Matthew Poje, LPCC, LPC

Matthew Poje, LPCC, LPC, focuses on helping people recover from emotional trauma using the Instinctual Trauma Response method (ITR). He has more than 23 years of professional experience and spent 15 years working with veterans under Department of Defense contracts, bringing focused experience in trauma, addictions, grief, and compassion fatigue. He is licensed to practice in California and Wisconsin and holds LPCC and LPC credentials, which indicate professional licensure to provide clinical counseling.

The ITR method Matthew uses draws on neuroscience and emphasizes practical steps to strengthen resilience. Unlike classical talk therapy, ITR is a structured, purpose-driven approach that he describes as aimed at reducing trauma symptoms through specific, teachable techniques. He typically uses screening tools rather than formal diagnostic testing and does not provide letters for employers or court systems.

Matthew offers targeted sessions for clients who are ready to work with a defined trauma-healing method. Prospective clients are encouraged to review the ITR video before scheduling a session: https://vimeo.com/752151441

Therapeutic Approaches for Trauma and Remote Care

Motivational Interviewing is a collaborative conversational style designed to strengthen a person’s own motivation and commitment to change. It is often used to support people working on addictions or other behavior changes by exploring ambivalence and building internal motivation in a respectful, nonjudgmental way.

Trauma-Focused Therapy concentrates on understanding and processing traumatic experiences while teaching coping strategies to reduce ongoing distress. This approach helps people address symptoms related to post-traumatic stress, grief, and other trauma-related concerns by combining safety, skill-building, and gradual processing.

Finding the right approach is part of the therapeutic process. As a licensed professional, Matthew works collaboratively with each client to determine which methods fit their needs, goals, and preferences, adjusting the plan as progress unfolds.

Online therapy makes these approaches more accessible through video calls, phone sessions, live chat, and text-based messaging. These options offer scheduling flexibility, the ability to continue care from different locations, and multiple communication styles so clients can choose what feels most manageable as they work toward recovery.