Trauma Therapy Therapists in Vancouver

Browse 10 therapists specializing in Trauma Therapy in Vancouver. Find the right counsellor or psychotherapist for your needs.

Trauma therapy refers to a set of structured, evidence-based approaches developed specifically for people whose past experiences continue to disrupt their daily life, relationships, or sense of self. Unlike general talk therapy, which may address a wide range of concerns, trauma therapy is built around how traumatic memory works and why it differs from ordinary memory. Traumatic experiences are often stored differently in the brain, contributing to symptoms like flashbacks, emotional reactivity, physical tension, and avoidance, even when the person understands at a logical level that they are now safe.

What to look for in a Trauma Therapy therapist on Purple Lotus

  • Formal training in a recognized trauma protocol such as EMDR, CPT, or trauma-focused CBT
  • Clear emphasis on safety and stabilization before any trauma processing begins
  • Experience with your specific type of trauma, including complex or developmental trauma if relevant
  • Openness to adjusting the pace and approach based on what your nervous system can manage

10 therapists for Trauma Therapy in Vancouver

Browse 10 therapists specializing in Trauma Therapy in Vancouver. Find the right counsellor or psychotherapist for your needs.

Chris Ho

Chris Ho

If you find yourself navigating through the complexities of life, know that seeking counselling is a courageous and empowering choice. People seek counselling for a myriad of reasons, each journey as unique as the individual taking the first step. You might be facing the pressure of anxiety, the shadows of depression, or the echoes of past traumas. Life's challenges can be multifaceted, stemming from personal relationships, work-related stress, existential questioning, or unforeseen transitions. As a couple, you may be experiencing the severance of disconnection, rupture of infidelity, or the growing pains of change. I combine a tapestry of approaches to support you on your transformative journey. Mindfulness techniques provide a grounding anchor to the present, while Adlerian therapy delves into understanding the influence of your past on your current self. For couples therapy, I incorporate the Gottman method and Emotionally Focused Therapy to rebuild your foundations. Culturally sensitive and trauma-informed, my practice is a safe haven for individuals of all backgrounds and identities. No matter what brings you to therapy, we can cultivate resilience, uncover your inner wisdom, and empower you to live authentically and aligned with your values. With warmth, I am looking forward to connecting with you.

Hybrid
View profile
Nicole Neufeld

Nicole Neufeld

Hi, I'm Nicole (she/they). You might wonder what therapy can offer you, and that is a fair question. I used to ask the same thing and I remember my first therapy session as a client, I was so nervous I got in a car accident on my way to the appointment. Being vulnerable and sharing a piece of yourself can be so intimidating. It makes sense to feel nervous. Reaching out for support is challenging, and can also be empowering, I commend you for considering it. I am committed to providing as safe a space as is possible to those who would choose to trust me with their story. Part of that includes an understanding of how systemic power and inequity impacts us all. I navigate the world as a white, settler woman. I also have lived experience with chronic illness, and a late-in-life ADHD diagnosis. These, among other pieces of my identity, impact my lived experiences of the world as your identity impacts yours. Because of this, I use an intersectional, systemic approach in my work, leaning on Feminist Theory and utilize AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy) and Narrative techniques. I believe you have resources and answers within yourself, and I am honoured to support you as you discover and grow in your own strength. I take a collaborative approach, meaning you get to play an active role in deciding how our time together is spent. Ultimately, I am committed to your healing and will use all of the tools at my disposal to support you on your journey. My hope for you is that you flourish in your life, and are able to feel all of the joy and delight that comes from that.

Online
View profile
KB

Katelyn Bonetti

I have a Masters degree in Counselling (MC) and work as a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) in the province of British Columbia offering online sessions. I have specialized training in trauma and AEDP therapy. As someone who has struggled with overwhelming emotions, self-confidence and anxiety in the past, I know that change happens when we are in the presence of empathetic and emotionally present other. Whatever life challenges you are navigating, my hope is to create a safe and non-judgemental space to experience the parts of you that want to be seen. I will always put your best interest in the forefront of my work. I base my approach on evidence-based, trauma-informed, and collaborative practice. My therapeutic orientation is Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), incorporating concepts from mindfulness-based, body-based, and internal parts work theories. I use an empathetic stance to understand my clients and work with them to develop perspective, resilience, healing, and skill development that can be utilized long after therapy is complete. Walking alongside another human to witness their deepest joys and sorrows is a privilege that I do not take lightly. I am honoured each time an individual chooses to develop a trusted relationship with me.

Online
View profile
HB

Hayley Barlow

Do you have anxiety, depression or low self esteem issues that are interfering with your ability to live a life that feels authentic to you? Have you gone through a traumatic event that is leaving deep imprints on both your mind and body? Are you experiencing thoughts or behaviors that leave you feeling disconnected from yourself or your relationships with others? If any of the above resonates with you, please know that you have the ability to reclaim your power, rewrite the narrative of your life, and live a life that feels inherently meaningful. It is so hard to be human sometimes, I get it. Fortunately, you don't have to go through any of these challenges alone. My name is Hayley and I am a counsellor who works with both teens and young adults experiencing a wide range of issues. I offer a warm, validating and nonjudgmental environment that helps individuals explore their thoughts, feelings and behaviors that are creating imbalance or emotional uncertainty in their lives. I am a firm believer that there is nothing to be "fixed", because there is nothing inherently wrong with you. You have simply been responding to what has happened to you in life. And you have the capacity to not only heal, but rediscover the relationship you have with yourself and others. I am simply here to walk alongside you as you embark on your journey towards healing and transformation. During our sessions, I take a holistic approach that incorporates various evidence-based therapeutic modalities that ultimately focus on the mind-body connection. I often use principles and interventions from both CBT and somatic therapy to help individuals overcome their challenges, realign with the lost parts of themselves, and learn to cope with difficult thoughts or emotions. If you are ready to begin your journey towards healing and are interested in setting up a complimentary 15 minute consultation, please feel free to contact me. I would love to help you get there.

Online
View profile
Mila Loskutova

Mila Loskutova

Hi! My name is Mila Loskutova and I'm a registered clinical counsellor. I am a queer, immigrant settler woman. I am passionate about supporting folks healing from trauma, anxiety, depression, stress, relationship issues and OCD. I use a mix of gentle talk therapy that helps individuals dive deeper into self-exploration and more structured approaches for specific concerns, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). I am mindful and curious about how our identities and the systems we live in shape the way we move through the world. My approach is humanistic, anti-oppressive and sometimes irreverent. I enjoy helping people create and deepen meaning in their lives. I am available online and in person at my office at 315, 2083 Alma Street, Vancouver.

Hybrid
View profile
SA

Sarah anne Trivett

i, sarah anne (they/them), am a queer, neurodivergent, non-binary registered clinical counselor residing on the unceded territory of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-waututh) nations. in my therapy practice i use a creative blend of internal family systems (parts work) and somatic therapies to support individuals, couples, and multi-partner relationships to connect to themselves and others with curiosity, compassion, and clarity. many of my clients are queer, non-monogamous, neurodiverse, or kinky, and i aim to provide an inclusive space for anyone who wants to deepen their relationship with self, others, and spirit. my approach to sexuality is non-pathologizing and pleasure-centered. spiritually, i hold a non-dual and animate worldview, which supports me to approach therapy from a holistic perspective, recognizing the interconnectedness of body and environment. i’m delighted to be offering ketamine-assisted-therapy in collaboration with field trip health and am currently completing the requirements to be an approved psilocibin-assisted-therapy provider with therapsil. outside of work, you’ll find me playing with clay, drinking tea mindfully, wandering in the woods, taking a dance class, and reading books.

Hybrid
View profile
Nicole Grant

Nicole Grant

I work with children, teens and adults seeking support for anxiety, depression, trauma and life changes. I am trained in CBT, DBT and EMDR.

Online
View profile
Natasha Nystrom

Natasha Nystrom

Hi, I’m Natasha (she/her) At the heart of my practice is a deep value of connection and a belief in both the wisdom of the body and our innate ability to heal and thrive. I have a masters degree in counselling (MC) and work as a Registered Clinical Counsellor (RCC) in British Columbia. I also have specialized training in trauma. My approach is trauma-informed, person-centered, and draws on Feminist Theory. My therapeutic orientation is Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP) and integrates somatic therapy, inner child exploration and internal parts work. I’m drawn to these experiential approaches as they recognize the systemic interconnection of our mind, body, and emotions, as well as our greater society and environment. I believe you are the expert of your life and already hold many answers and innate resources. In collaboration together, I focus on creating a safe, trusting therapeutic relationship that helps you navigate difficulties, re-connect with your internal strengths and resources, while also celebrating your successes and joys along the way. Throughout this process, I take a non-judgmental stance and remain committed to your healing. During a session, I may invite you to notice what is happening for you in the present moment, fostering curiosity about your experience as we work together. Through mindful exploration, we can make space for your feelings, emotions, and sensations to be expressed and released, transform core beliefs that may be keeping you feeling stuck, heal relational wounds, and reconnect with your authentic core self. These processes may enhance your resilience and foster growth and change. Currently, I am offering sessions online using an encrypted video platform called Jane and am able to offer support to those living in British Columbia. If therapy is something you are curious about, please reach out or visit my website for more information! I offer a free 15-minute phone consultation. We can spend a bit of time getting to know each other and discuss what you’re looking for in therapy. I look forward to getting to know you and hearing your story!

Online
View profile
Amy Kobelt

Amy Kobelt

My journey to becoming a counsellor started with my own appointment in a counselling office. I remember feeling nervous about the process, but eventually felt inspired by my own healing journey to support others in the same way that counselling has helped me heal and grow. I am passionate about self-growth and discovery, and I love supporting you to better understand your past, make connections and build skills for a better and stronger future. I work from a trauma informed and attachment model and I strongly believe that part of the healing process that happens in counselling is through the therapeutic relationship. I work collaboratively with you to meet your goals in counselling, and I am truly honoured every time someone chooses to invite me into that journey – I know it is not easy! I welcome working with diverse clients of all ages, cultures, genders, sexual orientations and abilities and I currently work with clients ages 12 and up. I specialize in relational and childhood trauma, eating disorders, relationship concerns and anxiety. I am trained in EMDR, OEI and Lifespan Integration Therapies - all of these therapies are designed to help you process traumatic events or negative self beliefs and bring you healing from your past. Trauma disconnects us from ourselves and our bodies and so part of our work will be to help you become more connected to yourself, your feelings and your body. If you have any questions about this please reach out for a consultation call - I would love to chat with you to see if I'm the right fit for you.

Hybrid
View profile
Julie Chang

Julie Chang

Julie has Master’s Degrees in Clinical Psychology and Clinical Counselling and is currently finishing her doctorate’s degree in clinical psychology. In addition to professional training and experiences in psychotherapy and treatment, clinical counselling, behavioural intervention, and neuropsychological assessments, Julie also has a background in psychological research at the doctoral level and uses the empirical insights gained from previous studies to supplement her current clinical practice, making her unique as a practitioner of both clinical-scientist and scientist-practitioner models. Julie has worked with BC Society for Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse (BCSMSSA), Family Services of Greater Vancouver (FSGV), Chimo Community Services, and local medical clinics and healthcare centres. She has provided individual and couple/family therapy, treatments, and assessments to individuals for disorders and issues including depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, feeding and eating disorders, trauma- and stressor-related disorders, neurocognitive disorders, affect management, self-regulation, stress management, sexual/physical abuse and violence, crisis intervention and stabilization, couple/marital/parenting conflicts, academic/work stress, identity crisis/exploration, self-introspective needs, loneliness, and relationship difficulties. She identifies as a cisgender female who is open to clients belonging to the LGBTQIA2S+ communities. Julie applies an integrated theoretical framework informed by trauma theory, understanding of behavioral and neuropsychology, and multicultural sensitivity to her eclectic therapeutic approach. As an advocate of positive psychology who understands that mental health is more than the absence of illness, she focuses on building success and helping clients flourish rather than merely reducing distress. Her clinical repertoire includes Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), CASE Approach for Risk/Suicide Assessment, Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT), Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing, Somatic Experiencing/Body Awareness Therapy, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), and Clinical Hypnosis. Owning to her mixed ethnic heritage, she is a native speaker of English, Mandarin, and Hokkien, and has conversational-level skills in Japanese and Cantonese.

Hybrid
View profile

Looking beyond Vancouver? Browse all Trauma Therapy therapists in Canada.

Trauma Therapy therapists in Vancouver — at a glance

accepting new clients
10/ 10
offer online sessions
10/ 10
offer sliding scale fees
3/ 10

Frequently asked questions

What is trauma therapy and how does it work?

Trauma therapy refers to specialized approaches designed to help people process experiences that continue to affect how they feel and function. Most follow a phased structure: building safety first, then gradually processing traumatic memories or patterns, then integrating what has changed. Common approaches include EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and somatic-based methods.

How is trauma therapy different from regular therapy?

Trauma therapy is structured around how traumatic memory works and the need to sequence stabilization before processing. General therapy may address a wide range of concerns, but trauma-specific approaches use evidence-based protocols developed for trauma responses, including EMDR and CPT, which regular counselling does not typically include.

Do I need a PTSD diagnosis to benefit from trauma therapy?

No. Many people benefit from trauma therapy without meeting full criteria for a PTSD diagnosis. If past experiences are affecting your mood, relationships, physical health, or daily functioning, trauma-informed support may be relevant regardless of whether a formal diagnosis has been made.

How long does trauma therapy take?

Length depends on the nature and complexity of the trauma. Single-incident trauma may respond within a shorter course of treatment, sometimes a few months. Complex or developmental trauma often requires longer work, measured in stages. A trauma therapist can give a clearer estimate after an initial assessment.

Do I have to talk about everything that happened in trauma therapy?

Not necessarily. Many trauma approaches do not require a detailed verbal account of what occurred. EMDR and somatic approaches, for example, can work with limited narrative. Skilled trauma therapists understand the risks of moving too quickly and will build safety before approaching difficult material.

Can trauma therapy be done online?

Yes. Research supports the effectiveness of online trauma therapy, including EMDR and CPT delivered via video. Many people find working from a familiar environment helpful, and most trauma-specific approaches can be adapted to virtual formats. Check each therapist profile for available session types.

What is the most effective approach within trauma therapy?

EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Prolonged Exposure have the strongest research support for PTSD. Somatic therapies are widely used for trauma held in the body. The most effective approach depends on your history, preferences, and what you are ready to engage with. A qualified therapist can help you choose.

How do I find a trauma therapist in Vancouver?

Browse therapists in Vancouver who list trauma as a specialty and describe specific training in approaches like EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, or trauma-focused CBT. Checking credentials, experience with your type of trauma, and available session formats will help you find a well-matched therapist.

Is trauma therapy covered by insurance in Vancouver?

Coverage depends on your extended health plan and the therapist's credentials. In Vancouver, therapy provided by a registered psychologist, psychotherapist, or social worker is commonly covered. Review your plan for eligible designations, session limits, and whether a referral is required before starting.

Related specialties in Vancouver