Childhood Trauma

 
 

What is childhood trauma?

Childhood trauma refers to overwhelming or threatening experiences during early life—such as abuse, neglect, loss, or emotional invalidation—that exceed a child’s ability to cope. Its effects can last into adulthood, shaping mood, relationships, and identity.

“I always thought I’d left it behind—but it lived in my body, in how I reacted, how I loved, and how I saw myself.”

Different experiences of childhood trauma in adults

Adults affected by childhood trauma often carry patterns they can’t fully explain—like chronic anxiety, emotional numbness, or difficulty trusting others. Some overachieve to feel safe or worthy; others withdraw or become stuck in toxic relationships. The trauma may be remembered in vivid detail or buried beneath dissociation, avoidance, or gaps in memory.

Common forms of trauma include emotional neglect, physical or sexual abuse, bullying, exposure to addiction, or growing up with a parent who was emotionally unavailable, unpredictable, or frightening. These experiences shape the nervous system and affect how we relate to ourselves and the world. Even decades later, the imprint of early trauma can be healed with skilled, compassionate support.

“Helping someone reclaim their life after childhood trauma is extraordinary work. With time and care, survival becomes self-trust—and often, deep strength.”

Symptoms of unresolved childhood trauma

  • Chronic anxiety, fear, or emotional dysregulation
  • Low self-worth, shame, or self-criticism
  • People-pleasing, perfectionism, or identity confusion
  • Difficulty trusting or connecting with others
  • Emotional flashbacks or trauma triggers
  • Dissociation, numbness, or memory gaps
  • Repeated patterns in relationships (e.g. avoidance, over-attachment)
  • Nightmares, sleep issues, or body tension
  • Depression, addiction, or self-harming behaviours
  • Inner sense of being “too much” or “not enough”
Our approach
 

Our approach to treating childhood trauma

At Bloomfield Health, we offer specialist trauma-informed therapy for adults living with the impact of childhood trauma. Our clinicians begin with gentle, thorough assessment—prioritising emotional safety, trust, and pace. We use evidence-based therapies such as trauma-focused CBT and compassion-focused therapy. We support you in building emotional regulation, self-worth, and a coherent narrative of your experience. Healing doesn’t mean forgetting—it means reclaiming your voice, your agency, and your future.

 

Frequently asked questions

Yes. Trauma can leave lasting emotional and physiological effects even without clear memory.

Trauma is about how overwhelmed you felt—not how extreme things looked from the outside. Subtle neglect can be just as impactful.

No. We go at your pace. You can begin with your emotions, patterns, or present-day challenges.

There’s no set timeline. We offer long-term or short-term support depending on your goals and needs.

That’s common. We tailor treatment to meet you where you are now, especially if earlier therapy missed trauma-specific care.

Yes. Many of our clients are affected by early emotional misattunement and develop deep healing through therapy.

Absolutely. We work to rebuild trust, boundaries, and a sense of safety—both with others and within yourself.

Yes. With the right support, many people move from survival to true self-connection and emotional freedom.

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