TRAUMA & CHILDHOOD WOUNDING THERAPY
Trauma Therapy in Ottawa
Pain from the past often shows up in the present in ways we do not always understand. You might appear calm on the outside yet feel unsettled inside, or notice that certain situations, interactions, or relationships stir emotions that feel larger than the situation warrants.
At Ottawa Therapy Collective, we help you make sense of these reactions and guide you toward a steadier, more compassionate relationship with yourself.
When the Past Still Feels Present
Even when years have passed, your body can continue to hold memories of distress. You may freeze or shut down in tense moments, feel anxious without knowing why, or find that old fears appear in new relationships. These responses are not signs of weakness. They are the nervous system’s way of trying to protect you from further hurt.
Through trauma therapy, you will begin to notice what your body is communicating and learn to respond with curiosity rather than self-criticism. Gradually, safety and trust can replace patterns of fear and self-blame.
The effects of early relational trauma often linger quietly in adulthood. Many people grow up believing they must achieve to be loved, hide their feelings to stay safe, or please others to avoid rejection. While these habits once protected you, they can now leave you anxious, drained, or disconnected from your true self.
Common Signs of Unresolved Childhood Trauma
Difficulty trusting others or setting boundaries
Feeling emotionally detached or numb
Ongoing anxiety or restlessness
Harsh inner critic or constant shame
Repeating painful relationship patterns
Recognizing these patterns with compassion opens the door to genuine change.
What Healing Can Look Like
Therapy offers a place to slow down, reconnect, and begin to build safety within. As your nervous system settles, you may find that emotions feel less overwhelming and that your inner dialogue becomes kinder. Many clients notice greater confidence, improved relationships, and a deeper sense of calm. Healing is not about erasing the past but learning that it no longer defines who you are today.
How Childhood Wounds Shape Adult Life
Our Approach to Trauma Therapy
At Ottawa Therapy Collective, we specialize in trauma therapy in Ottawa that integrates IFS therapy, nervous system regulation, and trauma-informed counselling for a holistic and lasting impact.
Internal Family Systems (IFS)
IFS therapy helps you understand the different parts of yourself, such as protective, wounded, and resilient inner voices. Instead of silencing them, we approach each part with curiosity and respect. This process allows healing to unfold from within and helps you reconnect with confidence and balance.
Nervous System Regulation
We pay close attention to how your body responds to stress. Using polyvagal and somatic techniques, you will learn to calm your nervous system, recognize triggers, and rebuild a sense of internal safety. This supports both emotional and physiological recovery.
Trauma-Informed and Relational
Every session moves at a pace that feels right for you. Our therapists provide a compassionate, non-pathologizing space where your story is treated with care. Whether you are exploring relational trauma Ottawa, attachment trauma, or complex trauma support, therapy becomes a collaborative process of rediscovering stability and connection.
Why Choose Ottawa Therapy Collective
Trauma affects the body, emotions, and relationships all at once. Our therapists bring advanced training in IFS, attachment theory, and nervous-system-informed methods to guide recovery gently and effectively.
Located in Ottawa, we offer both in-person and secure online sessions for clients across Ontario. Here, therapy is not about labels or diagnoses but about understanding your experiences with warmth and respect.
Begin Trauma Therapy in Ottawa
You do not need to face the weight of the past on your own. Taking one small step towards understanding your story can lead to lasting relief.
Contact Ottawa Therapy Collective to arrange your first appointment or to learn more about how our approach to trauma therapy can help you. We provide both in-person and online sessions throughout Ottawa and across Ontario.
FAQs About Trauma Therapy in Ottawa
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It focuses on how the body and mind store distress, using IFS and nervous-system methods for safe processing.
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Signs may include repeated patterns, anxiety, numbness, or harsh self-criticism.
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Sessions move at your pace, exploring feelings, parts of self, and grounding techniques.
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It varies. Some feel better in months; others continue longer for deeper healing.
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Many plans cover Registered Psychotherapists. Receipts are provided for reimbursemen
Reach out for a complimentary 20-minute telephone consultation
We’ll explore the reasons for seeking support and discuss any questions or concerns you may have.