PTSD
Have you experienced a traumatic event? Are you suffering from lingering fear and anxiety? Do you feel like you no longer have control over how you think, feel, and behave?
Posttraumatic stress disorder - also known as PTSD - is a mental health challenge that may occur in individuals who have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event such as a natural disaster, a terrorist act, an act of war, a serious accident, rape, or any other violent personal assault.
PTSD occurs in all people regardless of age, race, nationality, or culture. In fact, women are twice as likely to experience PTSD than men.
What are the Symptoms of PTSD?
People with PTSD often experience intense thoughts and feelings related to their traumatic experiences. These can last for a long time after the initial event. Many people with PTSD also relive the event through flashbacks and nightmares.
People with PTSD often feel intense emotions such as fear, anger, sadness, and detachment from friends, family, and community members. They often avoid people and situations that remind them of the traumatic event. Ordinary sounds or incidents such as a door banging or accidental touch in a crowd may cause a strong and uncontrollable reaction.
How Can Treatment Help?
There are a variety of treatments that can be used to treat PTSD. At Aqua Creative Counselling, we understand that trauma can deeply affect an individual's mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Our approach to treating trauma is holistic, compassionate, and tailored to each client's unique needs. Here are some of the best ways we address trauma:
Trauma-Informed Therapy:
- We employ trauma-informed therapy that ensures clients feel safe and supported throughout their healing journey. This approach acknowledges the impact of trauma and integrates this understanding into every aspect of the therapeutic process.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR):
- This innovative therapy uses guided eye movements to help clients process and integrate traumatic memories. EMDR has been shown to effectively reduce the emotional distress associated with traumatic events.
Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques:
- Incorporating mindfulness practices such as meditation and deep breathing can help clients stay grounded in the present moment, reducing anxiety and promoting emotional regulation.
Creative Arts Therapy:
- At Aqua Creative Counselling, we believe in the power of creativity to heal. Through art, music, and movement, clients can express emotions that may be difficult to articulate verbally, fostering healing and self-discovery.
Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS)
- In a trauma-informed context, IFS therapy particularly focuses on understanding and addressing the impact of trauma on these internal parts. The principles of trauma-informed care emphasize safety, trustworthiness, empowerment, and collaboration, which are crucial when working with individuals who have experienced trauma.
Psychoeducation:
- Educating clients about the effects of trauma and the healing process is crucial. Understanding what is happening on a psychological and physiological level can demystify symptoms and empower clients in their recovery journey.
Somatic Therapy
- This body-focused therapy helps clients release stored tension and trauma from the body. By tuning into physical sensations, individuals can process and move past trauma more effectively.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT):
- CBT is an evidence-based method that helps individuals reframe negative thought patterns and develop healthier coping mechanisms. By addressing the cognitive aspects of trauma, clients can gain control over their emotional responses.
At Aqua Creative Counselling, we walk alongside our clients every step of the way, helping them reclaim their lives with renewed strength and resilience. If you or a loved one suffer from PTSD and would like to explore treatment options, please reach out to me. I have personally seen amazing transformation through therapy and want to offer the help you need to enjoy life again.