Healing Generational Trauma Through Therapy

Generational trauma refers to emotional and psychological wounds passed down from one generation to the next. These wounds often originate from experiences such as abuse, neglect, racism, violence, or chronic poverty. When left unaddressed, they silently shape how families communicate, connect, and cope—often without anyone realizing the roots of their pain.

Imagine a child growing up in a household where emotional expression is met with anger or silence. That child may carry those patterns into adulthood, impacting their relationships and eventually their own children. Neuroscience shows us that trauma doesn’t just affect emotions—it can alter brain functioning, making it harder to manage stress, regulate emotions, and feel safe in the world.

Understanding how these patterns are inherited is the first step toward breaking the cycle.

A calm and inviting space for personal reflection and healing

How Trauma Echoes Through Generations

Research shows that approximately 60% of adults have experienced at least one traumatic event in their lives. In families where trauma is ongoing or unresolved, these experiences accumulate over time. The pain becomes cyclical—impacting parenting, attachment, emotional safety, and even the ability to trust or be vulnerable.

But here’s the good news: Trauma may be passed down, but so can healing.

An engaging moment during a therapeutic encounter

The Role of Therapy in Healing Generational Wounds

Therapy offers a safe, compassionate space to explore how your past is impacting your present—and to make conscious choices about your future. Whether you're working through painful childhood memories, relational patterns, or emotional triggers, therapy allows you to process and shift what no longer serves you.

At Roots to Rising, we use a variety of evidence-based therapeutic approaches—including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Somatic Therapy, and Mindfulness practices—to support deep, lasting healing.

These approaches help you:

• Understand the link between your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors

  Learn how internal narratives shape your experiences and identify thought patterns that may be rooted in past trauma.

• Identify patterns that have been inherited, not chosen

  Explore how generational beliefs, emotional responses, and coping mechanisms have been passed down—and decide which ones you’re ready to release.

• Develop acceptance and psychological flexibility

  Through ACT, discover how to make space for difficult emotions without letting them define your actions—choosing to live in alignment with your values instead.

• Reconnect with your body through grounding and somatic awareness

  Somatic therapy helps you notice and release stored tension or trauma in the body, restoring a sense of safety and presence.

• Use mindfulness to manage anxiety, depression, and stress

  Mindfulness techniques teach you how to slow down, stay present, and respond rather than react—even in the face of emotional pain.

• Build new, healthier ways of relating to yourself and others

  Therapy offers the tools to foster self-compassion, improve communication, and create meaningful, secure connections with others.

You don’t have to carry what was never yours to begin with.

Is Therapy Accessible?

We know that seeking therapy can feel overwhelming—especially if you’re worried about the cost. That’s why Roots to Rising accepts most major insurance plans and offers a sliding scale for clients without coverage. Healing should never be a luxury. We’re committed to making care accessible and inclusive.

A welcoming mental health resource center for community support

Breaking Barriers to Mental Health Support

Unfortunately, stigma around mental health still keeps many people from reaching out for help. At Roots to Rising, we are actively working to normalize therapy as a courageous and necessary step toward wellness.

We also understand that logistical challenges—like transportation, work schedules, or childcare—can get in the way. That’s why we offer telehealth sessions, giving you the flexibility to meet with your therapist from the comfort of your home.

Building Support and Community

Healing generational trauma is a journey that takes time, intention, and support. Surrounding yourself with people who understand the importance of mental and emotional health can make a profound difference. Whether that’s a close friend, a family member, or a support group, connection is a key part of the process.

Community matters. Belonging matters. You don’t have to heal alone.

The Journey Forward

Breaking the cycle of generational trauma is not just about healing your own wounds—it’s about creating new legacies. Healthier relationships. More attuned parenting. A deeper sense of peace in your body and your life.

At Roots to Rising, we are honored to walk alongside individuals and families who are doing this brave work. Together, we’re planting seeds for future generations—rooted in resilience, nurtured by compassion, and growing toward a future defined not by trauma, but by healing.

Ready to take the first step?

We’re here when you are.