Commonly Asked Questions About Trauma Therapy in San Diego
What is trauma therapy?
Trauma therapy is a type of therapy that specifically focuses on overcoming past traumatic experiences.
How do I know if I need trauma therapy?
This is a great question. You might need trauma therapy if you find yourself struggling in the following ways: difficulty moving past a distressing event, having flashbacks (also know as intrusive or unwanted memories of the experience or experiences), experiencing nightmares, or intense emotional reactions that interfere with your daily life.
Other signs include feeling constantly on edge, avoiding situations that remind you of the trauma, anxiety or depression, or feeling numb and disconnected from others.
If these symptoms persist and impact your well-being, seeking trauma therapy can help you heal and regain control over your life.
If you’re wondering whether you’ve experienced trauma in your life, consider this:
Our entire world was exposed to a traumatic event due to the global pandemic,
thus anyone who was alive during Covid times qualifies for trauma therapy!
I wrote a more in-depth blog post about what trauma and PTSD are if you’re interested in learning more. You can check it out here.
What approaches or techniques are used in trauma therapy?
The best approach to trauma therapy is one that’s collaborative and follows your pace and timing.
Various therapeutic models exist that are effective in healing trauma, but it's crucial to recognize that trauma recovery is not a "one-size-fits-all" process. The most successful trauma therapy is personalized, taking into account each individual’s unique needs and preferences.
Here is a list of some of the effective trauma treatment models: Attachment Based Therapy, Brain Spotting, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and it’s derivatives, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Group Therapy for Trauma, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), Narrative Therapy, Polyvagal Theory, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Contemporary Psychodynamic and/or Psychoanalytic Therapy and Self-Psychology, Somatic Experiencing and other body-based therapies, etc.
Those who have more complex trauma (sometimes referred to a C-PTSD) may benefit from a variety of approaches at different points in your recovery.
It's important to understand that the effectiveness of any particular therapy can differ from one person to another. Many people find that a personalized combination of therapeutic approaches best meets their unique needs and circumstances. Consulting with a qualified mental health professional can help identify the most appropriate therapy for effective trauma treatment.
How long does trauma therapy take?
The length of trauma therapy varies depending on each person. It’s difficult to say how long it will take for someone to recover from their trauma. Some traumas are more easily overcome such as a car accident, where are other’s are more pervasive and may take years of therapy to undo the damage. One thing to consider is to think about how long the traumatic experience occurred as well as how long you’ve been dealing with the aftermath. This is a useful gauge to identify how the length of your trauma treatment will correlate with your healing.
What can I expect in a trauma therapy session?
In a trauma therapy session, you can expect a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment where you are encouraged to share your experiences at your own pace. During the session, we will work together to explore the impact of your traumatic experiences, focusing on understanding your emotions, thoughts, and bodily sensations. We may use specific therapeutic techniques such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), mindfulness, or trauma-focused strategies to help you process traumatic memories, reduce distress, and build resilience. Each session is tailored to your unique needs and comfort level, ensuring that you feel empowered and in control of your healing journey. The goal is to help you feel safe, regain control over your life, and find peace in the present.
Will I have to talk about the traumatic event(s)?
In trauma therapy, discussing the traumatic events is not always necessary, especially in detail. The goal is to help you process and heal from the impact of these experiences, not to re-traumatize you. While some therapeutic approaches, like EMDR, may involve briefly recalling memories to reprocess them, the focus is on managing the emotions and symptoms associated with those memories, rather than recounting every detail. Your comfort and readiness guide the pace of therapy, and we will only explore your trauma to the extent that feels safe and helpful for you. Ultimately, the choice of how much you share is entirely up to you, and we will work together to ensure you feel supported throughout the process.
Is trauma therapy only for recent traumas, or can it address past events?
Trauma therapy is for both recent traumas as well as past events.
How confidential is trauma therapy?
Just like any other therapy, trauma therapy is confidential. The same rules of confidentiality apply to trauma therapy as any other regular therapy.
What role does the therapist play in trauma therapy?
In trauma therapy, the therapist's role is to provide a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space for you to explore your experiences and emotions. They act as a guide, helping you navigate the healing process at your own pace. The therapist uses their expertise in trauma-focused techniques, such as EMDR or somatic therapies, to tailor the treatment to your unique needs and goals. They work collaboratively with you to identify and understand the effects of trauma, develop coping strategies, and build resilience. Above all, a trauma therapist is there to listen, validate your experiences, and empower you to reclaim your sense of safety and control in your life.
Can trauma therapy help with symptoms like anxiety and depression?
Yes, trauma therapy can be very effective in helping with symptoms like anxiety and depression. When you've experienced trauma, it can deeply impact your mental health, leading to feelings of anxiety, depression, and other emotional challenges. Trauma therapy addresses the root causes of these symptoms by helping you process and heal from your traumatic experiences. Through techniques like EMDR, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and somatic therapies, trauma therapy helps reduce distress, improves emotional regulation, and fosters a greater sense of well-being. By working through the trauma, many people find significant relief from anxiety and depression, allowing them to lead a more balanced and fulfilling life.
How do I find a qualified trauma therapist?
Finding a qualified trauma therapist involves several key steps to ensure you receive the best care for your needs. Start by looking for a licensed mental health professional who specializes in trauma therapy. This could include therapists trained in evidence-based modalities like EMDR, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), somatic experiencing or another trauma-focused modality.
Check their credentials to confirm they have specific training and experience in trauma work. You can also ask for recommendations from trusted healthcare providers, read online reviews, or consult directories from professional organizations. Most importantly, look for someone you feel comfortable with and who demonstrates a deep understanding of trauma and its impacts, as the therapeutic relationship is crucial for effective healing.
I wrote another blog about steps to finding a qualified therapist in San Diego.
Ready to get started on trauma therapy in San Diego? Schedule a consult today!
If you’re ready to get started on your trauma healing or have more questions, I’d love to talk to you! I offer a free, 15-minute phone consultation which provide you an opportunity to get to know me and ask any questions about what it would be like to start your trauma therapy with me. Do hesitate to reach out!
References:
This blog post was created in collaboration with OpenAI's ChatGPT, a language model developed by OpenAI (2024).
