During trauma the nervous system is pushed into ‘survival mode’. This has large and sometimes lasting impacts on physical, emotional, spiritual, and mental well-being and it is shaped by a person’s sociocultural context and history. A person's trauma history can impact their physical body, whether that is the physical manifestations of trauma (including developing chronic pain, experiencing emotional distress or avoidance, having decreased mobility and increased tension, and being more susceptible to future injury), injury from a trauma, or past events that impact the patient’s well-being but are unrelated to their reason for seeking physiotherapy. Trauma-informed physiotherapy takes all of this into consideration from assessment through treatment.

Trauma-informed physiotherapy can address this by providing a safe, supportive, confidential, individualized, and holistic approach to care, taking into account your physical symptoms and your emotional and psychological well-being. These physiotherapists approach patients with empathy and a deep understanding of the effects of trauma on the body and mind. They have specialized training and experience working with trauma survivors and prioritize safety, support, trust, transparency, and patient autonomy. They recognize and respond to the effects of trauma and work collaboratively with patients and adapt to their unique physical, mental, and emotional needs.

Yes! One of the best things about trauma-informed physiotherapy is that it can be effective with everyone because it is designed to adapt to your specific needs. You do not need to have trauma to benefit from a safe, supportive, confidential, individualized, and holistic approach that takes into account your physical symptoms and your emotional and psychological well-being.

The first sessions with a trauma-informed physiotherapist are focused on the patient and creating a safe and supportive environment where trust can be built over time. Beginning this process can include asking about any triggers or difficulties and taking time to understand the patient as a whole person, including their trauma history, support systems, healthcare experiences, and understanding any other factors that might be affecting their physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional health. Usually a brief physical exam is done, but is not always necessary in the first session. From all this information, the trauma-informed physiotherapist will work with the patient to create an initial treatment plan tailored to their individual needs and goals with interventions to manage symptoms and regain function, along with resources for self-care or additional care.

pictures & video tour COMING SOON

Send me an email at sabrina@physiotherapist@gmail.com