How to Find a Trauma Therapist

By April Lyons MA, LPC

Times are hard. There are so many people in need of mental health help. Yet, getting the right type of support may still feel challenging.

Are you struggling with trauma-related issues?

Perhaps your trauma is directly linked to the current political climate?

Either way, you require a special kind of help. You need a compassionate trauma therapist with specific training and experience. Together, you must work well to help your body and mind recover well and move forward.

So, how do you find the right fit?

Trauma Therapist

Trauma — and the subsequent post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) — are usually associated with violence, tragedy, abuse, and loss, e.g.

  • War and terrorism

  • Physical or sexual abuse

  • Accident or natural disaster

  • Death of a loved one

  • Illness or injury

The listed circumstances are all common causes of trauma but they are not the only causes. Trauma and PTSD stem from viewing the world as an unbearably uncertain and unsafe place due to:

  • job and income loss

  • economic crisis

  • civil unrest

  • racial strife

  • unparalleled social division

  • widespread natural disasters

  • social isolation and loss of normal routines

Each of these issues can be traumatic in its own right. Combined, they may be devastating. Regardless, it could be time to contact a trauma therapist.

Why a Trauma Therapist?

Almost every therapist will work with someone who has experienced trauma. But a trauma therapist is a practitioner with very specific training in this area.  Choosing to find such a mental health provider with this expertise is a self-loving choice that can benefit you significantly. You may need to manage the mental and bodily impact of isolation, world events, relationship challenges, and personal transitions going forward. You'll want someone who can help you cope appropriately.

Finding a Trauma Therapist

In a time like this, with events seeming to escalate all around you, you want to work with someone with particular experience and training.

1. USE YOUR SCREENS TO SEEK OUT LOCAL OPTIONS.

Technology can support your therapeutic quest efficiently. Investigate your options to determine an experienced trauma therapist in your area. You should be able to efficiently research and make contact with your therapist options through their web page or directory bio.

2. CHECK OUT ANY WEB CONTENT AND/OR PUBLISHED.

To get a sense of a therapist's thoughts, approaches, and personality, read what they have to say. If possible, read their blogs and "about me" page on their website. Investigate any books, interviews, or publication submissions they've made.

Get as full a picture as possible regarding their views, perspectives, and therapeutic goals.

4. CALL AND ASK QUESTIONS.

Very little takes the place of a face-to-face (or zoom) consultation. Make an appointment to consult before making your final decision. A personal discussion can help you pick up on nuances and concerns that would affect your choice.

Most of all, ask as many questions as you need to about methods, expertise, background, and your own level of participation. Stay curious and engaged when conversing to get a sense of what a session might be like.

3. DON'T SKIP THE REFERENCES.

In addition to expertise, you want to know that your chosen trauma therapist can completely handle the challenges of this time. You don't want to receive care that is compromised or repeatedly interrupted due to scheduling issues.

While it is important to be compassionate and gracious with each other at this time, your therapist should be able to offer you sessions that are professional, safe, and appropriately focused. You should be able to get a sense of their competence and effectiveness via client reviews and testimonials.

3.  ENSURE THAT RISK-FREE SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE.

Whether it’s by phone, online or in person, confirm that trauma-informed therapy is available to you in person or in the comfort and safety of your own home online.

If you would like some extra support and are looking for a psychotherapist, please reach out for a free consultation. You deserve relief and lasting recovery.

Learn more about our trauma informed care. Serving Boulder, Longmont and Denver.