Selah Trauma Counseling Center

07/08/2026

👏

07/06/2026

What is cptsd? It’s not technically defined in the DSM and it’s become adopted worldwide to expand upon the relational piece of repeated traumatic events. Expanding the lens better captures the experiences internally and externally; the loss of self, literally through the insula and other areas, and figuratively, through fawning, feeling a burden, not trusting yourself, etc.

.the.mosaic

07/04/2026

While some folks celebrate today, there are many braced for the pops that carry a warning. Irritability building like the firework show preparing for the grand finale. The flashes paired with a flinch. The photos of families gathered may be a reminder that yours doesn’t. The painful presence of absence. The painful presence of tension, hurtful comments, and a need to disassociate through the whole meal with a smile hiding the hurt. For survivors of violent crimes, first responders, veterans, community violence, etc fireworks may not be just noise or pretty sparkles in the sky.

Prevention and noticing early signs of overwhelm help the most. Give your brain predictability, find or ask for a a schedule of events. If you’re framily, share a schedule ahead of time.
Reduce the intensity by bringing headphones. Noise canceling preferred and a more subtle option is airpods.
Before you lengthen your exhale, move your body to get the extra anticipatory energy out. Then deep breathe. Skip the alcohol. Skip the show or go to a drone one rather than push through. If you’re pushing, you’re likely out of capacity already.

If you plan to light fireworks, check in with your neighbors. If you have a dog at home, make sure they are secure and safe. The highest numbers of dogs getting out and lost occurs on the 4th of July.

Wishing gentleness to those struggling and a reminder to give kindness for those who aren’t.

07/01/2026

06/29/2026

We're growing our team and looking for an in person child/play therapist.

We are an inclusive and trauma conscious therapy group practice, not just with client's but within our team environment. We have a great team and the ideal person will enjoy my terrible (but funny!) puns and want to continue to grow and learn in their trauma treatment and practice with kids/teens.

Send your CV and questions to [email protected] by 7/17/26.

06/24/2026

Just a quick reminder for clients, I am out of the office until Monday the 29th so texts/calls/emails to Selah will be answered as I’m able when I return next week.

Kelsey, Jodi, Nef, & Lora are all in the office and seeing clients as usual. I just happen to think they deserve a small vacation from calls/emails/texts when the boss is out 🤭.

If you’re a client and it’s an urgent request, please contact your therapist directly.

Jen

06/22/2026

Every great soccer player knows this: Your eyes scan the field before your feet move. Your brain and body are doing something similar every second of every day through information coming in from your senses.

The nervous system takes it in, then deep in the brain the brainstem begins assessing:
Am I safe?
Am I alone?
Does someone have my back?

Trauma changes how those questions get answered. The emotional charge of past events, the absences & painful disruptions catalogued overlaying the present moment.

Healing doesn’t mean you aren’t fearless.
Healing is supported as the brain rediscovers that it doesn’t have to play defense all the time. The strongest teams aren’t the ones with the best individual players. They’re the ones who know they’re not alone. No one person was meant to carry trauma alone.

This June, as we recognize PTSD Awareness, Men’s Mental Health, and su***de prevention, maybe the most courageous play isn’t pretending you’re okay. Maybe it’s letting someone onto the field with you?

06/21/2026

For anyone who needs it…

For anyone who needs it today.

Much love.

Today is also the mighty summer solstice - let nature bring its boundless light to fill you up and warm any parts left in the cold.

Donna ###