Trauma can come as a result of any event that overwhelms a person’s ability to cope with it. Some common examples include:

Sexual Assault & Abuse

Intimate Partner Violence/Domestic Violence

Childhood Abuse and/or Neglect

Natural Disasters

Community Violence

Medical Trauma

Traumatic Grief

“Big T” trauma is a reaction to a deeply distressing or life-threatening event or situation. These are the extreme events we often think of when we think of severe trauma—for example, war, natural disasters, violent crimes, sexual assault, or a serious car accident.

“Little t” trauma is defined as any event or ongoing situation that causes distress, fear, and a sense of helplessness. Examples include loss of a job, financial insecurity, harassment, and loss of a significant relationship.

Both of these types of trauma can lead to mental, emotional, and physical symptoms and sometimes need treatment in order to heal. Regardless of what the trauma was, seeking professional help may be able to help provide some relief.

A trauma therapist is a specific type of therapist who has received additional training in evidenced-based and effective treatments of trauma. Many therapists specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma, offering targeted interventions to address the specific challenges associated with traumatic experiences.

There are many types of trauma therapies out there that many clinicians may be trained in, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Somatic Experiencing (SE), to list a few. Most of these therapists will be trained in at least one trauma-focused modality and have extensive experience working with clients who have experienced various types of trauma. These qualifications ensure that the therapist has the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of trauma and provide effective, evidence-based interventions.

At Madison Square Psychotherapy, our clinicians bring a unique blend of expertise and experience to trauma-focused care. With specialized certifications in cutting-edge therapies and a wealth of practical know-how, our team is well-equipped to guide you through the nuanced journey of trauma recovery. What sets us apart is our commitment to providing compassionate support, drawing from hands-on experience in helping individuals navigate the challenges of healing from trauma. We take pride in our distinct approach, centered on understanding, empathy, and skillful assistance to ensure each person feels supported and heard throughout their recovery process.

When it comes to trauma therapy, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Determining the "best" type of treatement and therapeutic process for you depends on your own unique needs, preferences, and the nature of the traumatic event that you’ve experienced. Broadly, many trauma therapy approaches can be split into various camps including cognitive (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems), affective (psychodynamic, attachment focused modalities) and somatic or exposure therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing or EMDR, Somatic Experiencing). There are many commonly used and effective modalities that are include Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for its focus on changing thought patterns, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to process traumatic memories, and Insight-Oriented Therapy for exploring larger patterns or perception that may have been impacted by trauma.

Embarking on the journey of therapy is a deeply personal decision, and it's important to recognize that outcomes are not guaranteed. Choosing to start therapy reflects a commitment to self-discovery and healing, acknowledging that the path to recovery is as unique as the individual themselves. At Madison Square Psychotherapy, we acknowledge the diversity of trauma experiences and tailor interventions accordingly. Our team employs evidence-based approaches, including modalities such as EMDR and CBT, and Insight-Oriented Therapy. This multifaceted approach ensures a personalized and comprehensive therapeutic experience, addressing the unique needs of each individual on their path to healing from trauma. 

One of the most important tenets of trauma therapy is that the client sets the pace. If you’re ready to jump in to past memories and reprocess them, we can do that. If you need more time - or feel anxiety or are unsure if you ever want to go back to the memories - that’s fine too. There’s lot of work to be done and relief that can be found even without mentally going back to what’s happened. In trauma therapy, you’re in the driver’s seat and we focus on where you are and what you need right now.

When you’re contemplating therapy, it's not just about statistics; it's about equipping yourself with a valuable resource on the path to healing. It's important to view therapy as a tailored journey rather than a guaranteed fix. The decision to start therapy is a personal commitment, a step toward regaining control over how you feel. Your unique experience shapes the trajectory of your healing journey. While outcomes can't be assured, the potential for transformative change is significant. Choosing therapy is a proactive move toward your well-being, a decision that acknowledges your resilience and capacity for growth. If you're contemplating this step, know that you're not alone—reclaiming your life begins with a thoughtfully chosen, courageous step.