Why Trauma Changes How You See Yourself
Trauma shapes self-beliefs—CPT reshapes them.
As a trauma-informed therapist with over two decades of experience, I’ve sat with people who feel deeply confused by the way trauma has changed them. Many arrive saying things like, “I don’t recognize myself anymore,” or “I used to feel confident—now I feel broken.” Trauma has a powerful way of reshaping how we see ourselves, others, and the world. It can quietly rewrite our inner story. The good news is this: those stories are not permanent. Evidence-based trauma therapy—including CPT therapy, EMDR therapy, Prolonged Exposure, and Trauma-Focused CBT—can help you gently understand what happened and reclaim a sense of identity after trauma. Whether you’re seeking trauma therapy in Beachwood, Ohio, Cleveland, Ohio, Columbus, Ohio, or as far as Charlotte, North Carolina or Jacksonville, Florida, healing is possible. ---
What Is Trauma, Really?
Trauma isn’t defined by the event itself—it’s defined by how your nervous system experiences and remembers it. Trauma can come from a single incident or repeated experiences over time. It can also be something others might minimize, even though it deeply affected you.
Common ways trauma can show up include:
• Anxiety or panic
• Triggers that seem to come “out of nowhere”
• Intrusive thoughts or unwanted memories
• Changes in sleep or appetite
• Emotional numbness or feeling detached
• Avoidance of people, places, or conversations
• A harsh inner critic or shame-based beliefs
When trauma goes unprocessed, it often leads to distorted beliefs like “I’m not safe,” “It was my fault,” or “I’m unworthy.” Trauma therapy helps address these beliefs at their root.
How Trauma Affects Identity After Trauma
One of the most painful impacts of trauma is how it changes your relationship with yourself. You may feel weaker, more reactive, or disconnected from who you used to be. Many survivors describe losing trust in their own judgment or feeling fundamentally different. CPT therapy, in particular, focuses on how trauma affects beliefs about safety, trust, power, control, esteem, and intimacy. Rather than reliving the trauma endlessly, CPT helps you make sense of it in a compassionate and empowering way.
If you’d like a deeper look at why CPT is so effective for reshaping trauma-based self-beliefs (including guilt, shame, and self-blame), this may be helpful: 7 Reasons Why Cognitive Processing Therapy is Effective for Trauma https://ascensioncounseling.com/7-reasons-why-cognitive-processing-therapy-is-effective-for-trauma
Evidence-Based Trauma Therapies That Help
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to traumatic stress. Below are four well-researched trauma therapy options used in locations like Beachwood, Ohio; Dayton, Ohio; Detroit, Michigan; Columbus, Ohio; Charlotte, North Carolina; and throughout Florida, including Tampa, Miami, Orlando, Gainesville, and Jacksonville.
EMDR Therapy
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) helps the brain reprocess traumatic memories so they no longer feel overwhelming.
What it is:
EMDR uses bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, to help the brain process trauma that got “stuck.”
Who it’s a good fit for:
People who feel overwhelmed by memories or want trauma therapy without extensive verbal detail. Many individuals searching for “EMDR therapy near me” appreciate this approach.
To learn more about how EMDR supports trauma recovery (including shifting negative self-beliefs), visit our EMDR Therapy specialty page: https://ascensioncounseling.com/emdr-therapy
What a session may look like:
• Identifying a memory and related beliefs
• Using bilateral stimulation to process the memory
• Noticing shifts in emotional and physical responses
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT Therapy)
CPT therapy focuses on how trauma affects thoughts and beliefs.
What it is:
A structured, time-limited approach that helps you identify and challenge unhelpful trauma-related beliefs.
Who it’s a good fit for:
Those struggling with guilt, shame, or identity after trauma, especially following assault, abuse, or military trauma.
What a session may look like:
• Exploring beliefs shaped by trauma
• Learning to question self-blame and rigid thinking
• Developing healthier, more balanced perspectives
Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE)
PE helps reduce fear and avoidance by gradually facing trauma-related memories and situations.
What it is:
A therapy that helps your nervous system learn that reminders of trauma are no longer dangerous.
Who it’s a good fit for:
People dealing with PTSD who feel their life has become smaller due to avoidance.
What a session may look like:
• Talking through memories at a manageable pace
• Practicing real-life exposures between sessions
• Building confidence and emotional tolerance
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
TF-CBT is often used with children and teens but can support adults too.
What it is:
A structured approach combining trauma education, coping skills, and cognitive work.
Who it’s a good fit for:
Children, teens, or families navigating trauma together, as well as adults wanting skills-based therapy for anxiety and trauma.
What a session may look like:
• Learning grounding and emotional regulation skills
• Processing trauma in a developmentally appropriate way
• Strengthening communication and safety
How These Trauma Therapies Differ
While all four are evidence-based, they work in different ways:
• EMDR focuses on how the brain processes memory
• CPT therapy centers on beliefs and meaning-making
• PE emphasizes reducing fear through gradual exposure
• TF-CBT integrates skills, thoughts, and emotional support
None of these therapies is “better” than the others. The right trauma therapy depends on your history, symptoms, preferences, and readiness.
How to Choose the Right Trauma Therapy
Choosing trauma therapy can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already dealing with anxiety or emotional exhaustion. A skilled therapist will help guide you. In your first appointment, you can expect:
• A conversation about your goals and concerns
• A discussion of therapy options and pacing
• An emphasis on safety, consent, and collaboration
You do not have to share every detail right away. Trauma-informed care moves at your pace.
FAQ: Common Questions About Trauma Therapy
Do I have to talk about everything?
No. You are always in control of what you share and when.
Is trauma therapy safe?
When provided by a trained professional, evidence-based trauma therapy prioritizes emotional safety and stability.
How long does it take?
Some people notice changes within weeks, while others benefit from longer-term support.
Will it get worse before it gets better?
Some discomfort can happen, but therapy should not feel overwhelming or re-traumatizing. ---
There Is Hope Beyond Trauma
Trauma may have shaped how you see yourself—but it doesn’t get the final word. With the right support, many people rediscover strengths, clarity, and a renewed sense of identity after trauma. Whether you’re seeking therapy for anxiety, trauma therapy in Columbus, Ohio, or EMDR therapy near me in Detroit, Michigan, healing is a process you don’t have to walk alone.
Take the Next Step
If you’re ready to explore trauma therapy with a compassionate, experienced team, Ascension Counseling is here to help. We offer support across Ohio, Michigan, North Carolina, and Florida, including Beachwood, Dayton, Columbus, Detroit, Charlotte, Tampa, Miami, Orlando, Gainesville, and Jacksonville.
Book an appointment by visiting https://ascensioncounseling.com/contact
Email us at intake@ascensioncounseling.com
Call (833) 254-3278 Text (216) 455-7161
You deserve care that honors your story and supports your healing.