Most people think of childhood trauma as one dramatic event that produces fear. But for many adults, the trauma was relational and ongoing — showing up not as fear, but as confusion: not knowing what was real, or who to trust, including yourself.

In this episode, Jim explores the difference between fear (immediate, reflexive) and shame (built later, once meaning gets attached to what happened) — and why that distinction matters for understanding your own patterns. He walks through a somatic and IFS (Internal Family Systems) lens on childhood trauma, how self-blame forms as a survival strategy, and where EMDR fits into recovery for people who don’t necessarily meet full PTSD criteria.

You don’t need the “worst” story for this to apply to you. If something from your past is quietly running the show in your present — in your relationships, your body, your sense of what’s possible — this episode is for you.

Jim Squire is a Registered Psychotherapist (RP) and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), and Clinical Director of a private virtual trauma therapy practice serving clients across Ontario.

Learn more: traumatherapists.ca Book a consultation or reach out: [email protected] | 416 826 0842

Not a substitute for professional mental health care. If you’re in crisis, call 911 or local crisis line.