Life After Trauma Isn’t What You Imagined

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Struggling with overwhelming memories, intense emotions, or persistent stress after difficult experiences can feel isolating. I offer 1:1 counselling to help you process your trauma, develop coping strategies, and regain a sense of safety, balance, and confidence in your daily life.


You didn’t expect memories, emotions, or triggers to take over your days.

You might feel on high alert one moment and numb or exhausted the next.

You’re tired of hearing, “It’s all in your head,” or “You should move on.”

You’re carrying the weight of experiences that others can’t see, because outwardly, everything seems fine, but inside, it can feel overwhelming.

You might be:

• Struggling with flashbacks or intrusive memories

• Experiencing sudden waves of fear, panic, or emotional overwhelm

• Feeling tense, hyper-vigilant, or unable to relax

• Facing stress in relationships, work, or daily life because trauma impacts how safe you feel

• Wondering how to regain a sense of control, safety, and peace

If this is you, you don’t have to face it alone.

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The Hidden Impact of Trauma

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Even when no one sees it, trauma can shape your thoughts, feelings, and sense of safety.

Trauma doesn’t just live in the past. It can show up in your body, your reactions, and the way you move through everyday life.

It’s hard because:

  • Certain sounds, places, or situations can trigger strong emotional or physical reactions

  • You may feel on edge, constantly scanning for danger

  • Numbness or disconnection can replace feelings you once had

  • Sleep, focus, and calm feel difficult to access

  • You question your reactions and wonder why you can’t “just move on”

  • Others may not fully understand the depth of what you’re carrying

When the past feels present, everyday life can feel exhausting. With compassionate support, it’s possible to gently process what happened, rebuild a sense of safety, and begin to feel more grounded and steady again.

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How I Support You

  • Learn About Kirsten Sherlock’s Private Counselling Approach in Port Moody

    What Support Can Look Like

    Support can feel different for everyone, but it often looks like:

    • 1:1 trauma-informed counselling tailored to your needs and readiness

    • Building tools to manage triggers, flashbacks, and emotional overwhelm

    • Grounding and nervous system regulation strategies for daily life

    • Gentle processing of past experiences at a pace that feels safe

    • Strengthening boundaries and rebuilding a sense of personal safety

    • Integrating EMDR and somatic attachment approaches to help process trauma at a deeper level

  • Kirsten Sherlock works collaboratively with her clients in Port Moody

    Finding Your Ground Again

    Regaining balance might show up in ways such as:

    • Feeling calmer and more steady in your body

    • Recognizing triggers without feeling controlled by them

    • Reconnecting with yourself and your sense of identity

    • Experiencing greater confidence in relationships and daily life

    • Gaining clarity, resilience, and renewed hope for the future

    • Experiencing moments of ease without waiting for something to go wrong

Common Questions About Trauma Counselling

You may have questions about what counselling involves or whether it’s the right fit for you. Here are some common questions I hear from individuals navigating trauma.

  • Trauma counselling is designed to help you safely process difficult experiences, understand how they affect your body and mind, and develop tools to feel safe and grounded. While regular therapy may focus on general life challenges, trauma counselling specifically addresses the impact of past experiences on your daily life and wellbeing.

  • My approach is trauma-informed and collaborative. I integrate methods like EMDR and somatic attachment psychotherapy, along with grounding and coping strategies, to help you process trauma safely and regain a sense of control in your life.

  • Healing doesn’t follow a set timeline, it depends on your experiences, goals, and pace. Some people notice relief after a few sessions, while deeper trauma work can take longer. The focus is always on moving at a pace that feels safe and sustainable for you.

  • No. You remain in control of what you share and when. Trauma counselling is about building safety first and processing experiences in a way that feels manageable and supportive.

  • Absolutely. Trauma affects not just memories but how you respond to stress, connect with others, and experience everyday life. Counselling helps you develop tools to navigate triggers, improve relationships, and feel more grounded day-to-day.

  • Counselling can be helpful if you’re noticing that past experiences are affecting your daily life, relationships, or sense of safety. If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure how to cope with triggers, counselling provides a safe space to explore your experiences, develop practical tools, and begin to feel more grounded. You don’t have to have all the answers, simply reaching out is the first step toward support and healing.

  • As a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC), many extended health plans provide coverage. I recommend checking with your provider to confirm your specific benefits.

You don’t have to face trauma alone. Reach out today to start finding safety, support, and a renewed sense of balance in your life.

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Sessions are available virtually or in person in Coquitlam, whichever works best for you.