Seeking Support in Times of Crisis: Navigating the Aftermath of the Los Angeles Area Wildfires
As a trauma therapist who has spent years walking alongside individuals in the darkest moments of their lives, I am deeply moved by the resilience of our community in the face of the Los Angeles area fires. The devastation caused by these fires has left many of us feeling uprooted—physically, emotionally, and mentally. Yet, in times of crisis, seeking support isn’t just helpful; it’s essential.
The emotional toll of disasters like wildfires often goes unspoken. Fear for loved ones, grief over what has been lost, and uncertainty about the future can leave lasting imprints on our psyche. But it’s important to remember that no one should have to navigate this emotional landscape alone. The process of healing begins with recognizing the importance of connection, resources, and intentional care.
Understanding Trauma in the Wake of Wildfires
Trauma manifests in many ways after a disaster. You might feel on edge, overwhelmed by sadness, or entirely numb. These are all natural responses to an unnatural event. Trauma isn’t just about what happened; it’s about how our nervous systems process and store those events. For many, experiences like evacuating homes, witnessing destruction, or even inhaling smoke can activate the body’s fight-or-flight response.
Over time, unprocessed trauma can result in symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, or even physical ailments. This is why addressing trauma early and seeking appropriate support is so critical.
As a trauma and EMDR therapist in Pasadena, CA, I’ve seen how transformative it can be for people to name and process their feelings. Whether through talk therapy, somatic experiencing, or eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), there are many ways to begin releasing the emotional weight of trauma.
Therapy as a Lifeline in Crisis
Therapy offers a safe, confidential space to process the emotional and psychological aftermath of a crisis. It’s a place to share fears, grief, and guilt without judgment. For some, it’s the first step toward reclaiming a sense of control and agency after feeling powerless in the face of disaster.
In the Pasadena and Los Angeles areas, there are numerous therapists and organizations equipped to provide trauma-informed care. Here are a few options to consider:
• Thomas Blake Therapy: We provide a range of therapy services, including trauma-focused modalities like EMDR and somatic-based work and offer sliding scale
• LA Revive Link . Connects mental health professionals with those in need while our community works to rebuild.
• The Los Angeles LGBT Center extends mental health services to LGBTQ+ individuals and their families, a vital resource for marginalized communities during a crisis.
Many therapists, including myself, also offer sliding-scale rates or virtual sessions to accommodate those unable to travel or facing financial difficulties after a disaster.
Connecting with Your Community
In times of crisis, connection is healing. While therapy provides individual support, community connection reminds us we’re not alone in our struggles. After the fires, many local organizations and grassroots efforts have mobilized to help those affected. Volunteering, attending support groups, or simply checking in with neighbors can foster a sense of solidarity.
If you are interested in joining a community based support group to process with others experiencing what you are going through, please email me for more details on a free group I have started in response to this recent tragedy: thomas@thomasblaketherapy.com
Local community centers, such as the Pasadena Community Foundation and Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy, are stepping up to offer relief efforts and space for healing. Libraries, churches, and schools often transform into hubs for resources, where people can share stories, gather supplies, and lean on one another.
Practical Resources for Recovery
Beyond emotional support, practical resources play a key role in recovery. The following organizations are offering assistance to those impacted by the fires:
• American Red Cross Los Angeles: Provides shelter, meals, and financial aid to displaced families.
• Los Angeles County Disaster Help Center: Offers information about housing assistance, emergency relief funds, and rebuilding efforts.
• 211 LA County: A hotline connecting individuals to food pantries, temporary shelters, and mental health services.
• MALAN Fire & Wind Storm Resources: Spreadsheet to aid those affected/in need of help and identify ways for others to offer help
If you’ve been affected, reaching out to these organizations can provide tangible relief as you begin the journey toward stability.
Taking Care of Your Nervous System
In the immediate aftermath of a crisis, it’s common to feel physically and emotionally dysregulated. Grounding techniques can help restore a sense of safety in your body and mind. Consider these simple practices:
1. Breathwork: Practice slow, deep breathing to calm your nervous system. Inhale for a count of four, hold for four, and exhale for six.
2. Movement: Gentle yoga or walking can help release stress hormones stored in the body.
3. Connection to Nature: If it’s safe to do so, spend time in green spaces or near water. Nature has a unique way of soothing the soul.
4. Creative Expression: Journaling, painting, or playing music can help externalize emotions that feel too overwhelming to verbalize.
Looking Toward Long-Term Healing
As our community begins the arduous process of rebuilding, it’s important to remember that healing from trauma is not linear. Some days will feel easier than others, and setbacks are a normal part of the journey. With time, patience, and support, resilience can grow from the ashes.
For those of us in the helping professions, it’s a privilege to walk alongside our neighbors during this difficult time. If you’re feeling unsure about where to start, remember this: asking for help is a profound act of courage. Whether it’s reaching out to a therapist, joining a support group, or simply calling a friend, taking that first step can open the door to hope.
You Are Not Alone
In the face of loss, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. But as someone who has witnessed the strength of the human spirit time and again, I want to remind you of this: you are not alone. Your pain is valid, and your healing is possible. Together, as a community, we can hold one another through this storm and emerge stronger, more compassionate, and more connected than ever before.
Start Working With a Trauma Therapist in Pasadena, CA
If you or someone you know is struggling after the fires, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Let’s take this journey toward healing—together. Contact me today for personalized trauma therapy from my Pasadena, CA-based practice. You can start your therapy journey with Thomas Blake Therapy by following these steps:
Schedule a free, 15-minute consultation
Meet with me, Thomas Blake
Start finding community support and more!
Other Services Offered at Thomas Blake Therapy
At Thomas Blake Therapy, I understand you may be experiencing issues with more than one mental health concern. In addition to EMDR Therapy to help with trauma, I’m happy to also offer LGBTQ Affirming Therapy to support and advocate for the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals. I also offer Narrative Therapy where I will work collaboratively with you to dissect the problematic story of your life and reshape that dialogue. In addition, I also offer Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy to accelerate healing in patients who have struggled to heal from chronic emotional pain due to treatment resistance. If any of these services resonate with you feel free to reach out. My online therapy services are offered in California and New Jersey. For more about me and my services, check out my Bio and Blog!
