Childhood trauma often leaves a person feeling “stuck” emotionally at the age the trauma occurred. Definitionally, trauma involves an experience that is physiologically overwhelming to a person’s nervous system, one that is too distressing for a person to comprehend and tolerate.

A parent’s abusive behavior — whether it be verbal and psychological abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse, or neglect — falls into this category, as parents are meant to be protectors and nurturers. Bullying is another common example of childhood trauma.

According to the CDC, at least 1 in 4 girls and at least 1 in 20 boys is sexually abused as a child in the United States. I have worked with numerous men and women as they heal from the shame and confusion they’ve carried since childhood. It is one of my biggest honors to work with people through these sensitive topics.