BROOKE POMERANTZ, LCSW | CALIFORNIA THERAPY & THERAPY IN OAKLAND
Trauma Therapy in OaklandTrauma is an experience so overwhelming to one’s senses that it remains “stuck”. I offer a safe, contained space to gently process what was too much at the time, so it can live in the past without overwhelming your present.
How Untreated Trauma Impacts Your Life
When something overwhelming happens so intense that your mind and body can’t fully process it, it can leave a mark. That experience can get “stuck,” replaying itself in the present, even if it happened years ago. You might know it’s in the past, but it still feels close, still shapes how you live now in distressing and disruptive ways.
In trauma therapy, we work together to gently process those overwhelming experiences in a way that feels safe, contained, and at your pace. Over time, the memories can move into the past where they belong. While still part of your story, they no longer need to control your day-to-day life. Sometimes, as part of that work, we can make meaning from the traumatic experiences you have navigated.
How You Might Know Trauma Is Still Affecting You
Nightmares or flashbacks
Feeling on edge (hypervigilance) or shut down (hypoarousal)
Avoiding certain places, situations, or people
Intrusive thoughts or images you can’t seem to shake
Feeling stuck in relationships or unable to connect the way you want
Trauma vs. PTSD
PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) is a specific diagnosis in the DSM-5 with a defined list of symptoms you must meet to receive that label.
Trauma, more broadly, simply means an experience—or a series of them—that was so distressing and overwhelming that it never got fully processed. This can include:
- Physical, sexual, emotional, or psychological abuse
- Relational or developmental trauma
- Disasters, accidents, or losses
- Being the victim of a crime
- War or political violence
- Oppression, discrimination, & various forms systemic injustice
- Immigration-related trauma
You don’t need a PTSD diagnosis to benefit from trauma therapy.
How I Work with Trauma
1) Together, we identify parts of your life that feel neglected, stuck, or are causing you pain as a result of your trauma.
2) We take time to build trust, going at your pace and slowing down anytime things feel too overwhelming.
3) We take time to build trust, go at your pace and slow down if things feel too overwhelming.
4) I support you in setting boundaries or making changes that support your mental health, well-being and self-compassion.
5) If and when it is helpful, I collaborate with other trauma specialists, such as EMDR, IFS or DBT therapists, to ensure you have the right combination of support.
What to Expect in Our First Sessions
Explore Your History
In our first four sessions, I’ll focus on really getting to know you—your story, your relationships, and what’s bringing you in.
We’ll talk about your stressors, how you’re coping, and how your current situation is impacting your sense of self and wellbeing.
Set Goals
By our fifth session, we’ll begin identifying goals together.
I’ll offer some reflections based on what I’ve learned, but the direction we go will be shaped by your input and needs. And as we move forward, we’ll keep checking in and adjusting as needed.
Review & Iterate
This early work lays the foundation for our trauma therapy.
As we move forward, we’ll continue to check in and adjust the approach – helping you restore energy, reconnect with yourself, and build a more sustainable rhythm in your life.
About Me
I’m Brooke Pomerantz, a licensed therapist in Oakland, working with clients across California, New York, and Indiana. My approach to trauma therapy is grounded in empathy, curiosity, and respect for your unique process. Whether you’re facing one overwhelming event or a lifetime of difficult experiences, I’m here to help you explore it in a way that honors both your resilience and your vulnerability.
Brooke Pomerantz
Brooke Pomerantz is a compassionate and experienced licensed clinical social worker dedicated to providing supportive therapy services in Oakland and through teletherapy across California. With a focus on creating a safe and nurturing environment, Brooke helps clients navigate life’s challenges, fostering growth and healing through personalized therapeutic approaches.