What is PTSD/trauma therapy?
At Thriveworks, Trauma/PTSD therapy involves dedicated efforts to address and navigate through past and/or recent traumatic events. Therapists specializing in trauma create a secure environment to process and heal from these experiences, aiming to reduce trauma-related symptoms and enhance overall quality of life.
How does PTSD/trauma therapy work?
Our Thriveworks providers use Trauma/PTSD therapy treatments like eye movement desensitization and reprocessing EMDR, CBT, and exposure therapy with the goal of helping clients process the traumatic events they have experienced so that they can to start feeling safe and secure again.
Symptoms of PTSD
The symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can vary but often include:
- Flashbacks and distressing memories of the traumatic event
- Nightmares and sleep disturbances
- Intense anxiety and irritability
- Avoidance of reminders of the trauma
- Negative changes in mood and thought patterns
- Increased arousal, like difficulty concentrating or exaggerated startle response
How do you overcome PTSD triggers?
The best way to overcome PTSD triggers is to seek the assistance of a professional therapist, such as those at Thriveworks, who can help you to understand and treat your PTSD triggers.
What type of therapist is best for PTSD?
In most cases, a therapist who specializes in Trauma/PTSD therapy is the best type of mental health professional to address the symptoms of PTSD.
Is PTSD/trauma therapy conducted in person or online?
PTSD/trauma therapy at Thriveworks is conducted both in person and online by video. We encourage you to choose the option that works best for you.
How long should you go to therapy for PTSD?
If a client is working through a single traumatic event that occurred as an adult, trauma or PTSD therapy may only take a few months, but in general, it can take a year or more to effectively treat trauma symptoms and PTSD. The duration of treatment is highly dependent on the client and the severity of their symptoms.
How successful is therapy for PTSD?
The success rate of therapy for PTSD depends entirely on the individual’s symptoms, commitment to attending sessions, and personal abilities.
Need more help deciding?
Therapy for Post-traumatic Stress Disorder at Thriveworks Virginia Beach, VA
Therapy for PTSD at Thriveworks Virginia Beach, VA, offers effective treatments to help individuals feel safe and move forward after experiencing trauma. Reach out today for support and to schedule your first session (757) 520-0827.
Symptoms of PTSD
Following a traumatic event, some individuals may develop PTSD immediately, while others might not show symptoms for months or even years. Recognizing these symptoms early is crucial as effective treatments are available:
- Experiencing a range of traumas
- Hormonal responses to stress
- Previous traumas, especially from childhood
- Genetic predispositions to mental health issues
- Trauma severity and duration
- High-risk occupations
- Limited social support
- History of substance abuse
PTSD: How It Develops
PTSD can affect anyone, regardless of their strength or resilience. Mental health professionals understand that it is not about weakness but about exposure to trauma and several predisposing factors. Here are some conditions that increase the likelihood of developing PTSD:
- Various types of trauma
- Brain’s chemical response to stress
- Past traumas
- Genetic factors
- Occupational exposure to traumatic events
- Social and emotional support levels
- Past or present addiction
- PTSD’s Effects
The impact of PTSD can manifest in four distinct categories:
Rearranging One’s Life
Individuals may alter their lifestyles drastically to avoid reminders of the trauma:
- Avoiding social interactions and public places
- Refraining from driving or traveling in vehicles
- Avoiding media that might trigger memories of the trauma
Those with PTSD might frequently relive the traumatic event through:
- Nightmares and terror-filled dreams
- Flashbacks and intrusive thoughts
- Triggers from ordinary sights, sounds, or smells
A constant state of alertness can dominate their day-to-day life, leading to:
- Sleep difficulties, especially insomnia
- Concentration problems
- Easily startled by noises or surprises
Trauma can fundamentally alter beliefs and emotional responses:
- Viewing the world as inherently dangerous
- Distrusting others and avoiding relationships
- Desiring to forget and never discuss the trauma
Scheduling an Appointment for PTSD at Thriveworks Virginia Beach
If you recognize the symptoms of PTSD in yourself following a traumatic event, it might be time to seek professional help. Thriveworks Virginia Beach offers counseling for PTSD with available appointments. Contact us, and a scheduling specialist will assist you promptly.
New clients often see their therapist within 7 business days of their first call. Call today to take the first step towards healing (757) 520-0827.
