Trusted Trauma Therapy
for You in Montrose, CA

Get Trauma Therapy you can count on.
Serving Montrose, Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, and all cities across CA.

Support

At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, I provide deeply personalized, trauma-informed care for clients seeking a thoughtful and effective path toward healing. My practice is designed to offer a calm, private, and supportive therapeutic environment where individuals, couples, and teens can engage in meaningful inner work with depth, intention, and care.

Empowerment

I believe therapy should be both clinically grounded and highly individualized. My approach integrates evidence-based modalities with a nuanced understanding of trauma, creating a therapeutic experience that is compassionate, attuned, and tailored to the unique needs of each client. Every aspect of care is approached with sensitivity, professionalism, and respect for the complexity of each person’s healing process.

Growth

I am committed to offering a standard of care that feels both deeply supportive and exceptionally intentional. My goal is to help clients move beyond patterns of distress and toward greater clarity, resilience, emotional balance, and lasting well-being. Through a refined, relational, and trauma-informed approach, I strive to create a space where genuine healing and meaningful transformation can unfold.

Trauma Therapy in Montrose, CA

Understanding Trauma-Informed Therapy: A Path to Healing

In today's fast-paced world, many individuals find themselves grappling with the effects of trauma, which can manifest in various aspects of life, including relationships, work, and personal well-being. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we recognize the profound impact that trauma can have on mental health. This is where Trauma-Informed Therapy comes into play, offering a compassionate and effective approach to healing.

Principles of Trauma-Informed Therapy

At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we adhere to several key principles that define Trauma-Informed Therapy. Understanding these principles is crucial for both therapists and clients as they create a supportive framework for healing. Below, we delve deeper into each principle, illustrating how they operate in practice and their significance in fostering recovery from trauma.

  • Safety: Creating a safe environment is paramount. Clients must feel physically and emotionally secure to openly discuss their experiences. This sense of safety can be achieved through various means, such as ensuring confidentiality, providing a comfortable and welcoming space, and being mindful of nonverbal cues. For instance, therapists can use calming decor, soft lighting, and comfortable seating arrangements to enhance the atmosphere. Therapists should actively check in with clients about their comfort levels throughout the sessions, allowing them to express any discomfort or anxiety they might be feeling.
  • Trustworthiness: Building trust is essential. Therapists must be transparent about the therapeutic process and maintain clear boundaries. This involves being consistent in scheduling sessions, following through on commitments, and communicating openly about methods and expectations. For example, a therapist might explain the rationale behind certain therapeutic techniques or interventions, allowing clients to make informed choices about their treatment. It's also important for therapists to acknowledge their own limitations and to refer clients to other professionals when necessary, further reinforcing trust in the therapeutic relationship.
  • Peer Support: Encouraging relationships among clients fosters a sense of community and shared understanding, which can be incredibly healing. Group therapy sessions or support groups can be beneficial, as they provide a safe space for individuals to share their experiences and learn from one another. These interactions help to normalize feelings of isolation and shame that often accompany trauma. For instance, clients can engage in activities that promote connection, such as sharing personal stories, participating in group exercises, or collaborating on creative projects. The shared experience of trauma can lead to powerful bonding and mutual support, reinforcing the idea that no one is alone in their struggles.
  • Collaboration: Therapy should be a collaborative process, where clients are active participants in their healing journey. This principle emphasizes the importance of client autonomy and choice in therapy. Therapists can facilitate this by encouraging clients to express their goals and preferences regarding treatment. For example, a therapist might ask, “What do you hope to achieve through our sessions?” or “Are there specific techniques you would like to explore?” This approach not only empowers clients but also helps them take ownership of their healing process. By collaborating on treatment plans and setting achievable goals together, clients are more likely to feel invested in their progress.
  • Empowerment: Trauma-Informed Therapy focuses on empowering clients by recognizing their strengths and resilience. Therapists can help clients identify and build upon their existing coping skills and resources. This may involve helping clients recognize moments of courage in their past or celebrating small achievements in their journey. For example, a therapist might guide a client to reflect on a time when they successfully managed a difficult situation, reinforcing their capability to handle challenges. Therapists can introduce practical strategies that promote self-advocacy and assertiveness, such as role-playing scenarios or practicing communication skills.
  • Resilience: Understanding and fostering resilience is another vital principle in Trauma-Informed Therapy. Resilience refers to the ability to bounce back from adversity and adapt to challenging circumstances. Therapists can assist clients in recognizing their inherent strengths and coping mechanisms that contribute to their resilience. This might involve exploring past experiences where clients successfully navigated hardships or identifying supportive relationships in their lives. By highlighting these strengths, therapists can instill a sense of hope and optimism in clients, encouraging them to view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles.
  • Understanding Trauma: A comprehensive understanding of trauma is essential for effective therapy. Therapists must be knowledgeable about the various types of trauma, including acute, chronic, and complex trauma, as well as their potential impacts on mental and emotional health. This understanding informs the therapeutic approach and allows therapists to tailor interventions to meet the unique needs of each client. For example, a therapist might utilize trauma-specific interventions such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) or somatic experiencing techniques. By having a solid grasp of trauma's effects, therapists can create more effective and empathetic treatment plans.
  • Cultural, Historical, and Gender Issues: Recognizing and addressing cultural, historical, and gender-related issues is crucial in Trauma-Informed Therapy. Therapists should be aware of how these factors influence an individual’s experience of trauma and healing. This awareness allows therapists to approach treatment with sensitivity and respect for diverse backgrounds. For instance, therapists can incorporate culturally relevant practices into their therapeutic work or engage in ongoing education about the impact of systemic oppression on mental health. By acknowledging these factors, therapists can build stronger connections with clients and create more inclusive therapeutic environments.

By implementing these principles, Trauma-Informed Therapy not only addresses the symptoms of trauma but also empowers individuals to reclaim their lives. This holistic approach recognizes that healing is not just about alleviating distress but also about fostering growth, resilience, and a renewed sense of self. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we are committed to providing a safe and supportive space for all clients, guiding them on their journey toward healing and empowerment.

Trauma Therapy

Experience compassionate trauma-informed therapy designed to support your emotional healing and recovery, helping you navigate psychological trauma and post-traumatic stress with expert guidance and understanding.

Self-esteem Therapy

Experience compassionate self-esteem counseling that empowers you to build confidence, enhance your self-worth, and improve your body image through personalized therapy tailored to your unique journey.

Anxiety Treatment

Experience compassionate anxiety therapy designed to help you manage anxiety disorders, overcome challenges, and find peace through personalized support and effective treatment strategies.

Principles of Trauma-Informed Therapy

At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we adhere to several key principles that define Trauma-Informed Therapy:

  • Safety: Creating a safe environment is paramount. Clients must feel physically and emotionally secure to openly discuss their experiences.
  • Trustworthiness: Building trust is essential. Therapists must be transparent about the therapeutic process and maintain clear boundaries.
  • Peer Support: Encouraging relationships among clients fosters a sense of community and shared understanding, which can be incredibly healing.
  • Collaboration: Therapy should be a collaborative process, where clients are active participants in their healing journey.
  • Empowerment: Trauma-Informed Therapy focuses on empowering clients by recognizing their strengths and resilience.

Benefits of Trauma-Informed Therapy

The benefits of engaging in Trauma Therapy are numerous and impactful. Here are some key advantages:

  • Holistic Healing: By addressing the whole person rather than just symptoms, clients often experience deeper healing.
  • Improved Coping Strategies: Clients learn healthier ways to cope with stress and emotional pain, leading to better overall mental health.
  • Enhanced Self-Awareness: Understanding the effects of trauma can lead to greater self-awareness and insight into one’s behavior and emotions.
  • Better Relationships: As individuals heal, they often find improvements in their relationships, as they can communicate and connect more effectively.
  • Resilience Building: Clients learn to harness their strengths, fostering resilience that can be applied to challenges beyond therapy.
Helpful Answers

Questions before you begin.

Clear, practical answers for people considering Trauma Therapy and looking for a thoughtful next step.

01

What is Touchstone Trauma Therapy?

Touchstone Trauma Therapy is a mental health practice located in Montrose, CA, specializing in trauma therapy. We provide personalized care to help clients navigate challenges such as trauma, anxiety, and depression through holistic, trauma-informed approaches.

02

Who can benefit from your trauma therapy services?

Our services are designed for individuals, couples, and teens who are facing mental health challenges. Whether you are struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use concerns, relationship difficulties, self-esteem issues, emotional overwhelm, chronic stress, perfectionism, or feelings of disconnection, we are here to support you on your healing journey.

03

What types of therapy do you offer?

At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we offer a range of trauma-informed therapies tailored to individual needs. Our approaches may include EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness and Somatic therapies, and other holistic methods aimed at promoting healing and resilience.

04

How do I know if I need trauma therapy?

If you are experiencing persistent feelings of anxiety, depression, or distress related to past experiences, trauma therapy may be beneficial. Our team can help assess your needs and guide you toward appropriate support.

05

What can I expect during my first session?

During your first session at Touchstone Trauma Therapy, you will meet with a therapist who will discuss your background, current challenges, and goals for therapy. This initial assessment helps us create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

06

Is therapy confidential?

Yes, therapy sessions at Touchstone Trauma Therapy are confidential. We adhere to strict ethical guidelines to ensure your privacy and safety, allowing you to share your experiences in a secure and supportive environment.

07

What is Somatic Therapy?

Somatic Therapy is a form of body-centered therapy that emphasizes the connection between the brain, mind, and body. It utilizes body awareness as a therapeutic tool to explore and resolve the somatic (physical) symptoms of psychological issues. This approach helps individuals recognize and release the physical tension that remains in the body due to past trauma and stress.

08

What is Parts Work (IFS)?

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a transformative therapeutic model of psychotherapy that helps individuals understand and harmonize the various parts within themselves. According to IFS, we all have different parts within us that carry different thoughts, emotions, and beliefs. These parts can sometimes conflict with each other and create internal struggles and difficulties in our lives. IFS is commonly utilized to work with trauma memories or difficult childhood experiences.

09

What is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured approach that treats trauma by safely reconnecting individuals with the traumatic images, thoughts, emotions, and body sensations they experienced, leveraging the brain’s natural healing process—Adaptive Information Processing (AIP).

Unlike traditional talk therapy, which often focuses on the traumatic event itself, EMDR targets the emotional disturbances and symptoms stemming from the trauma. The goal is to process these troubling memories, reduce their impact, and help clients develop healthier coping mechanisms.

Through EMDR, memories are transferred from the emotional part of the brain (limbic system) to long-term storage, transforming them from intrusive relived experiences into memories of past events that no longer wield disruptive power.

Embracing the Journey of Healing

At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we understand that the path to healing can be challenging, but it is also filled with hope and possibility. By embracing the principles of Trauma-Informed Therapy, we provide a nurturing environment where individuals can explore their trauma and its effects on their lives. This approach not only respects the experiences of individuals but also empowers them to reclaim their narratives and foster resilience.

The journey of healing from trauma is not linear; it often involves ups and downs, twists and turns. However, understanding the nature of this journey can help individuals navigate it more effectively. Here, we delve into various aspects of embracing healing through trauma-informed therapy, providing insights and practical strategies for individuals seeking to heal.

Understanding Trauma and Its Impact

Before embarking on the healing journey, it is crucial to understand what trauma is and how it can affect an individual’s mental, emotional, and physical health. Trauma can arise from various experiences, such as abuse, neglect, accidents, or loss. It often leaves individuals feeling isolated, anxious, or disconnected from themselves and others.

The impact of trauma can manifest in numerous ways, including:

  • Emotional Symptoms: These may include feelings of sadness, anger, guilt, or shame. Individuals may also experience mood swings or emotional numbness.
  • Cognitive Symptoms: Trauma can affect concentration, memory, and the ability to make decisions. Many individuals struggle with intrusive thoughts or flashbacks related to their traumatic experiences.
  • Physical Symptoms: Trauma can lead to a range of physical issues, such as chronic pain, fatigue, or gastrointestinal problems. The mind and body are deeply interconnected, and trauma often manifests physically.

Recognizing these symptoms is the first step toward healing. By understanding how trauma affects them, individuals can better articulate their experiences and seek the support they need.

The Principles of Trauma-Informed Therapy

Trauma-Informed Therapy is grounded in several key principles that guide practitioners in creating a safe and supportive environment for clients. These principles include:

  • Safety: Establishing a sense of safety is paramount. This involves creating a therapeutic space where individuals feel physically and emotionally secure, allowing them to explore their feelings without fear of judgment.
  • Trustworthiness: Building trust is essential for effective therapy. Therapists must be transparent about the therapeutic process and maintain consistent boundaries to foster a sense of reliability.
  • Peer Support: Encouraging connections with others who have experienced similar traumas can be incredibly healing. Group therapy sessions or support groups can provide validation and understanding.
  • Collaboration: Trauma-Informed Therapy emphasizes a collaborative approach, where clients are actively involved in their treatment plans. This empowers individuals to take an active role in their healing journey.
  • Empowerment: Fostering resilience and self-efficacy is crucial. Therapists work to empower clients by helping them recognize their strengths and resources.

By integrating these principles, trauma-informed therapists create a healing environment that respects individual experiences and promotes recovery.

Practical Strategies for Embracing Healing

Embracing the journey of healing can be daunting, but there are several practical strategies individuals can adopt to support their recovery:

  • Mindfulness Practices: Incorporating mindfulness techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga, can help individuals stay grounded and present. These practices enable individuals to observe their thoughts and feelings without judgment, fostering a sense of calm.
  • Journaling: Writing about traumatic experiences can be a powerful tool for processing emotions. Journaling allows individuals to express their thoughts freely, helping them to make sense of their experiences and track their healing progress.
  • Establishing a Support Network: Surrounding oneself with supportive friends, family, or community members can significantly enhance the healing process. Sharing experiences and receiving empathy from others can help combat feelings of isolation.
  • Setting Boundaries: Learning to set healthy boundaries is essential for protecting one’s emotional well-being. This includes saying no to situations or relationships that may be triggering or harmful.
  • Engaging in Self-Care: Prioritizing self-care activities, such as exercise, hobbies, or relaxation techniques, can promote overall well-being. Individuals should identify activities that bring them joy and tranquility, making them an integral part of their routine.

Exploring Various Therapeutic Modalities

While Trauma-Informed Therapy is a powerful approach, it is also essential to explore various therapeutic modalities that may complement the healing process. These can include:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This evidence-based therapy focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. CBT can help individuals reframe their perceptions of trauma and develop healthier coping strategies.
  • EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing): EMDR is specifically designed to address trauma. It involves guided eye movements to help individuals process traumatic memories and reduce their emotional charge.
  • Somatic Experiencing: This body-oriented approach focuses on the physical sensations associated with trauma. It helps individuals release stored tension and trauma from their bodies, promoting holistic healing.

Working with a skilled therapist can help individuals determine which modalities resonate most with them and create a tailored treatment plan that supports their unique healing journey.

At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we are committed to walking alongside individuals as they embrace their journey of healing. We believe that every person has the capacity for growth and recovery, and we are here to provide the support, tools, and understanding necessary to navigate the complexities of trauma. By fostering a trauma-informed environment and employing a range of therapeutic strategies, we aim to empower individuals to reclaim their lives and move toward a brighter future.

Embracing the Journey of Healing

At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we understand that the path to healing can be challenging, but it is also filled with hope and possibility. By embracing the principles of Trauma-Informed Therapy, we provide a nurturing environment where individuals can explore their trauma and its effects on their lives.

Our dedicated team specializes in Trauma Therapy, offering personalized care tailored to meet the unique needs of each client. Whether you are dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues, we are here to support you through every step of your journey.

Depression Therapy

Experience compassionate depression counseling and effective clinical depression therapy tailored to your needs, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you overcome major depressive disorder and mood disorders.

EMDR Therapy

Experience compassionate EMDR therapy tailored for healing from PTSD, anxiety, phobias, grief, and abuse recovery, helping you navigate complex trauma and reclaim your life with confidence.

Somatic Therapy

Experience healing through Somatic Experiencing Therapy, a holistic approach that combines body-oriented psychotherapy and mind-body techniques to alleviate stress and anxiety, promoting deep relaxation and emotional well-being.

Call Today to Schedule Your First Session

A Path to Healing and Happiness Start Here.

At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, seeking support is an important first step toward healing. Whether you are navigating Trauma Therapy, anxiety, or emotional overwhelm, this is a calm place to begin with trust, care, and intention.

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Book Your First Session—Start Here

Talk with a trusted therapist and take the next step forward with confidence.

Common Questions Answered

What is trauma-informed care?

Trauma-informed care is an approach to therapy that recognizes how past trauma can affect a person’s thoughts, emotions, relationships, and physical responses. It focuses on creating a safe, supportive, and respectful environment where clients feel heard, empowered, and never pressured. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, trauma-informed care means tailoring treatment to each person’s needs while using approaches that support healing at a pace that feels manageable and safe. At TTT, we utilize Evidence Based modalities such as EMDR, IFS and Somatic/Mindfulness that are effective in addressing and healing from trauma, including complex trauma.

How do I start therapy?

Starting therapy begins with reaching out to schedule an initial consultation or first appointment. During that first step, we will talk about what brings you to therapy, your goals, and any questions you may have about the process. From there, we can determine the best approach for your needs and begin creating a treatment plan that feels supportive, personalized, and manageable.

Are sessions confidential?

Yes, therapy sessions are confidential. Protecting your privacy is an important part of creating a safe and supportive therapeutic space. There are a few legal and ethical limits to confidentiality, which will be reviewed with you at the beginning of therapy, but in general, what you share in session is kept private and treated with care and respect.

How does somatic therapy support trauma healing?

Somatic therapy supports trauma healing by helping clients notice and work with how trauma is held in the body, not just in thoughts or memories. Trauma can affect the nervous system in ways that lead to tension, overwhelm, numbness, or feeling constantly on edge. Through gentle body-based awareness and regulation techniques, somatic therapy helps clients reconnect with their bodies, build a greater sense of safety, and process trauma in a way that feels grounded and manageable.

What if I have tried therapy before and it did not help?

That is completely understandable. Not every therapy experience is the right fit, and a previous approach that did not feel helpful does not mean therapy cannot be meaningful for you now. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, I offer a personalized, trauma-informed approach tailored to your unique needs, goals, and pace. Together, we work to create a safe and supportive space that feels more aligned with the healing you are seeking.

What can I expect during my first therapy session?

Your first therapy session is an opportunity for me to begin building a thoughtful understanding of your experiences, concerns, and goals. I will guide the conversation with care, creating space to discuss what brings you to therapy, your personal history, and any questions you may have about the process. This initial session is designed to help you feel at ease while laying the foundation for a therapeutic approach that is personalized to your needs.

Internal Family Systems Therapy

Experience transformative healing with Internal Family Systems Therapy, a compassionate approach that nurtures your inner parts, promoting personal growth and resilience through effective trauma healing and self-led therapy.

PTSD Treatment

Experience compassionate and evidence-based PTSD treatment, including trauma-focused therapy and clinical counseling, designed to support your journey towards healing and recovery from post-traumatic stress disorder.

Relationship Trauma Therapy

Experience compassionate relationship trauma counseling that focuses on healing interpersonal wounds, fostering secure attachments, and promoting resilience through specialized attachment-based therapy tailored to your unique journey.

Grief and Loss Counseling

Experience compassionate grief and loss counseling that supports your healing journey, helping you navigate bereavement, cope with loss, and find peace through specialized therapy tailored to your needs.

Stress and Emotional Overwhelm Therapy

Experience compassionate support with our Stress and Emotional Overwhelm Therapy, designed to help you manage stress, regulate emotions, and overcome burnout through effective techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.

Life Transitions Therapy

Experience compassionate Life Transition Counseling with Touchstone Trauma Therapy, offering tailored Adjustment Disorder Therapy and Transitional Support Therapy to help you navigate life's changes and embrace new beginnings.

Take the First Step Towards Healing

If you or someone you know is seeking support for mental health challenges, we encourage you to reach out to Touchstone Trauma Therapy. Our compassionate team is ready to guide you on your path to recovery through trauma-informed practices designed to foster healing and resilience.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start your journey towards emotional healing and well-being. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and with the right support, healing is possible.

Diverse Approaches to Foster Deep, Lasting Healing.

Individual therapy for clients ages 14 and older offers a personalized space to work through life's challenges, deepen self-understanding, and support lasting emotional well-being.

Mindfulness-Based Therapy

Experience transformative mindfulness-based therapy that fosters inner peace, reduces stress, and promotes healing through meditation and compassionate counseling tailored to your unique journey toward emotional well-being.

Common Questions Answered

What is trauma-informed care?

Trauma-informed care is an approach to therapy that recognizes how past trauma can affect a person’s thoughts, emotions, relationships, and physical responses. It focuses on creating a safe, supportive, and respectful environment where clients feel heard, empowered, and never pressured. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, trauma-informed care means tailoring treatment to each person’s needs while using approaches that support healing at a pace that feels manageable and safe. At TTT, we utilize Evidence Based modalities such as EMDR, IFS and Somatic/Mindfulness that are effective in addressing and healing from trauma, including complex trauma.

How do I start therapy?

Starting therapy begins with reaching out to schedule an initial consultation or first appointment. During that first step, we will talk about what brings you to therapy, your goals, and any questions you may have about the process. From there, we can determine the best approach for your needs and begin creating a treatment plan that feels supportive, personalized, and manageable.

Are sessions confidential?

Yes, therapy sessions are confidential. Protecting your privacy is an important part of creating a safe and supportive therapeutic space. There are a few legal and ethical limits to confidentiality, which will be reviewed with you at the beginning of therapy, but in general, what you share in session is kept private and treated with care and respect.

How does somatic therapy support trauma healing?

Somatic therapy supports trauma healing by helping clients notice and work with how trauma is held in the body, not just in thoughts or memories. Trauma can affect the nervous system in ways that lead to tension, overwhelm, numbness, or feeling constantly on edge. Through gentle body-based awareness and regulation techniques, somatic therapy helps clients reconnect with their bodies, build a greater sense of safety, and process trauma in a way that feels grounded and manageable.

What if I have tried therapy before and it did not help?

That is completely understandable. Not every therapy experience is the right fit, and a previous approach that did not feel helpful does not mean therapy cannot be meaningful for you now. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, I offer a personalized, trauma-informed approach tailored to your unique needs, goals, and pace. Together, we work to create a safe and supportive space that feels more aligned with the healing you are seeking.

What can I expect during my first therapy session?

Your first therapy session is an opportunity for me to begin building a thoughtful understanding of your experiences, concerns, and goals. I will guide the conversation with care, creating space to discuss what brings you to therapy, your personal history, and any questions you may have about the process. This initial session is designed to help you feel at ease while laying the foundation for a therapeutic approach that is personalized to your needs.

Remarkable Trauma Therapy in Major Areas

Our services are designed for individuals, couples, and teens seeking support for mental health challenges.
Whether you are dealing with trauma, relationship issues, or self-esteem concerns, Touchstone Trauma Therapy is here to guide you on your journey to healing.

TTT offers services to the cities of Montrose, Glendale, La Crescenta, La Canada, Burbank and Pasadena. TTT also offers remote video sessions throughout the state of California.

Diverse Approaches to Foster Deep, Lasting Healing.

Individual therapy for clients ages 14 and older offers a personalized space to work through life's challenges, deepen self-understanding, and support lasting emotional well-being.