Childhood Trauma Recovery
Abuse, neglect, and violence during childhood can be a "silent killer." You try to keep the experiences from affecting your daily life, yet, the emotional wounds fester over time. You may feel sad and anxious all the time, or struggle with addiction to drugs, alcohol, or food. You may be utterly frustrated by your poor choices of romantic partners, or your difficulty reaching important goals and dreams.
Please know that what you endured was NOT your fault (thought it may still feel like it to you), and you deserve compassion and resolution. Besides traditional talk therapy, I also incorporate mindfulness techniques when appropriate, to help you release painful emotions that have taken hold physically. Together, we will help you gradually process the trauma, and empower you to trust yourself, love others, and live a productive and meaningful life again.
A special note for adult children of narcissistic parents
Did you grow up with a parent who constantly demands to be "respected" and "appreciated?"
Was your parent over-involved in your activities? Did they often present your achievements as their own?
Do you have to "walk on eggshells" all the time to avoid hurting your parent's feelings or angering them?
Is "guilt-trip" the most used phrase when you describe conversations with your parent?
These can be signs that you have a narcissistic parent. They may appear successful and caring on the outside, which makes you question your fear and resentment towards them. But as you journey through your own adulthood, you begin to struggle with feelings of emptiness, angry outbursts, self-doubt, and a pattern of unfulfilling relationships.
Even though many narcissistic parents are not overtly abusive, their toxic dynamics could still affect your sense of self and all the close relationships that follow. Your understanding of attachment may be distorted or broken, because they have trouble prioritizing others' emotional needs over their own. Through talk therapy that focuses on repairing early attachment issues, I can help you regain a sense of reality and build healthier attachments. And when necessary, we will work together to practice effective ways to remain connected with your parent without compromising your own mental health.