Trauma Impact Statement

When to Use

Use early in treatment to identify and articulate the personal meaning the trauma has had on the client's view of themselves, others, and the world. Serves as a baseline document that can be revisited and updated as processing progresses.

How to Introduce

Explain that trauma often changes how we see ourselves and the world, and that writing about this impact can be a first step in processing. Reassure the client that there are no right or wrong answers — this is about their experience.

Adaptations

For clients who find writing difficult, this can be completed verbally with the therapist scribing, or as an audio recording. For clients with alexithymia or emotional numbing, use prompts and scaling questions to support expression.

Avoid assigning as unsupported homework if the client has a history of significant dissociation or self-harm in response to trauma-related distress. Complete in session first to assess the client's capacity to engage with the material safely.

Clinical Tips

The impact statement reveals the client's key negative appraisals, which are direct targets for cognitive restructuring. Compare the initial statement with a revised version later in therapy to demonstrate therapeutic change and consolidate gains.