Counselling, Psychotherapy and Training, Singapore
As a trauma therapist in Singapore, I often work with people carrying deep, invisible wounds from past experiences. These wounds sometimes come not from a single event but from many hurtful moments over time. We call this complex trauma – a heavy term that simply means enduring repeated or long-term trauma, often in relationships where you should have felt safe. For example, it could stem from chronic childhood abuse or an abusive adult relationship, situations where you felt trapped and helpless. I believe that trauma – especially early attachment wounds or the absence of secure, loving relationships – often lies at the root of many emotional struggles we face.
Unlike a one-off traumatic incident, complex trauma is usually chronic and interpersonal. This means it happens over and over, usually between people, such as repeated abuse, neglect, or violence by caregivers or partners. Instead of one sudden shock, it’s a series of hurts that compound over time. Complex trauma often leaves a person feeling unsafe even long after the situation is over. It’s not your fault – these traumatic experiences happened to you, and your mind and body did what they had to do to survive.
Complex trauma leaves a deep imprint on both the mind and body. It changes how we feel about ourselves, how we relate to others, and even how our nervous system reacts day to day. Survivors of complex trauma often experience:
The good news is that people can and do recover from complex trauma and its effects – and it’s never too late to start healing. I have seen even deeply wounded individuals find their way to peace and wholeness again. Healing from complex trauma is a gradual process, and it often happens in the context of safe, supportive relationships. Since so much trauma happened through people, it makes sense that healing happens with the help of caring people too. A compassionate therapist, support group, or trusted friend can provide a healing relationship that rebuilds safety and trust. You do not have to heal in isolation; in fact, you shouldn’t have to do it alone.
In therapy, one of my first priorities is creating a sense of safety. I strive to be heart-centered, compassionate, and calming, so that you feel comfortable to just be. I often tell my clients that I will walk every step of the way with them in the healing process. You set the pace – there is no pressure to dive into painful memories until you’re ready. We might start with simply learning to breathe again, to notice your body’s sensations, and to establish here-and-now safety. Over time, as trust builds, we gently explore the trauma and its impact. This can involve talking through memories or using body-based techniques to release the pain held inside. My aim is to help you make sense of what happened and to transform your pain into a new sense of purpose and zest for life. I truly believe in each person’s innate ability to heal and their resilience – in fact, that belief in your inner strength forms the base of my approach to therapy. No matter how deep the wounds, the mere fact that you have survived until now shows an incredible courage and capacity to heal.
Healing from complex trauma is not easy – it’s a journey of many small steps, and sometimes it can feel two steps forward, one step back. But I want you to remember that you are not broken – you are healing. With the right support, those raw wounds can become scars, and those scars can become stories of resilience rather than pain. You deserve to live a life that feels safe, joyful, and authentic.
If any of this resonates with you, I encourage you to consider reaching out for help. Therapy can be a big leap of faith, but allow yourself that nurturance and compassion. There’s really no harm in trying – there’s nothing to lose and so much to potentially gain. You don’t have to carry these burdens by yourself. With help, it is possible to find hope, connection, and meaning beyond the trauma. Healing is possible, and you do not have to walk the path alone. Reach out when you feel ready – I and many others are here to walk with you, every step of the way, toward the healing you truly deserve.
