Trauma-Focused Therapy in Encino, CA
At COPE Psychological Center in Encino, CA, we understand that trauma can profoundly affect your mental and emotional health. Our Trauma-Focused Therapy program is specifically designed to support individuals in healing from both major traumatic events and more subtle, ongoing struggles that can also have a lasting impact. Our approach provides compassionate, evidence-based care to help you reclaim your life.
What is Trauma?
Trauma can manifest in various forms, which we often categorize as “big T” and “little t” traumas. Both can result in intense emotional reactions and influence your psychological well-being.
- Big T Traumas: These are major, life-threatening events such as sexual assault, military combat, natural disasters, or any circumstance where you face imminent danger or harm.
- Little t Traumas: These include long-term emotional challenges like feelings of rejection, abandonment, or neglect, as well as persistent personal struggles that may not be immediately visible but can have a deep emotional impact.
Both types of trauma can cause feelings of helplessness, fear, and anxiety, often triggering the fight-or-flight response, which can disrupt daily life and prevent you from experiencing peace and fulfillment.
When Do You Need Trauma-Focused Therapy?
Trauma-focused therapy may be beneficial if you’re experiencing:
- Flashbacks or intrusive thoughts about past traumatic events.
- Constant feelings of anxiety, fear, or hypervigilance in everyday situations.
- Difficulty forming or maintaining meaningful relationships.
- Emotional numbness, depression, or a sense of isolation.
Recognizing when trauma is affecting your life is the first step toward healing, and therapy can provide the support necessary to begin that process.
Evidence-Based Treatments for Trauma and PTSD
At COPE Psychological Center, we utilize two well-established, evidence-based therapies for trauma and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE). These therapies are backed by the American Psychological Association and have been proven effective in helping individuals process and heal from trauma.
- Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT): This form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy focuses on how trauma affects your view of the world, self-worth, and sense of safety. CPT helps individuals reframe negative beliefs and develop a healthier outlook on themselves and their experiences. Typically, individuals see significant improvement after approximately 12 sessions.
- Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE): PE encourages individuals to gradually confront trauma-related memories and emotions rather than avoiding them. This controlled exposure reduces the emotional charge of trauma, helping build resilience and facilitate emotional healing. Research shows that PE leads to notable reductions in symptoms after 10-12 sessions.
Our Philosophy of Trauma Treatment
At COPE, we believe that the coping mechanisms developed during traumatic experiences often no longer serve you well in safe, supportive environments. Our treatment approach is built around:
- Compassion: We honor the protective strategies trauma survivors develop, understanding their purpose during times of danger.
- Evaluation: We work with you to assess how these coping mechanisms may be hindering your healing and current well-being.
- Skill Development: Our goal is to guide you in building healthier, more adaptive coping strategies that will support your emotional recovery and future resilience.
Why Choose COPE for Trauma Therapy?
COPE’s trauma-focused therapies, such as CPT and PE, are rooted in scientific research and widely used in leading medical centers across the country. Though sometimes lesser-known in some communities, these therapies have consistently shown to provide effective, long-lasting healing for those dealing with trauma.
FAQ About Trauma Therapy
What can I expect from trauma-focused therapy?
Therapy sessions typically involve discussing your past experiences and emotions. Your therapist will guide you through evidence-based techniques like cognitive restructuring and exposure exercises, helping you process and heal from trauma.
How long will trauma treatment take?
The duration of therapy depends on your specific needs, but many clients notice significant improvements after 10-12 weeks of treatment.
Is it normal to feel nervous about seeking help?
Yes, it’s common to feel uncertain or apprehensive about confronting past trauma. Our compassionate team is here to provide a supportive, non-judgmental environment, helping you take the necessary steps toward healing.
Begin Your Healing Journey Today
If you or someone you care about is struggling with trauma in Encino, CA, COPE Psychological Center is here to help. Our dedicated team offers personalized trauma-focused therapy designed to support your healing. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and start the path to recovery.