Counseling for Trauma
Most people will experience trauma in their lifetime whether it’s a car accident, abuse or neglect, the sudden death of a loved one, a violent criminal act, exposure to the violence of war, or a natural disaster.
While many people can recover from trauma over time with the love and support of family and friends and bounce back with resiliency, others may discover effects of lasting trauma, which can cause a person to live with deep emotional pain, fear, confusion, or posttraumatic stress far after the event has passed.
In these circumstances, the support, guidance, and assistance of a therapist is fundamental to healing from trauma.
Read our blog: What is Trauma and What Causes it?
Trauma Symptoms
Here are some of the most common symptoms associated with trauma:
- Intrusive Thoughts: Individuals may experience distressing and unwanted memories, flashbacks, or nightmares related to the traumatic event.
- Avoidance: People often try to avoid reminders of the traumatic event, which can include avoiding places, people, or activities that remind them of the trauma.
- Hyperarousal: This includes heightened anxiety, irritability, difficulty concentrating, being easily startled, and having a heightened “fight or flight” response.
- Negative Changes in Mood and Thoughts: Trauma can lead to negative changes in a person’s beliefs about themselves and others, leading to self-blame, guilt, shame, and a sense of hopelessness. Depression and mood swings can also be symptoms.
Research has proven psychotherapy to be the most effective form of treatment for trauma. Most commonly, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) are used in treating trauma. Click here to read our blog post: What is EMDR?
For more information about EMDR at Coastal Teletherapy visit: EMDR
If you or someone you know matches the trauma symptoms listed above, I am confident that I can help and invite you to contact me today for a free consultation.