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121: The Two Types of Trauma Triggers Every Adult Must Know: EMDR Insights [Why Women Go To Therapy Series]

In this episode of the Zero Disturbance Podcast, Kambria Evans breaks down one of the most misunderstood concepts in mental health: triggers.

Using a brain-based therapy and EMDR framework, she explains that not all triggers are the same—and confusing them can disconnect you from your self-trust.

You’ll learn how to distinguish between:

  • Trauma replays from the past
  • Healthy, protective nervous system responses in the present

This episode is essential for anyone navigating trauma healing, anxiety, or boundary setting, especially women who have been conditioned to dismiss their internal alarm system.

The Core Question

When you feel triggered, ask: “What am I supposed to be learning right now?”

This shifts you from:

  • Reactivity → Curiosity
  • Confusion → Clarity
  • Disconnection → Self-trust

 Practical Tools

  • Identify intensity, duration, and context
  • Notice which belief system is activated:
    • Safety
    • Worthiness (goodness)
    • Control / power / choice
  • Ask:
    • Do I need safety?
    • Do I need reassurance?
    • Do I need to set a boundary or leave?

Key Takeaway

Triggers are not problems—they are messages from your nervous system.

Some are asking you to heal the past.
Others are asking you to protect yourself in the present.

Learning the difference is the foundation of true self-trust and emotional regulation.

 

 

Come learn with us at Zero Disturbance: 

Want to learn more about empowering yourself on your terms? If you appreciated this episode, you won't want to miss out on more ways to learn with Kambria! https://www.zerodisturbance.com/workwithkambria

We also offer free resources for clients and therapists! Get access to our free client resource library for the most up-to-date tools and resources for your own journey.  

Therapists, access our favorite free resources for designing high-value offers in The Zero Disturbance Welcome Bundle, https://www.zerodisturbance.com/free-resources 

 

Note: This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional therapy. If you’re experiencing difficulties, please seek guidance from a licensed mental health provider. All stories, examples, and characters shared are fictionalized or composite representations. Any resemblance to actual persons or situations is purely coincidental and intended solely for educational illustration. 

With a Masters in Education from Vanderbilt, Kambria has been creating trainings and teaching adult learners for over 20 years. As the Director of Education and Quality Improvement at Stanford Medical School, she created ease in complex systems, thereby giving medical trainees successful learning experiences. Now, as a dedicated mom, therapist, and EMDR Consultant, Kambria knows what it means to do things efficiently, effectively, and in a learner-centered way. When she isn't podcasting or creating online courses, you can find Kambria playing with her twins on a beach in California.