Approaches to Trauma Treatment in Calgary: A Resource Guide for Providers and Families

Understanding Trauma Care Options for Children, Teens, and Adults
Core Psychology | Marda Loop | Evidence-Based Trauma Therapy

Understanding Trauma: A Broad Spectrum of Experiences

Trauma can result from a wide range of experiences, including:

  • Accidents or injuries

  • Childhood abuse or neglect

  • Witnessing violence or domestic conflict

  • Sexual assault or interpersonal violence

  • Medical trauma

  • Loss, grief, or sudden life transitions

  • Natural disasters

  • Cumulative stress and small daily micro-traumas

Trauma does not affect everyone in the same way. While some individuals experience acute traumatic events, others may be impacted by the accumulation of small, repeated stressors over time—what we often refer to as "micro-traumas." These daily experiences may include chronic invalidation, repeated criticism, ongoing relational conflict, or consistent exposure to emotionally stressful environments. Over time, these cumulative stressors can overwhelm the nervous system and significantly affect emotional health, even without a single major traumatic event.

At Core Psychology, we offer a range of evidence-based trauma treatments carefully matched to each client’s needs, age, and readiness for therapy.

Signs Trauma Treatment May Be Needed

  • Persistent intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, or nightmares

  • Avoidance of places, people, or situations linked to the trauma

  • Heightened anxiety or hypervigilance

  • Emotional numbness or disconnection

  • Irritability, anger, or emotional outbursts

  • Difficulty concentrating or disrupted sleep

  • Relationship challenges or withdrawal from loved ones

  • Ongoing shame, guilt, or self-blame

  • Chronic overwhelm, burnout, or emotional exhaustion due to cumulative daily stressors

Early and effective intervention can prevent symptoms from becoming chronic and support long-term healing.

Evidence-Based Trauma Treatment Approaches

1. Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)

A structured cognitive-behavioural approach that helps individuals reframe distorted beliefs and thoughts connected to the trauma. CPT is highly effective for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and is supported by strong research evidence.

2. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (eye movements, taps, or sounds) to help the brain process traumatic memories in a less distressing way. EMDR can reduce the emotional intensity of traumatic memories and allow clients to move forward with reduced distress.

3. Trauma-Informed Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT)

A specialized CBT approach that integrates trauma-sensitive care with skills for emotional regulation, coping, and processing of traumatic experiences. Often used with children, teens, and families.

4. Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)

A newer approach using eye movements and guided visualization to process distressing memories rapidly. ART can provide symptom relief in fewer sessions and is gaining strong empirical support.

5. Attachment-Based and Developmental Trauma Approaches

For individuals who have experienced chronic or early attachment disruptions, therapies that focus on relational safety, emotional regulation, and developmental repair can be critical.

6. Mindfulness and Nervous System Regulation

Incorporating body-based and mindfulness interventions to stabilize arousal, support grounding, and enhance safety within the body. These interventions can be particularly helpful for those experiencing chronic activation from cumulative stress and micro-traumas.

Collaborative and Integrated Care

At Core Psychology, we recognize that trauma treatment often benefits from a multi-disciplinary and individualized approach. We collaborate with:

  • Physicians and pediatricians

  • Psychiatrists

  • School counsellors and teachers

  • Occupational therapists

  • Physiotherapists

  • Speech-language pathologists

  • Other mental health providers

Our team works closely with each client’s broader support system to ensure coordinated care.

When to Refer for Trauma Treatment

  • When trauma symptoms persist for longer than 1-2 months

  • When daily functioning, relationships, or academic/work performance are significantly impacted

  • When clients express significant distress related to past events

  • When previous coping strategies are insufficient or maladaptive

  • When individuals experience chronic overwhelm or emotional distress from ongoing cumulative stressors

Referring to Core Psychology

We welcome referrals from:

  • Physicians

  • Pediatricians

  • Mental health providers

  • School teams

  • Community organizations

  • Allied health professionals

Referral Options:

  • Self-referral: Individuals and families may contact us directly.

  • Professional referral: Providers may call or email to coordinate care.

Contact Information:
Phone: 403-488-8912
Email: admin@corepsychology.com
Location: Marda Loop, Calgary
Website: www.corepsychology.com

About Core Psychology

Located in Calgary's Marda Loop community, Core Psychology offers comprehensive, evidence-based trauma treatment for children, teens, and adults. Our skilled clinicians integrate multiple trauma treatment modalities tailored to each client’s unique experiences, history, and healing goals. We are committed to collaborative, compassionate care that fosters long-term resilience and recovery.