Individual therapy
Individual Trauma Therapy for Adults
Individual trauma therapy is one-to-one psychotherapy for adults affected by childhood trauma, abuse, and neglect. In private, structured sessions, the work focuses on understanding how early experiences shape present emotions and patterns, and on developing practical tools for change. You can learn more and request a consultation through the contact page or by phone.
The service
What is individual trauma therapy?
Individual trauma therapy is a private, one-to-one therapy format in which an adult works directly with Dr. Drake to understand and address the effects of childhood trauma, abuse, and neglect. It is an active, interactive, structured, and goal-oriented process, not open-ended talk alone.
Sessions typically focus on three things: understanding how past experiences shaped your beliefs, emotions, and coping; recognizing patterns that repeat in present life and relationships; and building healthier strategies that support greater independence.
A private, focused space
One-to-one attention, entirely about your situation and goals.
Clear direction
Agreed goals and a structured plan, reviewed as the work progresses.
Practical tools
Coping strategies and skills you can practice between sessions.
Your pace, your agency
You decide how much to share. Therapy is a collaboration, never pressure.
Who it may help
Who may benefit from individual therapy?
Adults often seek individual therapy when they notice the fingerprints of childhood in their present lives. People commonly come to this work with:
- A history of physical, sexual, or emotional abuse in childhood
- Experiences of childhood trauma or neglect that still affect daily life
- Recurring relationship, trust, or intimacy difficulties
- Anxiety, low mood, or emotional distress connected to past experiences
- Symptoms consistent with PTSD or complex PTSD, where appropriate to the clinician’s scope of practice
- A sense of being stuck in old patterns, despite effort and insight
This list is descriptive, not diagnostic. Whether individual therapy is the right choice depends on each person's situation, and suitability is assessed individually during the consultation.
What to expect
What happens in an individual session?
Sessions are collaborative and active. Rather than a passive hour, therapy is a working conversation with a clear direction: understanding, pattern recognition, and practical skill-building. You are never expected to relive or detail painful history in ways that feel unsafe. The therapist participates actively, offers honest feedback, and helps you connect the work in session to your life between sessions.
Compare formats
How does individual therapy differ from group therapy?
Individual therapy offers complete privacy and one-to-one focus, which suits deep personal work and sensitive topics. Group therapy brings the added benefit of shared experience: hearing others with similar histories, reducing isolation and shame, and practicing connection. Some clients use both at different times. Suitability for each format is discussed during your consultation.
Getting started
How do I begin individual therapy?
Reach out through the contact page or by calling (818) 516-3013. You will be offered a consultation to ask questions about the approach, fees, and availability. If individual therapy seems like a good fit, a first appointment is scheduled. Requesting a consultation does not guarantee acceptance into treatment.
Related reading: childhood trauma therapy, inner child work, and PTSD and complex PTSD support.
Common questions
Individual therapy, in short
How much does individual therapy cost?
Individual therapy is $150 to $200 per session. Please confirm current rates, session length, and availability when you inquire.
Is virtual therapy available for individual sessions?
Yes. Individual therapy is offered virtually to California residents. Telehealth eligibility is confirmed during your consultation. Read more about virtual therapy in California.
Do I have to talk about painful details in therapy?
No. Therapy moves at your pace, and you are never required to disclose more than feels safe. The focus is on understanding patterns and building tools, not on retelling painful history in detail.
Begin with a conversation
Begin with a consultation
Learn how individual therapy works, ask about fees and availability, and decide without pressure whether this is the right fit. Virtual therapy is available to California residents.