Progressive Counting (PC)

Progressive counting (PC) is a recently developed trauma treatment, based on the counting method. It involves having the client visualize a series of progressively longer “movies” of the trauma memory while the therapist counts out loud (first to a count of 10, then 20, then 30, etc.). By repeatedly imagining the movie of the memory, the memory gets “digested” or healed, and emotionally processed. Progressive Counting is an alternative treatment for PTSD, depression, anxiety, and is highly efficient and effective.

Progressive Counting Buffalo NY Ott Counseling

What is Progressive Counting?

Progressive Counting (PC) is a structured trauma therapy approach that helps people process upsetting memories at their own pace. It works by having clients imagine “movies” of the distressing event, with the length and repetition of these mental movies increasing over time. This gradual exposure allows the brain to reprocess the memory in a way that reduces its emotional charge. Unlike talk therapy, PC doesn’t require clients to speak in detail about the trauma unless they want to. It’s often used at Ott Counseling alongside other modalities to support healing from trauma, grief, and anxiety.

What Age are your Clients?

Progressive Counting is used with a wide range of clients, including children, teens, and adults. At Ott Counseling, many clients who benefit from PC are navigating trauma-related symptoms, grief, or anxiety and prefer a less verbal or story-heavy approach to healing. This therapy can be adapted based on developmental level and is offered by therapists who are trained in age-appropriate techniques.

Children 5+

Teens

Adults

Older Adults

We Love Progressive Counting For...

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PTSD

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Trauma

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Anxiety & Depression

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Grief & Loss

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Attachment Wounds

Is Progressive Counting Right For Me?

Here are a few of the questions we’re often asked about Progressive Counting.
If you’re exploring whether this therapy might be the right approach for you or your child, we’d be glad to talk it through. Feel free to reach out anytime with questions or to book a session with one of our experienced therapists.

  • What is Progressive Counting, and how does it actually work?

    Progressive Counting uses guided visualization and a structured counting technique to help you safely revisit and process distressing memories until they feel less overwhelming.

  • Do I have to talk in detail about my trauma for it to work?

    No - PC is designed to help your brain process painful memories without needing to go into every detail. You can share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with, and your therapist can help guide you.

  • Is Progressive Counting effective for children and teens?

    Yes. It’s often a great fit for kids and teens who may struggle to express trauma verbally but can benefit from structured, nonverbal processing. We love this modality because of its flexibility with a variety of age groups and comfort levels.

  • What makes PC different from EMDR or talk therapy?

    While EMDR uses eye movements and talk therapy relies on conversation, PC works through visualization and counting to support healing. These therapies can often be used in conjunction with one another, or can be implemented in the event that a client doesn't find results using another therapy.

  • How many sessions does Progressive Counting usually take?

    The number of sessions required to see results with progressive counting can vary, but many clients see progress after just a few sessions. This therapy can often be used in conjunction with other therapies to create a custom treatment plan, and the length of this treatment plan is ultimately dependent on you and your goals.

  • Can PC be used with other therapy methods?

    Absolutely! At Ott Counseling, PC is often integrated with other approaches, like CBT or brainspotting, to support healing in a way that’s personalized and flexible.

  • Where do you offer Progressive Counting sessions?

    Yes! Ott Counseling proudly offers Progressive Counting to clients across Western NY at our local office in Buffalo. We also offer telehealth visits to anyone in New York State.

  • Is this therapy helpful for recent trauma, or just for things from the past?

    It’s helpful for both. Whether something happened last week or years ago, PC can support your nervous system in processing it more effectively.

  • What should I expect during a Progressive Counting session?

    You’ll be gently guided through the process in a way that feels safe and contained. There’s no pressure to talk about things you’re not ready to, and we move at your pace.

  • Do you offer Progressive Counting trainings?

    Yes! For therapists and social workers looking to learn more about this effective treatment option, we offer in-depth progressive counting trainings. Visit our Training page for the most up to date information on upcoming courses!

Meet Your Therapists

Our Licensed Therapists at Ott Counseling come from all walks of life and embrace a wide variety of specialties. Schedule an appointment with a specific therapist, or feel free to contact us through our website and we can help you find the right fit.

Laura

Laura Ott, LCSW, PMH-C (She/Her)

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Nathaniel Whitcomb LMSW Buffalo NY

Nathaniel Whitcomb, LMSW (He/Him)

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Courtney Costello LMSW Buffalo NY Ott Counseling

Courtney Costello, LMSW (She/Her)

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Kate Tripi Office Manager Buffalo NY Ott Counseling

Kate Tripi, MS (She/Her)

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Alisa Chirico Ott Counseling Buffalo NY
Mary Gannon Counseling Ott Counseling Buffalo NY

Mary Gannon, M. Ed, LMSW (She/Her)

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Brianna Nilsen LMSW Ott Counseling Buffalo NY

Brianna Nilsen, LMSW (She/Her)

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Richard Manuel LMSW Buffalo NY Ott Counseling

Richard Manuel, LMSW (He/Him)

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Saffi Rigberg Ott Counseling Buffalo NY

Saffi Rigberg, LMSW (She/Her)

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Check out our latest therapy insights on our blog!

Blog Post: How Do I Know Which Kind of Therapy Is Right for My Child? (And Meet Our New Specialist)

How Do I Know Which Kind of Therapy Is Right for My Child? (And Meet Our New Specialist, Mary Gannon)

By Ott Counseling • December 3, 2025
Just like there’s no “one perfect therapy” for adults, there isn’t a single right choice for every child. Learn more about child therapy options in our recent blog!
Click to read blog: Which Trauma Therapy Is Right for Me?

Which Trauma Therapy Is Right for Me? A Breakdown of EMDR, Progressive Counting, & Brainspotting

By Ott Counseling • October 13, 2025
As therapists, we know that healing from trauma isn’t one-size-fits-all… Here we examine EMDR, Progressive Counting, and Brainspotting as therapy options for trauma.
Click to read blog post: You're Getting on My Nerves(ous) System

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By Ott Counseling • August 1, 2025
“It’s all in your head.” Ah, yes, the least helpful advice ever given to anyone who has felt anxiety.

Explore Your Therapy Options

Acceptance & Commitment Therapy

Brainspotting

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Creative & Body-Based Interventions

Dialectical Behavior Therapy

DIR®/ Floortime®

Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing

Internal Family Systems

Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction

Music Therapy

Nurture and Play

Progressive Counting

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