Rebuilding trust after trauma doesn’t happen all at once. It’s about taking small, consistent steps. Whether you’re re-entering a romantic relationship or cautiously allowing a friend back in after they’ve hurt you, trust doesn’t have to be an all-or-nothing endeavour.

Trust isn’t about opening your heart to everyone immediately. It’s about choosing who you want to let in and who is worthy of your trust and recognising that your boundaries are essential to your safety. This shift from your past approach to trust might feel unfamiliar, but through therapy and self-reflection, we can rebuild your internal compass.

James* had a similar experience. He had a difficult childhood, feeling abandoned and neglected by family members. As an adult, he struggled with trusting anyone—friends or romantic partners. For years, James* kept people at arm’s length, using isolation as a way to protect himself from further hurt.

When James* began therapy, we focused on helping him understand that rebuilding trust wasn’t just about trusting others; it was about trusting himself. Together, we acknowledged his fears and started testing the waters in small, manageable ways. Over time, he reconnected with family members and, eventually, built a supportive group of friends who respected his boundaries.

The Role of Boundaries in Rebuilding Trust After Trauma

You cannot rebuild trust without boundaries. Boundaries are essential to protecting yourself and your emotional well-being. They act as a safeguard, helping you navigate relationships with awareness and care. In my practice, I work with clients to help them create boundaries that feel authentic and empowering, especially after experiencing trauma.

If you’ve been hurt, the first step isn’t opening up and trusting others blindly. Instead, it’s identifying what you need to feel safe. Do you need time before being vulnerable with someone? Do you need clear communication about expectations? Maybe it’s about learning to say “no” when something feels off.

Boundaries aren’t about pushing people away—they’re about letting people in on your terms. And that’s empowering, especially when you’re rebuilding your trust in yourself and others.

Healing Takes Time, But It’s Possible

Trust after trauma is a journey. Letting people in again feels like walking through a fog. Some days, it seems impossible. You may feel like you're moving backwards or wonder if you’ll ever feel safe again.

But trust is built through experience. It’s not something you just give away; it’s something you earn—both within yourself and from others. And it starts with small, intentional steps.

So, if you're wondering, "Is it possible for me to trust again after trauma?" The answer is yes. It’s a process. It won’t always be easy. But with the right tools, support, and self-compassion, it is entirely possible.

Start with yourself. Trust that you know what you need. Trust that you have the strength to set boundaries, speak your truth, and take small steps to open up when you’re ready.

Rebuilding trust is never perfect, but it is entirely possible—and when you finally rebuild that trust, it will be so worth it.

• Names have been changed for confidentiality.