What is the process of trauma therapy?

As a Registered Psychologist and Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist through the Arizona Trauma Institute, I provide evidence-based, compassionate care for individuals who have experienced trauma. Since 2017, I have had the privilege of supporting first responders, as well as teens and adults, in understanding how trauma affects the brain, body, and nervous system.

My approach follows a trauma-informed model that prioritizes safety first. Before processing traumatic experiences, we focus on developing emotional regulation skills, strengthening your ability to feel safe in your body, and understanding how your nervous system responds to stress. This foundation helps create the stability needed for deeper healing when and if you feel ready.

One of the most important things to know is that there is no one "right" way to heal from trauma. Processing trauma does not always mean retelling every detail of what happened. In fact, many people experience meaningful healing by learning to regulate a hypervigilant nervous system, understanding trauma responses, and developing new patterns of coping and connection. Many times healing begins with the body before the story.

When trauma processing is appropriate, I tailor treatment to your individual needs. For clients who have experienced a single traumatic event, Narrative Exposure Therapy can be an effective, evidence-based approach to help organize and process difficult memories. I also incorporate Internal Family Systems (IFS)-informed approaches, which help clients compassionately understand and heal the different parts of themselves that have developed in response to trauma.

Healing from trauma is not about forcing yourself to relive painful experiences—it's about helping your mind and body feel safe again. Together, we'll move at a pace that feels right for you, building the skills, insight, and resilience needed to support lasting recovery.