Trauma Therapy
Compassionate support when you’re carrying more than you can manage alone.
Trauma can affect you in ways that are not always easy to recognize. You may feel constantly on edge, emotionally numb, disconnected from yourself or others, overwhelmed by certain situations, or unable to move forward from experiences that still feel present in your everyday life.
Trauma therapy gives you a supportive space to explore what you’ve experienced and understand how those experiences may be affecting you today. At Avena, you don’t have to wait until things become overwhelming before asking for support. Therapy allows you to work through difficult emotions and experiences at a pace that feels comfortable and manageable for you.
Our therapists take time to understand your experiences, concerns, and goals rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all approach. Through trauma therapy, you can begin recognizing patterns, developing practical coping strategies, and finding ways to feel more grounded, connected, and present in your life.
At Avena, trauma therapy is tailored to your individual needs and gives you room to process what you’ve been through without pressure to move faster than you’re ready for. The goal is to help you move forward in a way that feels personal, manageable, and sustainable.
Here's what we'll work on in trauma therapy:
Releasing the survival strategies that once protected you but now keep you stuck.
Reconnecting with parts of yourself that may feel distant or disconnected after difficult or traumatic experiences.
Challenging negative thoughts and beliefs about yourself that may have developed after difficult or traumatic experiences.
Building supportive routines that help you feel more grounded and secure, even on difficult or low-energy days.
Identifying the quiet patterns that keep you stuck, isolated, or checked out
Creating space for joy, rest, and ease — without guilt or justification
What types of trauma do you treat?
Avena Psychological Services works with clients experiencing many forms of trauma, including childhood trauma, relationship trauma, and distressing or overwhelming life experiences. Trauma can affect emotions, relationships, self-esteem, and how you respond to stress. Therapy is tailored to your experiences, needs, and goals.
What therapy methods do you use for trauma (EMDR, CBT, somatic)?
Avena therapists use individualized, trauma-informed approaches based on each client's needs. Depending on your therapist, treatment may incorporate CBT, mindfulness, psychodynamic approaches, ACT, and somatic or movement-based techniques. Your therapist can discuss which approach may be most appropriate for you.
How long does trauma therapy typically take?
The length of trauma therapy varies from person to person. Your experiences, symptoms, goals, and progress can all influence how long you choose to continue therapy. Your therapist will work with you to develop an approach and pace that fit your needs.
Will I have to talk about the traumatic event in detail?
You do not have to share everything about a traumatic experience all at once. Trauma therapy can move at a pace that helps you feel comfortable and supported while gradually exploring experiences that are affecting you. You and your therapist can discuss what feels appropriate to address during each session.
Do you offer trauma therapy for childhood trauma vs. recent trauma?
Yes, trauma therapy can address difficult experiences from childhood as well as more recent traumatic events. Your therapist will consider your history, current concerns, relationships, and goals when personalizing treatment.
Is trauma therapy covered by insurance?
Insurance coverage depends on your individual plan and benefits. Avena is currently in-network with Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and UnitedHealthcare, including certain affiliated plans, and also works with out-of-network benefits. The Avena team can help you understand and verify your coverage before beginning therapy.
Do you offer virtual trauma therapy?
Yes, Avena Psychological Services provides virtual therapy for clients in New York and New Jersey. Sessions are available through video or phone, allowing you to receive trauma support from a private and comfortable location.
Real People. Real Expertise. Real Change.
At Avena Psychological Services, we offer holistic, individualized therapy designed to help you understand yourself more deeply and create meaningful, lasting change. Our licensed psychologists tailor each session to your specific concerns and goals, drawing from your full life experience—including your childhood, culture, relationships, physical health, and personality. Whether you’re struggling with depression, relationship challenges, or feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve you, therapy can help you break your issues down into manageable pieces and begin moving forward. Left unaddressed, mental health concerns can impact every area of life—from work and school to physical health and relationships. But with the right support, you can shift your mindset, make empowered choices, and experience real transformation.
Virtual Mental Health Therapy Tailored For Your Comfort
Video Call Therapy
Online therapy conducted via Zoom. Video meetings allow you to see your therapist from the comfort of your preferred location.
Phone Therapy
Full service therapy conducted via a phone call. Have full conversation with your therapist without the need to be seen.
Concierge Therapy
Personal appointments can be tailored to special locations through a prior approved agreement with Dr. Avena.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between trauma therapy and regular talk therapy?
Trauma therapy focuses specifically on how difficult or overwhelming experiences may be affecting you today. It uses a trauma-informed approach that considers your emotional responses, coping patterns, relationships, and sense of safety. Treatment is personalized to help you process your experiences at a pace that feels manageable.
Do I need a PTSD diagnosis to start trauma therapy?
No, you do not need a PTSD diagnosis to benefit from trauma therapy. People seek support for many experiences that continue to affect their emotions, relationships, or daily lives. A therapist can help you determine what type of support fits your needs.
How do I know if I need trauma-focused treatment?
Trauma-focused therapy may be helpful if past or recent experiences continue to affect how you feel, think, relate to others, or respond to stress. You may notice certain situations bring up strong emotions or patterns that are difficult to manage on your own. A therapist can help you explore these concerns and decide on an appropriate approach.
What should I expect in a first trauma therapy session?
Your first session is typically focused on getting to know you, discussing your concerns, and understanding what you hope to gain from therapy. You can share your history and experiences at a pace that feels comfortable without having to discuss everything immediately. Your therapist will work with you to begin developing goals and a treatment plan.
Schedule An Appointment
If you're experiencing a mental health emergency, please follow instructions found here.
Phone
therapy@avenapsych.com
Mailing Address
99 Wall Street #4424 New York, NY 10005