How family counsellors help with generational trauma

Generational trauma is passed down from generation to generation in families.

Often the consequences of living with generational trauma are manifold, ranging from anxiety and depression to PTSD, low self-worth and impaired functioning. The damage done is very painful. However, trauma counselling in Surrey helps people to stop the cycle and start healing.

Who experiences generational trauma?

Generational trauma starts with an individual or group experiencing a distressing event. The triggering event could stem from things like a disaster, a death, an accident, violence, poverty, abuse, discrimination and racism. For example, generational trauma was experienced by those living through the Great Depression. It is also well-documented in Holocaust-survivor families, Black families and Indigenous families. The effects of living through traumatic events are passed down from adults to children, generation after generation.

What are the effects of generational trauma?

Generational trauma is passed down through biological (ie. drug use affecting a developing foetus), physical, emotional, and/or psychological means. It can manifest as one or more of the conditions in the list below. It may also surface as a lower resistance to adverse health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD.

• Anxiety

• Depression

• Low-self worth

• Sleep disturbances

• Flashbacks

• Fear

• PTSD

How do family counsellors help with generational trauma

Cycles of generational trauma are hard to break and tend to require, and benefit from, the help of trauma counselling. Skilled counsellors use a variety of techniques to guide individuals and families through processing the hurt and damage. With understanding, realisation, acceptance and a desire to feel better and do better, people are able to break the cycle of trauma for a happier, more hopeful future.

Family counselling in Surrey focuses on techniques such as talk therapy to aid with processing traumatic events. Individuals and families are encouraged to replace unhealthy coping mechanisms with more healthy responses to traditional triggers. The family counselling environment is welcoming, supportive and safe for people wishing to begin the healing process to reclaim and redefine their lives.

You are not alone. Healing takes courage and support. Speak with a trauma counsellor in Surrey to begin the healing process for you and your family.

Are you ready to reach out? Alison and her clinical team specialise in trauma counselling and family counselling, including couples, children and teens, and will be very happy to speak with you and answer any of your questions in person or by email. 604-372-1545.