Trauma is diagnosed by a qualified mental health professional through a multi-step process that begins with an initial consultation and screening. If trauma is suspected, a more detailed clinical assessment follows, which may include structured interviews, questionnaires, and discussions about the individual's experiences and symptoms. The assessment helps determine whether the person meets diagnostic criteria for trauma-related disorders such as PTSD, based on guidelines from the DSM-5-TR. Physical exams may also be conducted to rule out other causes of symptoms. Only licensed professionals—such as psychologists, psychiatrists, or trained therapists—can make an official diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment.