Thrive Counseling Center: Stephanie’s Story

“After a traumatic brain injury, my life changed completely. Months of recovery left me feeling overwhelmed, disconnected from myself, and uncertain about my future. I had to leave my job, move back in with my family, and put my normal routines on hold. Even as my physical recovery progressed, the emotional impact remained. Everyday moments, like a hug from my partner, could trigger intense flashbacks to my recovery and leave me distressed for hours. When I came to Thrive, I found a space where I felt understood and supported. Through trauma-informed therapy, I learned how to sit with difficult emotions instead of feeling consumed by them. Week by week, I talked through my experiences, processed the challenges I was facing, and slowly began reconnecting with activities that had once felt impossible. Eventually, I returned to work part-time. It wasn’t easy. I often came home physically drained and emotionally exhausted, and I didn’t feel like myself yet. But with continued support