Trauma-Focused Therapy

Any therapy that directly addresses the impacts of trauma on thoughts, emotions, and behavior.

In the context of addiction treatment:
Important because many people use substances to numb or escape trauma-related symptoms.

What to know:

  • May include EMDR, TF-CBT, or other evidence-based models.

  • Good programs pace trauma work so it doesn’t overwhelm early recovery.

Example:
A client with childhood abuse works in trauma-focused therapy to reduce triggers that previously led them to drink.

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