Growth Thru Change
Trauma Therapy in Philadelphia
Trauma therapy in Center City, Philadelphia. Virtual trauma therapy sessions are available across Pennsylvania and New Jersey
Our expert trauma therapists in Philadelphia are here to help you live with resilience.

Let go of the past and move forward

Move from surviving to thriving

Restore safety & peace within yourself
It shouldn’t be so hard to live in the present.
Past trauma can leave you feeling stuck, uncertain, and unsafe, as if you’re trapped in patterns of fear and doubt that are hard to shake. The weight of unresolved pain can cloud your sense of self and make it difficult to live fully in the present, as the past keeps holding on, influencing your thoughts and actions. Therapy offers a safe space to confront and process these wounds, helping you break through the barriers that hold you back and begin healing from the inside out.
At Growth thru Change, we provide trauma therapy to help you break free from the grip of trauma, empowering you to let go of the past, and thrive in the present.
I want to feel whole again.
Living with trauma has left you feeling fragmented, like something vital is missing. It’s frustrating to long for wholeness, but the weight of past experiences keeps you trapped in a cycle of emptiness. You just want to feel complete again, but the path to that peace seems unclear and out of reach, clouded by the lingering effects of your trauma.
At Growth thru Change, we provide trauma therapy to help you understand the past so you can move forward feeling whole.
Trauma Therapy in Philadelphia
Trauma Therapy Can Help You With:
- Feeling numb or disconnected from yourself and the world
- Managing overwhelming waves of anxiety, sadness, or anger
- Breaking free from memories that keep you stuck in the past
- Letting go of the need to stay in survival mode and learning to truly thrive
- Healing shame, guilt, or self-blame that impacts self-worth
- Rebuilding trust in others after past betrayals or hurt
- Overcoming feelings of isolation and disconnection
- Regaining a sense of control and empowerment in your life
- Reducing constant feelings of fear
trauma Therapy in Philadelphia
What Is Trauma Therapy?
Trauma therapy is a specialized approach designed to help individuals heal from distressing experiences that impact their emotional, mental, or physical well-being. It addresses a range of challenges, including complex and childhood experiences, emotional abuse, sexual violence, PTSD, attachment issues, and relational struggles.
By providing a safe space for healing, trauma therapy empowers you to process your experiences, rebuild a sense of safety, and move forward with resilience.
Trauma Therapy Is Helpful In Treating:
- Acute trauma
- Attachment issues
- Childhood trauma
- Complex trauma
- Emotional abuse
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Relational trauma & narcissistic abuse
- Sexual abuse
Trauma Therapy in Philadelphia
Types Of Therapies Used For Treating Trauma in Philadelphia
Psychodynamic Therapy
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)
DBT helps clients manage intense emotions and improve relationships by teaching mindfulness, distress tolerance, and emotional regulation skills.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR uses bilateral stimulation to help clients reprocess traumatic memories, reduce their emotional charge, and enable healthier emotional responses.
trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP)
KAP combines traditional psychotherapy with ketamine medicine to help process trauma, particularly in cases where conventional treatments haven’t provided complete healing. This innovative approach can help create a unique state of consciousness where individuals can safely explore traumatic memories with less emotional overwhelm, potentially leading to breakthrough insights and healing. The treatment may help reduce the emotional charge of traumatic memories while supporting the development of new, healthier neural pathways. This treatment is offered through our sister organization, The Ko-Op, where trained clinicians provide safe, supervised sessions tailored to individual needs.
Get Started Today With Trauma Therapy in Philadelphia
Helping you heal from the past so you can reclaim your sense of safety, agency, and joy in life. Visit us for trama therapy in Philadelphia or online in Pennsylvania and New Jersey
Dr. Sophia Brandstetter
PsyD, LCSW
Founder & Clinical Director
about Us | Therapy in Philadelphia
Why Work With
Growth thru Change
“It takes courage to grow up and become who you really are.” - E.E. Cummings,
Change is hard. Doing it on your own is even harder. Our mission is to get to the root of the problem that is keeping you from creating a change that allows you to live fully as you.
We provide expert support to help you heal and grow and give you the tools you need to move forward with confidence and a belief in yourself that will carry you through your days.
Our diverse team of expert clinicians offers personalized care backed by extensive experience. We prioritize ongoing professional growth to ensure our therapists provide evidence-based support tailored to your needs.
Specializing in DBT, EMDR, and psychodynamic therapy, we help clients regain confidence, improve relationships, and approach life’s challenges with resilience and clarity.
We support your growth, through change.
Supporting your mental health journey with expert care.

Client-centered care
We tailor our therapeutic approach to meet your specific needs & we create a space where you’ll feel understood & empowered.

Empowerment through insight
We help you understand your thoughts, emotions, & behaviors, giving you the framework to create meaningful, lasting change.

Holistic healing
We address psychological, social, emotional, & relational factors, supporting holistic healing and helping you live life on your terms.
Trauma THERAPists IN Philadelphia
Match With A Trauma Therapist
Our team of skilled trauma-informed therapists will work with you to support your trauma treatment needs. Visit our therapist page to learn more about each team member. In-person trauma therapy in Center City, Philadelphia with online appointments across Pennsylvania and New Jersey
Our Approach | Therapy in Philadelphia
How Trauma Therapy At Growth thru Change Works
1. Build Trust & Safety
We prioritize creating a safe, supportive space where you feel heard and understood. We do not rush into addressing traumatic events until we’ve established a trusting relationship and you feel ready.
2. Pace The Work
3. Collaborate
trauma THERAPY IN Philadelphia
Frequently Asked Questions About Trauma Therapy
Will therapy help me heal from my trauma?
Absolutely. Trauma healing can take time, but therapy offers a space to process, build coping skills, and find peace. With approaches like trauma-focused therapy, EMDR, and psychodynamic therapy, we work at a pace that feels safe for you. Healing may take time, but you don’t have to do it alone—we’re here to support you.
How can I be sure that I’m ready to talk about my trauma?
It’s completely normal to feel unsure or hesitant about addressing your trauma. We always prioritize creating a safe space where you feel comfortable and supported, and we will never push you into discussing anything you’re not ready to. We take the time to build a strong therapeutic relationship first, ensuring that you feel safe and prepared before any trauma-focused work begins. Healing happens at your pace.
Can trauma affect my relationships with others?
I don’t remember everything about my trauma. Does that mean I can’t heal?
How will I know when I’ve healed from my trauma?
How long will I be in trauma therapy for?
Is ketamine for trauma an option when traditional therapy hasn't been enough?
While traditional trauma therapy works well for many people, some individuals may benefit from additional treatment options when conventional approaches haven’t provided complete relief. Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) for trauma is offered through our sister organization, The Ko-Op, as an innovative approach for processing trauma. KAP combines the therapeutic effects of ketamine with professional psychotherapy to help create transformational change. This treatment can be particularly beneficial for those struggling with complex trauma or PTSD that hasn’t fully responded to traditional treatments. If you’re interested in learning more about ketamine for trauma, we encourage you to visit The Ko-Op for detailed information about their KAP services.
Trauma Therapy in Philadelphia
Possible Outcomes From Trauma Therapy
With consistent use of the tools and strategies from trauma therapy, you will gradually experience the following benefits:
- Understand your triggers and patterns
- Set boundaries that protect your well-being & relationships
- Build a kinder, more peaceful relationship with yourself
- Manage emotions better & bounce back from setbacks
- Experience less fatigue, insomnia, & chronic pain
- Feel more motivated & energized for daily activities
- Enjoy improved sleep & relaxation.
- Move forward with strength, clarity, & optimism
A trusted name in healing journeys
Stories from Our Clients
Posted on Google claire raabTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Growth Thru Change in Philadelphia is an exceptional mental health practice that truly shines. They offer a comprehensive range of services, from individual and couples therapy to specialized support for anxiety, depression, and trauma. Their expertise extends to navigating grief and loss, strengthening relationships, building self-esteem, managing stress, and successfully transitioning through life's challenges. If you're seeking compassionate, skilled therapists in Philadelphia, Growth Thru Change is an outstanding choice."Posted on Google Andy SuttonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I've known Sophia professionally for over a month now, and I can attest that she is very passionate about Growth Thru Change offering high-quality mental health care. She's determined to have her clinicians provide only the best for their clients. I highly recommend Growth Thru Change for anyone in Pennsylvania looking for help with their mental health!Posted on Google Jodi WarrenTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Growth Thru Change offers a compassionate and supportive environment that made me feel comfortable from the start. With my therapist I developed a deeper understanding of myself. I’m truly grateful for the positive changes I’ve experienced since starting therapy here.Posted on Google Rina TeichTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Growth thru change has really helped me clear my mind and learn how to navigate life with better tools. I stress a lot less knowing i have someone to talk to about life’s issues who is experienced and calming. Thank you!Posted on Google Rochelle WizmurTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I am so grateful for Dr. Sophia and Growth Thru Change. Dr. Sophia is very attentive, a great listener, and offers really great strategies and solutions for overcoming difficult life situations. Dr. Sophia always makes me feel calm and cared for. She treats me as she would treat her own family member. I am lucky to have found an amazing therapist like Dr. Sophia.Posted on Google Karen SmithTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Awesome practice. Talented, engaged therapists. They have all my professional respect.Posted on Google Elizabeth EarnshawTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Sophia is a wonderful therapist. She is kind, compassionate, and highly ethical in the work she does. I am always confident to refer to her and her team :)Posted on Google Susan RovelloTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. As a a psychotherapist myself I know what to look for when seeking help. As a recipient of services I have to say that I could not have received more professional and compassionate care. The degree of expertise and the careful attention to comfort and safety are unparalleled. I highly recommend!!
therapy in Philadelphia
Get Started With Growth thru Change in Philadelphia
If you’re ready to begin therapy at Growth thru Change, you can reach out using our contact form. If you’d prefer to skip this step and get started right away, simply click the button below to schedule a free consultation with the clinician of your choice.
To book an appointment or a free consultation with one of our therapists, click the button below.
Center City
1625 South Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146
East Falls
3580 W Indian Queen Lane, Philadelphia, PA 19129
Virtual therapy sessions are available across Pennsylvania and New Jersey




