"Big T" Trauma, "Little t" Trauma June 28,2021

<p>"Big T trauma" and "little t trauma" are two phrases often used to describe different psychological/emotional trauma levels. Big T can result from either one specific experience or recurring sexual or physical abuse.</p> <p>Little t, on the other end of the trauma spectrum, can result from a series of smaller yet still challenging events.</p> <p>We can be traumatized by a single event like being involved in a bad accident or experiencing an act of violence such as assault or recurring abuse. That's a Big T trauma -- a big event or a series of significant repetitive events.</p> <p>We can also be traumatized by a series of smaller, not-so-big things like being bullied (as a child or an adult), family conflict, infidelity, divorce, a sudden geographical move, or medical issues.</p> <p>Big T traumas are generally considered more dramatic than those of little t.</p> <p>How individuals respond to the event, though, is what matters. One person may be deeply traumatized by something to which another person barely reacts.</p> <p>And those emotional/behavioral reactions are what psychotherapists such as Paige Pierson are trained to work with.</p> <p class="p1">Paige is a psychotherapist, licensed both in Texas and New Mexico. She's a credentialed supervisor for LMHC’s. </p> <p class="p1">Based in Los Alamos, Paige has previously worked in corrections, behavioral health hospitals, private practice, and community agencies.</p> <p class="p1">In this episode, Melanie and Paige offer a fascinating insider glimpse into the world of trauma-sensitive therapy.</p> <p class="p1">Paige is also a working artist, sharing insights about how her creative life nurtures her life as a psychotherapist.</p> <p class="p1">Last but not least, Paige is the author of a YA dystopian fiction novel set in 2088. She wrote it for young people who are struggling with bullying, anxiety, self-esteem, and resilience.</p> <p class="p1">Her commitment to living a rich life, no matter what we've experienced, can be a model for all of us.</p> <p class="p1"