How Do I Know If I Need Trauma Therapy?
As a trauma counselor in Los Altos, I often hear clients ask: how do I really know if I need trauma therapy? Many of us go through painful or shocking events in life — an accident, abuse, violence, loss, or repeated humiliation. Sometimes it seems that time will heal the wounds, but certain signs show that the pain is still alive within us.
Trauma therapy doesn’t erase what happened — but it helps you live with it differently, without feeling trapped by memories or fear. In this article, I’ll share the common signs you may need trauma therapy, what treatment looks like, and how it can help you heal.
What Is Trauma?
Trauma can be any experience that overwhelms your ability to cope — not just “big” events like accidents or assaults. Emotional neglect, bullying, or feeling unsafe for long periods can leave deep scars too. Trauma isn’t about how “bad” an event was — it’s about how your mind and body continue to react long after it’s over.
Signs You May Need Trauma Therapy
Here are some common signs that trauma may still be affecting your daily life:
You feel stuck in the past, with intrusive memories or flashbacks.
You have nightmares about what happened.
You avoid certain places, people, or situations that remind you of the event.
You feel on edge, easily startled, or hyper-alert.
You feel numb or disconnected from your body or emotions.
You have panic attacks or unexplained anxiety.
You struggle with trust, intimacy, or maintaining relationships.
Not everyone has all these signs — but if you see yourself in a few, therapy can help you feel safer and more in control.
What Happens in Psychodynamic Trauma Therapy?
In psychodynamic trauma therapy, we explore how past experiences and unconscious patterns still affect your feelings, thoughts, and relationships today.
Together, we look at the deeper roots of your pain — not just the symptoms — so you can understand why certain triggers feel so powerful or why old fears still come up.
This process happens at your pace and in a safe, supportive relationship. Over time, psychodynamic therapy helps you gain insight, feel less burdened by your past, and create new ways of relating to yourself and others.
How to Choose a Trauma Therapist
Finding the right therapist is so important. Look for someone who:
Specializes in trauma and understands its impact.
Uses approaches that fit your needs.
Makes you feel seen, heard, and never judged.
Offers a free consultation so you can ask questions and see if it’s a good fit.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you recognize some of these signs in yourself, you don’t have to carry them alone.
If you’re looking for PTSD counseling in Los Altos or a trusted trauma counselor near you, I invite you to reach out for a free, no-pressure phone consultation. Together, we’ll see if trauma therapy in Los Altos is the right next step for you.