Understanding the Link Between Trauma & Anxiety in Holistic Therapy

Trauma and anxiety are deeply interconnected. They effect us on emotional, mental, and even physical levels. Trauma leaves a lasting imprint on the brain and body. It might stem from a single overwhelming event or prolonged exposure to distress. Anxiety often arises in our lives as a response to unresolved trauma. It creates patterns of fear and hypervigilance that can be difficult to break.

Understanding this link is crucial for those seeking to heal. The best trauma therapist will combine innovative therapeutic approaches to address both. At Rezak Therapy we often blend Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) when working with clients experiencing anxiety due to childhood trauma. These approaches offer promising pathways for addressing the deep-rooted wounds of trauma. They also address the persistent anxiety that unresolved trauma can generate.

The Relationship Between Trauma & Anxiety

Trauma disrupts the brain’s natural equilibrium. When we experience a traumatic event, our bodies activate a survival response. Fight, flight, or freeze responses are designed to protect us from immediate danger. Humans often don't process their traumas effectively. When that happens, these survival mechanisms can remain stuck in overdrive. This heightened state of arousal manifests as anxiety. The symptoms include restlessness, racing thoughts, and a constant sense of dread.

Trauma can take many forms. Some involve acute incidents like car accidents or assaults. Others involve chronic experiences like childhood neglect or emotional abuse. The severity of the resulting anxiety often depends on three factors. First, the nature of the trauma. Second, the individual’s resilience. And third, the presence of supportive relationships during recovery. Not everyone who experiences trauma develops anxiety. However, unresolved trauma does increase the likelihood of developing an anxiety disorder.

Internal Family Systems (IFS): Healing the Inner Parts

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a therapeutic model developed by Dr. Richard Schwartz. It offers a unique perspective on how trauma affects the psyche. According to IFS, within each of us are multiple “parts.” Each part has its own roles, feelings, and functions. Trauma can create a fragmented inner world. Certain parts become burdened by extreme roles to protect the individual from further harm.

1. Protective Parts. These parts act as guardians, working tirelessly to shield the person from pain. For example, one part may induce hypervigilance to avoid future harm. Another might suppress emotions to maintain a sense of control.

2. Exiled Parts. Traumatic experiences often result in parts of the self being exiled. These parts carry the raw pain, fear, or shame from the trauma. They hide to prevent overwhelm.

3. The Self. At the core of the IFS model is the Self. Self is a compassionate, curious, and confident, natural leader of the internal system.

Healing is a two part process. First is reconnecting with the Self. Next is unburdening the parts from their extreme roles. IFS provides a structured process for identifying and addressing these internal dynamics. When our protective and exiled parts build relationships with one another, we can begin to release the pain of trauma. This, in turn, alleviates the anxiety tied to these inner conflicts.

Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT): Restoring Emotional Bonds

Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) was developed in Canada by Dr. Sue Johnson. EFT is another powerful approach for addressing the impacts of trauma and anxiety. IFS focuses on internal relationships. EFT emphasizes the importance of external relationships and emotional connection.

Trauma often disrupts our ability to form secure attachments. This can leave us feeling isolated or mistrustful. This lack of connection can exacerbate anxiety. As humans we are biologically-wired to seek safety and comfort in close relationships. EFT aims to repair these bonds. It helps individuals and couples create secure, supportive connections. Three foundational components contribute to the effectiveness of EFT.

1. Attachment Theory Basis. EFT is rooted in attachment theory. This theory suggests early attachment experiences shape our ability to connect with others. Trauma can create insecure attachment patterns. For example, avoidance or anxious dependence, which perpetuate feelings of instability.

2. Identifying Emotional Patterns. EFT helps us recognize negative interaction cycles. Then it explores to the unmet emotional needs underlying them. For example, a person might lash out in anger because they feel abandoned. This behavior pushes their partner further away, reinforcing the cycle.

3. Fostering Emotional Safety. EFT therapists create a safe space that encourages us to express our deepest fears and needs. This openness fosters mutual understanding and strengthens emotional bonds. Anxiety rooted in disconnection begins to decrease.

The Neurological Impact of Trauma & Anxiety

Both IFS and EFT acknowledge the neurological basis of trauma and anxiety. Advances in neuroscience reveal how trauma alters brain function. Three primary areas of the brain are involved.

1. Amygdala. The brain’s fear center becomes hyperactive after trauma. This leads to heightened sensitivity to perceived threats.

2. Hippocampus. Trauma can impair the hippocampus, which processes memories. This dysfunction can cause intrusive memories or flashbacks, fueling anxiety.

3. Prefrontal Cortex. Trauma diminishes the prefrontal cortex’s ability to regulate emotional responses. Emotional dysregulation makes it harder to calm down during moments of stress.

Therapies like IFS and EFT help rewire these neural pathways. By addressing the emotional roots of trauma and fostering safety, they promote brain plasticity.

Integrating IFS & EFT: A Holistic Approach to Trauma Therapy

Combining the strengths of IFS and EFT can provide a comprehensive healing experience. While IFS focuses on internal harmony, EFT emphasizes external connection. Together, they address the multifaceted nature of trauma and anxiety.

1. Self-Compassion and Connection. IFS teaches us to approach our internal struggles with compassion. EFT reinforces the importance of seeking support from others. This dual focus helps individuals feel grounded in themselves and in their relationships.

2. Addressing Relational Trauma. Trauma often occurs in the context of relationships. Common examples include neglect, abuse, and betrayal. EFT helps repair relational wounds. IFS ensures that internalized pain is also acknowledged and released.

3. Building Resilience. Both models emphasize empowerment. IFS fosters a sense of internal leadership. EFT builds external support systems. Both equip us with the tools to navigate future challenges.

Practical Steps for Healing Trauma

Professional therapy for anxiety and trauma is invaluable. While you think about starting therapy, here are five practical tips to get your healing journey underway.

1. Educate Yourself. Read books, attend workshops, or listen to podcasts about trauma and anxiety.

2. Express Creatively. Art, music, or other creative activities allow for emotional release. The creative process provides a deeper connection with yourself.

3. Nature Therapy. Spend time outdoors. Walking barefoot in the grass can have a grounding and soothing effect on the nervous system.

4. Daily Routines. Establish consistent routines. Consistency helps create a sense of stability and control in day-to-day life.

5. Connect with Loved Ones. Share feelings with trusted friends or family members. This type of connection builds emotional resilience and combats loneliness.

Moving Forward with Hope

The link between trauma and anxiety is undeniable. Therapeutic approaches like IFS and EFT honor the complexity of human emotions and relationships. They pay attention to both internal and external dimensions of trauma. In anxiety therapy in Pasadena you can start to break free from the cycle of anxiety.

Recovery is a journey, not a destination. It requires courage to explore the depths of one’s inner world and relational patterns. Our holistic anxiety therapists want to support you. We know it is possible to transform pain into resilience. To melt fear into connection. To pave the way for a life of greater peace and fulfillment.

Ready to Re-Wire the Brain in Trauma Therapy in Pasadena, California?

Are you yearning to stop patterns of anxiety stemming from trauma? Is it time to begin a transformative journey towards a more joyful way of being in the world? Discover the power of both Internal Family Systems parts work and the relational healing of Emotionally-Focused Therapy with results-oriented trauma therapy at Rezak Therapy in Pasadena, CA. Take the first step towards claiming your freedom from unhelpful patterns and living a more fulfilling life. Follow these three simple steps to get started:

1.  Schedule a free 15-minute consultation to see if Trauma Therapy is right for you

2. Begin meeting with a skilled trauma therapist

3. Start creating a new life with freedom from past traumatic experiences.

Other Services Offered at Rezak Therapy in Pasadena, CA

At Rezak Therapy, we’re here to help you find a path to your most fulfilling life. In addition to Trauma Healing to help you break old patterns that no longer serve you, we also offer services for those seeking personal growth through depth psychotherapy, marriage counseling for couples wanting to rebuild trust after betrayal, and The Artists Way Workshop which is a 12-week adventure of artistic discovery and personal exploration. For more on the psychology of trauma and our other services check out our blog!