Why a Therapist Should Be Trained in Many Different Modalities

Published On: May 4, 2026Categories: Healing, Therapy Process, Trauma, Treatments

When looking for trauma therapy, individual therapy, or relationship therapy, one of the most important (and often overlooked) factors is not just what modality a therapist uses—but how many they are trained in.

There’s a common misconception that the “best” therapist is the one who specializes in a single approach. And while there are situations where a highly specialized modality is necessary—such as dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) for certain presentations/diagnoses or highly specific treatments for OCD—this is not the case for most people seeking healing, especially when it comes to trauma-informed care, narcissistic abuse, emotional abuse, or sexual abuse.

For the majority of clients, healing is not one-dimensional. And therapy shouldn’t be either.

Why One Modality Isn’t Always Enough

In a recent consultation group, a colleague made a bold statement: “If someone says they’re only an EMDR therapist, fire them right away.”

That might sound surprising—especially since EMDR therapy is one of the most effective, evidence-based approaches for trauma. But the reasoning is simple: if a therapist only knows one modality, they’re limited in how they can support you.

Not every client responds the same way to one method. Even highly effective or “gold standard” approaches like EMDR or CBT don’t work for everyone.

For example:

  • Some clients thrive with somatic trauma therapy, reconnecting with the body and nervous system.
  • Others prefer structured, skills-based approaches like CBT, DBT, or ACT.
  • Some resonate deeply with mindfulness practices, while others find them frustrating or inaccessible.

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to healing. And a therapist who only practices from one lens may unintentionally limit your progress.

The Power of an Integrative Approach

As a trauma-focused therapist, I integrate multiple modalities—including EMDR therapy, somatic trauma therapy, CBT, DBT, ACT, and mindfulness—because every client is different.

What I’ve learned over years of practice is this: flexibility matters.

Some clients come in wanting EMDR and discover they respond better to somatic work. Others may initially resist meditation but find alternative mindfulness practices like movement, grounding, or sensory awareness more effective.

In many cases, the most powerful work happens through integration:

  • Processing trauma with EMDR or somatic techniques in session
  • Building coping tools with CBT, DBT, or mindfulness outside of session

This creates a more holistic and sustainable healing process—one that supports both deep emotional processing and practical, everyday regulation.

Why This Matters for You as a Client

Imagine this: you begin therapy, invest several months, and then realize the approach doesn’t resonate with you. If your therapist only uses one modality, you may feel stuck—or worse, feel like therapy “doesn’t work.”

In reality, it may just be that that modality doesn’t work for you.

Now imagine a different scenario: your therapist notices something isn’t clicking and offers a different approach. You pivot together, explore new tools, and continue building on the relationship you’ve already established.

This is the benefit of working with a therapist trained in multiple approaches—you have options. There’s room for curiosity, flexibility, and personalization.

What to Look for in a Therapist

Whether you’re seeking somatic trauma therapy in Oak Park, somatic trauma therapy in Agoura Hills, or trauma therapy in Westlake Village, Thousand Oaks, Calabasas, Ventura, or Los Angeles, California, here are a few important questions to consider:

  • What modalities does the therapist use?
  • Do they tailor their approach to the client, or follow a fixed method?
  • Are they open to adjusting the approach if something isn’t working?
  • What has worked for you in the past—and what hasn’t?

These questions can give you valuable insight into whether a therapist will be able to meet your unique needs.

Understanding Theoretical Orientation

In addition to modalities, therapists also operate from a theoretical orientation—a broader philosophy that guides how they work.

For example, many therapists (including myself) draw from a person-centered approach. This means:

  • You are seen as the expert on your own life
  • The therapist acts as a guide, not an authority
  • Therapy is collaborative, not prescriptive

This orientation often serves as the foundation that allows different modalities—like EMDR, CBT, or somatic work—to be integrated in a way that feels supportive and empowering (and not overpowering).

The Relationship Still Comes First

No matter how many modalities a therapist knows, none of them will be effective without a strong therapeutic relationship.

Therapy is deeply relational. Feeling safe, seen, and understood is not optional—it’s essential.

You should feel:

  • Comfortable being yourself
  • Safe expressing your thoughts and emotions
  • Supported, but also gently challenged when needed

Some clients prefer a more directive therapist. Others prefer a softer, more reflective approach. Many, like in my practice, benefit from a balance of both—compassionate presence paired with practical tools.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, finding the right therapist is a lot like finding the right relationship—it takes time, exploration, and trust.

When choosing a therapist, look beyond a single modality. Instead, seek someone who is:

  • Skilled in multiple approaches
  • Flexible and adaptive
  • Grounded in trauma-informed care
  • Focused on you as an individual

Because healing is not linear—and your therapy shouldn’t be either.