Danielle Barone, LCSW

Avoidance is one of the most common symptoms of PTSD, but it doesn't always look like avoiding memories or reminders of trauma.

A diagnosis of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder impacts 5 main areas of functioning.
Trust
Safety
Intimacy
Self Esteem
Power/Control

These experiences can leave someone feeling helpless and powerless, as though they have little or no control over their own life. It's difficult to connect, open up, or talk about painful experiences when the people around you are invalidating dismissive, unresponsive, or simply don't understand what you're going through. When vulnerability doesn't feel safe, many people naturally return to avoidance as a form of protection.

The conversations and emotions we avoid often don't disappear; they tend to resurface later, often feeling bigger, heavier, and more difficult to navigate. Avoidance is not a sign of weakness, it's a survival strategy. Healing begins when safety and support make it possible to gradually face what no longer needs to be carried alone.

When people feel emotionally and physically safe, defenses can lower. The body becomes less focused on protection and more open to connection and vulnerability.

The tone of the room creates a sense of comfort and communicates safety before a single word is spoken.

Healing happens in those subtle moments.

Do you have any unusual requests in your therapy session ?