What Is Intensive Trauma Response (ITR®)?
Intensive Trauma Response®, referred to as ITR®, is a structured, non‑invasive, and evidence‑informed therapy method designed to resolve trauma at its roots. Developed by psychiatrist Dr. Louis Tinnin and art therapist Dr. Linda Gantt, ITR is based on neuroscience, parts psychology, narrative therapy, art therapy, and somatic approaches.
The central premise of ITR is that trauma is stored as fragmented, sensory-rich experiences causing symptoms like flashbacks, anxiety, dissociation, and hypervigilance. These symptoms persist until the trauma is fully “finished,” time-stamped, and reconsolidated into long-term memory. ITR approaches trauma healing by accomplishing exactly that: resolving and completing traumatic memory, rather than just managing symptoms.
The ITR Philosophy: “Resolve the trauma first, then see what’s left”
A core tenet of ITR: “Resolve the trauma first and see what is left.” Unlike many therapy models that largely focus on coping skills, ITR is designed to directly address and heal trauma, so it ceases to dominate your present experience.
While therapies like EMDR and TF-CBT remain widely researched and effective, ITR offers an alternative for those hesitant about re-living trauma or with non-verbal/preverbal memories. With a deliberate focus on memory closure, ITR may provide rapid and lasting relief.
Who ITR Benefits Most
ITR is especially powerful for:
Is ITR Right for You?
ITR is ideal for those:
If you’re ready to move forward without the trauma from your past getting in the way, ITR offers a transformative, accelerated pathway to relief.
At Evolve Modern, Ronda Suder is a Certified Trauma Specialist trained in the ITR protocol. She has also received the treatment herself and can personally and professionally speak to its effectiveness.
For more information or to schedule a consultation or session, call 304.242.3792 or email help@evolvemodern.org.
We offer in person and virtual appointments and accept many major medical insurances.