Contact joan

Use the form on the right to send me a quick note.

I will contact you within 24 hours so that we can discuss your situation and explore how we may work together.

4200 Montrose Boulevard, Suite 550
Houston, TX, 77006
United States

(713) 376-9822

Child, teen and family therapy in Houston, TX. Joan's specializations include: ADD/ADHD, Anxiety, LGBT Issues, Abuse Issues, Adjustment Issues, Depression, Eating Disorders, School Trouble, Learning Disabilities, Trauma, Behavioral Problems, and Self-Mutilation. 

Trauma

 About Trauma

Trauma can have a profound impact on an individual's emotional, physical, and psychological well-being. Whether stemming from a single distressing event or ongoing exposure to harmful situations, trauma can disrupt one’s sense of safety, trust, and self-worth. The effects of trauma vary widely, including symptoms like anxiety, depression, emotional numbness, flashbacks, hypervigilance, and difficulties in relationships. Trauma can arise from experiences such as physical or emotional abuse, neglect, accidents, natural disasters, or witnessing violence, and it can significantly alter how individuals perceive the world and interact with others.

Acute Trauma is the result of a single, distressing event that overwhelms an individual’s ability to cope. This could include a car accident, a physical assault, or the sudden loss of a loved one.

Chronic Trauma occurs when a person is exposed to multiple, long-term, or prolonged traumatic events. Examples include ongoing abuse, domestic violence, or living in a war zone.

Complex Trauma often results from exposure to multiple traumatic events, usually of an invasive, interpersonal nature. It is typically associated with childhood abuse, neglect, or chronic domestic violence, and it can deeply affect a person’s development and sense of self.

My Approach

In my practice, I use a combination of evidence-based therapeutic techniques to support individuals who have experienced trauma. I integrate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Family Therapy, and Mindfulness practices to address the multifaceted effects of trauma. CBT helps clients identify and challenge the negative thought patterns and beliefs that often arise from traumatic experiences, allowing them to regain a sense of control. DBT provides essential tools for managing intense emotions, improving distress tolerance, and building healthier relationships. Family Therapy plays a crucial role in healing by improving communication, understanding, and support within the family unit. Additionally, Mindfulness practices help clients stay grounded in the present moment, reduce anxiety, and enhance their resilience in the face of trauma.

Outcomes

Through therapy, clients can expect to develop healthier coping mechanisms, reduce trauma-related symptoms, and regain a sense of safety and empowerment. My approach focuses on fostering emotional healing, enhancing self-esteem, and rebuilding trust in oneself and others. I strive to create a supportive and collaborative therapeutic environment where clients feel safe to explore their experiences and work towards recovery. By actively participating in the therapeutic process, clients can begin to heal from their trauma and build a fulfilling life beyond their past experiences.