Written by Louis Chalouhi, Counsellor (Master’s in Counselling), ACA Level 2 and PACFA member.
Published · 3 min read
What counts as childhood trauma?
Childhood trauma covers experiences that overwhelmed a child's ability to cope.
The landmark Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) study, published by Felitti and colleagues in 1998, looked at experiences such as these.
- Physical, emotional or sexual abuse
- Physical or emotional neglect
- Family violence
- A parent with mental illness, or with alcohol or drug use
- Separation, divorce or the loss of a parent
- A family member in prison
Other experiences can leave a mark too, such as bullying, racism, medical trauma, migration and displacement, or living with ongoing fear.
Signs of childhood trauma in adulthood
- In relationshipsFinding it hard to trust, being drawn to partners who feel familiar in painful ways, or fearing abandonment.
- With emotionsBig reactions that feel out of proportion, or feeling numb and disconnected.
- In self-worthA harsh inner critic, shame, or a sense of being fundamentally not good enough.
- In behaviourPeople pleasing, perfectionism, staying constantly busy, or using alcohol or food to cope.
- In the bodyChronic tension, poor sleep, headaches or a body that's always on alert.
The ACE study found that adults who'd had more adverse childhood experiences had higher rates of a range of physical and mental health conditions later in life.
Why these patterns make sense
Many of these patterns began as ways a child kept safe, such as staying quiet, keeping everyone happy or switching off feelings, and they worked at the time.
In adult life the same strategies can feel limiting, and therapy helps you keep what still serves you and change what you've outgrown.
How therapy for childhood trauma helps
- Safety and stabilisationSkills to calm your nervous system and manage strong emotions.
- UnderstandingMaking sense of your story and how it shaped you, at a pace that feels manageable.
- Self-compassionEasing shame, and learning to treat yourself with the care you deserved as a child.
- ReconnectingBuilding relationships and a life that feel safe and meaningful.
I draw on somatic-informed approaches, Compassion-Focused Therapy and DBT skills.
Read more about trauma counselling, or about the difference between CPTSD and PTSD.
If a harsh inner critic is part of your story, the guide to people pleasing may also help.
Common questions
Can you heal from childhood trauma as an adult?
Yes.
The brain keeps changing throughout life, and many adults find real relief through therapy, supportive relationships and self-care.
How do I know if I experienced childhood trauma?
Many people recognise themselves in the signs above without a single dramatic memory.
A counsellor or psychologist can help you explore your history gently and at your pace.
Will I have to talk about everything that happened?
No.
Trauma counselling starts with safety and skills, and you choose what to share and when.
Where can adult survivors of childhood abuse get support?
Blue Knot Foundation offers information and a helpline for adult survivors of childhood trauma, and Lifeline is available 24 hours a day on 13 11 14.
Sources
- Felitti, V. J. and others (1998). Relationship of childhood abuse and household dysfunction to many of the leading causes of death in adults: the Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Study. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 14(4), 245 to 258.
- Blue Knot Foundation
- Phoenix Australia, Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health
This guide is general information, written to help you understand your options. It isn’t a diagnosis or a substitute for advice from your GP or treating team.
Support at any hour
Mind Therapy Room offers booked appointments, so for urgent support please use one of these services.
- Emergency000
- Lifeline, 24 hours, 7 days13 11 14
- 1800RESPECT (domestic, family and sexual violence)1800 737 732