Relational Trauma

What is Relational Trauma?

Relational trauma refers to the emotional and psychological harm caused by a person we have a significant relationship or attachment to. It often involves some form of betrayal, abuse, neglect or abandonment. Relational trauma typically occurs in close, important relationships such as with parents, family members, caregivers, romantic partners, close friendships and even workplace relationships.

Some examples of relational trauma include:

Attachment trauma stems from inconsistent caregiving or neglect early in life, often leading to insecure attachment into adulthood.

Betrayal trauma occurs when a trusted person violates your trust causing deep emotional wounds.

Co-dependency and Enmeshment arise in relationships where personal boundaries are blurred causing a loss of individuality.

Abandonment trauma results from the physical or emotional withdrawal of a loved one, creating strong fears of rejection or being left behind.

Parentification occurs when a child is forced into inappropriate caregiving roles for their age, resulting in their own development being impacted.

Abuse is when behaviours or patterns within a relationship cause emotional, psychological or physical harm, deeply affecting self-worth and trust.

Relational trauma is particularly painful because it involves deep emotional wounds caused by those we trust most, often leaving lasting impacts on our sense of safety and self-worth. Healing from relational trauma involves processing past wounds and understanding the impact and influence trauma has on your current emotional, psychological and physical wellbeing.

Where trauma was created within relationships, it can also be healed through relationships, just not the same ones that hurt you.

Healing in partnership with others can be a rewarding and impactful experience, but connecting with others is not without challenges. Whether it’s fear of vulnerability, past betrayals, emotional dysregulation or the result of relational traumas such as co-dependency, abandonment, or insecure attachment, obstacles arise that can make true connection feel distant. Yet these challenges are also opportunities for growth. When we face them collaboratively with an open heart and a curiosity to understand, we pave the way for deeper more meaningful bonds.

Need help to heal from your own relational trauma? Counselling sessions are available below.