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Optum Wellbeing
Optum Wellbeing
Optum Behavioral Care
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Trauma-informed therapies

Many people go through difficult experiences. This can include a single event or a series of events, such as abuse, violence, accidents, illness, loss or ongoing stress. These experiences can affect how you think, feel and respond to everyday situations. For some people, changes show up right away. For others, they may appear later.


Trauma-informed therapies recognize how these experiences may affect your health and daily life. They focus on creating a safe, supportive space where you can talk about what you’re going through and learn ways to cope.

What to expect during trauma-informed therapy

Care often starts with a conversation about what you’re going through and what kind of support you need. Your provider listens and works with you to create a care plan that feels right for you.


Therapists use methods shown to help you cope with emotions and feel more in control. Sessions may focus on building coping skills and understanding triggers and strong emotions. Therapy can last a few weeks, several months or longer, depending on your goals and progress. Your care plan may also change as your needs change.


How trauma‑informed therapy can help

Trauma‑informed therapy may help with:

  • Stress related to past experiences
  • Anxiety or depression
  • Fear, sadness, anger or feeling numb
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Difficulty managing emotions or daily tasks
  • Challenges in daily life, such as work, school, home or relationships


Benefits of trauma‑informed therapy

Trauma‑informed therapy may help you:

  • Feel safer and supported
  • Better understand how trauma affects your thoughts, feelings and daily life
  • Build skills to manage stress
  • Manage strong emotions
  • Feel more stable in daily life
  • Build confidence as you move forward

Find support after trauma

Get caring support to help you feel safer, supported and understood. Connect with a licensed mental health professional and explore care options today.

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Footnotes

Optum Wellbeing. Behavioral health.

Optum Wellbeing. Mental health and emotional wellbeing.

American Psychiatric Association (APA). What is psychotherapy?