A Trauma-Informed Approach to Therapy: Listening to the Story Beneath the Symptoms
- Clair Lewoski
- May 25
- 1 min read
Updated: Jun 2
A Trauma-Informed Approach to Therapy: Listening to the Story Beneath the Symptoms
By Clair Lewoski | Cambridge Therapies
In traditional therapy, the focus is often on “What’s wrong with you?” A trauma-informed approach asks instead:-
What happened to you?
What’s your story?
What did you do to survive?
How has power operated in your life?
This way of working honours the strength it takes to survive difficulty—and offers healing through safety, empathy, and understanding.
What Is Trauma-Informed Therapy?
It’s an approach that:- Prioritises emotional safety - Understands trauma as a survival response- Sees symptoms as adaptive, not defective- Builds empowerment through trust and voice
Foundations I Use:-
Attachment theory: to explore relational patterns
Neuroscience: to understand the nervous system
Mentalisation: to rebuild emotional insight and reflection
Real-Life Examples (all names and identities changed to protect confidentiality):-
Yasmin, 37, carried deep shame from childhood neglect. With time, safety, and compassion, she developed a more grounded self-image.
Leo, 9, had been labelled defiant. Through play and reflection, we uncovered grief and fear after family separation.
Why This Approach Matters:
It’s not about fixing—it’s about honouring, witnessing, and slowly rebuilding.
Working With Me:
I offer trauma-informed therapy to adults, teens, and children. We move at your pace, with care and respect for your story.
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