Now Scheduling Appointments Starting in March 2026
Many people think of trauma as a single, catastrophic event. While that can be true, it isn't the whole story. Trauma happens when an event (or a series of events) overwhelms your ability to cope, leaving your brain and body "stuck" in a survival state. It is less about what happened to you, and more about how your body stored that experience. Trauma can occur due to a sudden shock or to a long-term environment where you didn't feel safe to be your true self.
You don't need a specific diagnosis to benefit from trauma-informed care. You might find this approach helpful if you resonate with any of the following:
You often minimize your struggles because "others have it worse," yet you still feel deeply affected by your past.
You feel like you are always looking over your shoulder, or you are easily startled by loud noises or sudden changes.
You feel "numb" or "checked out," as if you are watching your life happen from behind a pane of glass.
You carry physical tightness - in your jaw, your shoulders, or your chest - that doesn't seem to go away with rest.
You find yourself overreacting to small stresses, or "shutting down" entirely when a conversation gets difficult.
We address trauma from the bottom up, starting with your body’s sense of safety and moving toward emotional freedom.
When trauma has left your brain in a state of "high alert," it is hard to focus on therapy. As a Psychiatric NP, Olena provides expert medication management to help quiet the brain's "alarm bells".
Trauma often leaves us with "internal scripts", such as the belief that we have to be perfect to be safe, or that we are somehow fundamentally "wrong." In a safe, affirming space, Olena helps you untangle these stories. Using evidence-based counseling, we look at the survival strategies that once kept you protected but may now be keeping you stuck.
The body remembers what the mind tries to forget. Through Creative Movement Therapy, we don't just talk about the pain; we move through it. We use movement to:
Safely release the physical tension trapped in the body.
Use physical space to practice feeling "no" and "yes" in your own skin.
Develop physical "anchors" to pull you back to the present when a memory feels overwhelming.
We are committed to providing a sanctuary for all identities. Whether you are navigating the weight of past events or the ongoing stress of moving through the world as a person of color, immigrant, woman, or neurodivergent or LGBTQ+ individual, this is a space where your safety is honored and your story is believed.
Healing begins with a single, safe connection. If you're ready to explore how an integrated approach can help you move forward, we invite you to reach out.
We offer telehealth services throughout the state of PA, and in-person sessions in Elkins Park and Fort Washington.
Learn more about our Services, Rates and How We Can Help with common mental health challenges.
Learn about what to expect on Your First Visit.
If you aren't sure where to start, that’s okay! We can figure it out together.
Schedule a Free Consultation to answer any questions you may have and to set up an Initial Intake when you are ready.