Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Symptoms can vary from person to person but typically fall into four categories: intrusive thoughts, avoidance, negative changes in thinking and mood, and changes in physical and emotional reactions. As a compassionate and experienced therapist specializing in PTSD, I offer a range of evidence-based treatments including somatic experiencing, neuro-feedback, and mindfulness practices to help clients heal and grow.
Intrusive Thoughts
Intrusive thoughts are one of the most common symptoms of PTSD. They can include flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive memories that make it feel like the traumatic event is happening all over again. These thoughts can be so intense that they can make it difficult to go about daily life.
Avoidance
Another common symptom of PTSD is avoidance. This can include avoiding places, people, or activities that are associated with the traumatic event. Avoidance can also include emotional numbing, or feeling detached from loved ones and the world around you.
Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood
PTSD can also lead to negative changes in thinking and mood. This can include feelings of guilt or shame, loss of interest in activities, and a sense of hopelessness or pessimism about the future. Some people with PTSD may also struggle with memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and trouble sleeping.
Changes in Physical and Emotional Reactions
PTSD can cause changes in physical and emotional reactions, such as feeling irritable, angry, or easily startled. Some people may experience a sense of hypervigilance or constantly feeling on guard. Other physical symptoms can include headaches, stomach problems, and sweating.
Treatment for PTSD
If you are experiencing symptoms of PTSD, it’s important to seek help from a mental health professional. Treatment for PTSD may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both. There are different types of therapy available, such as somatic experiencing and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), which have shown to be effective for treating PTSD.
In addition to traditional therapy methods, I also have experience with Neuro-Feedback, a cutting-edge treatment that has shown promising results for managing PTSD symptoms. Other alternative therapies that I use to help some clients with PTSD are mindfulness-based technics and yoga. With a compassionate and personalized approach, I work closely with each client to understand their unique experiences and create a treatment plan tailored to their individual needs.
If you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD, know that you are not alone. There is hope for healing and growth, and I am here to provide the support and guidance needed to help you overcome the challenges of PTSD.
