250 Baker Drive, Suite 222
Dartmouth, NS  B2W 6L4

Healing from Trauma

Trauma results from exposure to an incident or series of events that are emotionally disturbing or life-threatening with lasting adverse effects on one’s functioning and mental, physical, social, emotional, and/or spiritual well-being.

Regardless of the type of trauma a person has experienced, traumatic experiences can impact relationships, as well as one’s emotional and physical health. When a person experiences trauma, he or she may feel unsafe, betrayed, or have difficulty trusting others. This can lead to heightened emotions, such as anger or aggression, or a tendency toward shame, numbing, or isolation.

They may struggle to respond appropriately to situations that would otherwise appear normal and non-threatening. This partly explains why many adult trauma survivors struggle with depression, anxiety, and other issues related to emotional regulation. These resulting mental health issues can contribute to long-term difficulties maintaining healthy relationships, and lead to problems at school and/or work.

Protective factors, such as supportive relationships, can help shield individuals from the effects of trauma and build resilience to help overcome adversity and confront challenges. Processing trauma takes time and patience, but is possible with careful guidance from an experienced and trauma-informed counsellor.
Divder. Trauma.

Treating Trauma and PTSD in First Responders and Veterans

First Responders and Veterans have been exposed to some of the most horrible situations life has to offer, to protect the rest of us from having to face these experiences. Because of this, many First Responders and Veterans require mental health support and treatment, but may be reluctant to access help due to stigma, fear of vulnerability, or a belief that therapists may not understand their work culture.

Brightside therapists can help First Responders and Veterans at any stage of their career – either preventatively to build resilience, or to address symptoms of PTSD long after the fact. We prioritize confidentiality, trust and understanding of the First Responder or Military culture, which may entail a direct approach, and listening to shocking stories, or “dark” humour, without being rattled. As trauma affects the mind, body and spirit, treatment addresses these factors to promote healing, and many clients find it beneficial to combine therapy with the other modalities we offer.

The families of First Responders and Veterans are also impacted by their loved one’s trauma and may be struggling with feelings of isolation, exhaustion, fear or frustration. Brightside therapists can help support family members in working through these feelings and to help increase their sense of self-confidence, control and independence going forward.

*Brightside works with VAC, CAF and EHS and provides EFAP/WCB services to HRP and HRF.
*Therapists are able to provide assessments and reports, if requested.