At Shanti Recovery and Wellness, we believe that healing begins with compassion. Every story of trauma is different, but one thing is consistent: trauma leaves a mark. Whether the wound is fresh or decades old, trauma can shape the way we think, feel, and live. That’s why our team is committed to offering trauma treatment in Portland that’s grounded in empathy, respect, and collaboration. You are not broken, and you are not alone. Healing is possible, and it can begin today.
About Trauma
Trauma isn’t just what happens to you, it’s how your body and mind respond to overwhelming experiences. These events can range from a single incident to chronic stressors, like childhood neglect or emotional abuse. Trauma doesn’t look the same for everyone. What affects one person deeply might not have the same impact on another, and that’s okay.
When your nervous system becomes overwhelmed, it struggles to return to a calm state. That’s when trauma takes root. You may find yourself stuck in survival mode, constantly on edge, emotionally numb, or disconnected from your own body. Trauma affects your sense of safety in the world and in your own skin. And without support, it can continue to shape your choices, relationships, and mental health.
Common Root Causes of Trauma
Trauma can stem from many sources. Some are obvious and dramatic. Others are more subtle but no less damaging. Here are some common experiences that may lead to trauma:
- Physical or sexual assault
- Childhood abuse or neglect
- Loss of a loved one
- Domestic violence
- Natural disasters
- Car accidents or other life-threatening incidents
- Medical trauma or chronic illness
- Combat or exposure to war
- Emotional abuse or abandonment
- Witnessing violence or substance abuse in the home
At Shanti Recovery and Wellness, we understand that trauma doesn’t need to be “big” to be valid. Even long periods of feeling unsafe, unseen, or unloved can leave deep emotional scars. Your pain matters, no matter its origin.
Signs You Might Be Living With Trauma
Many people live with trauma for years without realizing it. Trauma can show up in ways that look like anxiety, depression, or even physical symptoms. It might influence how you cope, connect, or move through daily life. Here are some common signs that trauma may be impacting your life:
- Persistent anxiety or fear
- Flashbacks or intrusive memories
- Feeling numb or disconnected
- Avoidance of certain people, places, or activities
- Difficulty trusting others
- Emotional outbursts or irritability
- Sleep issues or nightmares
- Hypervigilance (feeling constantly on alert)
- Shame or low self-worth
- Substance use to numb or escape feelings
These symptoms aren’t signs of weakness; they’re survival strategies. They were your brain and body’s way of protecting you. But when they start to get in the way of living fully, it’s time to reach out for support.
Who is Most Affected by Trauma?
Trauma can affect people of any age, background, or life stage. However, certain groups may be more vulnerable due to their environment, identity, or past experiences, such as children and adolescents, survivors of abuse or violence, first responders and veterans, BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities, and people with co-occurring disorders.
Additionally, studies show that minority youth are more likely to be impacted by trauma, especially when facing challenges like generational trauma, immigration-related stress, discrimination, family or community violence, and exposure to disasters, both natural and human-caused.
At Shanti Recovery and Wellness, we meet each person where they are. Our trauma treatment in Portland acknowledges the diverse experiences that shape our clients’ lives. We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all model, because healing looks different for everyone.
Our Compassionate Approach to Trauma Treatment
What makes our trauma therapy in Portland different? We lead with compassion, not judgment. We operate from a non-punishment model. Whether you’re using substances, withdrawing emotionally, or struggling to maintain relationships, we understand these as signs of distress, not moral failings. Instead of trying to “fix” you, we help you reconnect with your strengths and inner resilience.
Adolescent Psychiatry
Adolescent Psychiatry offers young people a safe and empathetic space to navigate trauma, mood disorders, and emotional challenges. Our team specializes in working with teens through an understanding, non-judgmental lens, focusing on building trust and communication. Whether your teen is dealing with anxiety, depression, or behavioral concerns, we provide trauma-informed psychiatric care that supports their mental health and development.
Adult Psychiatry
Through our Adult Psychiatry services, we offer compassionate, evidence-based support for trauma-related mental health conditions. Our psychiatric providers take the time to understand your full story, not just your symptoms. We collaborate with you to explore medication options when appropriate and help stabilize your mental and emotional well-being. Each treatment plan is created with care, offering you space to heal at your own pace.
TMS Therapy
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive treatment that offers real relief for people struggling with trauma-related depression and anxiety. TMS uses gentle magnetic pulses to stimulate parts of the brain associated with mood regulation, without the side effects of medication. It’s especially helpful for individuals who haven’t found success with traditional therapies alone.
Suboxone Treatment
Trauma and substance use often go hand in hand. Our Suboxone Treatment program supports individuals navigating opioid addiction with compassion and dignity. We use Suboxone as a safe and effective part of treatment, reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms so you can focus on healing the root causes of your pain. This isn’t just about getting off substances; it’s about helping you reclaim your life.
The Power of Community in Healing
Healing doesn’t have to happen in isolation. At Shanti, we believe in the power of connection. Many people with trauma feel alone in their pain, but community support can be deeply healing. Our trauma treatment in Portland emphasizes peer connection, supportive relationships, and a sense of belonging. Whether you’re working with a therapist, psychiatrist, or support group, our team is here to walk alongside you.
You don’t have to do it all at once. Healing happens in small, brave steps. And we’ll be here for every one of them.
How Family Can Support a Loved One Struggling with Trauma
Supporting a family member living with trauma can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure how to help. Aside from trauma therapy in Portland, here are some meaningful ways you can offer support while honoring their healing process:
- Listen without judgment: Sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is simply be there. Let your loved one speak at their own pace, and resist the urge to “fix” or rush their healing.
- Avoid minimizing their experience: Trauma can be invisible. Avoid saying things like “it could have been worse” or “just move on.”
- Educate yourself about trauma: Learning how trauma affects the brain, emotions, and relationships can help you respond with more empathy.
- Encourage professional help, without pressure: Gently suggest trauma-informed therapy, but let them take the lead. Offer support with practical steps.
- Be patient with the process: Healing is not linear. Some days may look like progress, others like setbacks. Let them know you’re there through it all, not just when things seem better.
- Maintain healthy boundaries: Supporting someone through trauma can be emotionally demanding. It’s okay to set boundaries to protect your own well-being.
- Stay connected: Isolation can make trauma worse. Even small check-ins, shared meals, or time together can help your loved one feel safe and cared for. Remind them, in words and actions, that they are not a burden.
Start Your Healing Journey Today With Trauma Treatment in Portland
If you’re living with the effects of trauma, know this: you’re not beyond help. You don’t have to keep surviving; you can start living. With the right support, your nervous system can find balance again. Your relationships can feel safe again. You can come home to yourself.
Shanti Recovery and Wellness offers trauma treatment in Portland that’s grounded in care, collaboration, and deep respect for your experience. Whether you’re seeking therapy, psychiatric support, or integrated care for co-occurring disorders, we’re here to help.
Connect with us now and let today be the day you take the first step toward recovery.
