Trauma and PTSD Therapy: 7 Powerful Ways to Lasting Peace 2025
Understanding Trauma Healing: A Path to Recovery
Trauma and PTSD therapy encompasses evidence-based treatments designed to help individuals heal from distressing experiences and their lasting effects. Here’s what you need to know:
- Most effective approaches: Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Brainspotting, Prolonged Exposure (PE)
- Treatment duration: Typically 8-16 sessions for trauma-focused therapies
- Success rates: Approximately two in three people recover from trauma-related problems within weeks, even without formal treatment
- Who can benefit: Anyone experiencing flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance behaviors, or emotional distress related to past traumatic events
Trauma can profoundly affect your daily life – from relationships to work performance, sleep quality to overall wellbeing. When traumatic memories remain unprocessed, they can trigger intense emotional and physical reactions long after the danger has passed. As the American Psychological Association notes, “The good news is that it is treatable.”
The aftermath of trauma – whether from a single event or ongoing experiences – can sometimes feel worse than the original incident itself. Your brain’s alarm system (the amygdala) remains on high alert while your ability to process these experiences becomes overwhelmed. This is your mind’s natural response to extraordinary circumstances, not a personal failing.
At Light Within Counseling, we understand that reaching out for help takes courage. I’m Kelsey Thompson, LMFT, a certified Brainspotting practitioner with extensive experience providing trauma and PTSD therapy to clients dealing with the lasting effects of difficult experiences. Our practice specializes in evidence-based approaches that address both the psychological and physiological aspects of trauma recovery.
Explore more about trauma and PTSD therapy:
What Is Trauma and How Does It Lead to PTSD?
When we talk about trauma, we’re referring to experiences that overwhelm our ability to cope. The American Psychological Association describes trauma as “an emotional response to a terrible event like an accident, rape, or natural disaster.” But here’s the thing – trauma isn’t limited to these dramatic scenarios. It can stem from any experience that feels too much for your nervous system to process at the time.
Did you know that about 70% of us will face at least one traumatic experience during our lifetime? While most people recover naturally with time and support, roughly 10% develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This isn’t a sign of weakness – it’s a normal response to extraordinary circumstances.
Trauma typically falls into two main categories:
Single-event trauma happens in one moment – like a car accident, assault, or witnessing something disturbing. The event has a clear beginning and end, though its effects may linger.
Complex trauma develops from repeated or prolonged exposure to distressing events, often within relationships. This might include ongoing childhood abuse, domestic violence, or living in a conflict zone. The repeated nature of these experiences can deeply affect how you view yourself and the world.
When trauma occurs, it literally changes how your brain functions:
Your amygdala – the brain’s built-in alarm system – becomes hyperactive. It’s like having a smoke detector that goes off at the slightest hint of smoke, keeping you constantly on edge.
Your hippocampus (which helps process memories) may actually shrink in size. This explains why traumatic memories often feel fragmented or get stored differently than regular memories.
Your prefrontal cortex – responsible for rational thinking and decision-making – shows reduced activity. This makes it harder to think clearly or manage intense emotions when triggered.
These brain changes help explain the common symptoms of trauma and PTSD therapy targets: intrusive thoughts, nightmares, feeling constantly on guard, or being easily startled. Your brain is doing exactly what it was designed to do – protect you from perceived danger – but the system has become overactive.
The Difference Between Normal Stress and Traumatic Stress
We all experience stress – from deadlines at work to arguments with loved ones. But traumatic stress is fundamentally different.
Normal stress typically occurs within what therapists call your “window of tolerance” – the zone where you can function effectively despite feeling uncomfortable. When the stressor passes, you return to baseline. You might feel anxious about a job interview, but once it’s over, that anxiety gradually fades.
Traumatic stress, however, blows past that window of tolerance. It activates your survival response – fight, flight, or freeze – in ways that can become chronic. Rather than returning to baseline, your nervous system remains on high alert, scanning for danger even in safe environments.
This is why seemingly minor triggers can cause intense reactions in trauma survivors. A person who survived a house fire might panic at the smell of smoke from a neighbor’s barbecue. Someone who experienced childhood neglect might feel abandoned when a friend cancels plans. These aren’t overreactions – they’re the brain’s way of trying to keep you safe based on past experiences.
At Light Within Counseling in Roseville, we help our clients understand that these responses make perfect sense given what they’ve been through. The good news is that with the right support, the brain can learn to distinguish between real threats and false alarms. Your nervous system can recalibrate, allowing you to feel safe in the present moment.
Research from organizations like the American Psychological Association continues to improve our understanding of how trauma affects the brain and body, informing the evidence-based approaches we use in trauma and PTSD therapy. Through compassionate care and proven techniques, we help clients process these difficult experiences and reclaim their sense of safety in the world.
Trauma-Informed vs. Trauma-Focused Care
When you’re looking for help with trauma, you’ll likely hear two terms that sound similar but serve different purposes: trauma-informed care and trauma-focused therapy. Understanding the difference can help you find the right support for your healing journey.
Think of trauma-informed care as the foundation of a house – it creates a safe environment where healing can begin. This approach recognizes that trauma is common and can affect how people respond to services. At Light Within Counseling, we accept six core principles that guide all our interactions: safety, trustworthiness, peer support, collaboration, empowerment, and cultural humility.
What does this look like in practice? It means we’ll always ask “What happened to you?” instead of “What’s wrong with you?” We create predictable routines, explain what to expect, and give you choices throughout your therapy journey. Most importantly, we’re careful to avoid anything that might trigger or re-traumatize you.
Trauma-focused therapy, on the other hand, is like the tools used to repair the house. These specialized therapeutic techniques directly target and process traumatic experiences. While trauma-informed care creates the conditions for healing, trauma-focused therapy provides the specific methods to help you work through painful memories and their lasting effects.
Here’s how they compare side by side:
| Aspect | Trauma-Informed Care | Trauma-Focused Therapy |
|---|---|---|
| Primary goal | Create safe, supportive environment | Directly address trauma symptoms |
| Approach | Universal precautions for all clients | Specialized techniques for trauma processing |
| Focus | “What happened to you?” vs. “What’s wrong with you?” | Specific traumatic memories and their impact |
| Application | Applies to all services and interactions | Specific therapeutic modalities (EMDR, CPT, etc.) |
| Duration | Ongoing framework | Time-limited treatment (typically 8-16 sessions) |
At Light Within Counseling, we believe both approaches are essential parts of effective trauma and PTSD therapy. Our entire practice operates from a trauma-informed perspective, while our therapists are also trained in specific trauma-focused therapies to address your unique needs.
Core Ingredients of Trauma-Informed Practice
Being trauma-informed isn’t just checking boxes on a list – it’s a fundamental shift in how we approach care. When you walk into our Roseville office or log into a telehealth session, you’ll notice the difference in several ways.
We practice universal precautions, meaning we assume anyone might have a trauma history without requiring you to disclose painful details upfront. Our entire team receives ongoing staff training to understand trauma’s impact and respond appropriately.
We’ve carefully designed our environment to feel calm and safe, with comfortable waiting areas, privacy, and predictable routines. You’ll always have a voice and choice in your treatment – we respect your autonomy and involve you in every decision.
Our approach is strength-based, focusing on your resilience and capabilities rather than defining you by what happened to you. And we value transparency – clearly explaining processes, sharing information, and obtaining your informed consent every step of the way.
These principles aren’t just nice ideas – they’re woven into everything we do at Light Within Counseling, from your first phone call to your final session.
Choosing the Right Trauma-Focused Method for You
When it comes to addressing trauma directly, several evidence-based approaches have proven effective. Finding the right fit depends on your personal preferences, history, and goals.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps you identify and change negative thought patterns related to trauma. If you find yourself caught in distressing thoughts about your experiences, this structured approach might be helpful.
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), a type of CBT, specifically helps you process and challenge unhelpful beliefs about your trauma. It’s particularly effective if you’re struggling with guilt, shame, or self-blame.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) uses bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements) while recalling traumatic memories to help your brain process them differently. Many clients appreciate that EMDR doesn’t require extensive talking about traumatic details.
Prolonged Exposure (PE) gradually and safely helps you confront trauma-related memories, feelings, and situations you might be avoiding. This approach can be powerful for reducing avoidance behaviors that limit your life.
Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) helps you construct a coherent timeline of your life, including traumatic experiences, which can be especially helpful if you’ve experienced multiple traumas.
Stress Inoculation Training (SIT) teaches specific coping skills to manage anxiety and stress reactions, giving you practical tools to use in your daily life.
At Light Within Counseling, we specialize in EMDR and Brainspotting for trauma and PTSD therapy. Brainspotting, which evolved from EMDR, identifies specific eye positions that connect with emotional activation and uses these “brain spots” to access and process trauma held in your body. Many clients find this approach gentle yet profound.
Our therapists will take time to understand your needs and comfort level before recommending an approach. Sometimes, a combination of methods works best for comprehensive healing. We’ll walk alongside you, adjusting as needed to ensure you feel supported throughout your healing journey.
Want to learn more about our specialized services? Visit our trauma therapy services page for additional information.
Starting Trauma and PTSD Therapy: Your Step-By-Step Roadmap
Taking that first step toward healing can feel like standing at the edge of unfamiliar territory. We understand that beginning trauma and PTSD therapy might bring up feelings of uncertainty or even anxiety. That’s completely normal—and we’re here to walk alongside you every step of the way.
At Light Within Counseling, we’ve created a thoughtful, supportive process to help you begin your healing journey with clarity and confidence. Here’s what you can expect when you reach out to us:
When you first contact us—whether through our website, a phone call, or email—our coordinator will take time to understand your needs and match you with a therapist who specializes in trauma treatment and feels like the right fit for you personally.
Before your first appointment, you’ll complete some confidential paperwork that helps us get a preliminary understanding of your symptoms and history. This gives your therapist a foundation to build upon when you meet, allowing your valuable session time to be used most effectively.
Your first session involves a comprehensive assessment—a conversation where your therapist will gently explore your current challenges, symptoms, and goals. You’ll only need to share what feels comfortable; there’s no pressure to dive into difficult details right away. If appropriate, your therapist may use the DSM-5 criteria for PTSD to help clarify your experiences, but we always see you as a whole person, not just a set of symptoms.
Together with your therapist, you’ll develop a personalized treatment plan that honors your unique needs and preferences. This collaborative approach ensures you maintain a sense of control over your healing process—something that’s particularly important for trauma survivors who may have experienced a profound loss of control in the past.
Before diving into trauma processing work, your therapist will guide you through an education phase, helping you understand how trauma affects your brain and body. Many clients find tremendous relief in simply learning that their reactions make perfect sense given what they’ve experienced. You’ll also build essential coping skills to help manage distress when difficult emotions arise.
When you and your therapist agree you’re ready, you’ll begin the trauma processing phase using evidence-based methods like EMDR or Brainspotting. This work happens at your pace, in a safe, controlled environment where you can process traumatic memories without becoming overwhelmed.
As therapy progresses, you’ll integrate new insights, strengthen your coping skills, and develop strategies to maintain your progress long-term. Throughout this journey, your therapist serves as a knowledgeable guide rather than directing your path—you remain in the driver’s seat of your healing.
For more detailed information about our approach to trauma therapy, visit our trauma therapy services page.
How Trauma and PTSD Therapy Is Custom for Adults, Teens, and Kids
One size never fits all when it comes to healing from trauma. At Light Within Counseling, we carefully tailor our trauma and PTSD therapy approaches to match each client’s developmental stage and unique needs.
For our adult clients, therapy often centers around verbal processing and insight-oriented techniques. We explore how traumatic experiences have shaped your beliefs about yourself, others, and the world. Many adults appreciate examining how past trauma might be influencing current relationships and life choices. The work tends to be more reflective, connecting past experiences with present functioning.
Teen therapy requires a different approach. Adolescents are navigating the critical developmental tasks of identity formation and establishing independence while still needing support and guidance. We balance verbal processing with creative expression techniques that might feel more accessible. School performance and peer relationships often take center stage, as these are typically areas where trauma symptoms become most visible for teens.
We recognize that teens need both autonomy and structure, so we involve parents and caregivers appropriately while respecting the teenager’s growing independence. Our teen clients appreciate that we speak to them directly and take their perspectives seriously. If you’re interested in learning more about how we support adolescents through trauma healing, visit our Trauma Therapy for Adolescents page.
For our youngest clients, play therapy becomes our primary language. Children often don’t have the vocabulary to express complex trauma reactions, but they can show us through play what they’re experiencing internally. We use art, storytelling, and other creative approaches to help children process difficult experiences in age-appropriate ways.
With children, caregiver involvement becomes especially important. We work closely with parents, providing them with tools to support their child’s healing process at home while maintaining appropriate boundaries. Our focus remains on establishing safety and developing emotional regulation skills that will serve children well throughout their lives.
Our therapists have specialized training in working with different age groups and understand the unique challenges each faces in trauma recovery. Whether we’re working with a 7-year-old using sand tray therapy or a 70-year-old processing long-held trauma through EMDR, we meet you exactly where you are.
Overcoming Barriers to Trauma and PTSD Therapy
Despite knowing that trauma and PTSD therapy can help, many people find themselves hesitating to reach out. If you’re feeling stuck, know that you’re not alone—and that there are ways to move past these common barriers.
Stigma and shame often keep people from seeking the help they deserve. The misconception that needing therapy somehow indicates weakness couldn’t be further from the truth. At Light Within Counseling, we see reaching out as a profound act of courage and self-care. Our non-judgmental environment provides a safe space where your experiences are met with compassion and understanding, never judgment.
Financial concerns can feel overwhelming when considering therapy. While we don’t accept insurance directly, we can provide superbills for you to submit to your insurance for potential out-of-network reimbursement. We’re happy to discuss options that make treatment accessible for you, because we believe healing shouldn’t be a luxury.
Getting to appointments can be challenging with busy schedules and transportation issues. That’s why we offer both in-person therapy at our welcoming Roseville location and secure telehealth services throughout California. Our virtual sessions provide the same quality care without the commute, making it easier to fit therapy into your life.
Fear of the process itself stops many people from starting therapy. The idea of confronting traumatic memories can feel frightening—and that’s a completely understandable concern. We want to reassure you that we move at your pace, never pushing you to explore memories before you’re ready. Before any trauma processing begins, we’ll make sure you have solid coping skills to manage difficult emotions.
If previous therapy experiences left you feeling unhelped or even harmed, your hesitation makes perfect sense. Our trauma-informed approach prioritizes your agency and safety above all else. We believe in transparency about our methods and welcome your questions about how we work.
Taking that first step—reaching out for support—is often the hardest part of the journey. When you’re ready, we’re here to meet you with warmth, expertise, and a genuine commitment to your healing.
Evidence-Based Treatments That Work
When you’re looking for help with trauma, it’s important to know that not all therapeutic approaches are equally effective. Research has shown that several specific treatments consistently help people recover from trauma and PTSD. At Light Within Counseling, we focus on these proven methods to give you the best chance at healing.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has a strong track record for trauma recovery. This approach helps you recognize how thoughts about your traumatic experience affect your feelings and behaviors. During CBT sessions, you’ll work with your therapist to identify negative thought patterns, challenge distorted thinking, develop more balanced perspectives, and learn practical anxiety management techniques. Many clients find that seeing these connections helps them regain a sense of control.
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is a specialized form of CBT designed specifically for trauma. Over the course of about 12 sessions, you’ll examine what we call “stuck points” – the places where your thinking about the trauma has become rigid or unhelpful. Many trauma survivors struggle with self-blame or other negative beliefs that CPT helps challenge. Your therapist will guide you through writing about and processing the meaning of your traumatic experiences, helping you develop new, healthier perspectives.
For many people, avoiding trauma reminders becomes a way of life. Prolonged Exposure (PE) helps you break this cycle by gradually and safely confronting what you’ve been avoiding. This might include facing feared situations in real life and revisiting the traumatic memory in a controlled, therapeutic setting. While this might sound intimidating, PE is carefully paced, and many clients report feeling a profound sense of freedom when they find that memories themselves aren’t dangerous.
At Light Within Counseling, we specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a powerful approach that helps you process traumatic memories through bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements). One of the benefits many clients appreciate about EMDR is that it doesn’t require detailed descriptions of the trauma. Instead, it focuses on changing how those memories are stored in your brain. EMDR typically takes 6-12 sessions, though we’ve seen remarkable results for single-event trauma in as few as 3 sessions for 80-90% of clients. There’s substantial scientific research supporting EMDR’s effectiveness, as documented in resources like Francine Shapiro’s comprehensive guide to EMDR therapy.
We’re also proud to offer Brainspotting, an innovative therapy that evolved from EMDR. This approach identifies specific eye positions (called “brain spots”) that correlate with emotional activation in your brain. By focusing on these spots while mindfully attending to body sensations, you can access trauma stored in deeper brain regions. Many of our clients find Brainspotting particularly effective for diffuse or complex trauma that’s been difficult to address through other methods.
For some individuals, medication can be a helpful complement to therapy. The SSRIs sertraline (Zoloft) and paroxetine (Paxil) are FDA-approved for PTSD treatment and can help manage symptoms while you’re doing the deeper work of therapy. Research consistently shows that combining medication with trauma-focused therapy yields better outcomes than either approach alone.
Most people see significant improvement within 8-16 sessions of trauma and PTSD therapy, though complex trauma may require a longer journey. What matters most is finding an approach that feels right for you – something we’re committed to helping you find.
Comparing Modalities Side-By-Side
When considering different approaches to trauma and PTSD therapy, it helps to understand how they compare. Each method has its own rhythm, focus, and requirements:
| Therapy | Length | Primary Focus | Homework | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CBT | 12-16 sessions | Changing thought patterns | Daily thought records, behavioral exercises | Adults and teens who prefer structured approach |
| CPT | 12 sessions | Processing meaning of trauma | Written assignments, challenging beliefs | Adults with strong cognitive abilities |
| PE | 8-15 sessions (90 min each) | Confronting avoided memories and situations | Daily listening to recorded narratives, in vivo exposure | Adults who avoid trauma reminders |
| EMDR | 6-12 sessions | Reprocessing traumatic memories | Minimal or none | All ages; especially good for single-event trauma |
| Brainspotting | Variable | Accessing and releasing body-stored trauma | Minimal | Complex trauma, when other methods haven’t worked |
At Light Within Counseling, we’ve chosen to specialize in EMDR and Brainspotting because we’ve seen how effectively these approaches can access and process trauma that might be difficult to address through purely verbal methods. Many of our clients appreciate that these approaches don’t require extensive homework or detailed verbal recounting of traumatic experiences.
Your preferences and needs matter deeply in this decision. During your initial sessions, we’ll help you understand which approach might be the best fit for your unique situation and comfort level.
Medications: When and Why
While we believe deeply in the power of therapy for healing trauma, we also recognize that medications can play an important supporting role in trauma and PTSD therapy for some people. Here’s what you should know about this option:
Medication might be particularly helpful when symptoms are severe enough to interfere with your ability to engage in therapy, when depression or anxiety symptoms feel overwhelming, or when sleep disturbances are significantly affecting your quality of life. In these cases, medication can provide enough symptom relief to allow the deeper work of therapy to proceed.
SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) like sertraline (Zoloft) and paroxetine (Paxil) are FDA-approved specifically for PTSD treatment. Many people find they help reduce the intensity of trauma symptoms. SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors) such as venlafaxine (Effexor) have also shown effectiveness for PTSD symptoms. For those struggling with trauma-related nightmares, Prazosin is sometimes prescribed, though research results on its effectiveness are mixed.
Medication typically reduces symptoms but doesn’t process the underlying trauma. This is why we generally recommend combining medication with therapy rather than relying on medication alone. When medication is effective, it’s usually best continued for at least 12 months before considering tapering, and any tapering should be gradual (over at least 4 weeks) to minimize withdrawal symptoms.
At Light Within Counseling, we don’t prescribe medications directly, but we’re happy to coordinate with your primary care physician or psychiatrist to ensure your care is well-integrated. If you’re interested in exploring medication options, we can help you connect with appropriate medical providers in the Roseville area or throughout California.
We believe in giving you all the tools you need for healing, whether that’s therapy alone or therapy with medication support. Our goal is always your wellbeing, and we’ll work with you to find the approach that feels right for your unique journey.
Self-Care, Family Support, and Relapse Prevention
Healing from trauma doesn’t end when you leave our office. In fact, what happens between sessions can be just as important as the therapy itself. Creating a supportive environment and practicing consistent self-care are essential pieces of your recovery puzzle.
Sleep is your brain’s natural healing mechanism. Many trauma survivors struggle with sleep disturbances, which can perpetuate symptoms. Creating a consistent bedtime routine, making your bedroom a technology-free sanctuary, and maintaining regular sleep-wake times can dramatically improve your recovery journey. One client told me, “I never realized how much better I could handle my emotions until I started sleeping regularly.”
Movement helps release trauma that’s stored in your body. You don’t need to train for a marathon—gentle yoga, a walk around the neighborhood, or even stretching while watching TV can help regulate your nervous system. Physical activity produces endorphins that naturally combat stress and improve mood.
Mindfulness practices teach your brain to stay in the present moment rather than being hijacked by past trauma. Simple grounding exercises like feeling your feet on the floor or noticing five things you can see, four things you can touch, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste can interrupt flashbacks and bring you back to the here and now.
Nourishing your body with regular, balanced meals supports brain health and energy regulation. Trauma can disrupt your relationship with food, sometimes leading to emotional eating or forgetting to eat altogether. Being mindful about nutrition isn’t about perfect eating—it’s about treating your body with the care it deserves.
Creative expression offers pathways to healing that talk therapy alone can’t always reach. Whether it’s journaling, painting, playing music, or dancing in your living room, creative activities can help process emotions that are difficult to put into words. As one teen client shared, “I couldn’t talk about what happened, but I could draw it.”
Connection with others is perhaps the most powerful healing force. Trauma often leads to isolation, but gradually rebuilding meaningful relationships provides crucial support for recovery. This might start with just one trusted person or a support group of others who understand trauma’s impact.
At Light Within Counseling, we help you develop a personalized self-care plan that fits your unique needs, preferences, and lifestyle. We understand that what works for one person might not work for another, and we’re committed to finding approaches that feel manageable and meaningful for you.
Coaching Loved Ones to Become Part of the Healing Team
The people closest to you can be your greatest allies in recovery—or they can unintentionally make healing more difficult. Most loved ones genuinely want to help but simply don’t know how. That’s where we come in.
Validation is one of the most powerful gifts family members can offer. When someone says, “That sounds really hard. I’m here with you,” it creates safety that allows healing to unfold. We teach loved ones how to listen without trying to “fix” or minimize your experiences.
Safety planning involves helping family members understand potential triggers and how to respond effectively during difficult moments. This might include creating a quiet space in your home where you can retreat when feeling overwhelmed, or developing signals that communicate when you need support versus space.
Communication skills that we teach to families include asking permission before discussing sensitive topics, respecting boundaries around trauma discussions, and expressing concern without judgment. These skills help create an environment where authentic healing can take place.
With your permission, we offer family sessions specifically focused on these skills. We’ve found that when loved ones understand the nature of trauma and PTSD therapy and learn specific ways to support your healing, recovery outcomes improve significantly.
Family members need support too. Supporting someone through trauma recovery can be emotionally taxing, and we help loved ones develop their own self-care practices to prevent burnout and secondary trauma.
At Light Within Counseling, we view family members not as bystanders but as essential partners in creating conditions for healing. As one client’s partner shared, “Learning how to really listen instead of trying to solve everything changed our relationship completely.”
If you’re ready to explore how trauma and PTSD therapy can help you reclaim your life, our team at Light Within Counseling is here to support you. We offer both in-person therapy at our Roseville location and telehealth services throughout California. Learn more about our trauma therapy for adults or reach out today to begin your healing journey.
Frequently Asked Questions about Trauma and PTSD Therapy
How long does trauma and PTSD therapy usually take?
One of the most common questions we hear at Light Within Counseling is about the timeline for healing. The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to trauma and PTSD therapy duration.
Your healing journey depends on several important factors. Single-incident traumas (like a car accident or assault) often resolve more quickly than complex developmental trauma that occurred over years. The treatment approach matters too—structured, evidence-based therapies like EMDR and Brainspotting that we offer at our practice typically work more efficiently than traditional talk therapy alone.
Your personal circumstances also influence treatment length—your support system, current life stressors, and how long you’ve been experiencing symptoms all play a role. While most evidence-based trauma therapies are designed to be completed within 8-16 sessions, we find that many clients notice significant relief within this timeframe. However, if you’re dealing with complex trauma, healing might unfold over 6-12 months or sometimes longer.
Rather than focusing solely on session numbers, we measure progress by how you’re feeling and functioning in your daily life. Our therapists regularly check in about your symptoms and quality of life to ensure therapy is on the right track. We’re committed to efficient treatment that honors your unique healing process.
Can virtual trauma and PTSD therapy be as effective as in-person sessions?
The short answer is yes! Research strongly supports the effectiveness of telehealth for trauma treatment. In fact, one study following 132 veterans found that online cognitive behavioral therapy was just as effective as in-person therapy for PTSD.
At Light Within Counseling, we’ve thoughtfully adapted our trauma and PTSD therapy approaches to work seamlessly in an online environment. We offer virtual therapy throughout California, giving you access to specialized trauma care regardless of your location.
Virtual therapy offers several advantages that many clients appreciate:
Comfort and safety are huge benefits—receiving therapy from your own secure space can actually help you feel more at ease discussing difficult experiences. There’s also the convenience factor—no commute means therapy fits more easily into busy schedules. And for those with physical limitations or childcare responsibilities, accessibility becomes a game-changer.
We’ve carefully modified our techniques for the online environment. For EMDR therapy, we use adapted bilateral stimulation methods that work effectively through a screen. We also employ secure digital tools for tracking your progress while maintaining strict privacy standards.
That said, we understand some people prefer face-to-face connection. That’s why we’re proud to offer both in-person sessions at our Roseville location and virtual options—giving you the flexibility to choose what works best for your healing journey.
What if I don’t remember all the details of my trauma—can therapy still help?
This concern comes up frequently, and we want to reassure you: incomplete or fragmented memories are completely normal with trauma. In fact, they’re a natural result of how the brain processes overwhelming experiences.
The good news is that trauma and PTSD therapy absolutely does not require perfect recall of traumatic events. Your brain’s protective mechanisms may have blurred certain details, and that’s okay. What matters most isn’t having a complete narrative, but addressing how trauma symptoms are affecting your life right now.
At Light Within Counseling, we specialize in approaches like EMDR and Brainspotting that are particularly well-suited for working with unclear memories. These therapies can access material stored not just in conscious memory but also in the body and subconscious mind. They work with whatever information is available to you, without pressure to “recover” missing pieces.
Many of our clients experience significant relief even when working with partial memories, bodily sensations, or emotional responses rather than detailed accounts. Our focus is always on healing the impact of trauma on your present life, not constructing a perfect timeline of past events.
Healing is possible regardless of how much you consciously remember. Your brain and body know what they need to process, and our therapists are skilled at guiding that journey with sensitivity and care.
Conclusion
The journey from trauma to healing isn’t about erasing what happened to you—it’s about processing these experiences so they no longer control your daily life. Trauma and PTSD therapy offers a pathway to reclaim your sense of safety, rebuild meaningful connections, and refind joy in your life.
At Light Within Counseling, we believe in combining powerful, evidence-based treatments with genuine compassion and understanding. We recognize that trauma affects each person uniquely, which is why we carefully tailor our approach to your specific needs and circumstances. Whether you’re struggling with the aftermath of a single traumatic event or working through complex developmental trauma that occurred over years, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
Our practice specializes in EMDR and Brainspotting—two remarkably effective approaches that address trauma at both the psychological and physiological levels. We’ve seen how these therapies can help open up healing that sometimes feels out of reach through traditional talk therapy alone. We’re proud to offer these specialized services both in-person at our welcoming Roseville office and through secure, confidential telehealth platforms throughout California.
If there’s one thing we want you to take away from this page, it’s this: healing is possible. While the effects of trauma can feel overwhelming and permanent, research consistently shows that with appropriate treatment, people can and do recover. The resilience of the human spirit continues to amaze us—we’ve witnessed remarkable changes in our practice time and again.
We understand that taking the first step can often be the hardest part. Reaching out for help takes courage, especially when trauma has made it difficult to trust others or feel safe. If you’re ready to begin your healing journey, we invite you to connect with us at Light Within Counseling. Our warm, skilled team is ready to meet you exactly where you are, without judgment or pressure.
You don’t have to face this alone. The light within you may feel dim right now, but with support and the right therapeutic tools, it can shine brightly again.
