I believe that people find obstacles to reaching their goals because of experiences in their past. These are examples of traumas that adults carry from childhood and sometimes affect their lives currently:
 

• ​relentless teasing by peers
   

• the loss or illness of a loved one
   

• moving frequently or at significant times in one’s life
   

• harsh, repetitive criticism
   

• inappropriate expectations of the child
   

• neglect including from parental depression, addiction, overwork/lack of time
   

• physical, sexual, (including touching, exposure to pornography, etc.) and emotional abuse
   

• watching a loved one be abused
   

• medical traumas
   

​Trauma has been shown to cause changes in brain chemistry. This can cause depression, anxiety, flashbacks, sleep and memory disturbances. It can also affect the ability to form close, satisfying relationships and to feel safe. Often traumas lead to negative behaviors and coping mechanisms,  low self- esteem, and anxiety, the most common concern brought to therapists’ offices.