Trauma Therapy

Trauma therapy is a specialized form of psychotherapy that helps people work through overwhelming experiences, like harassment, neglect, or violence, at a pace that feels safe. It goes beyond general talk therapy by using tools and techniques designed to address how trauma reshapes the brain’s stress systems, emotions, and physical responses.

While talk therapy generally explores feelings and behavior, trauma therapy includes shedding light on and processing painful memories in a controlled way or working with the body’s sensations to release stored tension without pushing someone too far, too fast. Because many LGBTQ people struggling with substance use have experienced trauma, and alcohol or drugs often become a way to cope, LGBTQ trauma therapy plays a powerful role in helping heal both the mind and body in recovery.

Types of Trauma Therapy at Q Space Detox

Q Space Detox uses different trauma therapy approaches to help clients on their journey to addiction recovery. They include:

Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) 

This form of trauma psychotherapy helps reframe the beliefs that form after trauma, like self-blame, mistrust, or fear. It combines cognitive restructuring with gradual exposure to traumatic memories and real-life situations. Early sessions often focus on psychoeducation and calming techniques, while later therapy sessions work through deeper beliefs and behavioral patterns like avoidance or hypervigilance. TF-CBT may also include situations that challenge harmful assumptions you hold and teach you more sustainable coping strategies.

Prolonged Exposure Therapy

Exposure therapy helps people gradually confront and get desensitized to traumatic memories they have been repressing. This type of trauma therapy may involve revisiting your trauma through guided imagery, writing, or narration. Over time, the emotional intensity tied to the memory begins to lessen. It often includes psychoeducation, imaginal exposure, and safe real-world exposure to trauma-related situations. 

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) 

EMDR is a type of psychotherapy that uses side-to-side eye movements while clients recall buried, painful memories. This bilateral stimulation helps the brain reprocess trauma in a way that reduces emotional distress. Sessions follow a step-by-step format, from identifying trauma targets and teaching coping strategies to full memory reprocessing and integration. 

What are the Stages of Trauma Therapy at Q Space Detox?

Trauma therapy at our LGBTQ+ rehab facility typically follows four stages that include:

Building Trust and Safety

Before deep work begins, we focus on creating a strong, respectful relationship between you and your therapist. You will have space to share your story without pressure. This stage allows your therapist to understand your background, substance use history, and the personal goals you have for recovery.

Identifying and Processing Trauma

Once we have built a foundation of trust with you, your therapist will help you pinpoint the traumatic experiences that may be fueling your substance use. This stage of therapy may involve guided storytelling or imaginal exposure to help you process painful memories in a safe, supportive environment.

Making an Impact Statement

An impact statement helps you put words to the effects trauma has had on your life. With support from your trauma therapist, you can create a clear and honest reflection of how your traumatic experiences have influenced your thoughts, behaviors, and relationship with drugs and alcohol. Making an impact statement can also show you where you need more healing or support.

Reclaiming Power and Closure

The final stage of trauma therapy focuses on reclaiming your voice and power. You may read your impact statement aloud, often during a group session, so you can be heard and supported by people who know what it is like to carry trauma. While the people who caused you harm will not be present, this process offers a form of release and closure. It allows you to speak your truth and take a meaningful step forward in your healing.

Start LGBTQ-Affirming Trauma Therapy 

Beginning trauma therapy can feel overwhelming, but at Q Space Detox, you get the support you need to heal. Our trauma-informed team understands how identity and lived experience shape the way pain shows up in the lives of LGBTQ people. We will provide care that is affirming, respectful, and empathetic. You deserve to heal in a space where your full self is seen and honored. Call Q Space Detox today at 305-537-7127 to get started.