Trauma treatment for kids, teens, and adults

Trauma refers to the experience and psychological aftermath of a distressing event; PTSD is the specific clinical diagnosis that may develop when trauma symptoms persist for more than a month, span all four DSM-5 symptom clusters, and significantly impair functioning. Not everyone who experiences trauma develops PTSD — but trauma always warrants attention, regardless of whether it meets the diagnostic threshold.

PTSD can develop after direct exposure to a traumatic event, witnessing one, or learning that a traumatic event happened to someone close. Risk factors include prior trauma exposure (especially in childhood), lack of social support after the event, the severity and duration of the trauma, and individual biological and psychological factors. Not all of these are within a person's control — PTSD is not a sign of weakness or insufficient resilience.

Yes. Children may express trauma through regression, repetitive play re-enacting the event, or physical complaints without an apparent medical cause. Teenagers often present with behavioral changes — including aggression, withdrawal, or risk-taking — rather than the intrusive symptoms more typical in adults. Adults are more likely to recognize and report their symptoms directly, though denial and avoidance are common across all age groups.

Yes. Trauma affects the nervous system, not just the mind. Physical symptoms associated with trauma include chronic pain, gastrointestinal problems, sleep disturbances, headaches, and heightened sensitivity to physical sensations. Hypervigilance — a sustained state of physiological alertness — can have significant long-term effects on the body if left untreated. If you're unsure whether your physical symptoms are related to trauma, Charlie Health's Clinical Team can help.

Yes. Multiple evidence-based treatments — including TF-CBT and DBT — have strong research support for trauma and PTSD. With appropriate, trauma-specialized care, significant symptom reduction and functional recovery are achievable for most people. Early intervention improves outcomes, but it is never too late to seek treatment.

Any time trauma symptoms are interfering with daily life, relationships, work, or school, professional support is warranted. Seeking help before a formal PTSD diagnosis is appropriate — a clinician can assess whether symptoms meet diagnostic criteria and recommend a level of care. If symptoms include self-harm, substance use, or suicidal thoughts, prompt evaluation is especially important.

Several evidence-based therapies are effective for treating trauma.

• Trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT) combines cognitive restructuring with gradual, supported exposure to trauma-related thoughts and memories, helping people process what happened, challenge distorted beliefs, and build coping skills.
• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is particularly effective for trauma survivors who struggle with emotional dysregulation, self-harm, or impulsive behavior — patterns common in complex or childhood trauma. DBT teaches practical skills in mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness.

Charlie Health's Clinical Team works with each client to determine the right combination of treatment options for their specific needs.

Yes. Military service can involve exposure to combat, loss, and other traumatic experiences that require specialized, trauma-informed care. Charlie Health’s Clinical Team has experience working with the unique challenges military trauma presents, including the cultural factors that can make it difficult to seek help. We are in-network with TRICARE.

At Charlie Health, trauma groups are organized by age and gender identity to create a safe, focused environment where clients can connect with peers who share similar experiences. We offer female cohorts for adults and teens, and male cohorts for adults.

An Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) is a level of behavioral healthcare for people who need more support than traditional weekly therapy but don't require inpatient care. The goal is to help people manage mental health and substance use challenges while maintaining their daily routines and responsibilities. Our IOP is delivered to clients directly at home through a virtual platform. Each program runs 9–12 weeks and includes 10+ hours of care per week. That time is split across individual therapy and group sessions, with family therapy and psychiatry available when clinically indicated. Scheduling is flexible, with morning, afternoon, and evening options to fit around school, work, and other commitments.

Charlie Health is in-network with more than 600 insurance plans nationwide, including most major commercial plans, TRICARE, and Medicaid in select states. Most clients (60%) pay $0 out-of-pocket. To verify coverage, contact the Admissions Team directly or fill out the online intake form.