What is Childhood Trauma & PTSD?

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing an extremely stressful or terrifying event. Trauma can result from physical or emotional abuse, accidents, natural disasters, sudden loss, or combat. Trauma therapy in LA provides a safe, supportive space for individuals to process these experiences and reduce their lasting impact.

My approach begins by meeting you where you are. Through a compassionate and collaborative therapeutic relationship, I help you explore your experiences, build self-awareness, and strengthen your inner resilience. Each treatment plan is tailored to your unique needs and goals to support meaningful and lasting healing. My practice includes childhood trauma counseling in LA and Minnesota.

A Look at Childhood Trauma and PTSD

Understanding Trauma


There are many ways to define trauma, but a common theme is that trauma involves any experience that overwhelms your ability to cope. Trauma has the power to affect the mental, emotional, social, and even spiritual well-being. If left untreated, trauma can make it difficult for you to return to life as it was before the event.

The good news is trauma therapy in LA can offer the support, insight, and tools you need to begin healing. I work with individuals impacted by various forms of trauma, including childhood abuse and PTSD. Using evidence-based approaches like CBT therapy, I will help you move beyond the symptoms and regain a sense of balance, strength, and control in your life.

Signs You May Need Trauma Therapy


The symptoms you may be experiencing after trauma are normal, natural responses to an abnormal situation. Traumatic events can include anything from sexual assault, childhood abuse and community violence to near-death experiences, and financial uncertainty. If you recognize any of the following symptoms, you may benefit from trauma therapy:

  • Anxiety, fear and panic attacks
  • Depression and feelings of hopelessness
  • Shock, denial or disbelief
  • Mood swings, anger, and irritability
  • Shame, guilt, and self-blame
  • Social isolation and relational issues
  • Hypervigilance, or being always on edge
  • Insomnia or nightmares
  • Heightened startle response
  • Racing heartbeat or heart palpitations
  • Muscle tension
  • Bodily aches and pains

My Approach to Trauma Counselling


I am a licensed clinical psychologist practicing in both Los Angeles and Minnesota, with specialized expertise in the evaluation and treatment of trauma in adolescents and adults. My approach is trauma-informed, relational, and grounded in social justice, creating a safe and inclusive space for healing.

In our work together, I incorporate psychodynamic exploration, examining both conscious and unconscious patterns, past experiences, and attachment styles, to help you understand yourself more deeply and make sense of your personal narrative.

My approach to trauma therapy involves thoughtful exploration of symptoms and triggers, with the goal of developing lasting solutions and long-term resilience. I work with a diverse range of trauma survivors, including military service members and individuals who have experienced sexual abuse in childhood or adulthood.

Effects of Untreated Trauma and PTSD

Untreated trauma and PTSD can have a significant impact on a person’s daily life, affecting their work, relationships, and overall well-being.

Mental Health

If left untreated, trauma can lead to anxiety disorders, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. These symptoms can worsen over time.

Physical Health

PTSD can cause a range of physical health issues, including headaches, chronic pain, and gastrointestinal problems. Trauma further increases the risk of substance abuse.

Career

Chronic fatigue, difficulty concentrating, mood swings, irritability, and anxiety are common symptoms of trauma—and they can significantly disrupt your career and professional growth.

Relationships

Trauma can affect loved ones who may struggle to understand and support you. This may lead to a strained relationship and social isolation.

EMPOWERMENT

What are the Benefits of Trauma Therapy?

Reduced Symptoms

PTSD therapy will improve your life by alleviating the symptoms associated with trauma, such as depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and chronic health conditions.

Live a Fulfilling Life

Addressing the causes of trauma and learning coping skills will help you regain a sense of control over your emotions and choices.

Improved Physical Health

Untreated trauma can cause physical health problems ranging from insomnia to substance abuse. Therapy helps you develop coping skills that relieve you from trauma-related symptoms.

Emotional Healing

Therapy helps you process painful memories and emotions so that you can experience emotional healing and reduce the impact of past events on your present life.

Trauma therapy in LA works. I use a range of therapies to help you manage your symptoms and improve your overall well-being. Together, we’ll find the treatment that works best for you.

Empowerment

Other Therapy Services

Anger Management

Anger Management

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DepressionAnxiety

Depression & Anxiety

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CouplesCounseling

Couples Counseling

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Frequently Asked Question

Explore common questions about Nicole Sela’s therapy services and how to begin your path to emotional well-being.

You can request an appointment by Booking Online or calling us at 323-364-5152. We aim to get back to you within 24 hours.

As a certified therapist for depression and anxiety, I understand that every person is unique. That is why I take the time to learn about you, your health concerns, and treatment needs. I will also answer any questions you may have. During this session, I will provide valuable information about your symptoms, possible root causes, how they impact your life, and share helpful coping strategies.The first appointment allows me to determine the most appropriate treatment plan that is tailored to your specific concerns and therapeutic goals.

I offer individual, couples, family, and emerging adults counseling. My therapeutic approach includes multiple approaches to treatment including cognitive-behavioral therapy, psychodynamic therapy, mindfulness-based therapy, interpersonal therapy and acceptance & commitment therapy.

You can learn more about these services on the Services Page.,

Yes, I understand that your schedule may be busy or that you might need support urgently. That is why I offer telephone and online counseling, in addition to in-person sessions.

We can connect via Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams or FaceTime. My goal is to meet you where you are, whether virtually or face-to-face.

Yes, your treatment is strictly confidential. If you would like me to share information related to your treatment with a third party, you will need to provide written consent by filling out an Authorization to Disclose Information form.

However, please note that I am mandated by law to notify the appropriate authorities if there is a risk of harm to yourself or others.

The duration of treatment depends on your needs and the severity of the issues you wish to address. Generally speaking, some concerns can be resolved within a few sessions while others, such as PTSD and anger management therapy, may require longer-term support. I will be able to give a better recommendation after our initial assessment.

No preparation is needed and you don’t need to bring anything for the first session.

Sessions usually last between 45 to 50 minutes. I focus on providing meaningful support without keeping you in therapy longer than necessary.

Yes. Coming in with your significant other is not only encouraged in couples counseling in California. In certain treatments, I might ask you to come in with your significant other. This is more so in the treatment of PTSD and anger management.

It is normal to feel embarrassed or hesitant at the beginning of therapy. I strive to create a safe, judgement-free environment where you feel accepted and supported as we work together toward healing and growth.

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