Bertrina Olivia West Al-Mahdi

suicide,or complex mental health. Over 70% of the US population have or will experience a traumatic event in their lifetime. This may be alarming to some because when most people think of trauma, they think about complex trauma (war, famine, abuse, death, violence, etc). However, what most aren’t considering is that trauma is simply STRESS. Stress that has become so overwhelming it has affected your ability to cope and live an effective life. Trauma is individualistic and it affects people differently. What may have been a traumatic event for me, may not have been for you. Symptoms of trauma are often depicted as depression, anxiety, restlessness, anger, feeling overwhelmed, exhaustion, relationship problems, sexual dysfunction, eating disorders, personality disorders, and so much more. The root cause of almost every mental health diagnosis can be traced back to trauma. As a trauma specialist, I look at your current issue causing you distress through a trauma lens. Although it may not

be readily evident that you experienced a traumatic event, I partner with you to find the root cause of your distress. I believe in taking a holistic approach to therapy, coaching, and consulting. Because not everyone is familiar with therapy, or on the same level of recovery, I believe in stepping Outside of the Box of traditional talk therapy, and doing whatever it takes to meet you where you are at your current stage of life. I believe therapy is not just about “fixing the mind” (ie thoughts and behaviors), but it is important to understand how our physical health and personal affairs also play a part in our mental well-being. Thus, I incorporate an equal balance of wellness and harmony in your mind, body, and personal affairs. Some may call my approach to counseling, coaching and consulting unorthodox, as I step away from traditional approaches and ways of thinking. However, I believe in truly partnering with each individual client to meet their unique needs and accomplish goals.