Childhood relational trauma refers to the emotional and psychological wounds that result from harmful, neglectful, inconsistent, or unsafe relationships with caregivers or other significant adults during childhood.

Unlike trauma caused by a single event, childhood relational trauma develops within ongoing relationship experiences such as emotional neglect, abandonment, chronic criticism, rejection, betrayal, inconsistent caregiving, exposure to domestic conflict, or physical, emotional, or sexual abuse. Because these experiences occur during critical stages of development, they can have a lasting impact on a child's sense of safety, self-worth, emotional regulation, and ability to trust and connect with others throughout life.

You may find yourself struggling with trust, emotional closeness, or setting limits in relationships. You might notice patterns you can't seem to break — choosing partners or friendships that feel familiar but painful, dimming yourself to keep the peace, or feeling emotionally disconnected even when surrounded by people who love you. You may carry shame or self-doubt that has felt like simply "who you are" for so long that you've stopped questioning where it came from.

Our work together is grounded in a deep understanding of how early relational experiences shape the nervous system, attachment patterns, and sense of self. We provide a space that is consistent, attuned, and genuinely safe — often the very things that were missing.