Trauma is a term that’s often thrown around, especially today but its depth and complexity are often misunderstood. As a therapist who specializes in trauma, I can tell you that it’s far more than a mere "bad experience." Trauma can have lasting effects on the mind, body, and emotions, influencing our relationships and behaviors in ways we may not even fully understand. In this post, we’ll explore what trauma is, the different types of trauma, and most importantly, how individuals can heal.

Let’s talk about one of the most popular buzzwords in the world of mental health: trigger. It seems like every time we scroll through social media, watch a Bravo show, or even overhear conversations, we hear someone saying, “Ugh, I’m so triggered right now!” But as a therapist, I can’t help but notice that this term has continued to morph into something far removed from its true meaning. I first wrote about triggers back in 2018. So let’s take another dive in with a bit of humor and a lot of heart—what exactly is a “trigger,” and why is the cultural version of it not quite on the mark?

Yoga is often marketed as a way to stretch, strengthen, and de-stress. And yes, it does all of that. But for many of us who return to the mat again and again, yoga becomes something deeper: a quiet teacher offering life lessons that ripple far beyond the studio.

Through breath, movement, stillness, and self-study, yoga gently reshapes how we relate to our bodies, our minds, and the world around us. Here are some of the most meaningful life lessons learned from practicing yoga, and how they show up in everyday life.

When the world feels like it’s on fire and getting worse, positive thinking isn’t enough. Learn what actually helps regulate your nervous system without bypassing or minimizing reality.

Discover how IFS and EMDR work together in trauma therapy to create safety, reduce overwhelm, and gently heal complex trauma and attachment wounds.

What if nothing about you is wrong? Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy helps you understand your protective parts and reconnect with your calm, compassionate Self. Discover a new path to healing.

The winter solstice marks the shortest day and longest night of the year. Across cultures, it has long been honored as a sacred pause—a moment to slow down, turn inward, and trust that light will return. I got inspired today to theme a yin yoga class I taught today around Winter Solstice, especially when it happened to be Winter Solstice when I taught it. And if you didn’t know, yep, I am also a yoga teacher in addition to being a therapist.

Reality TV doesn’t always portray therapy accurately (see my previous blog about SLOMW), but the recent therapy session on Real Housewives of Salt Lake City (RHOSLC) with Ms. I have an announcement aka Britani Bateman and her daughter surprised many viewers—and many trauma therapists—by showing what real trauma therapy can actually look like.

Reality TV loves a dramatic therapy moment—but EMDR (and therapy) is not drama. It’s neuroscience, structure, pacing, dual awareness, safety, and a carefully attuned therapeutic relationship. Unfortunately, the EMDR session shown on Secret Lives of Mormon Wives has sparked confusion among viewers, therapists, and potential clients who are trying to understand what EMDR actually is.

As an EMDR therapist trained in trauma, dissociation, and nervous system–based work, I want to clarify why the session featured on the show is not representative of EMDR practice—and what ethical, trauma-informed EMDR really involves.

Discover how small wins in trauma therapy can lead to lasting healing. Learn why recognizing tiny steps is crucial in recovering from trauma—and how to celebrate them.

Dissociation is a term you may have heard in conversations about trauma or mental health, but it can feel elusive or hard to describe. At its core, dissociation is a psychological response to overwhelming stress or trauma—an adaptive mechanism that allows a person to “disconnect” from experiences, emotions, or memories that feel too painful to process in the moment. While it can protect you in the short term, chronic dissociation can interfere with your ability to feel present, connect with others, and live fully in your body.

Think trauma therapy is only for trauma survivors? Learn why working with a trauma-informed therapist can benefit anyone—especially if you're dealing with anxiety, boundaries, or relationship issues.

In our hustle culture and mental toughness era, being told you're “strong” might feel like the highest compliment. As a therapist, though, I often see the hidden pressure behind that word. The truth is, being strong all the time isn’t sustainable, and constantly striving for it can quietly erode your emotional well-being. It’s ok to not be ok. Being strong doesn’t mean you can’t express your feelings. Have a soft heart and a strong back. 

Mental health affects people of all ages, including children and teens. Many parents feel uncertain about how to start conversations about mental health struggles. Whether your child is experiencing anxiety, depression, or simply having a tough time, open, compassionate discussions are key to building emotional intelligence, resilience and a strong support system at home. Here’s how to approach these topics with your kids.

People-pleasing is a common coping skill among individuals that have experienced trauma. Learn more about this coping skill and how it is developed as a result of trauma.