One of the most frequently asked questions I get when contacted by clients is:

“What do I need to look for when I have endured severe trauma and I need to find the right therapist for me?”

This is a great question, as it is already indicating that the person has his or her own highest good in their heart and that they have developed a critical ability to discern what is needed for themselves. 

As in all professional fields, there are modalities and solutions tailored for every specific situation. The therapy that is perfect for one client could not be effective for another. When a person has endured severe trauma that could have caused PTSD, complex PTSD, or dissociation, it is vital to find the right therapist who is trained and experienced in treating such challenges. 

I will describe here below what I consider the key factors to look for when selecting a trauma recovery therapist.

Given the depth of the challenges that a client with severe trauma can experience (such as emotional regulation difficulties, dissociation, and disturbed interpersonal relationships), it is important to find a therapist who has a deep understanding of the complex nature of trauma and can create therapeutic plans to address individual needs in a safe way. 

While many therapists may have a general understanding of trauma, complex PTSD requires a deeper level of expertise. Given that each therapist has his or her own unique approach and areas of expertise, it is important to check their credentials and trainings in the field and to look for certifications in additional training in trauma-focused therapies, such as trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), EMDR, IFS, EFT, or somatic experiencing. These certifications indicate that the therapist has invested time and effort into gaining specialized knowledge in working with complex trauma. Specialization also means that the therapist has acquired specific training and experience in working with individuals who have complex trauma backgrounds.

It’s worth researching and reading about different modalities to gain insight into what might work best for your unique needs. 

There are several evidence-supported individual treatment modalities commonly used in treating trauma, including cognitive therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder (CT-PTSD), cognitive processing therapy (CPT), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), prolonged exposure therapy (PE), brief eclectic psychotherapy for posttraumatic stress disorder (BEPP), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), narrative exposure therapy (NET), emotion-focused therapy for trauma (EFTT), interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) for PTSD, and Trauma Affect Regulation: Guide for Education and Therapy (TARGET©).

Each modality has its strengths and focuses on different aspects of recovery, and different therapists may employ various modalities, as I personally do.

Another important aspect to consider is the therapeutic relationship. The therapeutic bond is the foundation of successful therapy, and it’s crucial to find a therapist with whom you feel comfortable, safe, and understood. During therapy sessions, your therapist should create a safe and non-judgmental space for you to explore your feelings and experiences. They should listen actively, is compassionate with your struggles, and provide guidance and support. Choose a therapist who aligns with your values, understands your unique needs, and inspires confidence in their ability to support your recovery.

It’s important to remember that therapy is a collaborative process, and finding a therapist who respects your autonomy and values your input is essential. Trust your instincts, and take the time to evaluate the therapeutic relationship on an ongoing basis.

Finally, finding the right therapist will prevent retraumatization, which is when a client re-experiences or relives their traumatic experiences due to a lack of awareness and training of the professional. When a client has experienced severe trauma, it is imperative that he or she avoids episodes of retraumatization, as those have a great impact  on the healing journey.