Most people will experience trauma in their lifetime whether it’s a car accident, abuse, 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 over time with the love and support of family and friends, others may discover lasting effects. This can cause a person to live with deep emotional pain, fear, confusion, or posttraumatic stress far after the event has passed. This is where it is essential to seek help in the form of trauma therapy.
In these circumstances, the support, guidance and assistance of a therapist is fundamental to healing.
Trauma Symptoms
According to the four types of symptoms listed in the DSM-5
Avoidance Symptoms
- Avoiding specific locations, sights, situations, and sounds that serve as reminders of the event
- Anxiety, depression, numbness, or guilt
Re-experiencing Symptoms
- Intrusive thoughts, nightmares or flashbacks
Hyperarousal Symptoms
- Anger, irritability and hypervigilance
- Aggressive, reckless behavior, including self-harm
- Sleep disturbances
Negative Mood and Cognition Symptoms
- Loss of interest in activities that were once considered enjoyable
- Difficulty remembering details of the distressing event
- Change in habits or behavior since the trauma
Effectiveness of Trauma Therapy
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. I also use brainspotting, which is a newer technique that has proven to be powerful type of trauma therapy effective in helping people heal.
If you or someone you know have experienced the symptoms listed above, I am confident that I can help. I invite you to contact me today for a free phone consultation.
Modern Change provides innovative trauma therapy in Durham, NC.
