Trauma Therapy
Healing Trauma with Professional Support at Paraclete Counseling Center
What is Trauma?
Trauma is an emotional or psychological wound that results from distressing experiences such as loss, abuse, neglect, or accidents. The word trauma comes from the Greek word meaning “wound”. Unlike physical wounds that heal on their own, emotional trauma can linger and disrupt how the brain and body respond to stress. At Paraclete Counseling Center in Suwanee, Georgia, our trauma therapists help adults, teens, and children process these experiences using EMDR, CBT, somatic-based approaches, and attachment-based therapy, so healing can happen from the inside out.
What Happens in the Brain and Body After Trauma?
Trauma can trigger stress responses, whether from one event or several. When faced with danger, your body releases stress hormones, leading to fight, flight, or freeze reactions. While your nervous system should return to balance after the threat passes, many people stay on edge and struggle to regain a sense of calm.
What are Common Symptoms of Trauma?
You may experience physical reactions to trauma such as:
Trouble eating or an upset stomach
Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
Rapid heartbeat, shallow breathing, and feeling shaky
Excessive sweating or sweating during stressful thoughts
Severe headaches when thinking of the traumatic event
Loss of motivation to maintain exercise, diet, or health care routines
Increased use of alcohol, drugs, or unhealthy coping mechanisms
Overeating or not eating enough
Exacerbation of ongoing medical problems
Constantly feeling on guard, alert, or hypervigilant
Easily startled by sudden noises, feeling jumpy
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
You may experience emotional/relational reactions to trauma, such as:
Feeling nervous, helpless, fearful, or sad
Emotional numbness or feeling disconnected from joy or love
Increased irritability, angry outbursts, or agitation
Blaming yourself or viewing yourself or the world negatively
Inability to trust others, increased arguments, or controlling behaviors
Withdrawal, feelings of rejection, or abandonment
Feeling detached or avoiding intimacy with loved ones
Disturbing dreams or flashbacks related to the traumatic event
Avoidance of people, places, or activities that remind you of the trauma
What Happens if Trauma is Left Untreated?
Without proper trauma treatment, unresolved trauma can lead to a range of mental health challenges and long-term emotional and physical effects. Untreated trauma increases the risk of conditions such as:
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Depression and anxiety disorders
Self-blame, guilt, and shame related to trauma
Suicidal thoughts or self-harming behaviors
Anger, irritability, or aggressive behavior
Increased alcohol or drug use as a coping mechanism
Seeking therapy can aid in healing and prevent long-term emotional and physical consequences.
How Do I Know if I Need Trauma Therapy?
If you’re wondering whether trauma therapy in Suwanee, GA is right for you, you’re not alone. Many people assume that only those diagnosed with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) need trauma treatment. However, you don’t need a PTSD diagnosis to benefit from trauma-informed therapy.
Trauma isn't limited to events like abuse or war. It can take many forms. If you’re unsure whether your experiences have affected you, consider these examples:
Examples of Trauma That May Impact Mental Health
Childhood neglect or emotional abandonment
Growing up with a parent struggling with addiction
Emotional, verbal, or physical abuse
Losing a parent during childhood
Growing up with a parent who has a mental illness
Experiencing parental divorce as a child
Living with chronic pain, illness, or loss of mobility
Being bullied or socially rejected
Experiencing infidelity in a relationship
Surviving a serious car accident
Witnessing the death of a loved one
Moving multiple times during childhood
Losing a pet that was a source of emotional support
Even if these experiences don’t seem as severe as what others have gone through, they can still leave lasting emotional wounds. Trauma affects each person differently, and its impact can resurface in unexpected ways, such as anxiety, trust issues, or difficulty regulating emotions.
What is Trauma Therapy Like at Paraclete Counseling?
Starting trauma therapy can feel overwhelming, and it’s normal to feel hesitant about revisiting painful experiences. At Paraclete Counseling Center, we understand that healing from emotional trauma takes time, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether you're struggling with PTSD, childhood trauma, or anxiety related to past experiences, our licensed trauma therapists in Suwanee, GA, are committed to helping you heal.
A Safe, Supportive Environment
We create a judgment-free, compassionate space where you feel heard, valued, and supported. Healing from psychological trauma requires trust, and we are here to listen, not judge. We know how challenging it can be to open up about past trauma, and we're committed to walking with you at every step. You’ll never have to face this journey alone—our team is here to listen, support, and guide you in the safest, most compassionate environment.
A Personalized Pace & Approach
There is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to healing. Each person’s trauma recovery journey is unique, and we respect your individual process. Our therapists will work with you to ensure that therapy progresses at a pace that feels right for you. This personalized approach empowers you to take control of your healing while providing the support you need every step of the way.
Coping Strategies
Healing from trauma involves learning practical tools to help you manage emotional distress. Our therapists will teach you ways to regulate overwhelming emotions, calm your body and mind, identify and reframe negative thought patterns, and manage trauma triggers in daily life. Our goal is to help you feel empowered and resilient by integrating these skills into your everyday routine.
How Do You Process Trauma Safely in Therapy?
When you feel ready, we use evidence-based therapies to help you process trauma safely and effectively. Some of the proven trauma treatment methods we use include:
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) – A highly effective treatment that allows clients to process traumatic memories without having to discuss them in detail.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) & Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT) – Helps clients recognize and change negative thought patterns related to trauma.
Somatic Therapy & Internal Family Systems (IFS) – These approaches focus on healing trauma stored in the body and addressing different parts of the self affected by past experiences.
Attachment-Based Therapy – Addresses the impact of trauma on relationships, trust, and emotional security.
We know a common fear is that therapy will force you to relive painful memories in detail. Rest assured, our trauma-focused methods are designed to heal without overwhelming you. You’ll process distressing emotions at your own pace, gradually and safely.
Meet Our EMDR Therapists | Serving Suwanee, Alpharetta, Cumming, Duluth, Buford and North Atlanta
Our EMDR Therapists:
Lisa Poore, LPC — With over 35 years of experience as a therapist, Lisa brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her counseling practice. Lisa is a member of the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA), further demonstrating her commitment to providing effective, evidence-based trauma care. Her experience and compassionate approach allow her to guide clients through the healing process without retraumatizing them, helping them break free from the negative patterns that trauma often creates.
Kami Legg, LMFT — Kami brings over a decade of experience as a therapist, with nearly 20 years in the mental health field, and extensive training in treating trauma. Kami believes in walking alongside her clients with empathy and respect, tailoring her counseling methods to fit each individual’s unique needs and preferences. She has a broad range of expertise, working with clients of all ages—from young children to adults—as well as couples and families facing various challenges.
Corrie Brewton, LMFT, LPC — With over a decade of experience, Corrie uses a compassionate, trauma-informed approach to help clients work through their trauma and find the strength to move forward in their lives. She tailors her methods to each individual’s needs, combining empathy and proven techniques to guide healing at a comfortable pace. Corrie provides a supportive, non-judgmental space for clients to rebuild their emotional well-being.
How Does Trauma Therapy Help Restore Relationships?
Trauma often leads to feelings of disconnection—not just from yourself, but also from those around you. Whether it’s difficulty trusting others, emotional withdrawal, or challenges in communication, our therapists are here to help you rebuild and strengthen your relationships.
We work with you to:
Heal attachment wounds and restore trust in yourself and others
Enhance communication and emotional intimacy with loved ones
Establish healthy boundaries that foster mutual respect and understanding
Offer couples counseling if trauma has impacted your intimate relationship
While addressing past trauma is essential for healing, we also focus on building a resilient and fulfilling future. Our goal is to empower you to regain control of your life by:
Restoring your sense of self-worth and confidence
Developing healthy coping mechanisms for emotional regulation
Encouraging emotional growth and adaptability
Can Faith Be a Part of the Trauma Healing Process?
For those who wish to incorporate faith into their trauma recovery, our therapists offer Christian trauma counseling in a compassionate and non-judgmental environment. We respect each individual’s personal journey and can help you explore how your beliefs intersect with the healing process.
We believe that God has provided us with various tools to help heal emotional and psychological wounds. EMDR is one such tool—a scientifically proven therapy that helps process and heal trauma. Just as we might use medicine or seek medical care for physical health, EMDR can be a vital part of emotional healing.
At Paraclete Counseling Center, our therapists are committed to integrating your faith into the therapy process, if desired, to ensure you feel supported and empowered throughout your healing journey. We can incorporate prayer, Scripture, and spiritual practices as part of your healing, while also utilizing EMDR to help you process and move past the trauma you’ve experienced.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
While 70% of people experience trauma, only 6% develop PTSD. For those who do, symptoms can severely impact daily life. Trauma-focused therapy can provide much-needed relief.
Common PTSD Symptoms
People experiencing PTSD may struggle with:
Intrusive Symptoms
Flashbacks or feeling like the event is happening again
Nightmares or recurring traumatic memories
Frightening thoughts that won't go away
Emotional & Behavioral Changes
Feeling detached or alone, avoiding social interactions
Loss of interest in hobbies and daily activities
Extreme irritability or angry outbursts
Cognitive & Physical Reactions
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Physical pain, such as headaches or stomach aches
Hypervigilance or feeling constantly on edge
Easily startled by sudden sounds or movements
Avoidance & Negative Thinking
Avoiding thoughts, places, or people connected to the trauma
Struggling with memory loss related to the event
Developing negative beliefs about oneself or the world
If you recognize these symptoms, it may be time to seek therapy. Trauma-focused counseling can help you process past experiences and regain a sense of safety and stability.
FAQs
How do I know if I need trauma therapy (even if I’m not diagnosed with PTSD)?
You don’t have to have a label or diagnosis to seek help. Many people come to trauma therapy simply because they feel tired of “trying to hold it all together.” If you notice emotional overwhelm, shutdown, anxiety, physical tension, or relationship struggles after something difficult that happened in your life, therapy may be a safe place to begin healing.
What does trauma therapy involve at Paraclete Counseling?
Trauma therapy at our practice includes an initial assessment and a personalized treatment plan. We use evidence-based approaches such as EMDR, CBT/TF-CBT, somatic work, and attachment-focused therapy. We move at your pace and provide a safe and supportive environment, integrating faith if you desire.
How does trauma therapy work?
Trauma therapy helps you process painful experiences in a safe and supportive space. Together, we identify how trauma may still be affecting your emotions, body, and relationships. We will help you see how trauma has caused the body to stay in a heightened alert state and impacted your ability to feel safe. Through approaches like EMDR, somatic awareness, and CBT, we help your brain and body begin to feel safer, calmer, and more connected.
How does trauma therapy help?
Healing from trauma often means learning that your reactions make sense, and that they can change. Therapy helps reduce anxiety, shame, and hypervigilance by calming your nervous system and reframing old patterns of thinking and feeling. Over time, many clients notice greater peace, resilience, and the ability to engage more fully in daily life and relationships. Trauma-focused treatment can significantly reduce symptoms like anxiety, irritability, and emotional numbness. By targeting both the emotional and physiological aspects of trauma, therapy supports nervous system regulation, builds self-understanding, and promotes a greater sense of control and confidence in daily life.
What is trauma therapy like?
Your sessions will feel collaborative, compassionate, and paced to fit you and never rushed. We start with building trust and emotional safety before addressing painful memories. As you gain stability, we use EMDR and somatic strategies to help your brain and body release what has been held inside for too long. Some sessions may focus on skills and education, others on processing, and sometimes simply on rest and reflection. For clients who desire it, we can also invite faith, prayer, or Scripture into the work of healing in ways that feels comfortable and supportive.
What can I expect in my first trauma therapy session?
In your first session, we will meet (in-person or virtually) to discuss your history, concerns, and goals. We’ll explain our trauma-informed approach, answer your questions, and determine whether you feel comfortable moving forward. You’ll leave the session with some practical coping strategies.
What is EMDR and how can it help with trauma?
EMDR is an evidence-based therapy that helps the brain reprocess traumatic memories so they no longer feel overwhelming or “stuck.” You do not need to retell every detail of your trauma for EMDR to be effective. It allows your nervous system to re-process and integrate the trauma so that the memories lose their power. At our practice, we use EMDR alongside other therapies such as CBT and somatic approaches, as appropriate.
Can trauma therapy help when the traumatic event happened years ago?
Absolutely. Trauma can stay in the body and nervous system long after you try to move on. Therapy can help you release what’s been stuck, rebuild safety, and begin living with more calm, confidence, and connection.
Do you integrate Christian faith into trauma treatment?
Yes. If you wish, our therapists can incorporate Christian faith, prayer, and Scripture into the trauma therapy process. This may include asking God to give strength to address the trauma, utilizing God as a resource in the EMDR process, or simply acknowledging God’s presence in your story. We also welcome non-Christian clients and tailor the integration to your beliefs and comfort level.
Do you offer therapy for trauma in adults only, or for teens/children too?
We offer trauma therapy for all ages, from children to adults. We have clinicians on our team experienced with trauma across the lifespan. If you are seeking trauma therapy for a teen or child, we can match you with an appropriate clinician.
Is trauma therapy in-person only, or do you offer online/virtual sessions?
We offer in-person trauma therapy at our Suwanee, GA location and may offer telehealth options depending on the client’s needs and eligibility. During our initial consultation, we can discuss what is most appropriate for you.
How long does trauma therapy take?
The length of trauma therapy varies depending on your history, the severity of trauma, your goals, and how comfortable you feel in the process. Some clients may begin to feel relief within several sessions, others may engage in months of work. We’ll discuss expectations in your initial assessment and adjust as we go.
How much does trauma therapy cost, and do you take insurance?
Session fees vary by clinician. Please note that Paraclete Counseling is not in-network with insurance carriers; clients either self-pay at the time of service or our office can file out-of-network claims on your behalf to support reimbursement.
Not Sure If You’re Ready for Trauma Therapy? We’re Here to Support You
Thinking about trauma treatment can feel overwhelming. Healing from trauma takes time, and you don’t have to face it alone. At Paraclete Counseling in Suwanee, our licensed trauma therapists provide a safe, compassionate environment for clients throughout Forsyth County and the North Atlanta area. Using approaches such as EMDR, CBT, somatic therapy, and Christian faith integration (when desired), we help you restore safety, calm, and confidence in your daily life.
Ready to Begin Trauma Therapy?
If you recognize that you’ve experienced trauma and are ready to start your healing journey, we’re here to help. Our trauma-informed therapists in Suwanee, GA, will:
✔ Provide a comprehensive trauma assessment
✔ Recommend personalized treatment options, including EMDR, CBT, and somatic therapies
✔ Guide you through a safe and structured healing process
Serving Suwanee and Surrounding Areas
Paraclete Counseling Center provides trauma therapy and EMDR for clients across Suwanee, Duluth, Buford, Johns Creek, Cumming, and the greater North Atlanta region. In-person and virtual sessions are available for residents throughout Georgia.
