Trauma & PTSD Treatment for LGBTQIA+ Individuals
You Deserve to Heal, On Your Terms
If you’re carrying the effects of trauma, whether from childhood, identity-based experiences, or recent events, you’re not alone. Chroma Wellness Center offers expert, trauma-informed treatment specifically for the LGBTQIA+ community. Our affirming team helps you process trauma safely, without pressure, and with deep respect for your identity.
What Is Trauma?
Trauma is a response to overwhelming stress or harm that leaves a lasting emotional, psychological, or physical impact. For LGBTQIA+ people, trauma often stems from both personal experiences and systemic harm.
Examples include:
- Physical, emotional, or sexual abuse
- Discrimination, bullying, or hate-based violence
- Family rejection
- Medical trauma or body dysphoria
- Sudden loss or crisis
Trauma isn’t a sign of weakness, it’s a survival response. Our job is to support your healing, not judge your pain.
Did You Know?
LGBTQ+ individuals are nearly four times more likely to experience violent assault, including rape, robbery, and physical attacks, compared to their cisgender, heterosexual peers.
According to the National Center for PTSD, up to 48% of lesbian, gay, and bisexual people and 42% of transgender and gender-diverse individuals meet the criteria for PTSD, compared to just 4.7% in the general population.
These disparities stem not only from traumatic events, but also from chronic minority stress, including identity concealment, internalized stigma, and discrimination.
Signs of PTSD or Trauma Response
- Nightmares or flashbacks
- Avoidance of people, places, or memories
- Emotional numbness or detachment
- Hypervigilance, irritability, or panic
- Sleep difficulties or physical pain
These are common and valid responses to trauma. With the right tools, they can improve.
Our Trauma-Informed LGBTQIA+ Mental Health Support
At Chroma, your safety, consent, and comfort guide every step. We tailor care based on your goals and work at your pace.
Core Services Include:
- EMDR for LGBTQIA+ Clients: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing to reduce trauma distress.
- Somatic Therapy & Acupuncture: Body-based healing that helps regulate the nervous system, release stored tension, and restore balance through mindful movement and targeted acupuncture techniques.
- Individual Therapy: With licensed LGBTQIA+ therapists experienced in trauma and identity work.
- Group Therapy: Trauma-informed LGBTQIA+ spaces for connection and shared healing.
- Mindfulness & Expressive Healing: Including yoga, meditation, creative expression, energy work, and Reiki.
Respecting Identity and Consent
Many clients come to Chroma after feeling dismissed or retraumatized elsewhere. Here, your identity is seen and your boundaries honored. You never have to talk about trauma before you’re ready, and you’ll never be pushed to disclose more than you want to.
“We collaborate on care plans that align with your comfort and growth,” says Dmitra Danilenko-Dixon, MA, LPC, NCC, Clinical Director. “We’ve built a space where LGBTQIA+ people don’t have to explain their identity before getting help. That’s our baseline, not the goal.”
Flexible Levels of LGBTQIA+ PTSD Treatment
- Weekly trauma therapy and EMDR sessions
- Structured programs through IOP and PHP
- Integrated psychiatry for anxiety, depression, or sleep issues
- Coordination with affirming recovery housing, if needed
Our trauma care supports clients whether they’re new to therapy or seeking deeper trauma processing in a structured setting.
Why Choose Chroma Wellness?
- LGBTQIA+ exclusive environment in Denver
- Trauma and PTSD specialists with identity-informed expertise
- Non-coercive, consent-based therapeutic model
- EMDR, somatic therapy, and holistic healing combined with evidence-based care
- A place where you are believed, affirmed, and supported
FAQs
What is LGBTQIA+ trauma-informed care?
It’s an approach to therapy that understands how trauma and identity are connected. It prioritizes safety, consent, and cultural competence specific to LGBTQIA+ individuals.
Do I have to talk about my trauma right away?
No. We follow your lead. You set the pace for sharing, and we build trust before exploring painful experiences.
How does EMDR work?
EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (like eye movements or tapping) to help your brain reprocess traumatic memories, reducing distress and emotional reactivity.
Is your staff LGBTQIA+ affirming?
Yes. Our therapists and team members are trained in LGBTQIA+ cultural competence, and many have lived experience within the community.
What if I’m already in therapy elsewhere?
We’re happy to coordinate care. Some clients come to Chroma for trauma-specific services like EMDR or somatic therapy in addition to existing support.
Take the First Step Toward Relief
You don’t have to keep carrying it alone. If trauma or PTSD symptoms are keeping you stuck, we’re here to help you move forward with clarity and care.
Call 720-410-5569 or fill out our confidential consultation form today.
Your story matters. Healing starts when you’re ready, and we’ll be here when that time comes.