Types of Trauma and PTSD

Trauma is more than a single event — it's the emotional and psychological response to experiences that overwhelm our ability to cope. While some traumas are catastrophic and obvious, others are subtle and easily overlooked. Both can leave lasting effects, and both deserve care and healing.

At Cartwright Counseling in Noblesville, we help children, teens, and adults understand and recover from trauma using compassionate, evidence-based approaches like EMDR therapy.

What Is Trauma?

Trauma happens when our nervous system becomes overwhelmed and unable to process an experience. Instead of being stored as a memory of the past, the event gets "stuck" and can feel as though it's still happening in the present.

Big "T" Trauma

These are life-threatening or overwhelming events that have a clear and obvious impact, such as:

• Military combat or returning from war
• Natural disasters (tornadoes, floods, fires)
• Serious accidents or medical emergencies
• Physical or sexual assault
• Witnessing violence or death

Small "t" Trauma

These experiences may not seem catastrophic to others, but they can deeply affect self-esteem, relationships, and daily functioning. Examples include:

• Bullying or repeated criticism
• Emotional neglect in childhood
• Infidelity, betrayal, or painful breakups
• Public humiliation or embarrassment
• Feeling rejected, dismissed, or unsupported by caregivers
• Ongoing stressful family or workplace dynamics

Emotional & Psychological Abuse

Abuse isn't always physical. Emotional and psychological abuse can leave deep wounds that are harder to see but just as damaging. This includes:

• Constant criticism, belittling, or humiliation
• Manipulation or gaslighting
• Withholding affection or approval as control
• Intimidation, threats, or unpredictable outbursts

Over time, emotional abuse can create patterns of self-doubt, fear, and anxiety, leaving survivors feeling powerless or unworthy.

Narcissistic Abuse

Narcissistic abuse is a form of emotional trauma where someone is repeatedly devalued, manipulated, or controlled by a partner, parent, or authority figure with narcissistic traits. Survivors often describe feeling:

• Confused and "walking on eggshells"
• Drained from constant cycles of blame and manipulation
• Isolated from friends or support systems
• Unsure of their own reality due to repeated gaslighting

Both emotional and narcissistic abuse are valid forms of trauma — and healing is possible with the right support.

PTSD: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

PTSD develops when trauma symptoms persist over time and interfere with daily life. Common PTSD symptoms include:

• Intrusive memories, flashbacks, or nightmares
• Avoidance of reminders of the trauma
• Feeling constantly "on edge" or hypervigilant
• Emotional numbness or feeling disconnected from others
• Irritability, anger, or mood swings
• Negative self-beliefs (e.g., "I'm not safe," "It was my fault")
• Difficulty concentrating or sleeping

Healing From Trauma

The good news is that trauma and PTSD are treatable. At Cartwright Counseling, we specialize in EMDR trauma therapy, a powerful approach that helps the brain reprocess painful memories and restore a sense of calm.

With the right support, it's possible to:

• Reduce distressing symptoms
• Reframe negative self-beliefs
• Improve relationships and daily functioning
• Reconnect with a sense of safety, hope, and resilience