in response to difficult experiences. For example, one part of a person may become highly self-critical to prevent mistakes, while another part may avoid emotional closeness to reduce the risk of being hurt. IFS in trauma treatment helps clients explore these internal dynamics. By addressing each “part” with compassion and curiosity, clients often experience profound shifts in inner harmony and clarity.
The goal of an IFS therapist is to help the client develop a loving relationship with themselves and heal their previously traumatized, overburdened parts. This fosters greater self-understanding, openness, and a sense of compassion toward oneself and others, ultimately leading to empowerment and internal integration.
Trauma Treatment for Adults and Children
Trauma affects individuals differently depending on age, life experiences, and support systems. In response to trauma, children may experience:
- Emotional dysregulation
- Sleep disturbances
- Withdrawal
- Difficulty concentrating
- Sensory sensitivities
Adults may experience anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, or emotional detachment. Because symptoms vary significantly, trauma treatment is individualized and adapted to each client’s needs, goals, and comfort level.
What Trauma Therapy Sessions May Include
Rather than simply discussing events, a trauma therapist prioritizes safety, predictability, and empathy. Trauma treatment may include:
- Body awareness exercises
- Grounding techniques
- Nervous system regulation practices
- Guided reflection
- Emotional processing tools
- Conversations about relationships
Many clients benefit from learning how their nervous system responds to stress, conflict, or emotional triggers. Sessions are paced according to each individual’s level of readiness.
Explore Trauma Resources for Deeper Healing
Continued learning can be a powerful part of the healing journey. Whether you’re just beginning to explore trauma recovery or are already working with a trauma therapist in Silver Spring, MD, the right resources can support your growth and deepen your understanding of the healing process. I encourage you to check out our recommended reading page for additional help and information on trauma.
Reach Out for Compassionate Support
If you or a loved one has experienced trauma or has PTSD and would like to explore trauma treatment options, please reach out to Sunshine Consulting & Counseling, Inc., to schedule a consultation for trauma therapy in Silver Spring, MD. I have personally seen amazing transformations through counseling for trauma and want to offer the help you need to enjoy life again.