Healing Together: Supporting Your Child Through Trauma and Finding Strength as a Family
Parenting is tough—no one’s denying that. But when trauma enters the picture, it can feel like everything is stacked against you. As a parent, you’re juggling your own healing while trying to support your child through theirs. It’s a heavy load, but remember, you don’t have to do it alone. At Willow and Moss Counseling, we believe in the power of healing together—because when one person heals, it creates space for everyone to grow.
Understanding Trauma and Its Impact on Kids
Trauma can show up in many ways for kids, depending on their age, personality, and how they process emotions. Whether it’s a car accident, losing someone close, witnessing something scary, or going through a big life change like a divorce—trauma doesn’t always look like what we expect. Sometimes, it shows up in behaviors that don’t make sense or leave you scratching your head.
Here are some common signs of trauma in kids:
Changes in behavior (acting out, withdrawal, or mood swings)
Sleep struggles (nightmares, bedwetting, trouble falling asleep)
Trouble focusing or staying on task
Physical symptoms (headaches, stomachaches)
Heightened anxiety or fear (worry about being away from parents or specific situations)
Since kids are still figuring out how to understand and manage their emotions, trauma can leave them feeling confused and scared. That’s where you, as their parent, play a key role in helping them process and heal.
How Play Therapy Can Help Your Child Heal
Play therapy is a game-changer for kids who’ve been through trauma. As a Registered Play Therapist, I’ve seen how incredibly powerful play can be in helping kids process feelings they don’t have words for. Here’s why it works:
A safe space for expression: Play lets kids act out their emotions and experiences, making it easier to work through difficult feelings.
Building trust and safety: It creates a non-judgmental, safe space where kids can feel heard and understood, building trust in the healing process.
Emotional regulation: Through play, kids learn healthy ways to manage big emotions like fear, sadness, or anger.
Resilience: Play therapy helps kids develop coping skills and resilience, giving them the tools to face challenges in their everyday lives.
Supporting Your Child as a Parent After Trauma
As much as your child’s healing is important, so is yours. You’re their rock, and being there for them means showing up for yourself too. Here are some ways to support your child—and yourself—through this process:
Validate their feelings: Let your child know it’s okay to feel scared, sad, or angry. Sometimes, just acknowledging their emotions helps them feel seen and heard.
Keep routines stable: Trauma can make the world feel unpredictable. A consistent routine—like meal times and bedtimes—can bring comfort and security.
Encourage open communication: Create an environment where your child feels safe to share their feelings, even when it’s hard. You don’t need to have all the answers—just being there to listen is enough.
Be patient: Healing takes time, and there will be ups and downs. Be patient with your child and yourself. Remember, you’re both learning how to navigate life after trauma.
Take care of yourself: Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential. Get the support you need—whether it’s through counseling, connecting with a support group, or simply taking a break when you need it. The more you heal, the more you’ll be able to help your child heal too.
We’re Here to Help You Heal Together
Parenting after trauma can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to carry that weight by yourself. At Willow and Moss Counseling, we offer a warm, supportive space for both you and your child to heal. Whether it’s through play therapy for your child or guidance for you as you navigate the challenges of parenting after trauma, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Trauma is a part of your story, but it doesn’t have to define your family’s future. With the right support, healing is possible—and together, your family can emerge stronger.
Willow & Moss Counseling – Compassionate Therapy in Cherokee & Cobb County, Serving Woodstock, Holly Springs, Canton, Kennesaw, and Marietta.
