Trauma & PTSD

The first phase focuses on stabilization and building a strong therapeutic relationship. Dr. Kim takes the time to understand your story, your strengths, and your current coping strategies. She recognizes that trust is essential in trauma work and never pushes you to revisit painful material before you are ready. During this phase, she also teaches grounding techniques, emotion regulation skills, and other coping tools drawn from DBT and mindfulness practices.

When you feel ready, therapy moves into the processing phase. Using Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and EMDR-informed techniques, Dr. Kim guides you through a structured process of confronting and making sense of traumatic memories. TF-CBT combines cognitive restructuring with gradual exposure to trauma narratives, helping you challenge distorted beliefs such as self-blame or helplessness. EMDR-informed elements use bilateral stimulation and other strategies to help the brain reprocess stuck memories so they no longer trigger overwhelming emotional or physical reactions.

The final phase centers on integration and growth. Dr. Kim helps you consolidate the gains you have made, strengthen your identity beyond the trauma, and develop a forward-looking plan for maintaining your well-being. This may include rebuilding relationships, returning to activities you have avoided, or redefining personal goals that trauma had put on hold.

Throughout treatment, Dr. Kim remains attuned to cultural, developmental, and systemic factors that shape your experience of trauma. She collaborates with other providers in your care team, including psychiatrists, school counselors, and social workers, to ensure a coordinated and holistic approach to your recovery.