Trauma Treatment
Specialized EMDR and Trauma-Focused CBT for children, teens, and families
Medicaid & SoonerCare Accepted • Same-Week Appointments
What is Trauma Treatment?
Trauma treatment at SafeHarbor Behavioral Health provides specialized, evidence-based interventions for children, teens, and families who have experienced traumatic events. We understand that trauma affects everyone differently and can have lasting impacts on mental health, relationships, and daily functioning.
Our trauma-informed therapists are specially trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), two of the most effective treatments for trauma. These approaches help process traumatic memories, reduce symptoms, and build resilience.
We create a safe, supportive environment where clients can heal at their own pace. Our trauma treatment is individualized, taking into account each person's unique experiences, cultural background, and personal strengths. We believe that healing is possible and that everyone deserves to live free from the burden of unprocessed trauma.
Who Benefits from Trauma Treatment?
Types of Trauma We Treat:
- • Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
- • Neglect or abandonment
- • Witnessing domestic violence
- • Community violence exposure
- • Natural disasters or accidents
- • Medical trauma or hospitalization
- • Death of a loved one
- • Bullying or cyberbullying
- • School violence or threats
Trauma Symptoms We Address:
- • Intrusive thoughts or flashbacks
- • Nightmares or sleep difficulties
- • Avoidance of trauma reminders
- • Emotional numbing or detachment
- • Hypervigilance or feeling "on edge"
- • Depression or anxiety
- • Difficulty concentrating
- • Behavioral regression
- • Anger outbursts or irritability
Our Evidence-Based Trauma Treatment Approach
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
EMDR helps process traumatic memories by using bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements) while recalling disturbing events. This helps the brain process and integrate traumatic memories more effectively.
- • Highly effective for PTSD and trauma
- • Often faster than traditional talk therapy
- • Suitable for children 6+ and adults
- • Reduces emotional charge of traumatic memories
Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT)
TF-CBT is specifically designed for children and adolescents who have experienced trauma. It combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with trauma-sensitive interventions and family involvement.
- • Gold standard for childhood trauma
- • Includes parent/caregiver components
- • Teaches coping skills and emotional regulation
- • Addresses trauma-related thoughts and beliefs
Play Therapy for Children
For younger children, we use trauma-informed play therapy techniques that allow children to process experiences through natural play and creative expression.
Somatic Approaches
We incorporate body-based interventions to help clients reconnect with their bodies in safe ways and address trauma stored in the nervous system.
Family Systems Integration
We include family members in treatment when appropriate, helping them understand trauma's impact and learn how to best support their loved one's healing.
What to Expect in Trauma Treatment
Safety and Stabilization Phase
We begin by establishing safety and teaching coping skills. This foundational phase helps clients feel secure and develop tools for managing difficult emotions before processing traumatic memories.
Trauma Processing Phase
Using EMDR or TF-CBT techniques, we help clients process traumatic memories at a pace that feels manageable. This phase includes developing a trauma narrative and challenging unhelpful beliefs about the trauma.
Integration and Future Planning
The final phase focuses on integrating new insights and skills into daily life. We work on building resilience, preventing relapse, and preparing for future challenges with confidence.
Ongoing Support and Follow-up
Healing from trauma is an ongoing process. We provide follow-up support and "booster" sessions as needed to maintain progress and address any new challenges that may arise.
Session Duration & Frequency
Session Length
60-90 minutes for EMDR sessions; 50 minutes for TF-CBT sessions
Frequency
Weekly sessions initially, with some flexibility based on client needs
Treatment Duration
TF-CBT: 12-20 sessions; EMDR: varies by individual, often 6-12 sessions
Pacing
Client-controlled pace - you're always in charge of your healing process
Insurance & Coverage
We Accept:
- • Oklahoma Medicaid
- • SoonerCare
- • Most major insurance plans
- • Victim compensation programs
- • Self-pay options available
Trauma treatment is often covered under mental health benefits. We also work with victim compensation programs and can provide documentation for legal cases when appropriate.
Age-Appropriate Trauma Treatment
Ages 5-8: Young Children
- • Play-based trauma therapy
- • Simple coping strategies
- • Parent/caregiver involvement essential
- • Art and expressive therapies
- • Focus on safety and routine
- • Modified EMDR techniques (butterfly hugs)
Ages 9-12: School-Age
- • Trauma-Focused CBT appropriate
- • More cognitive processing abilities
- • Group components when beneficial
- • Emotion regulation skill building
- • School collaboration when needed
- • EMDR with age-appropriate modifications
Ages 13-18: Adolescents
- • Full EMDR and TF-CBT protocols
- • Individual and family components
- • Identity and relationship focus
- • Future planning and goals
- • Peer and social factors
- • Transition to independence preparation
Trauma-Related Conditions We Treat
PTSD and Related Disorders
- • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
- • Complex PTSD
- • Acute stress disorder
- • Adjustment disorders with trauma
- • Dissociative disorders
Trauma-Related Symptoms
- • Flashbacks and intrusive thoughts
- • Nightmares and sleep problems
- • Emotional numbing
- • Hypervigilance and anxiety
- • Avoidance behaviors
Secondary Trauma Effects
- • Depression and mood issues
- • Behavioral problems
- • Relationship difficulties
- • Academic or work impairment
- • Substance use concerns
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my child needs trauma treatment?
Signs include persistent nightmares, regression in development, avoidance of places or activities, emotional outbursts, withdrawal, concentration problems, or physical symptoms without medical cause. If you're concerned, a professional assessment can help.
Is EMDR safe for children?
Yes, EMDR is safe and effective for children 6 and older when conducted by a trained professional. We use child-friendly modifications and ensure the child feels safe and in control throughout the process.
Will trauma therapy make my child relive the traumatic event?
Our trauma therapies are designed to process memories safely without retraumatization. We teach coping skills first, work at your child's pace, and use techniques that help process trauma without overwhelming them.
How long does trauma therapy take?
Treatment length varies by individual. TF-CBT typically takes 12-20 sessions, while EMDR may require fewer sessions but varies widely. We work at your pace and regularly assess progress.
What if my child doesn't want to talk about the trauma?
We never force children to discuss traumatic events. We use indirect approaches like play therapy, art, and other creative methods. Building trust and safety always comes first, and we respect each child's readiness.
Can parents be involved in trauma treatment?
Absolutely. Parent involvement is often crucial for successful outcomes. We provide parent education, teach supportive strategies, and may include parents in some sessions. TF-CBT specifically includes parent components.
What makes SafeHarbor's trauma treatment different?
Our therapists are specifically trained in evidence-based trauma treatments. We provide a trauma-informed environment, individualized treatment plans, family involvement when appropriate, and culturally responsive care that honors each family's unique background.
Success Outcomes & What to Expect
Typical Improvements Include:
- • Significant reduction in PTSD symptoms
- • Decreased frequency and intensity of nightmares
- • Improved emotional regulation and coping
- • Reduced avoidance behaviors
- • Better concentration and school performance
- • Improved relationships with family and friends
- • Increased sense of safety and control
- • Development of post-traumatic growth
- • Enhanced resilience for future challenges
Take the Next Step
Safe Harbor provides activity-based behavioral support for children ages 3–17 through our Body & Brain program.
Enroll TodayCurrent families: Access your Therapy Portal
Schedule Your Trauma Treatment Consultation
Take the first step toward better mental health for your child. Same-week appointments available.
Begin Your Healing Journey Today
Trauma doesn't have to define your future. Our specialized trauma therapists are here to provide the expert care and support needed to process difficult experiences and reclaim a sense of safety, control, and hope.
Confidential consultations available • Medicaid & SoonerCare accepted