The Ultimate Guide: What Does a Trauma Therapist Do? Learn the Role and Responsibilities now

Welcome to the Aura Institute, where we offer advanced trauma-informed training so that you can have the tools to transform the lives of those affected by trauma.

Our curriculum is accredited for continuing education by prestigious organizations like the APA and Board of Nurses, ensuring practitioners receive top-notch training and credentials.

Contact us at info@aurainstitute.org or (424) 400-3048 to begin your journey as a certified trauma practitioner and make a positive impact in trauma care.

what does a trauma therapist do

The Unwavering Role of Trauma Therapists: Exploring Their Crucial Functions


Contents

  1. Understanding Trauma
  2. What Does A Trauma Therapist Do?
  3. Expression and Experiences
  4. Treatment Approaches
  5. FAQ

Understanding Trauma

Trauma is a complex subject that affects a significant portion of the population—many more than we may even realize. A trauma therapist plays a crucial role in helping individuals navigate and overcome such challenging experiences. But what does a trauma therapist do exactly?


What Does A Trauma Therapist Do?

A trauma therapist, in the most basic terms, aids individuals in recovering from traumatic events in their life. They use a variety of therapeutic strategies and therapies that apply to different types of trauma-impacted people. Working collaboratively with the client, they aim to establish a safe space where experiences can be discussed, feelings can be expressed, and healing can begin.


Expression and Experiences

A trauma therapist's role revolves around opening pathways for clients to express these challenging experiences. They help clients explore the effects of trauma on their mental and physical well-being and provide strategies to manage triggers and symptoms that might arise. These may include chronic anxiety, heightened alertness, nightmares, or intrusive memories.

"Unexpressed emotions will never die. They are buried alive and will come forth later in uglier ways." - Sigmund Freud


Treatment Approaches

Different approaches are employed by trauma therapists, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), and somatic experiencing.

  • Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This involves identifying and altering negative thought patterns causing anxiety or depressive symptoms.

  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): By using guided eye movements, EMDR allows individuals to reprocess traumatic memories in a less distressing way.

  • Somatic Experiencing: This approach involves recognizing and releasing physical tension that may remain in the body after traumatic events.

Understanding these treatment options could inspire those interested in becoming a trauma therapist.


FAQ

Q1: What qualifications does a trauma therapist need?

A trauma therapist typically requires a Master's degree in counseling, psychology, or social work. They should also possess a certification in trauma therapy and complete relevant training specific to trauma recovery.

Q2: How does trauma therapy differ from regular therapy?

The key difference between traumatic therapy and regular therapy lies in the specialization area. Trauma therapists are equipped to deal with individuals who have experienced severe traumatic events. Regular therapists, on the other hand, cater to a broader range of mental health issues.

Q3: Does trauma therapy work?

Yes, trauma therapy is generally effective in treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related disorders. However, the efficacy also depends on individual circumstances, including their unique experiences and the specific therapeutic approach used.

Q4: Can trauma therapists diagnose conditions?

Yes, trauma therapists, particularly those with a background in clinical psychology, are qualified to diagnose conditions such as PTSD, acute stress disorder, and adjustment disorders.


In conclusion, a trauma therapist plays an immensely important role in societal health. Their work does not merely involve providing trauma therapy—it extends to the very essence of comforting, understanding, and healing. In navigating through traumatic events, a competent trauma therapist creates space for recovery and resilience.



Ready to start your career as a trauma informed care practitioner? Contact us at info@aurainstitute.org or (424) 400-3048 to begin your journey as a certified trauma practitioner and make a positive impact in trauma care.

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