Trauma Therapy with Monique Ngo, LMFT at Poiesis Wellness

Intergenerational trauma is defined as trauma that is passed from one generation to another in a form of psychological consequences; whether or not subsequent generations have experienced the original traumatic event. It has also been called multigenerational or transgenerational trauma to describe a trauma that affects more than one generation following the one that experienced the event directly. The transference of this lived experience is still being studied. However, there are beliefs that it is epigenetic; meaning that trauma experienced in one generation has caused changes that translate to a gene adaptation passed on to future generations. Further research also discusses how a generations trauma response (i.e. negative coping patterns, emotional suppression, exposure to violence, or substance use) can sustain the trauma across generations.

How Intergenerational Trauma Can Look

Intergenerational trauma can look like symptoms similar to PTSD which include hypervigilance, anxiety, and emotion dysregulation. However, since the individual did not experience the trauma directly, they do not experience flashbacks of the event or intrusive memories. Instead, their responses are inherited genetically and or through the continued cycle of trauma through the generations. This can occur if a parent experienced physical abuse as a child and now their experiences impact their parenting choices.

Intergenerational trauma can be a result of oppression and racial trauma. It has been shown that collective trauma occurs for generations in descendants of refugees, Holocaust survivors, and slavery. We see more discussions around intergenerational trauma due to Pixar films like Encanto and Turning Red where the depiction of intergenerational trauma has manifested as maladaptive parenting styles. When an individual does not have the tools, energy, modeling or support to move through trauma, the constant state of being in survival mode can translate to maladaptive behaviors in an attempt to protect themselves.

Healing Intergenerational Trauma

Since trauma is a very physical response, it must be addressed physically as well. Utilizing modalities like Somatic experiences and trauma informed techniques are beneficial in helping to teach the body how to move through the trauma and rewire the nervous system to feel safe and regulated again. Healing intergenerational trauma also includes being educated about trauma, it’s impacts, and addressing ways to end the cycle of trauma responses. This includes acknowledging and choosing to make changes in relationships and your daily environment, learning new supportive coping skills, exploring boundaries, and the persistence in unlearning maladaptive expectations and norms.

Meet with Monique for Trauma Therapy

Unlearning maladaptive ways of coping can be difficult, especially within a family dynamic. Even though it did not begin with you, you can create the opportunity to end the cycle of trauma.

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Trauma Therapy with Monique Ngo, LMFT at Poiesis Wellness

How Intergenerational Trauma Can Look

Trauma is a fact of life. It does not, however, have to be a life sentence. Not only can trauma be healed, but with appropriate guidance and support, it can be transformative.

Healing Intergenerational Trauma

Meet with Monique for Trauma Therapy