When exploring options for recovery, understanding how trauma shapes behavior is crucial. Many addiction therapy programs incorporate specialized approaches to help people address the deep-rooted experiences that influence their struggles.
One highly effective method is trauma-focused therapy, which offers targeted support for those impacted by past trauma.
What is trauma-focused therapy?
Trauma-focused therapy (TFT) is a form of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) designed specifically to address the emotional and psychological effects of trauma. Rather than focusing solely on surface-level symptoms, trauma-focused therapy dives into identifying, understanding, and healing the core wounds that continue to impact daily life.
This approach helps participants identify trauma triggers—the thoughts, feelings, situations, or memories that may spark overwhelming emotional responses. By bringing awareness to these triggers, therapy can reduce their intensity and help people regain control over their emotional well-being.
Trauma-focused therapy typically spans 15 to 20 sessions, although this can vary depending on individual needs. Those who participate in trauma-focused treatment may experience a decrease in traumatic stress symptoms, allowing them to better navigate daily life with resilience and confidence.
Who can benefit from trauma-focused therapy?
While trauma-focused therapy was initially developed for children and adolescents coping with experiences such as abuse, neglect, or loss, it has proven to be beneficial for people of all ages. Adults grappling with unresolved trauma from earlier in life can also find significant relief through this focused therapeutic approach.
Those who may benefit include anyone who has experienced:
- Physical, sexual, emotional, or psychological abuse
- Loss of a parent, sibling, or close loved one
- Witnessing or surviving community violence or domestic violence
- Experiencing natural disasters, serious accidents, or other traumatic events
It’s important to note that trauma-focused therapy may not always be the best fit for complex trauma cases, such as trauma resulting from long-term exposure to violence or war. In these instances, specialized approaches may be recommended.
Understanding the link between trauma and addiction
The relationship between trauma and addiction is profound. Research consistently shows that individuals who experience early trauma are at a significantly greater risk for developing substance use disorders. Unresolved trauma can lead to intense feelings of fear, sadness, guilt, anger, and isolation—emotions that may feel unbearable without support.
Substances can sometimes become a coping mechanism, a way to escape or numb the pain associated with past trauma. However, this often deepens emotional wounds and creates new challenges. Addressing trauma is a crucial step in breaking the cycle of addiction and building a path to true healing.
How trauma-focused therapy supports recovery
Trauma-focused therapy provides a structured and compassionate environment for individuals to:
- Identify trauma triggers that contribute to emotional distress
- Learn how to develop healthy coping skills to manage those triggers
- Experience a decrease in traumatic stress symptoms, leading to better emotional regulation
- Understand the connections between past trauma and current behaviors
- Build resilience and regain a sense of personal empowerment
Through guided sessions, clients learn that healing is possible and no longer have to be defined by their past experiences.
The role of trauma therapy at Landmark Recovery
At Landmark Recovery, we recognize that untreated trauma often lies beneath the surface of substance use struggles. That’s why trauma-informed care is a cornerstone of our addiction therapy programs.
We understand that every story is unique. Our expert therapists work with each client to carefully assess how trauma may have shaped their emotional and behavioral patterns. We then integrate trauma-focused therapy techniques into personalized treatment plans, ensuring that both substance use and underlying pain are addressed together.
Our approach helps clients achieve sobriety and heal at a deeper emotional level. By teaching clients how to develop healthy coping skills and address unresolved trauma, we empower them to move forward with strength, purpose, and lasting resilience.
Start your recovery journey with Landmark Recovery
If you or a loved one is struggling with the lasting effects of trauma and substance use, you don’t have to face it alone. At Landmark Recovery, our compassionate, evidence-based approach to addiction treatment includes personalized trauma therapy designed to support healing and lasting recovery.
Take the first step toward reclaiming your future. Call Landmark Recovery today at (888) 448-0302 or online to speak with a member of our admissions team and learn how we can help you begin your journey toward lasting wellness.
Choose Recovery Over Addiction
We're here 24/7 to help you get the care you need to live life on your terms, without drugs or alcohol. Talk to our recovery specialists today and learn about our integrated treatment programs.
About the Author
