Healing Through Trauma: Finding Your Path Forward
At The Porch Swing KC, we believe that healing is not a straight path—it’s more like sitting on a swing, moving back and forth, gently finding your rhythm. Trauma can shake the foundation of how we see ourselves and the world, but with time, support, and intentional practices, healing is possible.
Understanding Trauma
Trauma is the body and mind’s natural response to overwhelming experiences—moments when we felt unsafe, powerless, or deeply hurt. Trauma can come from many places:
Childhood neglect or abuse
Loss or grief
Accidents, medical events, or natural disasters
Experiences of violence
Long-term stress in unsafe environments
It’s important to remember that trauma isn’t about how “big” or “small” an event was. What matters is how it impacts you.
Tips for Healing Through Trauma
Healing doesn’t happen overnight, but small steps can begin to restore safety and connection. Here are some tools that may help:
1. Ground Yourself in the Present
Trauma often pulls us back into the past. Simple grounding techniques can remind your body and mind that you are safe now. Try:
Naming five things you can see, four you can touch, three you can hear, two you can smell, and one you can taste.
Placing your feet on the ground and noticing the support beneath you.
Taking slow, steady breaths.
2. Build a Support System
Trauma can make us want to isolate, but connection is a powerful part of healing. Reach out to safe, supportive people who can listen without judgment—whether that’s a trusted friend, family member, or therapist.
3. Honor Your Body
Our bodies often carry the weight of trauma. Gentle movement (like stretching, yoga, or walking) and paying attention to rest, nutrition, and hydration can help regulate your nervous system.
4. Practice Self-Compassion
Healing is not linear. There will be days when you feel strong and days when old wounds resurface. Be patient with yourself—progress is often measured in small, quiet steps.
5. Seek Professional Support
Sometimes, trauma requires more than self-help strategies. Therapies like EMDR, somatic experiencing, and trauma-focused CBT can help process painful memories and restore balance. At The Porch Swing KC, our therapists are trained to walk with you through this work at your own pace.
Local Resources in Kansas City
If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma, here are some helpful resources in the KC metro area:
University Health Behavioral Health – Crisis care, outpatient therapy, group and individual services. universityhealthkc.org
Wyandot Behavioral Health Network – Outpatient therapy, crisis stabilization, youth and adult crisis services. wyandotcenter.org
Beacon Mental Health – Serving Eastern Jackson County with psychiatric care and community supports. beaconmentalhealth.org
NAMI Greater Kansas City – Free support groups, peer-led groups, and education for individuals and families. namigreaterkc.org
Crisis Hotlines
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline – Call or text anytime, day or night.
Local Crisis Line (KC Metro): (888) 279-8188
You Are Not Alone
Healing from trauma takes courage, but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether you’re beginning your journey or continuing down the path, know that support is available. At The Porch Swing KC, I believe healing happens best when you feel safe, seen, and supported—like sitting on a porch swing with someone you trust by your side. There’s room for you here on The Porch Swing where healing happens.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your healing, reach out to Carrie through the contact page to connect.
