Intergenerational Trauma Therapy in Chicago, IL

Intergenerational Trauma Therapy in Chicago, IL

 
intergenerational trauma therapy

Have you been taught growing up to silence your voice in a room full of adults, only to find that same belief is causing stress and conflict in your relationships today? You've likely taken on the role of a caregiver or pseudo-parent from a young age for those around you, believing that prioritizing others makes you a “good and helpful person”.

Saying 'no' felt disrespectful to elders, and you were always the 'responsible one,' taking care of everyone—except now, you're struggling to communicate your own needs, wants, and boundaries. Your plate of responsibilities seem to be getting more and more complicated because to let others know that you’re struggling seems weak and irresponsible. You need to keep going, but you’ve been constantly feeling burnt out, irritable, and distracted. It’s not appropriate to “air out the dirty laundry” to strangers. 

How I can help!

Taking time for self-reflection and awareness isn't selfish; it's an act of self-compassion. If you’ve found your way to this page, chances are you’re ready to break free from the unhealthy patterns passed down through generations and create a healthier path for yourself and your family.

Reaching out for help can stir up feelings of embarrassment, shame, or guilt, especially when we begin to explore patterns of shame, blame, and anger learned from our families. These emotional responses can shape how we treat ourselves and relate to others. However, with awareness, we can unlearn these behaviors and create healthier ways to build emotional safety—within ourselves and in our relationships. By reflecting on the past, we can prevent its dynamics from repeating themselves, and pave the way for a more intentional, fulfilling future.

I know firsthand how vulnerable and intimidating it can feel to reach out for support—especially if you’re used to being the one everyone leans on. It’s okay to feel uncertain about taking this step; seeking help is a courageous choice. Time is one of our most valuable resources, and I want to help you carve out space for yourself, even in your busy life.

Life’s ebbs and flows are inevitable, but intergenerational trauma therapy can help you find comfort in uncertainty, manage overwhelming emotions, and reduce anxiety. Through intergenerational trauma therapy, you’ll not only heal but gain the tools to build the life you deserve. If you struggle with perfectionism, over-promising, or feeling constantly overwhelmed, let’s work together to break these patterns.

Be the generational curse breaker in your family.

Take the first step today and schedule a 15-minute consultation for intergenerational trauma therapy.

Intergenerational Trauma Therapy FAQs

  • The best therapy for intergenerational trauma is one where you’re actively working to become more aware of your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. You might recognize that some of the patterns you’ve learned aren't helping you, and you're ready to find a different way of navigating your relationships and your life. It takes a lot of courage to show up and address these things, and that’s a huge step toward healing. We’ll work together to break those old habits and create new, healthier ones.

    1. People-pleasing tendencies – You often prioritize others’ needs over your own, sometimes neglecting your own well-being.

    2. Avoiding or dreading family gatherings – You’d rather not go and feel drained or anxious just thinking about them.

    3. Difficulty speaking up for yourself or setting boundaries – Saying “No” feels uncomfortable or guilt-inducing, making it hard to assert your needs.

    4. Reacting defensively or irritably – Small comments or situations may trigger an overreaction, often because of deeper feelings you might not fully understand.

    5. Brushing conflicts under the rug – You tend to avoid addressing negative emotions or conflicts, hoping they’ll go away on their own, but they often resurface later.

  • Go to therapy! All jokes aside, breaking intergenerational trauma starts with understanding yourself more deeply—unlearning unhealthy habits, facing uncomfortable emotions, and deciding what you want to carry forward. It’s like taking the family heirlooms and leaving behind the family drama. You get to choose what parts of your family’s legacy you want to keep and what you’re ready to let go of.