Trauma Therapy: A Trauma-Informed Therapy Approach

Medically reviewed by Lauren Fawley , LPC

Updated October 23, 2024by BetterHelp Editorial Team

Content Warning: Please be advised, the below article on trauma therapy might mention trauma-related topics that could be triggering to the reader. Please see our Get Help Now page for more immediate resources aside from trauma therapy.

Getty

Trauma can affect your life in many ways

A licensed therapist can help

What is trauma therapy and how does it address trauma?

Trauma is an intense emotional response caused by an experience that impacts or threatens your mental health, physical body, or life. There are many forms of trauma, such as medical trauma, disaster trauma, early childhood trauma, and racial trauma. Trauma affects people in many ways. The response to trauma may initially lead to shock and denial, with long-term reactions such as flashbacks or unpredictable emotions or physical symptoms such as headaches. If you have experienced a traumatic event, you are not alone and trauma informed therapy can help.

How can trauma therapy improve mental health?

Experienced trauma can have lingering effects on mental health, and there are various treatment programs, such as trauma focused treatment, talk therapy, and cognitive therapy, that can help you find healthier ways to manage the emotions associated with trauma. These treatment programs are approved by the American Psychological Association and can be beneficial in healing after traumatic experiences.

How a traumatic event and PTSD can affect the brain

A traumatic experience activates the body's stress response, which involves the amygdala, hippocampus, and prefrontal cortex of the brain, especially after experiencing trauma in the form of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). These areas of the brain can experience lasting changes in those who experience trauma stress. For example, individuals with PTSD often experience increased cortisol and norepinephrine responses to stress.

The prefrontal cortex is associated with decision-making, planning, social behavior, and self-expression. Following a traumatic event, people with PTSD often show decreased prefrontal cortex functioning. In addition, they might develop increased function in the amygdala, which is related to processing threatening stimuli and fear-related behavior.

These changes may lead to a range of reactions. For example, suppose you remember your traumatic event, and your amygdala becomes overactive. In this case, your brain may become hypervigilant and on high alert to ensure you're safe from danger. Trauma and phobia are two different terms, but trauma can cause a specific phobia. For example, many veterans living with PTSD might have traumatic memories that can relate to the sound of fireworks, and therapeutic methods such as behavioral techniques can help with working through these triggers and phobias associated with trauma.

One type of trauma informed practice and therapeutic intervention is eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, where you process specific traumatic events in a controlled environment through bilateral stimulation. EMDR is a form of trauma therapy that has been proven effective in treat ptsd and other forms of trauma.

Getty

Types of treatment for traumatic events: Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy

Trauma-focused therapy, such as trauma focus, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and prolonged exposure therapy, are recognized as evidence-based methods to treat trauma. These therapeutic methods can address the effects of trauma on both adult survivors and younger populations. Trauma-focused cognitive behavior therapy, cognitive processing, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) are all evidence-based types of therapy but do not serve as substitutes for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. In the wake of a traumatic event, therapy can serve as a tool to navigate the trauma and rewire neural pathways.

Trauma-focused therapy can be provided by a mental health professional who specializes in treating individuals who have experienced high stress and are showing signs of a trauma-related disorder and can be one of the best online counseling options. This type addresses the needs and mental health symptoms common in those who experience traumatic stress, which may impact your mood, sleep, or ability to cope healthily. Mental health services and mental health support are available for posttraumatic stress disorder through trauma-informed care.

However, note that there are many types of treatments that can be used to navigate traumatic experiences. Therapists may use a range of treatments for trauma survivors and various trauma-related conditions. Children and adolescents can often also receive treatment for trauma and cognitive restructuring that may result from PTSD in adults. Types of counseling and mental health care approved by medical reviewers and the American Psychological Association include cognitive processing therapy CPT, and dialectical behavior therapy DBT which are often techniques used by licensed therapists. These are helpful and effective grounding techniques to ensure clients feel safe throughout treatment plans to learn coping skills and manage emotional reactions.

Trauma therapy for PTSD: How trauma therapy helps heal trauma

According to the National Center for PTSD, if you've experienced at least one high-stress event or think you might have signs of traumatic stress, it is possible that talk therapy can help you begin to process your experiences. Therapies like trauma focus and cognitive therapy assist in this process.

For many, navigating life after traumatic events is a journey unique to each individual. Trauma survivors often face ongoing challenges, such as confronting trauma experiences that resurface over time. Using various therapeutic methods, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and exposure therapy, professionals can help individuals process these experiences and move towards healing. These methods are tailored to meet the specific needs of each person, ensuring they have the support and resources needed to cope and recover.

With the help of a therapist who specializes in PTSD, you can take steps to heal and move forward with your life through different therapies and techniques that assist the therapy process. Some people find it helpful to work with mental health clinicians to assess the treatment outcome and ensure that the best psychological treatment methods are used for their case.

As a summary:

Trauma therapy specializes in PTSD and other traumatic events
There are multiple forms of therapy, and these types can vary depending on the effects caused by a traumatic event.
Each person might have different experiences and reactions to trauma, which is why trauma therapy might look different for everyone.
PTSD therapy might look like prolonged exposure therapy, somatic therapy, narrative exposure therapy, EMDR, or CBT
Ask your therapist if they have a specialty in PTSD symptoms

Benefits of trauma-focused counseling for mental health after traumatic events

Trauma-informed professionals, including social workers, therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists, can help you work through symptoms of psychological trauma and PTSD in counseling, such as:

Intrusive thoughts or memories (e.g., flashbacks, involuntary memories, or distressing dreams, especially related to PTSD)
Avoidance coping (e.g., avoiding memories, emotions, feelings, places, or activities associated with the traumatic event)
Cognition and mood changes (e.g., ongoing fear, self-blame, guilt, shame, or feeling detached)
Arousal and reactivity changes (e.g., angry outbursts, irritability, or trouble concentrating)

Other benefits can include:

Working with an informed therapist in trauma therapy may help you develop a better understanding of your trauma symptoms, triggers, and reactions
A certified PTSD and trauma therapist can outline symptoms related to PTSD, as well as treatment methods moving forward
A therapist may also help you find mental health resources that can assist you in your recovery
You can work with your therapist in counseling to identify a list of goals for your trauma treatment, which can help you track your progress
Therapy for trauma and alternate forms of therapies may allow you to dive deeper into what life can look like when living with PTSD, as well as ways forward

Common goals of trauma therapy:

Working in therapy to successfully accept the reality of the traumatic event that occurred in the past
Working in therapy to eliminate or ease the symptoms of trauma and treating PTSD through counseling sessions
Working in therapy to shift your focus from the trauma memory in the past to what's happening in the present
Working in therapy to boost day-to-day functioning outside of psychotherapy
Working in therapy to understand potential intergenerational trauma
Working in therapy to regain personal power and self-esteem
Working in therapy to overcome addictions or unhealthy behavior patterns caused by traumatic stress
Working in therapy to learn the coping skills and therapies needed to help prevent deterioration or relapse
Working in therapy to improve emotional and spiritual well-being with a certified therapist

Therapy can be essential in treating trauma and PTSD because it can address multiple issues, including substance abuse, dissociative disorders, and other mood disorders. Treatment may also include managing trauma reminders and understanding the effects of sexual abuse, personality disorders, and complex trauma.

Getty/Luis Alvarez

Trauma can affect your life in many ways

A licensed therapist can help

Online counseling with BetterHelp

At BetterHelp, you can connect with licensed trauma therapists who specialize in helping people who have experienced trauma or are living with PTSD, and you can begin trauma therapy. You can speak with a skilled trauma therapist based on your needs and preferences and schedule flexible online sessions via phone, video, or in-app messaging. Since web-based therapy can take place anywhere you feel comfortable and have a reliable internet connection, you may feel more okay talking about your experiences using this method. The best online counseling often cannot provide medical advice in life-threatening situations, so please consult a doctor or see our Get Help Now page for more immediate resources. Therapy is often thought of as a resource for couples, relationships, dating, or personal matters, but it has proved to be beneficial in the treatment of traumatic events, as well.

Cognitive behavioral therapy and counseling benefits

Online counseling can be an effective tool for overcoming a traumatic experience and PTSD. One study of evidence-based research assessed the efficacy of internet-delivered cognitive behavioral therapy on youth belonging to underserved groups. Researchers found that the telehealth intervention “demonstrated clinically meaningful symptom change posttreatment,” including a caregiver-reported reduction in posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms. Cognitive processing therapy (CPT) is another form of cognitive behavioral therapy CBT that is specifically catered to PTSD. These findings effectively show the comparability of web-based treatments to in-person interventions for treating trauma-related symptoms and mental health concerns.

Commonly, in-person appointments can cost around $100 to $200 a session without insurance, whereas online treatment may cost about $65 to $90 per week, depending on the platform. While many have strong thoughts, reactions, and feelings related to the price ranges of treatment, behavior therapy can range in price depending on location and type of treatment. All therapy platforms may have various rights reserved and terms of treatment.

"Stephanie has helped me so much by helping me understand myself, my past trauma, and the areas that were still affecting me negatively. She has given me better tools to tackle my anxieties and insecurities so that my future can be brighter. I couldn't be happier with the results I've seen in myself. For the first time in a long time, I'm hopeful for the future."

— BetterHelp member’s review of their therapist

More reviews

Takeaway

Working with a licensed trauma therapist can help you determine suitable trauma therapies for your symptoms. Whether you've experienced acute stress disorder or at least one trauma, there are effective therapies and coping strategies to support your healing journey. Additionally, treatments like j trauma stress interventions and online therapy options can offer flexibility for individuals seeking professional help. If you’re experiencing shame related to traumatic incidents, online trauma therapy and trauma focused therapies may provide a safe environment in which you can be more open and honest.

Frequently asked questions

Read more below for answers to questions commonly asked about this topic.

What are the 3 main recommended treatments for trauma?

When treating trauma, there are three main recommended treatment approaches that often fall under the umbrella of trauma-focused therapy. These methodologies are designed to address the specific psychological impacts and assist individuals in processing and recovering from their experiences.

Cognitive processing therapy (CPT): CPT is a specific type of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) that focuses on how one's past experiences have affected an individual's thoughts and beliefs. CBT helps individuals learn how to challenge and modify unhelpful beliefs related to the trauma. Processing typically involves understanding and changing how one thinks about the trauma and its aftermath, thereby reducing its ongoing impact.
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR): EMDR is a unique, integrative psychotherapy approach studied extensively and found to be effective for the treatment of trauma. EMDR involves the patient recalling traumatic experiences while receiving bilateral sensory input, such as side-to-side eye movements. This type of treatment facilitates the processing of traumatic memories, allowing them to be integrated and digested within the mind, reducing their lingering effects.
Prolonged exposure therapy: This therapy involves gradually exposing patients to trauma-related memories, feelings, and situations that they have been avoiding due to their distressing nature. The idea is to help them confront and process these experiences under controlled circumstances, reducing the power these memories hold over them.

Trauma-focused therapy is tailored to the individual and often incorporates elements of these treatments, depending on the person's specific needs and responses. The goal of these therapies is not just to alleviate symptoms but to address the root cause and facilitate long-term healing and resilience.

What types of therapy work for trauma?

Therapy can help people learn how to manage emotional reactions related to the trauma, process their experiences, and ultimately heal. Several types of therapy have been found to be effective:

Psychodynamic therapy: This approach focuses on exploring past experiences and relationships to understand the root causes of current behaviors and patterns. It helps individuals identify unhelpful coping mechanisms that may have developed as a result of trauma and work towards healthier responses.
Family therapy: Trauma can significantly impact relationships, so involving loved ones in the healing process can be beneficial. Family therapy helps individuals and their families understand how it has affected them individually and collectively, learn effective communication skills, and rebuild trust and support within the family unit.
Group therapy: Group therapy can offer a safe and supportive space for individuals to share their experiences, learn from others, and develop coping skills. It also provides a sense of connection and community with others who have gone through similar experiences.

Healthy coping skills, such as mindfulness practices and self-care activities, are also essential in managing trauma. A therapist can help individuals develop and utilize these skills to support their healing journey.

What are the 3 types of therapy?

There are numerous types of therapy available to address a variety of mental health conditions, each with its unique approach and methods. Each offers different perspectives and techniques for helping individuals develop coping strategies and overcome various psychological challenges.

Psychodynamic therapies: Rooted in the theories of Freud, psychodynamic therapy explores the unconscious mind and how past experiences, particularly childhood experiences, influence current behavior and emotions. The goal is to uncover and understand unconscious thoughts and feelings, which are believed to drive maladaptive behaviors and emotional challenges. Techniques may include free association, dream analysis, and examining the therapist-client relationship to understand interpersonal dynamics. This form of therapy often explores deep-rooted issues and patterns over a longer duration.
Behavioral therapies: These therapies are based on the principles of behaviorism, a school of thought that emphasizes the role of learning in human behavior. Behavioral therapies focus on modifying harmful behaviors and developing healthier habits through conditioning, reinforcement, and systematic desensitization. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), a subtype of behavioral therapy, combines behavioral techniques with cognitive therapy, addressing both thought patterns and behaviors. These therapies are typically more structured and goal-oriented, focusing on the present rather than the past.
Humanistic therapies: These therapies emphasize the individual's capacity for self-realization and growth. One of the best-known humanistic therapies is Carl Rogers' client-centered therapy, which focuses on providing an empathetic and non-judgmental environment, encouraging individuals to develop a stronger, healthier sense of self and to find meaning in their experiences. Humanistic therapies prioritize the client's subjective experience and emphasize personal values, aspirations, and conscious thoughts.

Each of these therapy types offers distinct approaches and tools for helping individuals understand and overcome their challenges, emphasizing the development of effective coping strategies tailored to the client's specific needs and circumstances.

Why is therapy for trauma needed?

Experiencing trauma can have profound and long-lasting effects on your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. It can fundamentally alter how we think, feel, and interact with others, making it challenging to manage daily life effectively.

Left unaddressed, trauma can contribute to a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, substance use disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. The emotional response can also lead to self-harm and physical symptoms like headaches, digestive problems, and chronic pain.

Therapy is essential in helping individuals process their experiences and develop healthy coping skills to manage the impact of trauma. This therapy process offers a safe and supportive environment for individuals to work through their feelings, fears, and memories with the guidance of a trained therapist. By addressing the root cause and developing effective coping strategies, individuals can experience healing, resilience, and greater well-being.

What is the treatment to recover from trauma?

There is no one-size-fits-all treatment for recovery, as each individual's experience and healing journey are unique. However, there are some common elements that may be included in a comprehensive treatment plan:

Trauma-focused therapy: This type of therapy focuses specifically on addressing the effects of trauma and helping individuals process their experiences in a supportive and safe setting. Trauma-focused therapies may include cognitive-behavioral therapy, exposure therapy, and EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing).
Medication: Occasionally, medication is prescribed to manage symptoms, such as depression or anxiety. Medication can also be used in conjunction with therapy to support an individual's overall healing process.
Self-care practices: Engaging in healthy self-care activities, such as exercise, mindfulness practices, and spending time in nature, can support recovery by promoting relaxation, reducing stress levels, and improving overall well-being.
Support groups: Support groups offer a safe and non-judgmental setting for individuals to connect with others who have gone through similar experiences. This connection can provide a sense of understanding, camaraderie, and support.
Lifestyle changes: Making positive lifestyle changes, such as reducing substance use, setting healthy boundaries, and prioritizing self-care activities, can also support recovery by promoting overall well-being and helping individuals feel more in control of their lives.

The most effective treatment for trauma will depend on the individual and their unique needs, so it is important to work with a trained therapist to develop a personalized treatment plan. Recovery from trauma is possible, and with the right support and tools, individuals can experience healing and reclaim their lives.

Do I have post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or trauma?

Only a trained mental health professional can diagnose PTSD or other trauma-related disorders. However, if you have survived a traumatic event and are experiencing persistent symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance of triggers, and changes in mood or behavior, it may be beneficial to seek help from a therapist who specializes in trauma therapy. These professionals can assess your symptoms and provide an accurate diagnosis, along with developing a treatment plan to support your recovery.

Remember, seeking help is not a sign of weakness; it takes courage and strength to confront trauma and seek healing. You are not alone, and resources are available to help you on your journey toward recovery.

How do I know if I need mental health counseling after trauma?

Determining whether you need therapy often involves reflecting on your past experiences and how they may be impacting your current mental, emotional, and physical well-being.

Here are some indicators that trauma therapy might be beneficial:

Persistent re-experiencing: If you find yourself frequently reliving traumatic events through flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive thoughts, it's a sign that these experiences are still affecting you. Re-experiencing can be especially common with childhood trauma, where early experiences deeply imprint on the psyche.
Avoidance behaviors: Actively avoiding reminders of the experience, including places, people, activities, or even thoughts and feelings related to the event, can indicate unresolved trauma. This avoidance can severely limit your daily functioning and quality of life.
Changes in mood and thought patterns: Experiencing persistent negative emotions, such as fear, anger, guilt, or shame, as well as negative thoughts about oneself or the world, can be symptomatic of trauma. Racial trauma, for instance, can lead to ongoing feelings of fear and anxiety due to the experiences of racism and discrimination.
Hyperarousal: Being in a constant state of heightened alertness, leading to difficulties with sleep and concentration. Being easily startled is another common sign of trauma.
Impact on daily functioning: If your ability to function in daily life, maintain relationships, or hold a job is being affected, it might be time to seek professional help.
Physical symptoms: Trauma can manifest physically through chronic pain, headaches, or gastrointestinal problems with no apparent medical cause. Somatic therapy, which focuses on the mind-body connection, can be especially helpful in addressing these symptoms.

If you are experiencing any of these indicators, it may be beneficial to seek help from a trained therapist who specializes in trauma therapy. Therapists are skilled in various treatment approaches that can help you process and heal from your experiences.

How do you treat emotional trauma with eye movement desensitization and reprocessing?

Anxiety management techniques, such as deep breathing and grounding exercises, can be helpful in managing symptoms of emotional trauma. However, to effectively promote healing, it is essential to address the underlying causes and triggers.

Some common approaches used include:

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT involves identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors that are contributing to symptoms. CBT can also help individuals develop coping skills to manage distressing thoughts and emotions.
Exposure therapy: Exposure involves gradually exposing the individual to triggers or memories of the event in a safe and controlled environment, with the guidance of a therapist. Through repeated exposure, the goal is to desensitize the individual to these triggers and reduce their impact on daily life.
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR): EMDR utilizes eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation in order to facilitate the processing of difficult memories. Through EMDR, clients may be able to change how they perceive traumatic experiences. Medical reviewers from the National Center for Biotechnology Information have confirmed that EMDR may also be effective in reducing symptoms of PTSD.
Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): This approach combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with mindfulness and acceptance-based strategies to help individuals regulate their emotions, reduce impulsive behaviors, and improve relationships.
Somatic therapy: This type of therapy focuses on the connection between mind and body and utilizes techniques such as breathing exercises, yoga, or massage to promote relaxation and release stored tension in the body.

Additionally, therapists may also incorporate other techniques and modalities, such as art therapy, psychodrama, or mindfulness practices, to support healing. To treat it effectively, it is crucial to find a therapist who specializes in trauma and has experience working with individuals who have similar experiences.

How does trauma counseling work?

Effective therapy works by addressing the unique needs of each person and providing a safe, supportive environment for healing to occur. This includes creating a trusting relationship with the therapist, as well as utilizing evidence-based techniques and approaches tailored to fit the individual's specific needs.

Some key components of good trauma therapy include:

Validation: A good therapist will validate your experiences and emotions, helping you feel heard and understood. This is especially important for individuals who have experienced trauma, as they may feel invalidated or dismissed by others.
Safety: Safety is crucial in therapy, both physically and emotionally. A good therapist will create a safe space for you to explore your past without fear of judgment or harm.
Empowerment: Therapy should empower individuals to take control of their healing journey and make choices that are right for them. Empowerment can include setting boundaries, learning coping skills, and processing emotions in a safe and healthy way.
Collaboration: A good therapist will work collaboratively with you to develop a treatment plan that aligns with your goals and preferences. They will also regularly check in and adjust the treatment approach as needed.
Compassion: Compassion is an essential aspect of therapy. A good therapist will show empathy, understanding, and kindness towards you as you navigate your healing journey.

Trauma therapy should provide a safe and supportive space for individuals to process their experiences, learn coping skills, and heal from your past. If you are seeking trauma therapy, remember that healing is a journey and may take time, but with the right therapist and treatment approach, relief and healing can be achieved.

Learn to heal from the impacts of trauma

Talk to a licensed therapist

The information on this page is not intended to be a substitution for diagnosis, treatment, or informed professional advice. You should not take any action or avoid taking any action without consulting with a qualified mental health professional. For more information, please read our terms of use.

Get the support you need from one of our therapistsGet started

Top Categories

See all categories