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Healing after trauma often feels lonely. Memories linger, emotions resurface, and it can seem like no one truly understands. But you don’t have to walk that path alone. At Austin Trauma Therapy Center (ATTC), trauma group therapy creates a space where survivors can come together, share openly, and heal alongside others who “get it.” Connection becomes the bridge to recovery.

Why Community Matters in Healing?

Trauma impacts every part of life, emotions, relationships, and even how survivors see themselves. Many ask, What is a trauma bond relationship, especially when unhealthy attachments form with those linked to their pain. Breaking those patterns takes strength, and often, it takes support. In a group setting, survivors gain clarity, encouragement, and the reassurance that they are not alone.

What Makes Group Therapy So Effective?

Group therapy for trauma is unique because it provides both professional guidance and peer support. At ATTC, therapists lead sessions that combine skill-building with heartfelt conversations. Survivors don’t just share stories, they also practice grounding tools, develop emotional regulation strategies, and receive understanding feedback from others walking similar paths.

The impact goes beyond words. Group therapy helps survivors:

• Feel validated, knowing their struggles are real and shared.
• Learn practical skills for managing flashbacks, triggers, and anxiety.
• Build supportive connections that last outside the therapy room.
• Gain fresh perspectives by hearing how others cope and heal.

Individual vs. Group Therapy

Individual therapy offers privacy and focused attention, but it doesn’t replace the sense of belonging that group therapy provides. Together, they form a powerful combination. Many clients at ATTC find that the balance of both approaches gives them strength, insight, and community.

Addressing Relationship Struggles After Trauma

Trauma doesn’t just affect individuals; it often reshapes relationships. Survivors sometimes find themselves asking, “What is a trauma bond relationship?” This type of connection often forms when intense emotional experiences, even unhealthy ones, create dependency between people.

In group sessions at ATTC, we explore how trauma affects attachment, trust, and communication. Survivors learn to recognize patterns, set boundaries, and work toward healthier connections. Talking through these struggles in a group environment can help survivors realize they’re not broken, they’re healing.

Why Austin Trauma Therapy Center?

ATTC isn’t just about therapy; it’s about building a healing community. Every group is designed to be safe, inclusive, and led with compassion. Survivors find hope here, not only from professional guidance but also from the collective resilience of peers who are learning to thrive again.

Take The First Step Today

Healing doesn’t happen overnight, and it doesn’t happen in isolation. At Austin Trauma Therapy Center, trauma group therapy gives survivors the tools, support, and community they need to move forward. You’ve carried your pain long enough; it’s time to let others walk beside you.

Contact Austin Trauma Therapy Center and discover how healing together can help you reclaim your strength and your future.

Our earliest relationships shape the way we see ourselves and others. When those bonds are strong, they give us a sense of safety and trust. But when they’re disrupted, through neglect, loss, or inconsistent care, they can leave deep emotional scars. These scars, often referred to as attachment wounds, don’t just disappear with time. They can show up in adulthood as difficulties in relationships, struggles with self-worth, or challenges in regulating emotions.

At Austin Trauma Therapy Center (ATTC), we help clients find healing and growth through the proven approach of Attachment-Based Therapy.

Understanding Attachment Wounds

Attachment wounds develop when a child’s emotional or physical needs are not consistently met. This can look like being ignored, experiencing abandonment, or living with unpredictable caregiving. Over time, these early disruptions may affect how a person views themselves and how they connect with others. Many adults facing anxiety, depression, or relationship struggles are often dealing with unrecognized attachment trauma.

How Attachment-Based Therapy Helps

Attachment-based therapy focuses on creating a safe and supportive space where clients can re-examine these early relational experiences. With guidance, individuals begin to identify old patterns and rewrite the story they tell themselves.

This therapeutic process is not about blaming parents or caregivers; it’s about understanding what was missing and learning healthier ways to relate. At ATTC, therapists help clients build new emotional tools that encourage trust, empathy, and connection in their current relationships.

The Process of Treating Attachment Trauma

Treating attachment trauma involves more than just talking through memories. It’s about carefully exploring how the past influences present behavior. For example, someone with abandonment wounds may withdraw from relationships to avoid rejection, while another may cling too tightly to avoid being left.

Therapists at ATTC use techniques that foster emotional regulation, strengthen self-awareness, and encourage secure connections. By working slowly and consistently, clients begin to experience relationships in healthier, more balanced ways.

Why Healing Attachment Wounds Matters?

Without healing, attachment wounds can quietly shape every aspect of life. They can make trust difficult, intimacy frightening, or conflict overwhelming. But with therapy, people can learn that they don’t have to repeat old cycles.

Healing means more than “fixing” the past; it’s about creating a stronger foundation for the future. Clients often find that once they begin healing attachment wounds, their relationships feel more authentic, and they develop a deeper sense of self-compassion.

What Makes ATTC Different?

At Austin Trauma Therapy Center, we specialize in trauma-focused therapies designed to address these deep emotional injuries. Our therapists understand the sensitivity of this work and create a nonjudgmental, supportive space for healing. We believe that therapy should feel collaborative, where clients are respected and guided, not pushed. By tailoring sessions to each individual’s needs, ATTC helps clients move toward lasting change and healthier connections.

Start Your Journey Toward Healing

Early wounds may leave lasting impressions, but they don’t define your story. With the support of Attachment-Based Therapy, it’s possible to understand old patterns, heal from past hurts, and build stronger, healthier relationships. At Austin Trauma Therapy Center (ATTC), we’re here to walk alongside you in that process.

Reach out to ATTC today and take the first step toward repairing attachment wounds and reclaiming your sense of self.

Life can feel heavy after difficult experiences, and sometimes the weight doesn’t go away on its own. Many people push through, hoping time will heal everything. But if certain feelings or behaviors keep showing up, they may actually be signs of trauma that deserve attention. At Austin Trauma Therapy Center (ATTC), we understand how past experiences can impact your present, and we provide a safe space to work through those challenges with professional support.

1. You Relive the Experience Often

If memories of a painful event intrude unexpectedly, through flashbacks, nightmares, or sudden emotional reactions, it may signal unresolved trauma. These moments can feel so real that they disrupt daily life. A therapist can help you process those memories in a healthier way, so they lose the power to control your present.

2. Avoidance Becomes a Coping Mechanism

Do you find yourself steering clear of people, places, or conversations that remind you of what happened? While avoidance may bring short-term relief, it often creates more isolation and anxiety over time. Trauma therapy at ATTC focuses on gentle, guided strategies that allow you to face triggers without feeling overwhelmed.

3. Your Body Feels Stuck in High Alert

One of the most common experiences linked to trauma is hypervigilance, your nervous system constantly scanning for danger. This state can lead to restlessness, irritability, or trouble sleeping. These are not just random behaviors; they are symptoms of emotional trauma that signal your body is struggling to return to a state of safety. Therapy can help regulate these responses and restore balance.

4. Emotional Numbness or Disconnection

Sometimes trauma doesn’t show up as intense feelings but rather the absence of them. You may feel disconnected from loved ones, unable to experience joy, or emotionally “shut down.” This protective mechanism may have helped during the event, but when it continues long after, it can interfere with your ability to fully engage in life. At ATTC, therapy is designed to rebuild connection and help you feel more present again.

5. Difficulty Managing Anxiety and Stress

If you often find yourself overwhelmed by panic, fear, or intense worry, trauma may be at the root. Many clients we see experience PTSD anxiety, a state where ordinary stressors trigger outsized emotional responses. Therapy offers tools to manage these reactions and creates a healthier relationship with stress.

Why Getting Help Matters?

It’s important to remember that trauma looks different for everyone. Some may experience subtle warning signs, while others struggle with very visible effects. Learning how to define post traumatic stress disorder helps highlight that it’s more than just a reaction; it’s a real mental health condition that can significantly impact quality of life if left unaddressed.

At Austin Trauma Therapy Center (ATTC), we take a compassionate, evidence-based approach to healing. Our therapists specialize in trauma-focused care, helping clients process experiences, build coping skills, and move toward lasting recovery.

Reach Out Today

If you recognize yourself in any of these signs, know that you don’t have to carry the burden alone. Trauma therapy provides a path forward, offering safety, guidance, and the chance to reclaim your peace of mind.

Reach out to Austin Trauma Therapy Center (ATTC) today and take the first step toward healing. Your story doesn’t end with trauma; it can begin again with recovery.

Trauma can leave deep marks, often making it hard to move forward even years later. Many people struggle with memories that feel stuck, coming back in painful and disruptive ways. That’s where EMDR therapy becomes such an important question to explore. At Austin Trauma Therapy Center (ATTC), we guide clients through EMDR to help reprocess painful memories and reduce the hold they have on daily life.

Understanding EMDR Therapy

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a specialized therapeutic approach designed to help people heal from trauma. It works by targeting memories that have been stored improperly in the brain after a distressing experience. During sessions, a therapist guides clients through bilateral stimulation, often with eye movements, tapping, or sound. This helps the brain reprocess those memories in a healthier way.

At ATTC, we use EMDR because it allows people to approach difficult experiences without becoming overwhelmed. The process is structured, gentle, and designed to build resilience over time.

How EMDR Works in Practice?

An EMDR session starts with preparation. Your therapist will first help you feel grounded and safe, so you’re ready to face distressing memories in a supported way. Then, specific memories or triggers are identified. While focusing on them, you’ll be guided through eye movements or other bilateral stimulation. This allows your brain to “unstick” the memory and file it properly, reducing its emotional intensity.

Clients often report that while the memory doesn’t disappear, it no longer carries the same pain. Instead of constantly reliving trauma, they can finally move forward.

Why EMDR Is Effective for Trauma?

Traditional talk therapy can help many people, but trauma often needs a different approach. EMDR gives your brain a way to naturally heal, without requiring you to describe every detail of the trauma out loud. This makes it especially helpful for people who struggle to put their experience into words.

Research shows EMDR to be one of the most effective PTSD therapies EMDR options available. It’s widely recommended for individuals struggling with post-traumatic stress, anxiety, or painful life events.

Post-Traumatic Stress and EMDR

At ATTC, many clients come to us looking for relief from post-traumatic stress. Flashbacks, nightmares, and heightened anxiety can feel relentless. That’s why we offer EMDR post traumatic stress treatment, because it allows clients to reduce symptoms significantly while regaining control over their lives.

What makes EMDR different is that it doesn’t erase experiences. Instead, it helps you reframe them so they no longer dominate your thoughts and emotions. Clients often describe the process as liberating, giving them back a sense of peace they thought was lost.

Is EMDR Right for You?

If you’ve been struggling with trauma, loss, or overwhelming stress, EMDR may be a good fit. It’s not about forgetting, it’s about healing in a way that feels safe and sustainable. At Austin Trauma Therapy Center, our trained EMDR therapists create individualized treatment plans, so every client feels supported and understood.

Ready To Take The First Step?

Healing from trauma takes courage, but the right tools can make all the difference. At Austin Trauma Therapy Center (ATTC), we’ve seen how EMDR transforms lives by helping people let go of pain that once felt impossible to manage. Whether you’re facing long-term trauma or recent distress, EMDR offers a pathway to reclaim your peace of mind.

Contact Austin Trauma Therapy Center today to learn how EMDR can support your healing journey.

Childhood is supposed to be a time of safety, love, and connection. But for many, it’s marked by neglect, chaos, or fear. If you’ve experienced early life adversity, it can shape the way you move through the world—even decades later. One of the areas where this impact often shows up most clearly is in adult relationships.

At Austin Trauma Therapy Center (ATTC), we work with individuals across Texas who are navigating the long-term effects of childhood trauma. Whether the trauma was emotional, physical, or relational, its imprint can affect everything from trust and communication to self-worth and attachment.

Understanding how trauma in adults shows up in relationships is a key step toward breaking cycles and building healthier connections.

What Counts as Childhood Trauma?

Childhood trauma isn’t always loud or obvious. It might look like:

• Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
• Growing up with a caregiver who was emotionally unavailable
• Being raised in an environment with addiction, violence, or mental illness
• Experiencing neglect—feeling unseen, unheard, or uncared for
• Facing poverty, systemic racism, or immigration-related stress

Even one prolonged or unprocessed experience can affect the developing brain, nervous system, and emotional world of a child.

How Trauma Follows Us Into Adulthood

The brain is built for survival. When a child is exposed to trauma, their brain learns to expect danger. As adults, these survival patterns can become relational patterns—even when the danger is gone.

Here’s how that might show up:

1. Fear of Abandonment

If love felt unsafe or inconsistent growing up, you might struggle to believe people will stay. This can lead to clinging, over-apologizing, or anxiety in relationships.

2. Emotional Numbing or Avoidance

Some folks shut down instead. If emotions were punished or ignored as a child, you may now have trouble feeling close to others—or even recognizing your own feelings.

3. Trust Issues

When caregivers violated your trust, it’s hard to believe others won’t do the same. Suspicion or defensiveness can become a default.

4. Low Self-Worth

Childhood trauma can shape beliefs like “I’m not good enough” or “I don’t deserve love.” These beliefs can make it easier to accept toxic or one-sided relationships.

5. Difficulty with Boundaries

Growing up in an unsafe or chaotic home might have taught you that saying “no” isn’t allowed. As an adult, you may feel guilt for setting limits or struggle to know what boundaries even are.

Attachment Styles and Trauma

Many people who experienced childhood trauma develop insecure attachment styles. These are patterns formed in early relationships and carried into adult ones:

• Anxious attachment: Craving closeness but constantly fearing rejection.
• Avoidant attachment: Keeping others at arm’s length, even if you want connection.
• Disorganized attachment: Swinging between clinginess and withdrawal, often linked to unresolved trauma.

Understanding your attachment style is a powerful way to make sense of your relationship struggles—and to start changing them.

Healing Is Possible

Just because trauma shaped your past doesn’t mean it has to define your future. At ATTC, we take a holistic, person-centered approach to healing. We don’t just focus on the symptoms—we explore the root causes. Our team uses evidence-based practices like EMDR, CBT, and somatic therapy to help you process old wounds and develop new, healthier patterns.

Whether you’re in a relationship, recently out of one, or trying to figure out how to connect with others, therapy can help you:

• Recognize and name patterns
• Rebuild trust in yourself and others
• Learn emotional regulation tools
• Practice boundary setting without guilt
• Heal from shame and cultivate self-compassion

We offer trauma counseling both in-person and virtually across Texas, and we’re committed to making our services accessible and inclusive—especially for BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and other marginalized communities.

What You Can Do Right Now

Healing from trauma in adults takes time. But here are a few small steps that can start to shift your relationships:

• Journal about your triggers: What situations bring up strong reactions?
• Notice your self-talk: Would you speak to a friend the way you speak to yourself?
• Practice saying no: Start with something small. Boundaries are a muscle—you build them over time.
• Get curious, not critical: Instead of judging your patterns, ask, “Where did I learn this?”
• Reach out for support: You don’t have to do this alone.

Final Thoughts

Childhood trauma doesn’t disappear just because you grew up. But healing is real—and it’s within reach. If your relationships feel hard or confusing, it’s not a personal failure. It’s often an echo of earlier wounds trying to be heard.

At Austin Trauma Therapy Center, we’re here to listen, support, and walk with you through the process of healing. You don’t have to carry the weight of the past alone. Together, we can help you create the kinds of relationships you’ve always deserved—starting with the one you have with yourself.

Taking the step to begin trauma counseling is an act of courage. If you’re reading this, you might already be considering it—or maybe you’ve already scheduled your first appointment and are feeling nervous about what’s coming next. That’s totally normal. The first trauma therapy session often brings a mix of emotions: relief, anxiety, fear, and hope all bundled together.

At Austin Trauma Therapy Center (ATTC), we know how important that first step is. We’ve helped many individuals navigate trauma recovery with care, compassion, and a deep respect for the stories they carry. Knowing what to expect can ease some of the worry and help you feel more grounded as you begin this journey.

What the First Session Is (and What It Isn’t)

Let’s get this out of the way: your first trauma therapy session isn’t about spilling everything all at once. You don’t have to dive into your deepest pain on day one. In fact, we encourage pacing yourself. The first session is mostly about building trust, getting to know your therapist, and beginning to create a space where you feel safe.

This is your time—and your therapist will respect your boundaries.

What You’ll Talk About

Here’s a general idea of what may happen in that first meeting:

• Introductions and connection

You’ll get to know your therapist and they’ll get to know a little about you. Expect a warm, supportive tone—this isn’t an interrogation.

• Why you’re seeking therapy

You might be asked what brought you in. You can share as much or as little as you’re comfortable with. It’s okay to say, “I’m not sure where to start.”

• Your background

This could include your family, relationships, work life, and health history. It helps your therapist understand your world and any factors that might influence your healing.

• What trauma therapy looks like at ATTC

Your therapist may walk you through treatment options like EMDR, somatic work, or CBT. You’ll talk about what you hope to gain and set some gentle goals together.

• Questions you might have

This is your space to ask anything—whether it’s about the therapy process, how sessions work, or what confidentiality really means.

What You Won’t Be Asked to Do

There are a few things that won’t happen during your first trauma therapy session, and it’s important to name them:

• You won’t be forced to retell traumatic events in detail.
• You won’t be judged for anything you say—or for not saying much at all.
• You won’t be expected to have everything figured out.

This session is about starting, not fixing everything.

How We Create a Safe Space at ATTC

Safety isn’t just physical—it’s emotional, cultural, and relational. At ATTC, we prioritize creating an inclusive environment, especially for BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and other marginalized communities who’ve experienced systemic or identity-based trauma. Our diverse team is trained in trauma-informed, anti-oppressive practices, and we lead with compassion every step of the way.

We offer both in-person and virtual options for trauma counseling throughout Texas, so you can choose what feels best for you. Accessibility matters. That’s why we also offer sliding scale fees and accept many major insurance plans.

How to Prepare for Your First Session

You don’t need to come in with a script, but here are a few things that might help:

• Jot down your thoughts beforehand: Anything that’s been weighing on you, goals for therapy, or questions you might have.
• Bring what helps you feel grounded: This might be a small object, journal, or even headphones if you’re attending virtually.
• Wear something comfortable: Whether you’re meeting in person or online, feeling physically at ease can support emotional openness.
• Know that it’s okay to cry—or not: There’s no right way to “do therapy.”

After the First Session

You might feel relieved. You might feel tired. Some people even second-guess themselves. That’s all normal. The first session can stir up emotions you’ve held in for a long time.

We encourage you to give yourself space afterward—go for a walk, journal, talk to someone you trust, or just rest. Processing takes time, and every small step you take is part of the healing process.

Trauma Counseling Is a Partnership

At ATTC, therapy isn’t about “fixing” you. It’s about walking alongside you as you heal. We listen, we validate, we offer tools—but you set the pace. Our goal is to empower you, not pressure you.

Whether you’ve lived through a recent trauma or are uncovering the layers of past experiences, trauma therapy can help you reconnect with safety, trust, and a sense of self.

Final Thoughts

Starting therapy is a brave move. It means you’re choosing yourself, your healing, and your future. Your first trauma therapy session is just one part of that journey—but it’s a big one. At Austin Trauma Therapy Center, we’re honored to support you through every stage of the process.

You don’t have to walk through trauma alone. Let’s begin this path together—with patience, with care, and with the deep knowing that healing is possible.

Not all trauma looks the same. Some survivors carry a single event that altered the course of their lives—like a car crash, an assault, or a natural disaster. Others have been through trauma that’s long-term, layered, and built into the rhythms of daily life—such as childhood abuse, emotional neglect, or ongoing interpersonal violence. Both experiences can leave deep psychological wounds, but the impact and healing process can look very different.

That’s why understanding the difference between PTSD and C-PTSD (complex post-traumatic stress disorder) is so important. At Austin Trauma Therapy Center (ATTC), we work with individuals across this entire trauma spectrum. We know that naming your experience is often the first step in reclaiming your story.

What Is PTSD?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can develop after a single traumatic event that threatens your safety or overwhelms your nervous system. This might include events like:

• A serious car accident
• Natural disasters
• Physical or sexual assault
• Combat or war exposure

People with PTSD often experience:

• Flashbacks or nightmares
• Avoidance of reminders of the event
• Hypervigilance or exaggerated startle response
• Emotional numbness or disconnection

It’s a survival response that didn’t shut off once the danger passed. The body stays “on alert,” even when the threat is no longer present.

What Is C-PTSD (Complex PTSD)?

C-PTSD can develop from chronic, repeated trauma, especially when the trauma occurred in early life or within relationships. These experiences may include:

• Childhood abuse or neglect
• Long-term domestic violence
• Human trafficking
• Systemic oppression or intergenerational trauma

While PTSD and C-PTSD share some symptoms, C-PTSD often includes added layers of emotional and relational distress, such as:

• Deep feelings of shame or guilt
• Difficulty trusting others or maintaining relationships
• Negative self-perception (“I’m broken” or “I don’t deserve love”)
• Dissociation or feeling disconnected from one’s body
• Ongoing emotional dysregulation or explosive anger

The CPTSD vs PTSD distinction matters because C-PTSD isn’t just about surviving one event—it’s about surviving systems, cycles, and environments that were unsafe over time.

Why Diagnosis Can Be Complicated

One of the reasons people struggle to get accurate help is that C-PTSD isn’t officially recognized as a separate diagnosis in the DSM-5 (used widely in the U.S.). It is, however, recognized by the World Health Organization in the ICD-11. Many clinicians—including our team at ATTC—recognize and treat C-PTSD as a valid and distinct form of trauma response.

Too often, survivors of complex trauma are misdiagnosed with borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, or treatment-resistant depression. While those conditions are real, mislabeling trauma as something else can delay real healing.

How ATTC Supports Trauma Recovery

At Austin Trauma Therapy Center, we specialize in trauma-informed care that honors the complexity of each client’s experience. Whether you’re dealing with PTSD or C-PTSD, our team meets you with compassion, curiosity, and culturally responsive approaches. We offer:

• EMDR to help the brain reprocess traumatic memories
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to challenge negative thought patterns
• Somatic and body-based practices to reconnect with safety in the body
• Narrative and parts work to help untangle internal conflicts
• Social justice-oriented therapy that validates experiences of systemic oppression

We also provide support for marginalized communities, including BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and disabled folks. Our therapists are trained not only in trauma treatment but in healing-centered, socially conscious care.

Why Understanding Matters

Knowing the difference between PTSD and C-PTSD isn’t just about diagnosis—it’s about validation. Survivors of complex trauma often go years without understanding why they feel stuck, disconnected, or “too sensitive.” Being able to name what you’re going through brings relief, clarity, and direction for recovery.

Not all trauma looks the same. Some survivors carry a single event that altered the course of their lives—like a car crash, an assault, or a natural disaster. Others have been through trauma that’s long-term, layered, and built into the rhythms of daily life—such as childhood abuse, emotional neglect, or ongoing interpersonal violence. Both experiences can leave deep psychological wounds, but the impact and healing process can look very different.

That’s why understanding the difference between PTSD and C-PTSD (complex post-traumatic stress disorder) is so important. At Austin Trauma Therapy Center (ATTC), we work with individuals across this entire trauma spectrum. We know that naming your experience is often the first step in reclaiming your story.

What Is PTSD?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can develop after a single traumatic event that threatens your safety or overwhelms your nervous system. This might include events like:

• A serious car accident
• Natural disasters
• Physical or sexual assault
• Combat or war exposure

People with PTSD often experience:

• Flashbacks or nightmares
• Avoidance of reminders of the event
• Hypervigilance or exaggerated startle response
• Emotional numbness or disconnection

It’s a survival response that didn’t shut off once the danger passed. The body stays “on alert,” even when the threat is no longer present.

What Is C-PTSD (Complex PTSD)?

C-PTSD can develop from chronic, repeated trauma, especially when the trauma occurred in early life or within relationships. These experiences may include:

• Childhood abuse or neglect
• Long-term domestic violence
• Human trafficking
• Systemic oppression or intergenerational trauma

While PTSD and C-PTSD share some symptoms, C-PTSD often includes added layers of emotional and relational distress, such as:

• Deep feelings of shame or guilt
• Difficulty trusting others or maintaining relationships
• Negative self-perception (“I’m broken” or “I don’t deserve love”)
• Dissociation or feeling disconnected from one’s body
• Ongoing emotional dysregulation or explosive anger

The CPTSD vs PTSD distinction matters because C-PTSD isn’t just about surviving one event—it’s about surviving systems, cycles, and environments that were unsafe over time.

Why Diagnosis Can Be Complicated

One of the reasons people struggle to get accurate help is that C-PTSD isn’t officially recognized as a separate diagnosis in the DSM-5 (used widely in the U.S.). It is, however, recognized by the World Health Organization in the ICD-11. Many clinicians—including our team at ATTC—recognize and treat C-PTSD as a valid and distinct form of trauma response.

Too often, survivors of complex trauma are misdiagnosed with borderline personality disorder, bipolar disorder, or treatment-resistant depression. While those conditions are real, mislabeling trauma as something else can delay real healing.

How ATTC Supports Trauma Recovery

At Austin Trauma Therapy Center, we specialize in trauma-informed care that honors the complexity of each client’s experience. Whether you’re dealing with PTSD or C-PTSD, our team meets you with compassion, curiosity, and culturally responsive approaches. We offer:

• EMDR to help the brain reprocess traumatic memories
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to challenge negative thought patterns
• Somatic and body-based practices to reconnect with safety in the body
• Narrative and parts work to help untangle internal conflicts
• Social justice-oriented therapy that validates experiences of systemic oppression

We also provide support for marginalized communities, including BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and disabled folks. Our therapists are trained not only in trauma treatment but in healing-centered, socially conscious care.

Why Understanding Matters

Knowing the difference between PTSD and C-PTSD isn’t just about diagnosis—it’s about validation. Survivors of complex trauma often go years without understanding why they feel stuck, disconnected, or “too sensitive.” Being able to name what you’re going through brings relief, clarity, and direction for recovery.

Trauma doesn’t ask for permission. It crashes into your life and leaves behind shattered pieces—memories, beliefs, and patterns that can make everyday life feel overwhelming. For many trauma survivors, the path to healing is anything but linear. One day might feel full of hope, and the next might feel like you’re back at square one. What often makes the difference in that journey isn’t perfection or progress—it’s self-compassion.

At Austin Trauma Therapy Center (ATTC), we’ve seen firsthand how powerful self-compassion can be in trauma healing. It’s not just a buzzword or a feel-good phrase. It’s a skill—one that helps survivors gently confront pain without turning that pain into self-judgment.

Why Self-Compassion Matters in Trauma Recovery

After experiencing trauma, many people blame themselves. “Why didn’t I leave sooner?” “Why wasn’t I stronger?” These thoughts are common—and they’re heavy. Self-judgment feeds shame, and shame keeps you stuck.

That’s where self-compassion in trauma recovery comes in. It’s the practice of treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding you’d offer a close friend. Sounds simple, right? But for trauma survivors, it’s often one of the hardest things to do.

Here’s why it’s worth it:

• Reduces shame: Self-compassion quiets the voice that says “I’m broken” and replaces it with “I’m healing.”
• Builds emotional resilience: When you stop beating yourself up, you have more energy to actually deal with your emotions.
• Improves therapy outcomes: Research shows that those who practice self-compassion respond better to trauma-focused therapies like EMDR and CBT.
• Supports nervous system regulation: Kindness toward yourself helps bring your body out of fight-or-flight mode.

The Three Elements of Self-Compassion

According to Dr. Kristin Neff, self-compassion has three main parts. At ATTC, we often integrate these into our therapeutic work:

1. Self-kindness vs. self-judgment
   Trauma often leaves behind a harsh inner critic. Self-kindness means replacing that voice with gentleness.
2. Common humanity vs. isolation
   Trauma can make you feel like you’re the only one struggling. Realizing that pain is part of the human experience helps ease that loneliness.
3. Mindfulness vs. over-identification
   This is about noticing your emotions without drowning in them. You don’t have to deny your pain—but you don’t have to become it, either.

How ATTC Supports Self-Compassion in Therapy

At Austin Trauma Therapy Center, we understand that survivors of trauma come from all walks of life—and carry unique, complex stories. That’s why we tailor every approach to the individual. Whether you’re exploring trauma healing through EMDR, talk therapy, or somatic work, we incorporate self-compassion as a tool for emotional regulation and growth.

Here’s how it might show up in session:

• Guiding you to name and validate your feelings
• Helping you reframe harmful internal narratives
• Teaching body-based techniques that promote safety and calm
• Practicing compassionate self-talk during exposure or memory processing
• Creating rituals that affirm your progress, no matter how small

We also recognize the impact of systemic trauma, including racism, transphobia, xenophobia, and generational oppression. Our team stands firmly with BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities, offering trauma-informed care that is culturally responsive and justice-centered.

Everyday Ways to Practice Self-Compassion

Therapy is a powerful space to build self-compassion, but it doesn’t stop there. Here are some things you can do at home:

• Talk to yourself like someone you love: Would you call your best friend “weak” for having a panic attack? Of course not. You deserve that same softness.
• Create a safety statement: A short phrase like “I am safe now” or “It wasn’t my fault” can bring grounding during flashbacks.
• Allow imperfection: Healing isn’t about getting it “right.” It’s about showing up again and again, no matter how messy it feels.
• Rest without guilt: Sometimes the most radical act of self-love is taking a nap.
• Surround yourself with support: Community—whether online or in person—can reinforce compassion when your inner critic gets loud.

Why Self-Compassion Is a Revolution

Choosing to be kind to yourself after trauma is a radical act, especially in a culture that rewards productivity over presence. It pushes back against the shame that trauma tries to plant in your body. And it invites healing—not through pressure, but through patience.

At ATTC, we believe that every survivor deserves more than just coping tools. You deserve to feel whole again. Through evidence-based therapy and a commitment to justice and inclusion, we help clients build the skills to carry that wholeness with them—starting with self-compassion.

The Bottom Line

If you’re ready to begin or continue your trauma recovery journey, we’re here for you. At Austin Trauma Therapy Center, our doors (virtual and in-person) are open to anyone seeking trauma healing with compassion at the center.

1. What causes ADHD? 

Many people think that ADHD is a result of trauma, but is it true? The answer is yes, but more for some people than others. The truth is that 90% of the time ADHD is not caused by trauma, but if the trauma is extreme enough, it can cause severe ADHD-like symptoms.

When we think of ADHD, we often think of a small child running around with a box of crayons, covered in marker, and completely absorbed by the world around him. While this is the most obvious example of ADHD in action, the truth is that ADHD is a neurological condition that impacts many adults as well. (In fact, many children who were labeled as hyperactive grow up to be adults that are diagnosed with ADHD.) So how do we know if someone is struggling with ADHD? Is their trauma causing the issue, or is there another issue in the mix?

2. Is ADHD caused by trauma? 

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, is a mental disorder that affects children and adults. ADHD causes a person to have trouble concentrating and focusing, as well as hyperactivity and impulsive behavior. Most often, ADHD is treated with medication. (Or in extreme cases of ADHD, with electroshock therapy!) While it may be tempting to assume that a hyperactive child was abused as a child (or that an adult who constantly feels distracted or impulsive suffers from some sort of trauma), science does not back up this assumption. The correlation between ADHD and childhood trauma is relatively low, so unless a child has been diagnosed with ADHD, it’s safe to assume that the symptoms are part of a developmental delay.

Having ADHD can be extremely stressful, and it can be even more stressful if you grew up in an abusive home. But is it possible that those who have ADHD also experienced some kind of trauma? That’s the question being asked by many ADHD and mental health experts. Research has shown that ADHD has biological origins, and that the symptoms are caused by changes in the brain. But what about trauma? If you experienced trauma as a child, it is possible that you may also be at risk for developing ADHD.

3. How Does Trauma Cause ADHD? 

Does trauma cause ADHD? ADHD is a complex condition, and it’s likely that there are many causes behind it. Many people believe that trauma can contribute to ADHD, but the exact way it does it isn’t clear. What we do know is that ADHD is more common among people who have experienced trauma, and there are some theories as to why this happens. If you’re struggling with ADHD, it’s a good idea to look into the possible connection between trauma and ADHD. You may have a lot more support than you think.

Many people who have ADHD were never diagnosed with it before they got into treatment. In fact, many times, the reason that a person is in trauma therapy is because they are struggling with a mental health disorder. If that is you, and you are in the process of getting treated for ADHD, it is important that you know how trauma causes ADHD.

4. How do you treat ADHD?

While trauma is a known trigger for ADHD, it is not the only cause of the condition. A dual diagnosis is often the best way to treat a patient with ADHD, since it allows them to be treated using a combination of medications and psychotherapy, which are often more effective when used together.

It’s no secret that people who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have an increased risk of developing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). While the connection between trauma and ADHD is well-established in the scientific literature, it is also clear that the link between the two conditions is not entirely understood. For instance, many researchers believe that ADHD may actually cause PTSD; this means that individuals with ADHD are more likely to have traumatic experiences in the first place. Or, it is possible that PTSD and ADHD share common risk factors.

Learn more about our ADHD Coach in Austin and how they can help you reach your goals.

How much does therapy cost in 2024? The cost for therapy is one of the greatest barriers to mental health treatment. While the cost of therapy is a very real concern, it is often possible for people to access free or low-cost therapy, especially if they live in large metropolitan areas.

Average Cost of Therapy Sessions

In most areas of the country, a person can expect to pay $100-$250 per session. This is the typical rate for a therapist in Austin, Texas. Should you choose to see a therapist outside of your insurance network, you will find that therapists charge different rates depending on their office location, level of education, and degree of expertise in their field.

Some therapists may charge as much as $200 or more per session, but most will charge $115-$175 a session. Many therapists work with a sliding scale fee schedule, which means their fee will depend on your income level.  Therapy tends to be more expensive when the therapist is an expert in a highly specialized field or treats an unusual or challenging condition.

Some therapists also charge more for a longer initial consultation. Couples counseling is typically more expensive due to the therapist seeing both parties as a couple. If you use insurance, your therapist’s office can create a ledger for you to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. If costs are an issue, many areas have community mental health agencies that provide therapy at a reduced fee. Contigo Wellness is an affordable option for providing anti-racist healing through a decolonized and destigmatized therapy lens.

How much Does Therapy Cost with Insurance?

Under the Affordable Care Act, all insurance plans must cover mental health care. Additionally, people with insurance usually have some coverage for therapy. In most cases, they must choose a therapist within their network. They may also have to meet other criteria, such as having a mental health diagnosis, meeting a deductible, or getting a referral for treatment. Consequently, even people with insurance may opt to pay for their therapy out of pocket.

When people pay for therapy through insurance, they typically must pay a co-pay. Insurance co-pays vary widely, from just a few dollars to $50 or more. In that case, you will likely be limited to however many sessions your insurance will pay for, which can vary. Keep in mind that if you decide to utilize insurance, your provider will have full access to your session information as well as diagnosis. Also, you’ll want to check with your insurance provider to ensure they cover behavioral health, and to determine the deductible amounts.

How Much Does Therapy Cost Without Insurance?

If you do not have insurance, or you wish not to file with your insurance provider for privacy reasons, you can expect to pay the standard rate as set by your local therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist. As discussed, this rate could be anywhere from $105 to $250+ per hour-session. Some Associate therapists may charge less than this amount.

How Much Does Online Therapy Cost?

Online therapy is usually fairly affordable and convenient. Since you will be attending therapy sessions online in the comfort of your own home, or while traveling, you can often schedule your therapy sessions for times that are the most convenient for you. Session fees can cost $105-150 depending on private pay and insurance. Some insurance companies will not pay for telehealth (online) therapy sessions.

Today, many states require insurance providers to cover online therapy just as they would traditional therapy sessions. Contact your insurance company to learn more about how online treatments will be covered by your policy. Online therapists often offer affordable treatment options for those who are not covered by health insurance. Read more on Advantages and Disadvantages of Remote Therapy, here.

How to Pay for Therapy

For many people, insurance offers the best option for funding therapy. Try calling your insurer to ask about mental health coverage and to get a list of in-network providers. Additionally, some therapists offer therapy on a sliding-scale basis. Consider asking about this option when you interview therapists. Some employee assistance and benefit programs also offer help paying for therapy. Contigo Wellness is offering barrier free mental healthcare and healing funding on a limited basis.

Is There a Way to Get Free Therapy?

A number of clinics are working to expand access to health care services, including mental health services, by offering free or discounted treatment. The National Association for Free and Charitable Clinics, for example, offers free and low-cost care.

Some other options for finding free therapy in your area include:

• Contacting your state’s department of public or community health. Many offer community mental health clinics or referrals to free or low-cost services.
• Enrolling in studies for mental health conditions. If you have a specific diagnosis, your local college or university may be researching your diagnosis. You can often get free care, including medication and therapy, by enrolling in such a study.
• Seeking care at a college or university clinic. If you are a student, you may be eligible for free care at your college or university. If you are not a student but are located near a university that has a mental health care program, students in that program may offer free treatment to meet licensure requirements.
• Many universities offer free or sliding-scale therapy programs to people pursuing training as therapists. Try calling schools near you to ask about access to low-cost therapy.
• Many therapy practices also employ novice therapists who need experience. These interns or apprentices may offer free or low-cost mental health care.
• Telehealth services, which offer counseling online or on the phone, may also be more affordable.

Getting Therapy Help

Therapy can be expensive, particularly when you look only at the price tag and not the total value. However, therapy can also offer significant benefits, including an improved outlook. People who are less productive because of depression, who suffer from compulsive shopping or gambling, and who experience problems at work may ultimately have a positive shift in behaviors as a result of therapy.

Even when therapy does not offer a direct economic benefit, it can greatly and permanently improve a person’s life. Check out our blog on Trauma and PTSD for more information on negative behaviors which can persist as a result of not being in therapy.

People considering therapy should consider the overall value of therapy, not just the cost. We hope we were able to provide clarification for the FAQ “how much does therapy cost?” To find an Austin therapist who can bring real value to your life, contact us, today.