If you’ve ever felt like therapy was too clinical, too fast, or just didn’t “get you,” trauma-informed counselling might offer the safety and understanding you’ve been looking for. Whether you’re seeking support for yourself or a loved one, this approach centres your experience, dignity, and emotional safety.
Juniper Counselling in Port Moody specializes in trauma-informed care. Here’s what that means—and why it matters.
What Does “Trauma-Informed” Actually Mean?
Trauma-informed counselling is not about focusing only on past trauma. It’s about how we offer support: through respect, curiosity, and care. It recognizes that trauma—whether from childhood experiences, accidents, medical procedures, discrimination, or sudden loss—can impact how we think, feel, and connect with others.
Instead of asking, “What’s wrong with you?”, trauma-informed care gently asks,
“What happened to you—and how did it shape your nervous system, your relationships, and your beliefs?”
5 Core Principles of Trauma-Informed Counselling
Safety
Emotional and physical safety is the foundation of healing. This means no pushing, no surprises, and a therapist who prioritizes consent every step of the way.Choice & Empowerment
You’re always in charge. We’ll collaborate, not dictate—so you can move at your own pace and decide what feels right for you.Trustworthiness & Transparency
Your therapist will clearly explain processes and boundaries. There are no secrets, no hidden agendas—just honest human connection.Collaboration
We see you as the expert on your own life. Our role is to walk alongside you, not ahead.Cultural Humility
We recognize how systems of oppression and identity-based trauma impact healing. We practice with an openness to unlearning and with deep respect for your lived experience.
Who Can Benefit From Trauma-Informed Therapy?
Trauma-informed counselling is for everyone—not just those with a diagnosed PTSD. It’s especially supportive for folks who:
Feel anxious or emotionally flooded during conflict
Struggle with trust or connection in relationships
Experience chronic tension, pain, or disconnection from the body
Have experienced racism, homophobia, gender-based violence, or medical trauma
Want therapy that’s sensitive, flexible, and not one-size-fits-all
What Does a Trauma-Informed Session Look Like?
At Juniper Counselling, a trauma-informed session might involve:
Gentle talk therapy focused on present safety
Body-based practices like breath awareness or grounding
Exploring your window of tolerance (when you feel calm vs. overwhelmed)
Creating boundaries and practicing emotional regulation
We’ll never ask you to revisit trauma before you’re ready. In fact, you don’t ever have to share details of your trauma for therapy to be effective.
Supporting a Loved One in Trauma Therapy
If someone close to you is in trauma-informed therapy, it can help to:
Be patient—they may need time, space, and repetition
Listen without offering solutions
Respect their need for control and autonomy
Learn about trauma’s impact on the nervous system
Offer presence, not pressure
You Deserve a Safe Space to Heal
Healing isn’t about “fixing” yourself—it’s about reconnecting with who you were before the world told you otherwise. At Juniper Counselling, we believe that healing happens in relationship—with your therapist, your body, and your community.
We offer trauma-informed counselling in Port Moody and online, with a focus on safety, consent, and care.
💚 Juniper Counselling Port Moody
We create safe spaces so you can be brave. Book a free consultation now
