Trauma: Trauma and It’s Many Faces

We receive many questions from prospective clients about trauma.  Many times, these clients wonder if they have trauma, or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) – but are wondering if they indeed would have such a diagnosis because they haven’t “served in combat”.  The term ‘PTSD’ is more prevalent in our modern culture than ever before- with PSA announcements, commercials for treatment and even in pop culture – which can lead to more confusion about the affliction.

In our experience in working with clients of all walks of life, we can say that trauma is an interesting, multi-faceted concept.  Many of us come to understand the commonly-held notion of trauma, which we like to describe as “Big- T Trauma”:  occurs often when we are subjected to a severe, point-in-time traumatic event – this could be combat, but this also could be a car accident, being a victim of a sexual assault, receiving a diagnosis of a life-changing illness, grief or loss, to name a few.  

In addition, “Little – t trauma” can be characterized as ongoing traumas that occur in our lives:  domestic violence, emotional or psychological abuse, a chronic and life-long illness.  Often, we may be able to check off something in both of these categories.  

Sometimes, we can’t quite put our finger on the source or root cause of our unease, but we know something is ‘off’.  We want to commend you for seeking some help in therapy to begin your healing journey!

The next common question we get from clients, once they do determine that trauma is causing their suffering, is:  Now What?  Where do I go from here?

Healing from Within: PTSD and OCD Treatment

Understanding the Impact of Trauma:
Trauma can cast a long shadow over our lives, affecting our emotional, mental, and physical well-being. Whether the trauma is a result of a single event or a series of experiences, its effects can be profound and far-reaching.

The Power of Trauma Treatment:
While the journey towards healing from trauma is deeply personal, seeking treatment under the guidance of a trained clinician is paramount. Here’s why:

1. Expertise Matters:
Trained clinicians specialize in understanding the intricacies of trauma and its effects on the human psyche. With their knowledge and experience, they can offer a safe space to explore your feelings, thoughts, and memories related to the traumatic experience.

2. A Customized Approach:
No two individuals experience trauma in the same way. A trained clinician will tailor a treatment plan that addresses your unique needs, ensuring that you receive the support and interventions best suited for your healing journey.

3. Processing Pain Safely:
Unresolved trauma can lead to a range of emotional and psychological challenges. Clinicians provide a structured environment where you can process your pain, confront your emotions, and learn healthy coping mechanisms.

4. Rebuilding Trust and Safety:
Trauma can shatter your sense of safety and trust. Clinicians help you navigate the journey of rebuilding trust in yourself, your relationships, and the world around you, fostering a sense of security and empowerment.

5. Breaking Patterns:
Trauma often gives rise to negative thought patterns and behaviors that can hinder your progress. Clinicians help you identify and challenge these patterns, promoting healthier ways of thinking and responding to triggers.

6. Holistic Well-being:
Trauma treatment goes beyond addressing the immediate impact. Clinicians consider your overall well-being, helping you heal emotionally, mentally, and physically, leading to a more fulfilled and balanced life.

7. Reclaiming Your Narrative:
Trauma can redefine how you view yourself and your life story. Working with a clinician allows you to rewrite your narrative, focusing on your strength, resilience, and potential for growth.

8. A Safe Haven for Vulnerability:
The healing journey can be intense and emotional. A trained clinician provides a judgment-free space where you can be vulnerable, express your feelings, and gradually release the weight of your trauma.

  1. Are you losing productivity at home or at work because of symptoms of anxiety?
  2. Are you still feeling depressed or lonely, despite the practice of positive thinking? Are you angry all the time, and don’t know why?
  3. Are you frustrated that the “real you” is buried by hair-trigger, out of control emotions?
  4. Have phobias limited your life, despite your best efforts to overcome them?
  5. Have you been in therapy “forever,” wrestling with the same old problems?
  6. Have you tried cognitive therapies only to find your emotions still ruling your life?
  7. Do you want to calm the chaos of self-defeating thoughts, feelings, and behaviors?
  8. Do you want to get to the root cause of chronic symptoms?
  9. Do you want to reduce stress and its negative impact on your physical health?

Our approach to treating trauma?

We used a variety of techniques and interventions with treatment of trauma. It is vital to getting your life back. We use evidenced based practices of: Exposure Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Prolonged Exposure (PE), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), and Narrative Therapy.

Reclaiming Your Power Over Trauma

In treatment of trauma you can expect to gain the following: 

  1. Regain control over the impact of traumatic experiences
  2. Challenging Distorted Beliefs
  3. Learn to trust
  4. Healing and Growth
  5. Skillful Exploration of Emotions
  6. Gaining Control through Writing
  7. Developing Coping Strategies
  8. Learn to live a life in recovery

The Transformative Path Forward:
Working on trauma is about reclaiming your life and reshaping your future. By challenging distorted beliefs and processing emotions, you can move forward with a renewed sense of self, resilience, and hope. Take the courageous step towards healing through the negative experiences. 

Taking the First Step to PTSD and OCD Treatment:

Your journey towards healing begins with acknowledging the need for support. Our trained clinicians are your partner in this journey, offering a guiding hand and unwavering support as you navigate the path to recovery.

If you’re ready to embark on the transformative journey of healing from trauma, our team of trained clinicians is here for you. We are committed to providing you with the expertise, compassion, and understanding you deserve.

Remember, seeking help is not a sign of weakness, but a courageous step towards reclaiming your life and finding peace within.

Reach out to us today to take the first step towards healing and transformation. Your journey to healing begins here.