3 of the Best Trauma & PTSD Therapists in San Diego
Over 18 years of specialized trauma treatment experience
EMDR and IFS certified therapists
5-star rated therapy practice
All therapists have completed their own intensive healing work
Flexible in-person or virtual session options
Evidence-based trauma approaches, including Somatic Experiencing
Specializing in both PTSD and Complex PTSD treatment
Therapy services for individuals, families, couples, and groups
About Healing Balance Therapy
Healing Balance Therapy was founded with a deep understanding that unprocessed trauma affects the mind, body, and spirit. We recognize that trauma isn't just about big, life-altering events—it can also stem from smaller, repeated experiences that overwhelm our ability to cope. Our approach acknowledges that confusion is at the root of mental suffering, and clarity through compassionate therapy can bring healing.
We believe that while many of us experience various degrees of trauma, not everyone has had the resources or support to effectively process these experiences. Our nervous systems hold onto unresolved trauma, replaying it in our bodies and minds even when we try to move forward. At Healing Balance Therapy, we provide the skilled, ethical, and effective treatment you need to safely process trauma and discover a renewed sense of balance in your life.
Meet our top-rated San Diego trauma therapists
-
Amber combines evidence-based trauma approaches with compassionate care. Her extensive experience across diverse mental health settings gives her unique insight into how trauma manifests and can be healed.
Credentials: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT),
Modalities: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic Experiencing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Specializations: Trauma, eating disorders, codependency, anxiety, depression
Background: Extensive work in psychiatric hospitals, crisis centers, and specialized treatment facilities
-
Christine is trained in several different trauma therapy methods. She specializes in trauma and eating disorder treatment, helping clients address the underlying trauma that often contributes to disordered eating patterns and body image concerns.
Credentials: Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC), Certified EMDR Therapist
Modalities: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Neurofeedback, the Flash Technique, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
Specializations: Trauma, eating disorders
Background: Experience across multiple levels of care, including residential, partial hospitalization, and intensive outpatient programs
-
Vivianne approaches trauma healing with a holistic perspective that honors the connection between mind and body. She creates a supportive, non-judgmental space for clients to safely explore their trauma experiences.
Credentials: Associate Clinical Social Worker (ACSW)
Modalities: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and somatic practices
Specializations: Eating disorders and co-occurring mental health disorders
Background: Work in residential programs and community-based mental health settings
How to start trauma therapy
Step 1: Schedule a free consultation
Your healing journey begins with a brief phone conversation where we'll discuss your current challenges and what you hope to achieve through therapy. This conversation helps us understand if our trauma-focused approach aligns with your needs and allows you to ask any questions about our methods.
Step 2: Complete your initial assessment
During your first full session, we'll explore your history and current symptoms in a safe, supportive environment. We understand that discussing trauma can be difficult, so we move at your own pace. This assessment helps us develop a tailored treatment plan that addresses your specific experiences and goals.
Step 3: Begin your healing process
With a collaborative treatment plan in place, we'll use evidence-based trauma approaches like EMDR, IFS, and somatic work to help you process traumatic experiences. You'll learn tools to support emotional regulation, challenge unhelpful beliefs formed during trauma, and gradually reclaim your sense of safety and well-being.
Why choose us for trauma therapy in San Diego
-
Our therapists don't just have general counseling backgrounds—we've pursued extensive specialized training in trauma-focused therapies, including EMDR, IFS, and Somatic Experiencing. This specialized knowledge allows us to effectively address the unique ways trauma affects both mind and body, helping you achieve deeper, more lasting healing than surface-level fixes and coping skills alone.
-
At Healing Balance Therapy, every therapist has completed their own intensive healing journey. This personal experience with therapy and growth gives us authentic insight into the vulnerability, courage, and challenges that come with trauma healing. Our firsthand understanding creates a more empathetic, effective therapeutic relationship.
-
We recognize that trauma isn't just stored in memories and thoughts—it lives in the body as well. Our integrated approach addresses both the psychological and physiological aspects of trauma, helping you release stored tension, regulate your nervous system, and experience more complete healing than approaches that focus solely on talk therapy.
Common reasons why people start trauma therapy
Is our practice right for you?
While we'd love to support your trauma recovery journey, we recognize that our practice may not be the right fit in all situations. Here are some instances in which we may recommend connecting with other resources first:
Experiencing active crisis. Our focus is on outpatient therapy. If you're experiencing a mental health crisis and need immediate support, we urge you to contact the 988 Lifeline, which is available 24/7.
Need a higher level of care. We typically meet with clients once or twice a week. If you need more frequent support, an intensive outpatient program or partial hospitalization may be a better fit. We can connect you with some local treatment programs that offer these services.
Looking for therapy for a young child. Our practice offers support for adolescents, teens, families, and adults. If you need counseling for a younger child, we can offer referrals for other local providers.
If you're unsure whether our practice is right for you, we encourage you to reach out.
FAQs about trauma treatment
-
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a condition that some people develop after exposure to a traumatic event. Common symptoms of PTSD include:
Intrusive memories or flashbacks
Nightmares and sleep problems
Avoiding reminders of the event
Changes in mood, like irritable or angry outbursts
...and more.
It's important to note that not everyone who experiences trauma will develop PTSD. Trauma is often associated with other mental health conditions, like anxiety, depression, eating disorders, substance abuse, and more. Even if you don't have PTSD, you can still seek treatment for trauma and get the support you need to heal.
-
There are several therapy techniques that are effective in treating trauma and PTSD symptoms. The "best" approach often combines techniques tailored to your specific needs and comfort level. At Healing Balance Therapy, we're trained in multiple evidence-based, trauma-focused modalities (like EMDR, IFS, Somatic Experiencing, and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy) and will work with you to find the most effective approach for your unique situation.
-
When choosing a trauma therapist, it's important to make sure that they're trained in trauma-focused treatment modalities (like EMDR, IFS, or others) and have experience working with people who have similar experiences as you (whether that's complex PTSD, working in high-stress professions, or something else). You may also want to consider working with a therapist who has lived experience on their own healing journey.
Start trauma & PTSD therapy in San Diego today
At Healing Balance Therapy, we believe that healing from trauma is possible for everyone, regardless of how long you've been struggling. Our compassionate, experienced team offers a safe harbor where you can process difficult experiences and discover renewed peace, health, and balance in your life.
You don't need to continue carrying the weight of past trauma alone. With skilled support and evidence-based therapeutic modalities, you can move beyond simply surviving to truly thriving. Your path to healing begins with a single step—reaching out for support. Contact us today to get started.
