Top-Rated Trauma Therapy | Asheville, NC

Over two decades of clinical experience
Advanced training in EMDR, IFS, and EFT for trauma recovery
Offering both online sessions and in-person walk-and-talk therapy in Asheville
Trauma-informed approach for deep, lasting healing
LGBTQIA+ affirming and supportive of diverse lifestyles
Trauma intensives available for accelerated healing

Meet your Asheville trauma therapist

Sarah J. Thompson, LCMHC, LPC

I specialize in helping people heal from trauma, process difficult memories, and break free from patterns that no longer serve them. My approach blends evidence-based techniques with genuine compassion, creating a safe space for you to explore, process, and transform.

My journey began with a deep interest in how individual experiences connect to broader social structures. This led me to earn my Bachelor's in Sociology from Northeastern University, followed by hands-on experience as a Direct Care Counselor in residential and school settings. I deepened my expertise with a Master's in Counseling from Winthrop University and a postgraduate certificate in marriage and family therapy from the Denver Family Institute.

In our work together, I bring a methodical yet warm approach. I'm laid-back and genuine, but there's always a purpose behind what we're doing—we're not just winging it. I believe in addressing the root causes of trauma vs. simply managing symptoms, allowing for deeper and more sustainable healing.

Learn more about me

My approach to trauma therapy

I understand that trauma affects every aspect of your life—your relationships, how you see yourself, and how you move through the world. That's why I take a whole-person approach to trauma healing, addressing not just the traumatic memories themselves, but also their impact on your current life.

My therapeutic style combines structure with authenticity. I'm transparent, down-to-earth, and not afraid to go deep with you into difficult emotions and experiences. I bring my genuine self to our sessions while maintaining professional boundaries that keep our work effective and focused.

At the core of my practice are three powerful modalities for trauma healing. I adapt these approaches to fit your unique needs, creating a personalized path to healing that honors your experiences and goals.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) helps your brain process traumatic memories in a way that reduces their emotional charge. Through bilateral stimulation and guided processing, we can help your nervous system release stored trauma.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) recognizes that we all have different "parts" within us—some protective, some wounded, some carrying our inherent resources. By accessing and healing these parts, we can address trauma at its source.
Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) helps identify and transform emotional patterns that keep you stuck. By reconnecting with your authentic emotions and needs, you can develop new ways of relating to yourself and others.

How to get started

Step 1: Reach out

Take the first step by contacting me via phone, email, or the simple form on this website. We'll arrange a brief consultation call to discuss your situation and see if we're a good fit.

Step 2: Initial conversation

During our consultation, we'll talk about what brings you to therapy and answer any questions you might have. If we decide to work together, we'll schedule your first session.

Step 3: Creating healing plan

In our first full session, we'll explore your history, current challenges, and goals for therapy. Together, we'll develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.

Step 4: Begin your healing journey

With a clear understanding of where you are and where you want to go, we'll start the practical work of therapy. We'll move at a pace that feels safe for you, building skills and processing experiences that lead to lasting transformation.

Common reasons why people seek trauma therapy

Childhood trauma

Early experiences shape our beliefs about ourselves and the world in profound ways. Whether you experienced neglect, abuse, or other adverse childhood experiences, therapy can help you process these adverse life experiences and develop new, healthier patterns of thinking and relating.

Single traumatic events

Car accidents, assaults, natural disasters, or witnessing something disturbing can all create lasting impacts on your nervous system. Trauma therapy provides specialized techniques to help your brain and body process these experiences, reducing flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety.

Relationship trauma

Betrayal, emotional abuse, or the painful ending of significant relationships can create deep wounds. Through trauma-informed therapy, you can heal from relationship injuries, understand patterns that may have led to harmful situations, and develop the capacity for healthier connections.

Grief and loss

When grief becomes complicated or overwhelming, trauma-focused approaches can help process the pain of loss. Therapy provides a safe container for exploring these difficult emotions and finding a path forward while honoring what you've lost.

Generational and cultural trauma

Trauma that affects entire communities or is passed down through families requires specialized understanding. My approach to therapy acknowledges the broader contexts of complex trauma while supporting your individual healing process.

FAQs about trauma treatment

How do I know if EMDR is right for me?

EMDR might be right for you if you're experiencing emotional distress that feels bigger than the current situation, finding yourself highly reactive to certain triggers, or holding beliefs about yourself that you intellectually know aren't true. While EMDR is particularly helpful for trauma recovery, you don't need to have experienced a major traumatic event to benefit—it can help with anxiety, relationship patterns, life transitions, or any emotional pain where you feel blocked from moving forward. The best way to determine if EMDR is a good fit is to schedule a free phone consultation with me. We'll discuss your specific situation and explore whether this approach aligns with your needs and goals.
Is EMDR usually covered by insurance?

Yes, EMDR therapy is usually covered by insurance. As an out-of-network provider, I'm happy to provide you with detailed documentation and superbills so you can request reimbursement from your insurance provider. I recommend checking with your insurance company about their specific out-of-network mental health benefits and EMDR coverage.

Start trauma treatment in Asheville, NC today

Ready to take the first step toward healing? I'm here to support you. Whether you're feeling weighed down by painful memories from childhood, experiencing emotional challenges from recent events, or simply want to support your overall well-being, therapy can give you both the practical tools and deep healing you need to thrive.

Contact me today to schedule your free consultation and see if we're a good fit for working together. I look forward to connecting with you.

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