Types of Therapy for Trauma

Therapy is not a one-size fits all model. Additionally, not all therapists will be the right therapist for what you are experiencing. There are many therapeutic avenues that one can take that will be dependent on their individual experiences and what will be effective in processing emotions and healing the negative psychological and physical effects of trauma. In addition, many victim-survivors are unaware of which therapeutic avenue to take and what will work best for them. It is important to understand that the first therapy you try may not be what you need to heal, however, there are other types of therapeutic approaches that can help victim-survivors process their experiences/memories, regain a sense of control, and work toward healing. 

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)¹

CBT is a structured, evidence-based form of psychotherapy that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. CBT focuses on teaching how our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are interconnected, meaning that combating negative thinking patterns can lead to healthier behaviors and impact emotional well-being. CBT is commonly used to treat conditions such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD. Sessions typically involve setting attainable goals, self-reflection, reframing negative thought patterns, and exercises to develop coping skills. 

Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)²

TF-CBT is a structured, evidence-based therapy designed for individuals, particularly children and adolescents, who have experienced trauma. This approach combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with trauma-sensitive interventions to help survivors address distressing thoughts, manage emotions, and develop healthier coping mechanisms. TF-CBT incorporates psychoeducation, cognitive restructuring, and gradual exposure to traumatic memories to foster resilience and empowerment.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)³

EMDR helps victim-survivors process traumatic memories through guided eye movements or other bilateral stimulation. This approach allows victim-survivors to reframe distressing experiences and reduce the emotional intensity associated with the experience. EMDR is particularly beneficial for those with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as it facilitates the brain’s natural healing process and aids in combating intrusive thoughts and flashbacks.

Somatic Therapy⁴

Sexual violence often manifests in both psychological and physiological symptoms. Somatic therapy focuses on the connection between the mind and body, helping survivors release trauma stored within their nervous system. Techniques such as breathwork, movement therapy, and body awareness exercises enable individuals to regulate their physiological responses and regain a sense of safety within their own bodies.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)⁵

DBT is particularly useful for individuals who struggle with emotional dysregulation, self-harm, or dissociation following trauma. It incorporates mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness to help survivors build healthier coping skills. DBT is especially helpful for those who experience intense emotions and difficulty managing relationships after trauma.

Psychodynamic Therapy⁶

Psychodynamic therapy identifies unconscious patterns, past experiences, and emotions that contribute to a victim-survivor’s trauma response. In exploring underlying conflicts and unresolved feelings, individuals can gain insight into unhealthy coping mechanisms and develop new healthy ways to process their experiences. This therapy is often long-term and sessions are more frequent. This may be beneficial for those who seek a deeper understanding of their trauma, however, this therapy may be costly and is time consuming.

Group Therapy & Support Groups⁷

Healing from sexual violence can feel isolating, but group therapy and support groups provide a space for victim-survivors to share their experiences and support eachother. Guided by therapists or peer facilitators, these groups help build community to recognize victim-survivors are not alone, foster a sense of connection and promote collective healing. Being in a group environment of victim-survivors can further enhance self-esteem, reduce shame, and provide practical coping strategies. Group therapies often work well alongside individual therapy. 

Expressive Therapies (Art, Music, and Writing Therapy)⁸

For victim-survivors who struggle with verbalizing their trauma, expressive therapies offer alternative ways to process emotions. Art therapy, music therapy, and writing therapy provide creative outlets for self-expression, helping individuals externalize and explore their feelings in a safe and therapeutic environment. These approaches can be particularly helpful for those who find traditional talk therapy overwhelming. Additionally, expressive therapy works well with children and adolescents and adults who experienced childhood trauma. 

Mindfulness and Meditation-Based Therapies¹⁰

Mindfulness-based approaches, such as Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), help survivors cultivate present-moment awareness and reduce trauma-related stress. Meditation, yoga, and breathing exercises promote relaxation and resilience, helping individuals manage triggers and develop a greater sense of self-compassion. Other forms of mindfulness and meditation based therapies include forest bathing, sound healing, and trauma-informed somatic massages. 

The journey of healing from sexual violence is deeply personal, and no single therapy works for everyone. Survivors may benefit from a combination of approaches, tailored to their unique needs and preferences. Seeking professional support from a trauma-informed therapist can provide guidance in navigating the healing process. With the right therapeutic interventions, survivors can reclaim their power, rebuild their lives, and find a path toward recovery and resilience.

Sources

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4. Kearney, B. E., & Lanius, R. A. (2022). The brain-body disconnect: A somatic sensory basis for trauma-related disorders. Frontiers in neuroscience, 16, 1015749. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnins.2022.1015749 
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7. Heard, E., & Walsh, D. (2023). Group Therapy for Survivors of Adult Sexual Assault: A Scoping Review. Trauma, Violence, & Abuse, 24(2), 886-898. https://doi.org/10.1177/15248380211043828 
8. Dunphy, K., Mullane, S., & Jacobsson, M. (2014). The effectiveness of expressive arts therapies: A review of the literature. Psychotherapy and counselling journal of Australia, 2(1).
9. Fjorback LO, Walach H. Meditation Based Therapies—A Systematic Review and Some Critical Observations. Religions. 2012; 3(1):1-18. https://doi.org/10.3390/rel3010001
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