Big ‘T’ and Little ‘t’ Trauma

So far in my private practice of six years, I have yet to find a person who has never experienced hurt. I’ve found no people who have escaped the effects of trauma. But for some reason, I still meet people who deny the pain of their childhoods. If I had a dime for every time a client has sat on my couch and said their childhood was great and their parents were awesome, I would have retired to the beach by now. So let’s clear the air here and now, say it with me, “I experienced trauma when I was a kid, and it really hurt.” Continue reading “Big ‘T’ and Little ‘t’ Trauma”

The Well of Pain

Have you ever had a complete emotional unraveling due to a seemingly small event? Maybe someone cut you off in traffic and you were blinded with rage, a friend commented on your weight and you had a meltdown, or you didn’t get the job you interviewed for and descended into a week-long depression. Did the intensity of your emotional response catch you off guard? Did you ask yourself, what is this really about? You may have tapped into a well of pain and hurt that has been collecting water for years.

Continue reading “The Well of Pain”

The Girl Next Door

If you met me today, you might think that I am the “girl next door” type. You might think I grew up in a loving home and that my parents raised me to be that cute, personable, successful woman you see in the photo. You might assume I have an education from a school like Vanderbilt or that I pledged in a sorority. Heck, you might think I have a picture-perfect marriage and angels for children. Well let me tell you, this “girl next door” persona I exude couldn’t be further from the truth. One of my closest friend’s says, “Jennifer, you are a good ol’ redneck and you hide it really well.” And I have to agree with her.

Continue reading “The Girl Next Door”