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Trauma and PTSD Therapy
Trauma and PTSD Therapy
Experiencing an intensely frightening or stressful event can cause lasting traumatic effects. Trauma is an emotional response to an event that overwhelms a person’s coping ability.
Sometimes, experiencing trauma can lead to a mental health condition called post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The symptoms of PTSD can be very disruptive and distressing.
Trauma and PTSD are complex conditions that require compassionate, comprehensive treatment. Treatment for PTSD and trauma includes specialized therapies.
This article will explore some of the most common forms of therapy used to treat trauma and PTSD. You will learn:
- How trauma occurs
- The symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Therapies used in the treatment of trauma and PTSD
- Where to find therapy for trauma and PTSD
If you or someone you love lives with symptoms of trauma or PTSD, you are not alone. Reach out to the caring specialists at Agape Behavioral Center to explore our treatment and support programs. You may also contact us with questions or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is Trauma?
When someone experiences a highly stressful or frightening event, they may have a response called trauma. Trauma is a response that can have physical, behavioral, or emotional symptoms.
Some examples of traumatic events include:
- Being the victim of a crime
- Accidents
- Experiencing childhood abuse or neglect
- Living in a war zone
- Experiencing or witnessing violence
- Surviving a natural disaster
- The death of a loved one
- A severe injury or medical diagnosis
These and other events can cause overwhelming fear or stress. People may experience trauma after exposure to a single event or after repeated or prolonged stressful situations.
People with trauma may have a range of responses, including:[1]
- Physical pain
- Nausea
- Mood swings or unpredictable emotions
- Relationship problems
Trauma’s effects can be long-lasting and may change over time. Many people who have had a traumatic experience benefit from participating in talk therapy sessions.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): An Overview
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that may occur if someone experiences a traumatic event. Not all people who experience trauma will develop PTSD.
There are four categories of PTSD symptoms. They are:
- Intrusive memories
- Avoidance
- Negative changes in mood and thinking
- Changes in physical and emotional reactions
People with PTSD may have recurring thoughts of the traumatic event. They may experience flashbacks where they “re-live” the event. People with PTSD may avoid anything related to the traumatic event at all costs.
PTSD can also cause emotional symptoms, including low self-esteem and depression. People may have anxiety or feel emotionally numb.[2]
It is essential to recognize the signs of PTSD and seek treatment. Treatment may include therapy sessions with a specially-trained trauma therapist.
Exploring Trauma Therapy
There are many types of therapy used to treat PTSD and trauma. Here is an overview of several types of trauma therapy.
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a form of therapy that may benefit people with trauma. Some mental health professionals believe EMDR can help people process their emotions about a traumatic event in new ways.
During treatment sessions, the therapist leads the client through several eye movements. While performing these eye movements, the client talks or thinks about a traumatic event. Participants report feeling less anxious and have changed perceptions about their trauma.
Practitioners offer EMDR in a range of settings, including clinics, hospitals, and private offices. The benefits of this trauma therapy are that it does not require medications and has no side effects.[3]
Accelerated resolution therapy (ART)
Accelerated resolution therapy (ART) uses a combination of techniques to reprogram how the brain stores traumatic memories. During sessions, therapists lead clients through exercises that include eye movements, guided imagery, and others. Research shows that ART can be effective in as little as one session.[4]
Rapid resolution therapy (RRT)
Rapid resolution therapy uses innovative tools, multi-level communication, and other techniques to change how the brain processes information about traumatic events. This type of therapy can help people stop dreading the future or fixating on the past. Participants report physical and emotional healing, including fewer PTSD symptoms.
Reconsolidation of traumatic memories therapy (RTM)
Reconsolidation of traumatic memories therapy (RTM) uses some aspects of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).[5] During sessions, the mental health practitioner helps the client change aspects of a traumatic memory to make it less distressing. This therapeutic approach focuses on changing long-term memories and can significantly reduce PTSD symptoms.
Somatic therapy
Somatic therapy focuses on how the body stores emotions. Therapists use specific physical exercises and movements to help people move trauma and anxiety out of the body. This form of therapy can be effective for people with trauma, PTSD, grief, depression, and other mental health conditions.[6]
People may also require medication for PTSD or other forms of treatment to manage their symptoms. It is crucial to work with medical and mental health professionals who provide trauma-informed care.
Find Treatment Now
If you or someone you love may benefit from trauma or PTSD therapy, contact the Agape Behavioral Center specialists to learn about our programs or schedule an intake appointment.
References:
- American Psychological Association (APA): Trauma
- American Psychiatric Association: What is Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?
- National Institute of Health: The Role of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy in Medicine: Addressing the Psychological and Physical Symptoms Stemming from Adverse Life Experiences
- Springer Link: Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART): a Review and Research to Date
- National Institute of Health: Consolidation/reconsolidation therapies for the prevention and treatment of PTSD and re-experiencing: a systematic review and meta-analysis
- Harvard Health Publishing: What is somatic therapy?