Healing from trauma is not a one-size-fits-all journey—it takes time, support, and structure. While everyone’s experience is unique, many therapists recognise six key stages in the trauma recovery process. These stages help individuals move from surviving to thriving, and provide a helpful framework for understanding how healing unfolds.
1. Safety and Stabilisation
The first stage focuses on establishing physical and emotional safety. This includes creating a sense of stability in daily life, developing healthy coping strategies, and learning to manage overwhelming emotions.
2. Remembrance and Mourning
At this stage, individuals begin to process the trauma, often with the help of a trauma therapist. This can involve telling the story of what happened, expressing grief, and making sense of painful experiences in a safe and supportive environment.
3. Reconnection and Integration
Here, the focus shifts to rebuilding a sense of identity and reconnecting with others. Individuals begin to integrate the trauma into their life story without it defining them, allowing for renewed relationships and personal growth.
4. Empowerment
This stage is about reclaiming control. Survivors learn to trust themselves again, set healthy boundaries, and feel more confident in their ability to handle life’s challenges.
5. Meaning-Making
Many people find healing in discovering meaning from their trauma. This may involve personal insights, spiritual growth, advocacy, or helping others with similar experiences.
6. Maintenance and Growth
Ongoing healing involves recognising that recovery is not linear. Continued self-care, resilience-building, and occasional support help maintain progress and foster long-term growth.
Support Through Online Trauma Therapy
At Aguilera Psychology, we offer online trauma therapy to support you through every stage of recovery. Our experienced trauma therapist Dr Kat Aguilera uses evidence-based approaches such as EMDR and TF-CBT to help you process trauma and move forward with confidence.
Contact us today to find out more and begin your healing journey from the comfort of home.