Trauma
If you’ve lived through something that overwhelmed your ability to cope—whether it happened years ago or just yesterday—and you still feel its impact, you’re not alone. Trauma can shape how we think, feel, and move through the world. It can show up as emotional numbness, anxiety, irritability, difficulty trusting others, or even physical symptoms with no clear cause. And sometimes, it can feel like you’re reliving the past in the present, with your nervous system stuck in survival mode.
What you’ve experienced matters. More than 70% of adults in the U.S. have encountered at least one traumatic event in their lives, and yet so many people continue to suffer in silence—unsure if what they’re feeling is “bad enough” to deserve support. But trauma isn’t defined by the event itself; it’s defined by how it lives in your body and mind after the fact. At Headlight, we believe your healing is possible—and we’re here to walk with you toward it, at your pace.
Understanding Trauma
Trauma is more than just a difficult memory. It’s an experience that overwhelms your nervous system’s ability to process what happened. It’s not about how “bad” the event was—it’s about how your body and mind were impacted by it. And that means trauma isn’t just reserved for extreme events like war or natural disasters. It can stem from car accidents, loss, medical procedures, bullying, childhood neglect, relationship abuse, or anything that left you feeling unsafe, powerless, or deeply affected.
There’s no one-size-fits-all response to trauma. Some people feel hypervigilant and anxious, constantly scanning for danger. Others feel emotionally numb or disconnected from themselves or those around them. You might struggle with sleep, have trouble concentrating, or find yourself avoiding places, conversations, or sensations that remind you of what happened. These aren’t signs of weakness—they’re signs of a nervous system doing its best to protect you.
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Common Symptoms of Trauma:
- Intrusive thoughts or flashbacks
- Avoidance of reminders associated with the traumatic event
- Negative changes in thinking and mood
- Heightened arousal, such as being easily startled or feeling tense
Recognizing these symptoms is the first step toward healing.
How We Treat Trauma at Headlight
At Headlight, we offer a comprehensive approach to trauma treatment, tailored to each individual’s unique experiences and needs. Our treatment options include:
- Therapy: Our licensed therapists utilize evidence-based practices, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), to help individuals process traumatic memories and develop coping strategies.
- Medication Management: For some, medication can be an effective component of trauma treatment. Our psychiatric providers work closely with clients to determine if medication is appropriate and monitor its effectiveness.
- Spravato® (esketamine): In cases where trauma is linked to treatment-resistant depression, Spravato may offer relief. Administered under medical supervision, this FDA-approved treatment can be part of a broader trauma recovery plan.
A lot of our clients find success with a multifaceted approach—combining therapy, medication, or treatments like Spravato®—to support their mental health goals. Talk with your provider to figure out what plan is best for you.
Our Care
Customized Expert Care
Trauma manifests uniquely in different individuals—there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. That’s why our providers work with you to create a tailored treatment plan.
Personalized Prescriptions
When medication is necessary, our clinicians determine the most manageable and effective prescription for you.
Clinically-Proven Therapy
We personalize each patient experience by matching you to the right practitioner—and the right clinically-proven therapy for your set of symptoms.
Our Providers are experts in PTSD treatments
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Headlight for?
Headlight is for everyone. Taking care of your mental health is a sign of strength, and choosing to better oneself is an empowering decision. We provide mental health services to those seeking a bright path forward.
What is therapy?
Therapy offers a safe and confidential space for individuals to explore their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. During therapy sessions, your Headlight therapist will actively listen and provide guidance and insights to help you better understand yourself, your relationships, and your challenges. Talk therapy can address a variety of mental health concerns, from anxiety and depression to trauma and relationship issues. Headlight’s clinicians are experienced in various therapeutic approaches and techniques and offer in-person or virtual sessions.
What is the difference between therapy and psychiatry?
Therapy, often provided by psychologists, social workers, or counselors, involves talking through emotional and psychological challenges to gain insight and develop coping strategies. Whereas, psychiatry, typically led by medical doctors, focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of mental health issues using medication alongside therapy when necessary. While therapy emphasizes conversation and behavioral strategies, psychiatry integrates medication management to address biochemical imbalances in mental health conditions.
Why is it so important to find the right therapist?
Finding the right therapist is so important as it establishes a foundation of trust, creating a safe space for open communication. A well-matched therapist can better understand your individual needs, ensuring personalized support and enhancing the effectiveness of the therapeutic process.
What services do you offer?
Headlight services include therapy, medication management, and Esketamine (Spravato) sessions.
More than 50% of Americans struggle with mental health.
Headlight is now collaborating with health plans and companies to make therapy more accessible and affordable. Get scheduled now.