How Trauma-Informed Therapy Helps You Feel Safe Again

Stephanie Strouth • October 30, 2025

Trauma can deeply affect how you see yourself and the world — but healing is possible. Learn how trauma-informed therapy creates safety, understanding, and long-term emotional recovery.

The Lasting Impact of Trauma

Trauma isn’t just about what happened — it’s about how your mind and body carry the memory of what happened. Whether the trauma came from abuse, loss, an accident, illness, or chronic stress, its effects can linger for years.

You may find yourself on edge, easily startled, or emotionally numb. You may struggle with relationships, boundaries, or trust. These are normal responses to abnormal experiences.

At Anchoring Hope Counseling, we want you to know that what you feel makes sense — and that recovery is not only possible, but expected, when the right care and understanding are in place.

What Is Trauma-Informed Therapy?

Trauma-informed therapy is an approach built around one central goal: helping you feel safe again.

Unlike traditional models that focus solely on symptoms, trauma-informed care looks at the whole person — your history, your environment, and the survival strategies you’ve developed. Instead of asking “What’s wrong with you?” it asks, “What happened to you?”

Our therapists are trained to recognize how trauma affects both the mind and body, and to create a calm, trusting space where you can process your experiences without fear or judgment.

The Core Principles of Trauma-Informed Care

  • Safety – Every session is designed to make you feel physically and emotionally secure.
  • Trustworthiness – Transparency and consistency help rebuild your confidence in others.
  • Choice – You are in control of your healing. Nothing is forced or rushed.
  • Collaboration – Healing is a partnership between you and your therapist.
  • Empowerment – Therapy helps you rediscover your voice and reclaim your power.

These principles are at the heart of everything we do at Anchoring Hope Counseling. Your pace is the right pace.

How Trauma Manifests in the Body

Trauma doesn’t just live in your memories — it also lives in your nervous system. You might experience symptoms like muscle tension, digestive issues, chronic fatigue, or sleep problems. This is your body’s way of staying on alert, trying to protect you from being hurt again.

Through therapy, you’ll learn techniques that calm your nervous system and reestablish safety in your body — including grounding exercises, mindfulness, and regulated breathing.

Therapy as a Path Toward Wholeness

Healing from trauma isn’t about forgetting what happened; it’s about reclaiming your life beyond it. Over time, trauma-informed therapy helps you:

  • Understand your triggers and responses
  • Build self-compassion and confidence
  • Reconnect with your emotions in a healthy way
  • Develop boundaries that protect your peace
  • Experience genuine calm for the first time in years

When safety returns, healing begins — and that’s what trauma-informed therapy is all about.

At Anchoring Hope Counseling:

  • We Accept Most Insurances (Not Medicaid/Medicare)
  • Therapy & Mental Health Medication Management
  • 24/7 Access To Our Wellness App
  • Telehealth Option Available For VA Residents
  • Physical Locations in Abingdon, Wise, & Pennington Gap, VA

Call us for a free consult today: (276) 298-5034 
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From Overwhelmed to Empowered, We’ll Help You Get There

You don’t have to navigate life’s chaos alone. At Anchoring Hope Counseling, we guide individuals across Virginia, just like you, who are ready to stop surviving and start thriving. Whether you're seeking therapy, mental health medication, or simply a fresh start, we’re here to help you reconnect with your most authentic self and reclaim your peace of mind.


We Have Physical Locations in Abingdon, Pennington Gap, & Wise, Virginia.

You’re Not Alone, Let’s Start Healing, Together.

What If Peace Wasn’t Just Possible, But Within Reach?

When life feels chaotic or heavy, it’s easy to lose sight of who you are and what you need. At Anchoring Hope Counseling, we meet you exactly where you are, without judgment, and help you reconnect with your strength, clarity, and self-worth.

Whether you're struggling with anxiety, trauma, relationships, or simply feeling stuck, we offer personalized care that empowers you to take control, feel grounded, and move forward with purpose.

You don’t have to do this alone. Let us walk beside you.

  • We Accept Most Insurances (Not Medicaid/Medicare)

    We accept Anthem, United/Optum, Cigna, and Aetna (plans through an employer, family member, or marketplace).  If you check your insurance portal to see if we accept your insurance, we may not show up on that directory. We do use insurance for individual sessions, but not for true couples/family therapy. If you wish to check your benefits prior to scheduling, you may complete a profile HERE. Call us at 276-298-5034 if you have additional questions. We also provide counseling at a private pay rate and can check your out-of-network benefits for policies we are not in network with. Unfortunately, Medicaid/Medicare does not have out-of-network benefits and will only pay for in-network providers. We are NOT in network with Medicaid/Medicare. 

  • 24/7 Support with Our Exclusive Mental Health App

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  • Comprehensive Care with On-Site & Virtual Medication Management

    Now offering psychiatric medication services through our compassionate board-certified PMHNP, available in-person in Abingdon and Wise, and by telehealth for clients across Virginia, including Pennington clients. Whether you're exploring treatment for anxiety, depression, ADHD, or trauma, you’ll receive personalized care that puts your voice first—never rushed, always respected.

  • A Truly Holistic Approach to Mental Health

    From Soundbed sessions and local wellness discounts to counseling, supervision, and engaging seminars, our services go beyond the norm. We care for the whole person, mind, body, and spirit, so you can experience lasting change, not just temporary relief.

10,000+

Therapy Hours Completed

89%

of Clients Achieved Their Goals

3

Physical Locations In SWVA

1,000+

Clients Recommend AHC

Exclusive Benefits for Your Holistic Well-Being

As part of our commitment to your overall well-being, we offer more than just counseling and medication management. Enjoy exclusive perks like free access to our Anchoring Hope app, discounts with our trusted partners, and savings on transformative Soundbed sessions. We believe in a holistic approach to care, ensuring that you receive a truly unique and enriching experience every step of the way.

Perks to Support Your Journey

We understand that true healing involves more than just the time spent in session. That's why we provide our clients with awesome extras designed to enhance your overall experience. From tools to manage everyday stress to special offers that promote relaxation and wellness, our perks are crafted to meet your unique needs. At Anchoring Hope Counseling, we’re here to ensure that your path to well-being is as smooth and supportive as possible. With us, you have access to:


  • In-house mental health medication management services
  • Free access to our Anchoring Hope app for coping skills
  • Special discounts with our trusted partner companies
  • Savings on relaxing Soundbed sessions


Our perks are designed to complement your counseling journey, providing additional tools and resources to help you achieve lasting peace and balance.


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Purchase it on the Apple app store!

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