What Is a Trauma-Informed Therapist—and How Do You Find One?
- Dana Carretta-Stein
- 3 hours ago
- 3 min read
The red and green flags of truly trauma-informed care
What “trauma-informed” actually means
“Trauma-informed” is more than a buzzword—it’s a way of practicing therapy that centers your safety, consent, and nervous system.
But here’s the truth: not all therapists who say they’re trauma-informed actually are.
Trauma-informed therapy means that the therapist understands:
How trauma impacts the brain and body
How to work at the pace of the client—not push for catharsis
The importance of choice, regulation, and relationship safety
It’s about creating a space where you don’t just “talk about your trauma”—you feel safe while doing it. That’s why, if you’re searching for trauma-informed therapy in Scarsdale (or anywhere), it’s essential to know what to look for beyond someone’s degree or license.
Questions to ask a potential trauma-informed therapist
Finding a trauma-informed therapist starts with asking the right questions—ones that go beyond, “What’s your approach?”
Here are a few questions to help guide your search:
💬 “How do you support clients who’ve experienced trauma?” You’re looking for a response that includes consent, nervous system awareness, pacing, and individualized care.
💬 “Do you incorporate any somatic or body-based tools?” Trauma lives in the body, so talk-only therapy often misses key healing pathways.
💬 “How do you handle moments when clients feel overwhelmed or triggered?” This reveals how attuned and prepared they are for regulating dysregulation—not just processing content.
💬 “What’s your understanding of complex trauma or developmental trauma?” If they confuse trauma with just PTSD or big events, they may not have the depth you need.
And just as important as their answers? How you feel in the conversation. Do you sense respect, curiosity, and care—or are you getting more of a clinical, detached vibe?
Why it matters more than credentials
Let’s be clear: Credentials are important. But being trauma-informed isn’t something you can learn in one workshop or certificate course.
True trauma-informed therapists are committed to:
✅ Lifelong learning and unlearning
✅ Centering client experience and agency
✅ Slowing down, not rushing into pain
✅ Honoring nervous system cues—not just cognitive ones
If you’re looking for trauma-informed therapy in Scarsdale, what you’re really looking for is someone who sees all of you: your survival strategies, your pain, your strength—and who works with those layers gently and collaboratively.
Because when you find that kind of support? Healing doesn’t feel like pushing through. It feels like coming home to yourself.
You deserve therapy that honors your story
Whether you’re starting your healing journey or looking for a better-fit therapist, knowing what to look for can help you feel more empowered and less overwhelmed.
Internal Resources
Book Therapy at Peaceful Living Counseling
Feeling ready to take the next step in your healing journey? Dana’s team at Peaceful Living Mental Health Counseling offers EMDR therapy and trauma-informed support both in-person (Scarsdale, NY) and virtually.
Start Healing at Home with The EMDR Therapy Progress Journal
Not quite ready for therapy? Dana’s EMDR Therapy Progress Journal is the perfect self-paced tool. It blends neuroscience-backed strategies, practical prompts, and actionable steps to help you:
✅ Track emotional triggers
✅ Build coping skills
✅ Understand how past experiences shape your present
Go Deeper in Your Healing Journey
📚 Check out my blogs at The EMDR Coach, where I break down EMDR concepts, trauma education, and practical healing strategies you can start today.
About Dana Carretta-Stein
Dana Carretta-Stein is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and founder of Peaceful Living Mental Health Counseling, PLLC, and Carretta Consulting in Scarsdale, NY.
She is a certified EMDR therapist and EMDRIA Approved Consultant and is an expert in trauma-informed care in Westchester, NY.
Dana is also a skilled business coach for wellness practitioners who are looking to build and grow their private practice.
Check out Dana's website to learn more about her and EMDR Therapy: