What Trauma Really Is – and How the Body Remembers

In this episode of The Chalice: Mental Health & Christian Faith, we sit down with Deanna Davis, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Professional Counselor, and Clinical and Senior Director of the Richmont Trauma Center. Together, we unpack what trauma really is—beyond the buzzword—and how it often shows up in our bodies, thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Deanna introduces us to Somatic Experiencing, a body-based approach to trauma recovery, and shares why beginning with the body—not just the story—is essential for healing. She also explores how trauma can be misread as personality, how to avoid re-traumatization in therapy, and the importance of trauma-informed care for both clients and future clinicians. We also get a behind-the-scenes look at the Richmont Trauma Center’s mission to train skilled, compassionate therapists, and how Deanna integrates her faith in the sacred work of counseling.