What is trauma therapy?
Trauma therapy helps people work through the lasting effects of events such as abuse, assault, an accident, or years of living with fear. Therapists use methods that range from talk-based approaches to body-based work and EMDR.
For PTSD, the American Psychological Association's guideline lists cognitive behavioural therapy, cognitive processing therapy and prolonged exposure among its recommended treatments. It names EMDR and narrative exposure therapy as conditional options.
A bio lists a therapist's training but cannot tell you how they sound when you talk about something painful. First Session profiles include a short intro video for that reason, and you can book a free 15-minute consultation from the profile.
What to know about trauma therapy in Winnipeg
Online and in-person
Winnipeg residents can see a therapist in person or online, and the listings above show who offers which. Therapists in the online section are based outside Manitoba and insured to provide care to Manitoba clients.
Trauma work can bring up strong reactions during or after a session. If you meet online, choose a private room at home and plan a few quiet minutes afterward.
Credentials in Manitoba
Manitoba regulates social workers and psychologists. The Manitoba College of Social Workers says only people with a current certificate of practice may use the titles "social worker" or "registered social worker" (RSW).
The Psychologists Registration Act reserves the title "psychologist" for people registered with the Psychological Association of Manitoba. Counselling therapy and psychotherapy are not regulated in Manitoba, according to the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association.
Cost and insurance
Fees depend on the designation. One Winnipeg clinical psychologist lists $240 for a 50-minute session as of January 1, 2026, and one registered social worker lists $160 for an hour.
Manitoba Health does not cover private-practice therapy, according to a Winnipeg social worker's rates page. Fees appear on each First Session profile before you book, and you receive a receipt to send to your plan.
Free trauma counselling in Winnipeg
Klinic Community Health offers free counselling and wellness programs for trauma, suicide loss and intimate partner violence. Its counselling intake line is 204-784-4059.
How to choose a trauma therapist in Winnipeg
1Pick the method you want to try
Ask which trauma methods the therapist uses, such as cognitive processing therapy, prolonged exposure, EMDR or somatic work. Use the filters to narrow by approach, then read each bio for the level of training.
2Ask for specific training
A bio can list trauma as a focus area without formal training behind it. Ask which courses and supervised practice the therapist completed in the method you are considering, and how long they have used it.
3Watch the intro video
The video shows pace, tone and warmth. If you plan to describe painful events, notice whether the therapist's speaking pace feels steady to you.
4Use the free consultation to ask about pacing
In the free 15-minute consultation, ask when sessions begin to cover the event itself. Ask what the therapist does if a session feels like too much.
5Match the designation to your plan
Some plans name the designations they cover. The designation shows on each profile, so you can compare it with your plan booklet before you book.
Looking for something more specific?
Filter by specialty in Winnipeg
Credentials and coverage in Winnipeg
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Helpful reading
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