Find Therapy for Childhood Trauma

Medically reviewed by Gabriela Asturias, MD on June 24, 2024
Written by the MiResource team

What happens in childhood doesn’t always stay in childhood. Whether it’s abuse, neglect, witnessing violence, or growing up in a chaotic environment, early trauma can leave a lasting imprint on how we feel, think, and relate to others. The good news? Healing is possible—at any age. Therapy for childhood trauma can help you reclaim your story, release pain, and build a life that feels safe and whole.

  • Monik Lopez, Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)

    Monik Lopez

    Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC)

    1550 Madruga Avenue, Coral Gables, Florida 33146

    Monik Lopez is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in Coral Gables, Florida and has been in practice for 15 years. They treat Childhood Trauma, Sexual Identity, Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder.

    The most important relationship you will ever have is the one you have with yourself. If you’re struggling, we’re here to help! Call me anytime

    View profile
  • Nikki Moorman, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

    Nikki Moorman

    Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

    5409 Gateway Centre Boulevard, Flint, Michigan 48507

    Nikki Moorman is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Flint, Michigan and has been in practice for 7 years. They treat Childhood Trauma, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), School Concerns.

    I offer a warm and non-judgmental environment so my clients will feel comfortable to explore emotions, concerns, and other issues impacting their lives.

    View profile
  • Kate Stewart, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC)

    Kate Stewart

    Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Counselor, Psychotherapist

    1684 Medina Road, Medina, Ohio 44256

    Kate Stewart is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in Medina, Ohio and has been in practice for 8 years. They treat Childhood Trauma, Relationship(s) with Friends/Roommates, Sexual Assault.

    Our passion is creating a safe space to treat adults, children, couples, and families with their mental health needs.

    View profile
  • Michelle Litwer, Psychologist

    Michelle Litwer

    Psychologist

    Remote only

    Michelle Litwer is a Psychologist in undefined, undefined and has been in practice for 8 years. They treat Childhood Trauma, Self-Harm, Substance Use.

    My main objective is to help clients manage their emotions, make decisions that are line with their values, and to live fulfilling and meaningful lives.

    View profile
  • Sandra Tursini, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

    Sandra Tursini

    Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

    2409 South Rural Road, STE C, Tempe, Arizona 85282

    Sandra Tursini is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Tempe, Arizona and has been in practice for 30 years. They treat Childhood Trauma, Relationship(s) with Partner/Husband/Wife, Perfectionism.

    Caring LPC with 30+ years’ expertise in diverse counseling areas, committed to recognizing individual worth and guiding clients through life's challenges

    View profile
  • Orvon White, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

    Orvon White

    Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW)

    Remote only

    Orvon White is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in undefined, undefined and has been in practice for 8 years. They treat Childhood Trauma, Sexual Concerns, Relationship(s) with Friends/Roommates.

    My intention is to create a safe space where clients feel validated and affirmed in their lived experiences and that they feel lighter when they leave.

    View profile

What is childhood trauma therapy?

Childhood trauma therapy is a specialized form of counseling that helps people process and heal from adverse experiences that occurred in early life. These might include:

  • Emotional, physical, or sexual abuse
  • Neglect or abandonment
  • Witnessing domestic violence
  • Loss of a parent or caregiver
  • Growing up with addiction, mental illness, or instability at home
  • Bullying or social rejection

These experiences can disrupt development, self-esteem, and a sense of safety. In therapy for childhood trauma, the goal is not to relive the past—but to understand it, process the pain, and change how it continues to affect you now.


How do I know if I’m still affected by childhood trauma?

Even if your trauma happened decades ago, its effects may still show up in subtle or surprising ways. Signs you might be living with unresolved childhood trauma include:

  • Chronic anxiety or panic
  • Depression, numbness, or emotional disconnection
  • People-pleasing, perfectionism, or fear of abandonment
  • Difficulty setting boundaries or trusting others
  • Flashbacks, nightmares, or dissociation
  • Trouble with intimacy or relationships
  • Low self-worth or persistent guilt/shame
  • Addictions or compulsive behaviors

You may not even consciously remember the trauma—but your body and emotions may still carry the imprint. Childhood trauma therapy can help you connect the dots between past and present and give you tools to move forward.


Can therapy really help with things that happened so long ago?

Yes. Therapy for childhood trauma is often life-changing, even years after the events occurred. The brain and nervous system are incredibly adaptable—meaning healing is possible even if the trauma happened long ago.

In therapy, you can:

  • Create a safe space to finally acknowledge what happened
  • Challenge false beliefs formed in childhood (e.g., “It was my fault” or “I don’t matter”)
  • Release stored emotional pain or physical tension
  • Rewire patterns of thought and behavior that no longer serve you
  • Learn how to feel safe, calm, and connected in the present

It’s never too late to begin healing. Overcoming childhood trauma is a process—but with the right support, change is possible.


What types of therapy are most effective for childhood trauma?

Several approaches are proven to be effective in treating early trauma. The best approach depends on your needs and comfort level. Common options include:

Talk Therapy (Psychodynamic or Humanistic)

Helps you explore the roots of your trauma, process emotions, and develop insight over time.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns, managing triggers, and building new coping strategies.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)

EMDR for childhood trauma is highly effective. It uses bilateral stimulation (like eye movements) to help your brain reprocess traumatic memories so they lose their emotional intensity.

Somatic Therapy

Addresses how trauma is stored in the body through gentle movement, breathwork, and awareness of physical sensations.

Hypnotherapy

Hypnotherapy for childhood trauma accesses the subconscious mind to uncover hidden emotions or beliefs and promote healing through suggestion and visualization.

Intensive Therapy for Childhood Trauma

Some people benefit from intensive trauma therapy, which involves longer or more frequent sessions over a shorter period. This can help accelerate healing, especially when trauma is complex or long-standing.

Your childhood trauma therapist will collaborate with you to find the approach that feels safe, effective, and empowering.


Does EMDR help with childhood trauma?

Yes—EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is one of the most research-supported treatments for trauma, including childhood trauma. It helps you reprocess distressing memories without becoming overwhelmed by them.

In EMDR sessions, your therapist will guide you to recall a traumatic event while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation (usually guided eye movements or tapping). This helps your brain “re-file” the memory so it no longer triggers such intense emotional or physical reactions.

Many people find EMDR for childhood trauma leads to rapid and lasting relief—even for events they haven’t been able to talk about in detail.

Find care for Childhood Trauma

Remember, recovery is possible. With early intervention, a supportive network, and the right professional care, you can overcome the challenges of Childhood Trauma and build a fulfilling life. We are here to help you find care.

Share: