Trauma and PTSD Therapy in San Diego
Traumatic experiences can leave a lasting impact on how we think, feel, and move through daily life. For some individuals, these experiences develop into post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a condition that can affect emotional well-being, relationships, and a person’s sense of safety.
At SD Psychology, we provide evidence-based trauma and PTSD therapy in San Diego designed to help individuals process traumatic experiences, reduce distressing symptoms, and rebuild a sense of stability. Our therapists work collaboratively with each client to create personalized treatment plans that support meaningful recovery and long-term well-being.
Whether you are seeking support for recent trauma or experiences that occurred many years ago, trauma-focused therapy can help you better understand your reactions, develop practical coping strategies, and regain a sense of control.
Trauma Therapy Available in La Jolla, Encinitas, or Virtually Across California
SD Psychology offers trauma and PTSD therapy in multiple formats to make care accessible and convenient.
In-Person Therapy in La Jolla
Our La Jolla office provides a calm, private environment where clients can work with licensed psychologists experienced in trauma recovery and PTSD treatment.
In-Person Therapy in Encinitas
Clients in North County can receive trauma therapy at our Encinitas location, offering the same evidence-based care and individualized treatment approach.
Virtual Trauma Therapy
For individuals who prefer remote sessions or live elsewhere in California, we also offer secure telehealth therapy. Virtual sessions provide the same level of professional care while allowing you to attend therapy from the comfort of your home. This flexibility allows clients to choose the format that best fits their schedule and personal needs.
Understanding PTSD
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a severe mental health condition that arises from traumatic experiences. These experiences can range from witnessing combat, natural disasters, personal assaults, or unexpected accidents. PTSD is complicated because individuals affected by this disorder often find themselves trapped in a cycle of traumatic events, reliving the pain through vivid flashbacks, haunting nightmares, and involuntary memories that intrude into their daily lives.
PTSD is insidious and can significantly affect daily functioning, making even simple tasks feel insurmountable. Trauma & PTSD treatment in La Jolla, as well as other locations in San Diego, can help individuals recover and improve their overall well-being.
Symptoms of PTSD
PTSD symptoms may develop shortly after a traumatic event or appear later. Symptoms typically fall into several categories.
Intrusive Symptoms
-
Recurring memories of the traumatic event
-
Flashbacks that make the event feel as if it is happening again
-
Disturbing dreams related to the trauma
-
motional distress when exposed to reminders
Avoidance Symptoms
-
Avoiding thoughts or feelings connected to the trauma
-
Avoiding places, people, or situations that trigger memories
Mood and Cognitive Symptoms
-
Persistent negative thoughts or beliefs
-
Difficulty experiencing positive emotions
-
Feelings of guilt, shame, or detachment
Arousal and Reactivity Symptoms
-
Being easily startled or constantly on edge
-
Difficulty concentrating
-
Sleep disturbances
-
Irritability or anger
If these symptoms continue for more than a month and significantly interfere with daily functioning, professional support may be helpful.
Diagnosis of Trauma & PTSD
The process of diagnosing PTSD requires a thorough and detailed approach. At SDPsychology, we take pride in using a multifaceted method that includes standardised screening tools and questionnaires, in-depth clinical interviews, and coordination with other healthcare professionals to provide an accurate diagnosis. Early and precise diagnosis is not just a procedural requirement but also an essential factor in initiating effective Trauma & PTSD treatment. This ensures that the hold of this disorder does not become stronger.
Evidence-Based Treatments for Trauma and PTSD
Effective trauma treatment focuses on helping individuals safely process traumatic experiences while developing healthier emotional and behavioral responses.
At SD Psychology, trauma therapy may include several evidence-based approaches depending on the needs of the individual.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT helps individuals identify and reframe thought patterns that may contribute to distress after trauma.
Trauma-Focused Therapy
Trauma-focused approaches are specifically designed to help individuals process traumatic memories in a safe and structured way.
Mindfulness-Based Strategies
Mindfulness techniques can help regulate emotional responses, improve stress tolerance, and strengthen awareness of present experiences.
Integrative Psychotherapy
Our therapists may combine several therapeutic approaches to create a treatment plan that reflects each client’s experiences, goals, and pace of healing.
Meet Our Trauma Therapists
Trauma recovery is a deeply personal process. At SD Psychology, clients work with licensed psychologists who have extensive training in trauma-informed therapy.
Dr. Stamatis Dardaglis
Licensed Clinical Psychologist | Founder
-
Founder of SD Psychology Center
-
Licensed clinical psychologist specializing in psychotherapy and trauma-informed care
-
Advanced clinical training at Harvard Medical School
-
Certified in adult psychodynamic psychotherapy through the Boston Psychoanalytic Society and Institute
-
Works with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges
-
Integrates psychodynamic therapy with evidence-based treatment approaches
Dr. Ivy Kernigher
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
-
Licensed clinical psychologist based in San Diego
-
Works with individuals experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship concerns
-
Doctorate in clinical psychology from Alliant International University
-
Clinical experience in hospital and community mental health settings
-
Emphasizes collaborative therapy and practical coping strategies
Dr. Cindy Adamson
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
-
Licensed clinical psychologist with a PhD in clinical psychology from Alliant International University
-
Provides therapy for trauma-related stress, anxiety, and life transitions
-
Uses evidence-based psychotherapy tailored to individual client needs
-
Focuses on helping clients develop emotional insight and adaptive coping skills
Dr. Diana Gonzalez Cano
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
-
Licensed clinical psychologist with a PhD in clinical psychology from Alliant International University
-
Works with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, and stress-related challenges
-
Emphasizes emotional awareness, resilience, and practical therapeutic tools
-
Supports clients in developing healthier patterns and navigating difficult life experiences
Why Choose SDPsychology for Trauma & PTSD Treatment?
Choosing a trauma therapist is an important step toward recovery. At SD Psychology, we are committed to providing care that is both compassionate and grounded in scientific evidence.
Our practice offers:
-
Licensed psychologists with specialized trauma training
-
Evidence-based treatment approaches
-
Individualized therapy plans tailored to each client
-
A supportive, confidential therapeutic environment
-
In-person and virtual therapy options
Our goal is to help individuals develop the insight, coping strategies, and emotional resilience needed to move forward after traumatic experiences.
PTSD Treatment
-
Psychotherapy: Using a variety of therapeutic techniques to challenge your thought process, establish and implement coping strategies, and deal with feelings.
-
Medication: If medicine is recommended, we will help you find a physician that is trained in trauma therapy to assist with medication management.