Trauma is a natural response to experiences that feel overwhelming, threatening, or harmful; such as abuse, neglect, abandonment, accidents, illness, or witnessing violence. Trauma can affect the nervous system, influencing emotional regulation, attention, memory, and how a young person relates to themselves and others.

Common trauma responses may include anxiety, agitation, withdrawal, aggression, inattention, or emotional numbness. These reactions are not signs that something is “wrong,” but rather the body’s attempt to protect itself.

In my work, I help youth understand that their responses to trauma are normal and adaptive. Through expressive arts therapy, I support nervous system regulation and healing by offering repetitive, sensory-based experiences such as painting, mandala work, mosaic, drumming, and movement. These practices help reduce trauma-related arousal, restore a sense of safety in the body, and rebuild confidence and self-trust.

For many youth, trauma is difficult to express with words alone. The expressive arts provide a new, symbolic language; allowing experiences to be explored gently, at a safe distance, and at the client’s own pace. This process supports meaning-making, resilience, and a renewed sense of agency.