At Wholesome Psychology, we provide compassionate, evidence-based trauma therapy in Edmonton and St. Albert. Our mission is to help individuals navigate the lasting effects of trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with care, expertise, and trust. Whether you're facing anxiety, flashbacks, or a disconnection from your sense of self, our experienced therapists are here to guide you through healing—at your pace, in your way.

What is Trauma?

Trauma is a deeply distressing or disturbing experience that overwhelms an individual’s ability to cope. It’s not limited to major catastrophes or singular events; even chronic stress, childhood neglect, or emotionally abusive relationships can create trauma. At its core, trauma disrupts your nervous system and changes how you view yourself, others, and the world.

Many people in Edmonton and St. Albert silently carry the weight of past trauma without knowing that the symptoms they experience—such as panic attacks, emotional numbness, hypervigilance, or difficulty maintaining relationships—are trauma responses. At Wholesome Psychology, our trauma-informed therapists recognize these patterns and work with you to restore a sense of safety, agency, and connection.

Understanding PTSD

PTSD, or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, is a mental health condition that can arise after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. While not everyone who experiences trauma will develop PTSD, for those who do, the impact can be long-lasting and deeply disruptive.

Common symptoms of PTSD include:

• Flashbacks or intrusive memories
• Nightmares or sleep disturbances
• Avoidance of reminders of the trauma
• Emotional numbness or detachment
• Heightened anxiety and irritability
• Difficulty concentrating or memory lapses

Our therapists in St. Albert and Edmonton specialize in working with PTSD, offering personalized treatment plans that promote both short-term relief and long-term recovery.

How Trauma Affects the Brain and Body

Trauma is stored in both the brain and the body. The amygdala becomes hyperactive, the prefrontal cortex may go offline, and the hippocampus—which helps us place memories in time—can shrink. These changes explain why trauma survivors might feel like they’re constantly “on edge” or living in the past.

Physical symptoms are also common and may include:

• Chronic pain or tension
• Nausea or gastrointestinal issues
• Fatigue or insomnia
• Racing heartbeat or shallow breathing

At Wholesome Psychology, we provide a holistic approach that considers how trauma lives in the body. Our techniques support both mental and physical restoration.

Our Approach to Trauma Therapy

Healing from trauma is not a one-size-fits-all process. We believe in meeting each client where they are, honoring your story while empowering you to build a future aligned with your values. Some of the evidence-based methods we use include:

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

CBT is highly effective for identifying and transforming the negative thoughts and beliefs that sustain trauma responses. By restructuring your thinking patterns, we can reduce anxiety, shame, and helplessness.

Exposure Therapy

For clients with PTSD, exposure therapy gently and gradually helps you face traumatic memories in a safe, controlled way. This reduces their power over your daily life and helps your brain reprocess them.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)

While not appropriate for everyone, EMDR is a powerful tool that facilitates the processing of traumatic memories by using bilateral stimulation. Ask your therapist if EMDR is right for you.

Talk Therapy and Narrative Therapy

Sometimes, simply having space to tell your story—to be seen and heard without judgment—is healing in itself. We provide a warm, inclusive, and validating environment where you can reconnect with your identity and purpose.

Local Support, Community Care

We’re proud to serve our neighbours in Edmonton and St. Albert. Our therapists understand the local landscape, whether that’s the unique stressors of urban life, cultural expectations, or access to community resources. We’re here to help you build a future rooted in resilience, belonging, and hope.

If you're looking for other areas of support, you might find our team of psychologists or fees and insurance information useful.

What to Expect in Your First Session

We know that starting therapy can be intimidating. During your first appointment, your therapist will spend time getting to know you, understanding your concerns, and helping you clarify what you want to achieve. We’ll introduce coping strategies right away so you feel supported from day one.

Your therapist will collaboratively create a plan tailored to your needs, whether that involves weekly sessions, skill-building, or integrating practices like mindfulness or somatic work.

Why Wholesome Psychology?

• Client-Centered: We prioritize your goals, values, and autonomy.
• Experienced Therapists: Our trauma-informed clinicians are trained in multiple therapeutic approaches.
• Safe & Inclusive Space: We welcome individuals of all identities and backgrounds.
• Flexible Options: In-person sessions in Edmonton and St. Albert, or online therapy throughout Alberta.

Taking the First Step

You don’t have to face trauma or PTSD alone. At Wholesome Psychology, we offer a discounted initial consultation so you can explore therapy without pressure. If we’re not the right fit, we’re happy to recommend other local resources that might better serve your needs.

Recovery is possible. With the right support, your past does not have to define your future. Let’s begin the journey—together.

Contact us today to book your first session in Edmonton or St. Albert.