How long do sessions last?

Each session lasts 50 minutes, however there could be circumstances where a longer session is required.

How much does a session cost?

50-minute sessions are €120 for individuals, €150 for couples, and €150 for family and parent therapy.

Do you offer face-to-face sessions?

Yes, I offer face-to-face and virtual sessions. Contact me to book a time that suits you.

Are your services eligible for health insurance reimbursement?

I do not currently work with healthcare insurance companies. I recommend contacting your insurance provider to determine whether therapy may be partially or fully reimbursed.

What languages do you speak?

All sessions are conducted in English.

Understanding trauma and its impact | Adam Harris Psychology

Trauma is a word that’s often used but not always fully understood. At Adam Harris Psychology here in Amsterdam, I regularly work with clients navigating the ripple effects of traumatic experiences—some that are immediately recognizable, others that are deeply buried and show up in unexpected ways.

In this article, I want to shed light on the different types of trauma, how they can affect daily life long after the initial event, and why recognising these impacts is an essential first step toward healing.

What is trauma?

Trauma is not just about what happens to us—it’s also about how we experience and process those events. What might be traumatic for one person might not affect another in the same way. It’s a deeply personal response to overwhelming experiences that exceed our capacity to cope.

There are several types of trauma, and each has its own unique characteristics and implications for mental health and well-being.

Types of trauma I see in therapy

1. Acute trauma

This results from a single distressing event, like an accident, assault, or natural disaster. The effects can be immediate and intense, ranging from anxiety and hypervigilance to difficulty sleeping or trusting others.

2. Chronic trauma

This is the result of repeated and prolonged exposure to distressing situations, such as ongoing domestic abuse, bullying, or long-term exposure to violence. Chronic trauma can quietly erode a person’s sense of safety and self-worth over time.

3. Complex trauma

Often emerging from early life experiences, complex trauma typically involves multiple, interpersonal traumas over a long period—like childhood neglect or abuse. This type can deeply affect personality development, relationships, and emotional regulation.

4. Vicarious trauma

This is more common than many realise, especially among caregivers, therapists, or even those constantly exposed to distressing media. It arises from empathising deeply with others’ trauma and can lead to burnout, compassion fatigue, or emotional numbing.

How Trauma manifests in everyday life

One of the most challenging things about trauma is that its impacts often show up in subtle, sometimes confusing ways. I’ve worked with clients here in Amsterdam who initially came to therapy for anxiety, burnout, or relationship issues, only to discover that underlying unresolved trauma was a key factor.

Here are a few ways trauma can affect day-to-day life:

Emotional Triggers – Seemingly minor events can evoke intense emotional reactions.
Avoidance Patterns – You might unconsciously avoid certain places, people, or feelings.
Relationship Struggles – Trauma can impact how we trust, connect, or communicate with others.
Body-Based Symptoms – Chronic tension, sleep issues, and fatigue often have a trauma-related origin.
Negative Core Beliefs – Feelings of unworthiness or fear of abandonment often stem from early trauma.

Why therapy can help

If this resonates with you, I want you to know you’re not alone. Trauma doesn’t always announce itself loudly—it often lives quietly in our habits, emotions, and relationships. One of the most powerful steps you can take is simply recognising that trauma may be part of your story—and that healing is not only possible, but well within reach.

At Adam Harris Psychology, my approach is grounded in compassion, safety, and professional expertise. Whether through trauma-focused CBT, EMDR, or other integrative methods, we can work together to process those experiences in a way that helps you regain control, reconnect with your strengths, and build resilience.

Whether you’ve been through something recent or are just beginning to connect the dots from the past, it’s okay to talk about it. When you’re ready, feel free to reach out, and I’ll help guide you through the process.