A trauma therapist is someone who has special training to support individuals who have experienced trauma. Trauma therapists have a clear understanding of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Complex PTSD, dissociation and related behaviours. Trauma therapists know how to work safely with trauma survivors and prioritize client safety. They explore the impact of the trauma, increase an individual’s understanding of the trauma and work to reduce shame.
What is trauma?
Trauma is sometimes classified as big “T” trauma and little “t” trauma. Big “T” trauma consists of sexual, physical and emotional abuse. It can also include violence, witnessing violence, sexual assault, medical trauma and sudden loss. Small “t” trauma can include things like bullying, being continuously criticized, neglect, divorce or even losing a pet. No matter what the classification, all trauma is important.
What kind of therapy is used to address trauma?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), CPT (Cognitive Processing Therapy) and Somatic Experiencing all work to address trauma. Annette is qualified in two of these trauma therapies.
How do I tell if a therapist is trauma informed?
A trauma informed therapist starts with safety first. They focus on the relationship, developing a rapport, and will not push you for disclosures. They help you develop grounding and coping strategies. A trauma informed therapist understands the nervous system and will help explain concepts like hypervigilance, flashbacks and triggers, and will talk about the challenges of flight, fight, freeze and fawn responses.
Additional resources for trauma
- International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation (ISSTD) https://www.isst-d.org/publications-resources/public-resources/
- Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) https://www.camh.ca/
What questions should I ask a trauma therapist?
Some questions to consider:
- What is your training in trauma therapy? Are you trained in EMDR or certified in EMDR? Or any other therapy?
- What will you do if I become overwhelmed or dissociate during therapy?
- How will you ensure safety?
- Can you help me with strategies to contain and manage what comes up in therapy?
- Can I stop in session if I don’t feel safe? How do you know when a person is overwhelmed?
Pay attention to how your questions are answered. Does the therapist take the time to ensure that you have understood the answers? Are they confident or do they dismiss your concerns? Do they circle back after an explanation to see if you have any additional questions?
Annette is an experienced trauma informed therapist, certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) and trained in CPT (Cognitive Processing Therapy). During a session Annette follows your lead. She won’t push you to disclose before you are ready; and sees your work together as a collaboration, working as a team to address the impact that your trauma, big or small has had on your life.
Book your free 15-minute consultation about trauma therapy or other kinds of therapy and counselling. You can also go directly to my booking page any time.
Listening. Guiding. Caring.
