Trauma & PTSD
Therapy.
Heal the past, reclaim your present
Trauma isn't just about what happened to you—it's about the footprint it left on your nervous system. We provide a safe, stabilizing environment to process painful experiences and move forward.
Trauma Is More Than Just a Memory
Trauma is not just an event from the past—it's a physical and emotional response that stays with you. It's the way your nervous system learned to protect you, the beliefs you formed about yourself ("I'm unsafe," "It was my fault"), and the ways you've adapted to survive.
These adaptations made sense at the time. But now, they may be keeping you stuck in hypervigilance, avoidance, or emotional numbness.
Healing Without Retraumatization
At Ascend Therapy, we believe you shouldn't have to relive every painful detail to heal. In fact, for many, talking endlessly about trauma can be retraumatizing.
We use evidence-based modalities like EMDR that work directly with how your brain and body store traumatic memories. We help you process the past safely, without being overwhelmed by it.
Sound Familiar?
You might be a good fit if...
- You experience flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive memories
- You avoid people, places, or conversations that remind you of the past
- You feel emotionally numb or disconnected from others
- You're always on edge—jumpy, irritable, or unable to relax
- You struggle with shame about things that weren't your fault
- You've tried to "move on" but the past keeps pulling you back
- You want more than just coping skills—you want to actually heal
What We Treat
Conditions we treat.
Trauma impacts everyone differently. We specialize in treating the full spectrum of trauma-related conditions.
Our Approach
Evidence-based treatment.
We use specialized techniques to help you process trauma and regain a sense of safety.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization)
Reprocess traumatic memories so they no longer trigger intense emotional reactions. Recommended by the WHO and VA.
TF-CBT (Trauma-Focused CBT)
Address distorted beliefs ("It was my fault") and build a more accurate, compassionate narrative of your story.
ACT (Acceptance & Commitment)
Learn to accept difficult feelings while committing to actions that align with your values, helping you reclaim your life from trauma.
DBT (DBT-Informed Skills)
Build distress tolerance and emotional regulation skills to manage the intense feelings often associated with trauma history.
The Healing Journey
What to expect in treatment.
Safety & Stabilization
First, we build safety. Learn grounding techniques and develop coping resources before diving deep.
Assessment
Map your trauma history and identify which specific memories or beliefs are driving your current symptoms.
Processing
Work through traumatic memories using EMDR or other modalities at a pace you control.
Integration
Rebuild your sense of self and strengthen relationships. Create a future not defined by the past.
Post-Traumatic Growth
Move beyond survival to thriving. Find new meaning and resilience in your life.
Our Specialists
Meet your trauma experts.
Trauma treatment requires specialized training. Our therapists are experienced in evidence-based trauma modalities.
Sara Banks, LCSW
Specialties
EMDR-trained practice owner specializing in trauma, OCD, and anxiety. Compassionate, directive approach.
Nagla Mostafa, LMFT
Specialties
15+ years experience with complex trauma, personality disorders, and relationship wounds.
Common Questions
Frequently asked questions.
No. Modalities like EMDR allow you to process traumatic memories without extensive verbal retelling. You stay in control of how much detail you share. Effective trauma therapy is not about reliving every moment—it's about helping your brain integrate the experience locally.
That's completely normal. Trauma often creates gaps in memory, and you don't need a complete narrative to heal. We work with what your brain and body remember, and EMDR can be effective even when explicit memories are fragmented.
It depends on the complexity of your trauma. Single-incident PTSD often responds well to 8-12 EMDR sessions. Complex or childhood trauma typically requires longer treatment—sometimes 6 months to a year or more. We prioritize your pacing and safety.
Some people experience temporary increases in emotion as they begin processing. This is often the brain 'unfreezing.' We ensure you have adequate coping resources before deep work begins and monitor your pace carefully.
Yes. Online EMDR and trauma therapy are effective for many people. Some clients find it safer to process trauma from the comfort of their own home. We offer telehealth throughout Illinois.
Ready to Heal?
Your past doesn't have to define your future. Safe, effective trauma therapy is available.