Trauma & PTSD Therapy
Specialized trauma-informed care in Madison, Wisconsin
Comprehensive Trauma Care in Madison
Specialized trauma-informed care for individuals dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder, childhood trauma, domestic violence, or other traumatic experiences. Our Madison trauma therapists create a safe, supportive environment for healing.
We understand that trauma affects each person differently, and recovery requires personalized, evidence-based approaches that address both the symptoms and underlying causes of trauma-related distress.
PTSD Treatment and Management
Understanding PTSD
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Our evidence-based treatment approaches help you process traumatic memories, reduce symptoms, and reclaim your life.
Evidence-Based Treatment Approaches
Helps you handle distressing thoughts and feelings, exploring how trauma has impacted your beliefs about yourself, others, and the world.
Involves confronting and processing traumatic memories through imaginal exposure (narrative retelling) and in-vivo exposure (facing real-world reminders).
Evidence-based therapy that helps process traumatic memories through bilateral stimulation.
Combines exposure therapy with extensive psychoeducation, relaxation training, and emotion regulation skills.
What to Expect in PTSD Treatment
- Comprehensive assessment of your trauma history, current symptoms, and treatment goals
- Psychoeducation about PTSD symptoms and how trauma affects the brain and body
- Relaxation and coping skills training to manage anxiety and emotional distress
- Gradual exposure work in a safe, controlled therapeutic environment
- Cognitive restructuring to challenge unhelpful beliefs related to the trauma
Complex Trauma Therapy
Understanding Complex PTSD (C-PTSD)
Complex PTSD develops from prolonged or repeated trauma, such as ongoing abuse, neglect, or captivity. It involves not only PTSD symptoms but also difficulties with emotional regulation, self-perception, and relationships.
Phase-Based Treatment Approach
Phase 1: Safety & Stabilization
Building safety, developing coping skills, and stabilizing symptoms before processing trauma
Phase 2: Processing Trauma
Gradually processing traumatic memories when you have sufficient resources and stability
Phase 3: Integration & Growth
Reconnecting with life, building relationships, and developing a sense of meaning and purpose
Treatment Components for Complex Trauma
- Skills training in emotion regulation and distress tolerance
- Trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral approaches
- Attachment and relationship-focused interventions
- Somatic and body-based therapies
- Mindfulness and grounding techniques
- Identity development and self-compassion work
Childhood Abuse Recovery
Healing from Childhood Trauma
Adult survivors of childhood abuse can achieve healing and recovery. Our trauma-informed approach recognizes that childhood trauma affects development, relationships, and self-perception in unique ways.
Recovery builds on your inherent strength and resilience, providing tools and support to process the past while creating a healthier, more fulfilling present and future.
Therapeutic Approaches for Childhood Abuse Survivors
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Addresses effects like depression, anxiety, shame, self-loathing, and self-sabotaging behaviors through identifying and changing unhelpful thought patterns
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Develops skills in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Helps identify trauma triggers, balance intense emotions, cultivate self-awareness, and align actions with core values
Key Components of Childhood Trauma Recovery
- Processing and integrating traumatic memories
- Developing healthy coping mechanisms
- Rebuilding self-esteem and self-worth
- Learning to set healthy boundaries
- Addressing shame and self-blame
- Building trusting relationships
- Cultivating self-compassion and acceptance
- Developing a positive sense of identity
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
Evidence-Based Trauma Treatment
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) is a components- and phase-based treatment designed to address PTSD and related difficulties. It combines exposure therapy with extensive psychoeducation, relaxation training, and skills training in cognitive restructuring and emotion regulation.
TF-CBT Treatment Structure
Treatment Format
- • 12-16 weekly sessions (can extend to 25 for complex trauma)
- • 60-minute sessions
- • Structured, goal-oriented approach
- • Can include family members when appropriate
Treatment Goals
- • Reduce PTSD symptoms
- • Address depression, anxiety, and behavioral difficulties
- • Improve adaptive functioning
- • Process traumatic memories safely
Key Components of TF-CBT
Why Choose Phoenix Recovery for Trauma Therapy
Trauma-Informed Care
Our therapists are specially trained in trauma-informed approaches, understanding how trauma affects the whole person and creating a safe, supportive environment for healing.
Evidence-Based Methods
We use proven therapeutic approaches like CPT, PE, EMDR, and TF-CBT that have strong research support for treating PTSD and trauma-related conditions.
Personalized Treatment
We tailor our approach to your unique needs, pacing therapy appropriately and adapting techniques to ensure you feel safe and supported throughout your healing journey.
Frequently Asked Questions About Trauma and PTSD Therapy
Who can benefit from trauma therapy?
Anyone struggling with the aftermath of a traumatic event can benefit from trauma therapy, including children, adults, and affected family members. This includes experiences such as abuse, violence, accidents, natural disasters, war, and other distressing events. If trauma is affecting your daily life, relationships, or well-being, therapy can help.
What are the symptoms of PTSD?
PTSD symptoms fall into four main categories: (1) Re-experiencing the trauma through flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive memories; (2) Avoiding situations, people, or activities that remind you of the trauma; (3) Negative changes in thoughts and mood, such as persistent negative outlook, numbness, or loss of interest in activities; and (4) Hyperarousal or feeling "on edge," leading to difficulty sleeping, irritability, trouble concentrating, and heightened startle response. If symptoms persist for more than four weeks and interfere with daily functioning, it may be PTSD.
Will I have to re-experience my trauma in therapy?
Generally, no. While discussing your experience can be helpful, most trauma therapists use techniques that focus on helping you manage and understand your reactions rather than re-experiencing the trauma in vivid detail. Trauma therapy is client-led, meaning you control the pace and what you discuss. Our therapists are trained to help you heal safely without requiring you to "re-live" painful experiences in a way that feels overwhelming.
What can I expect in my first trauma therapy session?
The first session focuses on building trust and creating a safe space. You'll introduce yourself to your therapist, discuss why you're seeking therapy (sharing as much or as little as you're comfortable with), and talk about your background and goals. Your therapist will explain treatment options and answer your questions. You won't be forced to retell traumatic events in detail right away, and there will be no judgment. The goal is to help you feel comfortable and establish a foundation for healing.
How long does trauma therapy take?
The duration varies based on your individual needs and the severity of trauma. Some people experience significant improvement after several weeks, while others benefit from longer-term treatment. Evidence-based treatments like CPT and PE typically involve 12-16 weekly sessions. Complex trauma may require more extended care. The important thing is that therapy progresses at your pace, and your therapist will work with you to determine the right treatment plan for your healing journey.
What if I don't remember my trauma or I'm not sure if it's real?
It's okay if you don't have clear memories or aren't certain about the details of your trauma. The important thing is to start with what you remember and feel now. The primary goal of therapy is to address and resolve your current pain so you can live the life you want. There are effective ways to work with unclear memories and present symptoms, even if the exact origin is unknown. Your therapist will meet you where you are and help you heal from the effects of trauma.
Is there hope if I've experienced multiple traumas?
Absolutely. Many individuals who have experienced multiple traumas can be helped through specialized treatment. Complex trauma therapy is designed specifically for those who have experienced repeated or prolonged traumatic events. With evidence-based approaches and trauma-informed care, healing is possible. Our therapists have experience working with complex trauma and will tailor treatment to your unique needs, helping you process traumatic experiences and develop resilience.
Take the First Step Toward Healing
Recovery from trauma is possible. Contact Phoenix Recovery today to schedule a consultation with one of our specialized trauma therapists in Madison, Wisconsin.
Call us: 608-893-1052
Email: phoenix@phoenix-recovery.org