Understanding Trauma and How Counselling Can Help: A Guide for People in Newfoundland and Labrador
Trauma can take many forms. It isn’t always a single, dramatic event—sometimes it’s ongoing experiences, such as bullying, neglect, abuse, or prolonged stress. For people in Newfoundland and Labrador, trauma can also be shaped by the unique aspects of life in our communities: loss of employment, sudden life changes, natural disasters, or the ripple effects of isolation in small towns.
No matter the source, trauma affects the body, the mind, and often relationships. Feeling stuck, anxious, numb, or on edge can be normal reactions—but you don’t have to navigate them alone. Counselling provides a safe space to process experiences, understand patterns, and develop ways to feel grounded and supported again.
What Is Trauma?
Trauma isn’t just what happens to you—it’s how your mind and body respond. Two people can experience the same event and react very differently. Some common effects include:
Difficulty sleeping or frequent nightmares
Heightened anxiety or irritability
Difficulty trusting others or forming close relationships
Emotional numbness or feeling disconnected
Intrusive thoughts or flashbacks
Avoidance of certain places, people, or situations
Recognizing these responses as normal reactions to abnormal experiences is the first step toward healing. Counselling doesn’t erase what happened, but it helps you understand and integrate your experiences in ways that reduce their power over your life.
Why People Hesitate to Seek Help
Many people struggle with the idea of talking about trauma. Common concerns include:
Fear of being judged or blamed
Worry that counselling will be overwhelming
Belief that trauma should be “forgotten” or “pushed aside”
Feeling that therapy is only for “serious” cases
In Newfoundland and Labrador, small communities can amplify these concerns. People may worry about privacy, running into someone they know, or feeling exposed in a setting where everyone knows each other. These fears are valid—but they can be addressed in the counselling process, and many people find that the benefits far outweigh the initial anxiety.
How Counselling for Trauma Works
Trauma counselling is different from simply talking about stress or day-to-day worries. It’s a structured, collaborative process aimed at helping you process experiences safely and develop coping strategies. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Building Safety and Trust
The first focus is always creating a safe environment. You and your counsellor will establish boundaries, pace, and comfort levels. Feeling secure is the foundation for any healing work.
2. Understanding Trauma Responses
Counsellors help you recognize patterns in your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors that stem from trauma. This understanding can be empowering—it helps normalize reactions and reduces self-blame.
3. Learning Coping and Grounding Strategies
Counselling provides practical tools to manage anxiety, flashbacks, or emotional overwhelm. Techniques may include mindfulness, relaxation exercises, or structured approaches to gradually facing difficult memories.
4. Processing Trauma
When you’re ready, counselling supports exploring and making sense of your experiences. This might involve talking through memories, exploring emotions, or finding ways to integrate the experience into your life story without being overwhelmed by it.
5. Rebuilding and Growth
Healing doesn’t mean forgetting—it means reclaiming your life. Counselling can help restore trust, improve relationships, and build resilience for the future.
In-Person vs Online Trauma Counselling in Newfoundland
Geography and community size can influence how people access trauma counselling. In-person sessions offer direct connection and a dedicated space for processing experiences. Online counselling, meanwhile, can provide privacy, convenience, and access for those living in more remote areas.
Many clients find that online sessions offer the same level of safety and support as in-person sessions, while also allowing flexibility around schedules, travel, or personal comfort levels. Whether in person or online, the focus is on creating a space where you feel heard, understood, and supported.
Myths About Trauma Counselling
Addressing misconceptions can make counselling more approachable:
“I’ll be forced to relive the trauma.” Counselling is paced according to your readiness. You won’t be pushed to explore anything before you feel safe.
“Only people with extreme trauma need therapy.” Trauma is personal, and even experiences that others might see as minor can have significant impacts. Counselling is for anyone affected.
“Talking about it will make me worse.” Counselling teaches strategies to process trauma safely, reducing distress over time rather than increasing it.
“I should be able to handle it on my own.” Support is a sign of strength. Trauma counselling equips you with tools and understanding that self-reliance alone often can’t provide.
How to Know if Trauma Counselling Is Right for You
You might consider trauma counselling if you notice ongoing distress or difficulties in your life, such as:
Persistent anxiety, fear, or hypervigilance
Trouble sleeping or concentrating
Avoidance of certain places, people, or memories
Difficulty maintaining relationships
Feeling emotionally numb or disconnected
Even if you’re unsure, reaching out for an initial conversation can provide clarity. Counselling is flexible and collaborative—you guide what you need from the process.
Taking the First Step
Starting trauma counselling can feel daunting, but it’s also a courageous step toward reclaiming your life. You don’t have to have everything figured out or be in crisis to reach out.
At Landmark Counselling in Bay Roberts, we provide confidential trauma counselling both in person and online across Newfoundland and Labrador. Our approach is compassionate, paced according to your readiness, and designed to help you feel safe, supported, and understood.
If you’re ready to explore how counselling can help you process trauma and begin healing, we invite you to contact us or book an appointment today.