About Trauma-Informed Stabilization Treatment (TIST)

TIST is a structured, phase-based approach to trauma therapy that prioritizes building safety and stability before addressing traumatic memories.

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Trauma-Informed Stabilization Treatment (TIST) is a therapeutic approach designed to help individuals who have experienced trauma develop a strong foundation of emotional regulation and safety. Unlike approaches that focus immediately on processing traumatic memories, TIST recognizes that many people benefit from first building internal resources and stability skills. This phased method may be particularly helpful for those who feel overwhelmed by their trauma responses or who have found other approaches too intense.

TIST therapists guide clients through carefully sequenced phases, beginning with stabilization techniques that often include grounding exercises, emotional regulation strategies, and the development of internal safety. This foundation-first approach means that when clients eventually address traumatic material, they have already developed tools to manage difficult emotions. Our growing network of Canadian therapists includes practitioners trained in TIST and related trauma-informed approaches. You might also explore similar modalities such as EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, or Internal Family Systems therapy.

Justin Leung

Registered Psychotherapist
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Offers In-Person (Guelph, ON)
Virtual Sessions in ON.
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Justin Leung

Justin Leung

Registered Psychotherapist
He/Him
$150/session
Trauma, Dissociation, Complex Trauma (CPTSD), Abuse (Sexual/Physical/Verbal), ADHD, Anger, Anxiety and Stress Management Skills, Attachment trauma, Blocks in Connecting with Self and Others, Burnout, Childhood trauma, Depression, Confidence, Existential questions, Emotional Numbness, Emotional regulation, Identity and Self-Exploration, Masculinity, Intergenerational trauma, Break-up recovery, PTSD, Self Destructive Behaviour, Spirituality, Self-Criticism, Trauma processing
Trauma, Dissociation, Complex Trauma (CPTSD), Abuse (Sexual/Physical/Verbal), ADHD, Anger, Anxiety and Stress Management Skills, Attachment trauma, Blocks in Connecting with Self and Others, Burnout, Childhood trauma, Depression, Confidence, Existential questions, Emotional Numbness, Emotional regulation, Identity and Self-Exploration, Masculinity, Intergenerational trauma, Break-up recovery, PTSD, Self Destructive Behaviour, Spirituality, Self-Criticism, Trauma processing
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Sabrina Sibbald

Registered Social Worker
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Offers In-Person (Burlington, ON)
Virtual Sessions in ON.
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Sabrina Sibbald

Sabrina Sibbald

Registered Social Worker
she/her
$160/session
Anxiety, Trauma, People pleasing, Attachment trauma, Befriending the Nervous System, Blocks in Connecting with Self and Others, Childhood trauma, Boundaries and boundary setting, Complex Trauma (CPTSD), Mind-body connection, BIPOC, Emotional regulation, Break-up recovery, Dissociation, Low mood, Social anxiety, Familial and social relationships, Family Conflict, Intergenerational trauma, Low Self-Esteem and Self Worth, Mindfulness, Nervous system regulation, Perfectionism, Understanding & Regulating Emotions, Identity and Self-Exploration
Anxiety, Trauma, People pleasing, Attachment trauma, Befriending the Nervous System, Blocks in Connecting with Self and Others, Childhood trauma, Boundaries and boundary setting, Complex Trauma (CPTSD), Mind-body connection, BIPOC, Emotional regulation, Break-up recovery, Dissociation, Low mood, Social anxiety, Familial and social relationships, Family Conflict, Intergenerational trauma, Low Self-Esteem and Self Worth, Mindfulness, Nervous system regulation, Perfectionism, Understanding & Regulating Emotions, Identity and Self-Exploration
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What is Trauma-Informed Stabilization Treatment (TIST)?

TIST is a phase-based trauma therapy that emphasizes building stability, safety, and emotional regulation skills before processing traumatic memories. Developed as a structured approach to trauma work, TIST recognizes that healing often requires a solid foundation of coping resources. The approach typically progresses through distinct phases, with early sessions focused on developing grounding techniques and internal safety, followed by gradual processing of traumatic experiences when the client feels ready.

Who might benefit from TIST?

TIST may be helpful for individuals who have experienced various forms of trauma, particularly those who feel easily overwhelmed by their emotional responses or who have found other trauma therapies too activating. People with complex trauma histories, including childhood trauma or multiple traumatic experiences, often find the stabilization-first approach supportive. TIST may also appeal to those who appreciate structured, predictable therapeutic frameworks.

How is TIST different from other trauma therapies?

While many trauma therapies focus relatively quickly on processing traumatic memories, TIST places significant emphasis on the stabilization phase. This means clients typically spend more time building emotional regulation skills, grounding techniques, and internal resources before addressing traumatic material directly. Some people find this pacing more manageable than approaches that move more quickly into memory processing. TIST shares some principles with other phase-based models but has its own specific protocols and techniques.

What happens in a typical TIST session?

TIST sessions vary depending on which phase of treatment you're in. Early sessions often focus on psychoeducation about trauma responses, developing grounding and stabilization techniques, and building a sense of safety in the therapeutic relationship. Your therapist may teach specific skills for managing overwhelming emotions or physical sensations. Later phases may involve carefully paced exploration of traumatic experiences, always with attention to maintaining the stability established earlier.

How long does TIST therapy typically take?

The duration of TIST varies considerably based on individual circumstances, including the nature and extent of trauma, personal resources, and therapeutic goals. Because TIST prioritizes thorough stabilization before memory processing, it may take longer than some other approaches, particularly for those with complex trauma histories. Many people find that the time invested in building a strong foundation supports more sustainable healing. Your therapist can discuss expected timelines based on your specific situation.

How can I find a TIST therapist in Canada?

First Session's growing network includes therapists trained in TIST and related trauma-informed approaches across Canada. When browsing therapist profiles, you can filter by therapeutic modality and watch intro videos to find someone whose approach resonates with you. If TIST-specific practitioners are limited in your area, consider exploring therapists trained in other phase-based or stabilization-focused trauma therapies, such as Sensorimotor Psychotherapy or certain EMDR protocols that emphasize resourcing.