Healing Childhood Trauma: How Therapy Can Rebuild Self-Trust by Jennifer Eubank LPC-Associate
Childhood trauma can leave lasting marks on how kids view themselves and the world. When children experience difficult events—like loss, neglect, or feeling unsafe—it can disrupt their sense of security and confidence. Often, trauma shapes how they see not only themselves but also others, leading to feelings of mistrust or fear in relationships. They may become guarded, expecting disappointment or rejection, which can make it harder for them to open up or rely on others.
Therapy offers a pathway to healing by creating a safe space where children can express their emotions and experiences without judgment. One powerful approach is play therapy, which allows kids to process feelings through play rather than words. Through this form of therapy, children begin to make sense of their experiences at their own pace, gently uncovering and working through the emotions connected to their trauma.
Why Self-Trust Matters
Self-trust helps children feel confident in their choices and resilient in the face of setbacks. When trauma undermines this trust, children may second-guess themselves, feel overly dependent on others, or avoid taking risks. In some cases, they may also develop a belief that others cannot be trusted, reinforcing isolation. Rebuilding self-trust not only helps children feel capable but also opens the door to trusting others, allowing them to form stronger, healthier relationships.
How Therapy Supports Rebuilding Self-Trust
1. Providing a Safe and Predictable Environment
Consistency and safety are essential for healing. In therapy, children experience a space where their feelings are valid and accepted. This predictability helps rebuild a sense of stability, allowing them to let down their guard and rebuild trust in others gradually.
2. Empowering Children Through Choice
Therapists often let children guide sessions, whether through choosing activities or deciding how to engage. This reinforces the message that their voice matters and that they are capable of making decisions, strengthening their confidence over time.
3. Helping Kids Reframe Their Experiences
Through gentle reflection and connection, therapists help children understand that what happened to them isn’t their fault. By shifting these narratives, kids can begin to see themselves and others in a more positive light, fostering both self-compassion and trust in relationships.
The Path to Growth Healing childhood trauma takes time, but with the right support, children can rediscover their inner strength. Therapy not only helps kids process difficult emotions but also guides them toward rebuilding trust in themselves and others, laying the foundation for healthier relationships and a more confident future.