What is developmental Trauma?

Developmental trauma occurs when a child experiences ongoing stress, neglect, manipulation, emotional unavailability, abuse, loss, or inconsistent or immature caregiving during important stages of growth and development. These experiences can shape the way a person learns to view themselves, others, and the world around them.

Adults who have experienced developmental trauma may struggle with anxiety, depression, low self-worth, perfectionism, people-pleasing, emotional numbness, difficulty trusting others, or feeling disconnected from themselves and their needs. Often, these patterns began as ways to survive overwhelming experiences in childhood. In Dynamic Emotionally Focused Therapy we call these Survival Strategies or Self Protective Strategies.

Therapy for developmental trauma helps individuals understand how early experiences continue to influence present relationships, emotions, and behaviors. Through a safe and supportive therapeutic relationship, clients can process painful experiences, develop greater self-compassion, strengthen emotional regulation, and reconnect with parts of themselves that may have been hidden or neglected. Healing from developmental trauma can lead to a deeper sense of safety, authenticity, and connection in one's life and relationships.