Our therapists offer trauma therapy in Richmond, VA

Toni: My primary approach for helping clients with trauma (including PTSD) is EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing). However, I try to tailor my therapeutic approach to my clients' needs and incorporate other treatment theories and methods as appropriate, including polyvagal theory, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral theory, and person-centered therapy. My primary goal is to help clients feel supported and understood and to assist them in recovering a sense of security and safety.

Christin: When treating individuals impacted by trauma, my go-to approaches are DBT, TF-CBT, CPT, and EMDR. The benefit of having different ways to approach trauma is that I can better meet my clients' needs. EMDR is helpful but doesn't work for everyone; DBT is a wonderful therapy, but some people have used it before and needed more support. I find CPT to benefit those who are very logical-minded.

Toni: I teach my clients mindfulness coping strategies, including breath work, grounding exercises, meditation, and guided visualizations. I also teach cognitive strategies, including using self-talk to challenge negative automatic thoughts, cognitive distortions, and irrational beliefs.

Christin: I encourage my clients to use mindful breathing from DBT, grounding, and a safe place to help manage triggers and their emotions.

Toni: I know that a client is making meaningful progress addressing their trauma when they notice fewer triggers in their daily lives, i.e., they are better able to regulate their emotions and have fewer negative thoughts and somatic symptoms when faced with reminders of their trauma.

Christin: The thing that lets me know someone is doing better is when they tell me how they used a skill or will have fewer tears or fear during sessions. I really notice when they tell me that they feel better.

Toni: I often recommend that clients supplement trauma therapy during their personal time by engaging in meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, and other mindfulness strategies. I also believe that healthy social connections and engagement are very beneficial.

Christin: I encourage you to use your breath, listen to your favorite “happy music mix,” and have a place in nature to visit when things are tough.

Toni: To prepare for the first session to address trauma, I want potential clients to know that they don't have to share more than they are comfortable sharing at any given moment. The first step is to feel as safe and secure in the therapy room as possible and to trust that you will be heard, understood, and cared for. If someone wants specific information about EMDR therapy, I recommend going to the website EMDRIA.org.

Christin: Before you start PTSD/trauma treatment, write down why you are starting therapy. Be open with your therapist.