top of page
Frequently Asked Questions
FINDING A TRAUMA THERAPIST
How do I find the right trauma therapist for me?
Research indicates that finding a good fit is the most critical predictor in successful outcomes, outweighing the specific modality or type of therapy or a particular therapist's credentials. A good fit involves a combination of factors including feeling safe, heard, and understood, having a collaborative approach to treatment goals, and more practical considerations such as a compatible schedule or fee. Scheduling a free consultation call can be a good first step in assessing a good fit. The length of treatment will vary from one individual to another and will depend on your goals.
Where can I find a trauma therapist?
A list of community resources including directories and therapist matching services can be found here: https://www.somatictraumatherapyonline.com/communityresources If you're not sure what kind of therapy would be most helpful you can also schedule a consultation call with us and we'll help you find a good match!
How do I choose a trauma therapist?
It's normal and encouraged to try out a few different therapists to see who feels like a good fit. Start by identifying any preferences you have such as: - therapist's gender, age, cultural or religious background - cost of therapy or insurance coverage - specialities or modalities - in-person or online sessions - availability 2. Use a directory to filter your preferences and find potential matches or use a therapist matching service Read through their bios and blogs to get a 'vibe' of their approach and to see if they work with people who have similar issues. Check that they have specific training in an evidence-based trauma processing modality, being a member of professional associations can be a good sign that they are engaged in ongoing professional development Create a shortlist of a few therapists and reach out with questions or book a consultation call 3. Book a consultation call and pay close attention to how you feel during the process -did you feel safe, heard and respected? -did they seem warm, caring and competent? -did they answer my questions and explain things in a way that I understand? 4. If you find one you' feel comfortable moving forward with try booking a few sessions and reassess as needed
Are there any red flags to look out for when searching for a trauma therapist?
Yes, if you feel unsafe, judged, or worse about yourself after sessions, it may indicate something more concerning is happening in the relationship. Some red flags to look out for: No trauma training or specialization: Therapists doing trauma processing and trauma focused work should have in-depth trauma training that includes consultations and supervision. Therapists should only work within their clinical scope of practice Violating boundaries: The therapist exhibits unprofessional or unethical behaviour; exploits the therapeutic relationship for personal benefit, engages in inappropriate physical or verbal contact, breaks confidentiality or does not uphold the boundaries of therapy (ex. engages in dual relationships, acting as a friend or family member, becomes overly involved in your personal life, frequently extending sessions, suggesting meeting in inappropriate places) Rushing into processing: safety in the relationship should be established before processing of any kind happens. A qualified trauma therapist will prioritize stabilization, and honour your pace, avoiding any push for premature processing or forced disclosure of details Some yellow flags include: Therapist talking too much: The therapist talks too much about themselves or offers excessive advice or personal disclosure or engages in excessive small talk Invalidation: Frequently feeling judged, dismissed, unheard, rushed or guilty for speaking up in therapy can destroy trust, hinder emotional processing, and lead to feeling doubt about their own reality Pathologizing your needs: Treating your need to go slow as "resistance" or labeling coping mechanisms (like dissociation, numbness, or anger) as "bad" or "wrong" invalidates personal experiences, fosters shame, shifts focus from external causes to personal failure Rigidity: While structure is necessary for effective therapy, a "one-size-fits-all" or rigid adherence to a particular modality can hinder progress. Therapy should be tailored to your needs. Overly flexible or unclear policies: Frequently late to sessions, unclear or inconsistent cancellation policies or billing processes can break trust and erode safety. Having clear standards of practice and upholding policies provides a safe container for therapy A good therapist will address concerns or "ruptures" in the relationship and will encourage your feedback. If you feel able to do so, try to bring your feelings up in session. If your concerns are dismissed or remain unaddressed it may be time to seek a new provider. Good therapy should feel safe, respectful, and focused on your goals.
QUESTIONS ABOUT TRAUMA TREATMENT
How long does Trauma Treatment take?
Research indicates that it typically takes around 15-20 sessions for 50% of patients to feel some improvements as indicated by self-reported symptom measures. The length of treatment will vary from one individual to another and will depend on your goals. 0–5 Sessions: Initial assessment and goal setting, building rapport, and finding immediate symptom relief (acute issues) 8–12 Sessions: Targeting goals related to current difficulties, such as mild to moderate anxiety in relationships or situations, identifying patterns that might be contributing 15–20 Sessions: The typical dose for "significant improvement" in 50% of patients according to American Psychological Association (APA) meta-analyses, improvements such as seeing some change in internal dialogue, approach and/or outcomes 20–50+ Sessions: Often required for more complete remission of symptoms or relational patterns that are deep-seated and/or started in early childhood, long-term consistency shows more value for chronic issues The frequency and duration of therapy is determined by the client's goals and interest in long-term personal growth and change. Treatment scheduling will be revisited throughout the course of therapy to make sure we’re on track and make any adjustments needed.
How many trauma therapy appointments will I need?
A metaregression of 70 studies found that, higher frequency within the first 3 months of treatment shows faster improvement in recovery twice-weekly sessions are associated with faster improvements than once-weekly Studies suggest that "intensive" formats of treatment delivery can be an effective alternative to standard delivery and contribute to improved treatment response and reduced treatment dropout Monthly or bi-weekly sessions are typically used as maintenance after longer term treatment. This can provide continued stability and ongoing practice of coping and regulation skills when symptoms are in remission.
What factors impact outcomes in trauma therapy?
Severity of Symptoms: Mild cases may resolve in 15-20 weeks, while severe, chronic or reoccurring issues or patterns can require 12 months or longer Type of Therapy: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is often time-limited and highly structured, providing coping skills and cognitive reframes while psychodynamic therapy focuses on foundational patterns and deep relational practice which can take months to years Trauma: Single-incident trauma may be addressed in 8–15 sessions (e.g.,DBR, EMDR, CPT), whereas complex or developmental trauma often requires 2+ years of treatment Client Engagement: Actively engaging with therapy outside of sessions such as journaling or practicing skills between sessions, can accelerate results
DIAGNOSIS & MEDICATION
Can Registered Psychotherapists give a formal diagnosis?
No, Registered Psychotherapists primarily provide talk-based therapy that is intended to help people improve and maintain their mental health and well-being. Psychotherapy can be helpful in processing a formal diagnosis and in the treatment of underlying symptoms Please see your Family Doctor for specialist referrals or seek out a Psychologist or Psychiatrist for formal diagnosis.
Can Registered Psychotherapists prescribe medication?
No, Registered Psychotherapists primarily provide talk-based therapy that is intended to help people improve and maintain their mental health and well-being. Psychotherapy can be helpful in processing navigating medication changes and in the treatment of underlying symptoms Please see your Family Doctor for medication inquiries or specialist referrals or seek out a Psychiatrist for formal diagnosis and treatment.
NEW TO TRAUMA THERAPY
How do I know if I need trauma therapy?
You may need trauma therapy if a past, distressing experience continues to shape how you think, feel, and act today, or if it disrupts your ability to function, work, or maintain relationships. Trauma therapy is recommended if: 1. You're experiencing Flashbacks: Feeling as if the event is happening again or that you're re-experiencing the Trauma (via intrusive thoughts, memories or somatic flashbacks such as heart racing, sweating, or shaking when reminded of the event ). 2. You're having nightmares or sleep disruptions: Recurring, disturbing dreams about the event or sleep disruptions can have a significant impact on your health and wellbeing and can indicate a need for trauma therapy. 3. You're avoiding people, places or situations: Avoidance is a core symptom of post-traumatic stress. Avoiding people, places, or situations that remind you of the trauma can provide temporary relief but can lead to feeling more stuck and isolated. Avoiding thoughts or feelings connected to the event. This might also look like: avoiding relationships or communication, shutting down or ignoring important things due to overwhelm or fatigue, numbing using substances or behaviours like staying very busy. 4. You're having intense physical and emotional reactions to people or situations: Your nervous system may still believe it is in danger, leading to chronic hypervigilance. This may show up as feeling like you're always on guard or bracing, or startle easily or as emotional volatility like sudden, intense anger, guilt, shame, or deep sadness. You may also be experiencing more physical symptoms such as unexplained chronic pain, digestive issues, headaches, muscle tension, or sleep issues. 5. You notice negative Changes in your beliefs and mood: Trauma can change how you see yourself and the world around you. You may feel more distrust in others, believing "the world is dangerous" or "I can't trust people" or you may experience more self-blame such as feeling broken, weak, or responsible for the trauma. You may also be feeling more detached or dissociated from your life, feeling numb or detached from situations, activities, friends and family that used to be anchors. 6 There is an impact on your daily functioning: If you're struggling to manage personal relationships, hold down a job, or handle daily tasks (eating, hygiene or cleaning) or simply to feel calm, it may be time to find support.
What can I expect in the first few sessions of trauma therapy?
The first few sessions of trauma therapy prioritize establishing safety, trust, and stabilization, rather than immediately diving into trauma processing. Expect a collaborative intake to discuss your current symptoms or challenges, your coping methods and goals, with appropriate pacing and complete control over how much you share. The focus will be on building a secure therapeutic alliance, stabilization and understanding your goals and symptoms. Trauma trained therapists do not ask for a chronological narrative or formal history, instead they focus on building safety, regulation, and trust, allowing the story to emerge only when the client is ready. There will be an opportunity to review confidentiality and iInformed consent: as well as therapy policies and your rights. You and your therapist will work together to define what you want to achieve, such as reducing anxiety, managing flashbacks, or improving daily functioning and discuss approaches and preferences. Many therapists will also introduce simple grounding or calming techniques to manage distress in session and at home. It is normal to feel more emotionally exhausted, or notice a feeling of vulnerability after the first few sessions. You may also feel some relief or hope or a sense of feeling heard for the first time. It is essential to practice self-care afterward, such as resting, journaling, or grounding yourself.
How can I prepare for starting trauma therapy?
You do not need to prepare your story or share details immediately. If it's helpful to have some ideas written down in advance you can reflect on the current triggers, symptoms, and coping mechanisms you have. You may also consider what prompted you to seek therapy and what goals you have and any questions you have about the therapy process. Having a dedicated notebook to write down your reflections before and after therapy can be helpful in remembering things you want to come back to as well as a tool for reflecting on progress later in therapy. Scheduling some downtime before and after sessions can be helpful too. It's normal to have very limited capacity when starting therapy so all of these are optional- your therapist will be there to help you to identify and prioritize your concerns and goals.
How do I know if trauma therapy is working?
Trauma therapy is working when you notice increased emotional awareness, improved trigger management, and better nervous system regulation, such as improved sleep or reduced physical pain. Other key signs include stronger boundaries, less self-blame, and increased capacity to be present rather than dissociating or living in the past. Here are key indicators that trauma therapy is effective: Improved Trigger Response: Triggers become less intense, and you recover faster after being activated. Body Regulation: Your body feels safer, tension decreases (e.g., less jaw clenching), and you feel more grounded or "in your body". Reduced Emotional Overwhelm: You can talk about traumatic events without immediately becoming overwhelmed, dissociating, or panic-stricken. Shift in Thought Patterns: You recognize harmful beliefs (e.g., self-blame) and start replacing them with self-compassion. Improved Relationships: You can establish healthier boundaries and communicate your needs better.Increased Presence: You spend more time in the present moment rather than being stuck in past memories or fear of the future. Important Considerations: Trauma healing is not linear: Healing can come in waves; you may feel worse before you feel better and there may be times when some difficult feeling resurface, this is a normal part of the process. Subtle changes count: Noticing reduced fatigue, less time feeling overwhelmed or low mood, or simply recognizing a trigger can be progress. Talking to your therapist about this can be helpful if you have concerns
Additional resources can be found here
bottom of page