Trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

"Its like I can never fully relax. I keep finding myself in the same old patterns and intruded upon by the past. Why can't now be now!?"

Those who have experienced trauma often report an aching sense that their real self and true capabilities are buried somewhere below the surface and yearn for the day when that person can come forth. For years, some find safety in the idea that others had it worse, but the reality is, what you experienced is real and its yours. The resiliency, insight, and evolution I have seen people inhabit in working through trauma or challenging childhoods speaks to the incredible laden strengths and unique sensitivities that survivors of these circumstances often possess. The journey out is through, and when people decide to embark - something amazing happens, and life can be as imagined. The people that enter this process often want more for themselves and of themselves, and this is frequently the result. We have helped many to overcome and resolve the symptoms of PTSD and get their lives back. As a team, we enjoy helping people find recovery from trauma and meeting them exactly where they are on their journey. Many of us here are VA (Veteran Hospital) trained and have helped our veterans through some of the toughest cases of PTSD with the help of psychotherapy.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms below please reach out to us: 

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Intrusive memories

Symptoms of intrusive memories may include:

• Recurrent, unwanted distressing memories of the traumatic event

• Reliving the traumatic event as if it were happening again (flashbacks)

• Upsetting dreams or nightmares about the traumatic event

• Severe emotional distress or physical reactions to something that reminds you of the traumatic event

Avoidance

Symptoms of avoidance may include:

• Trying to avoid thinking or talking about the traumatic event

• Avoiding places, activities or people that remind you of the traumatic event

Negative changes in thinking and mood

Symptoms of negative changes in thinking and mood may include:

• Negative thoughts about yourself, other people or the world

• Hopelessness about the future

• Memory problems, including not remembering important aspects of the traumatic event

• Difficulty maintaining close relationships

• Feeling detached from family and friends

• Lack of interest in activities you once enjoyed

• Difficulty experiencing positive emotions

• Feeling emotionally numb

Changes in physical and emotional reactions

Symptoms of changes in physical and emotional reactions (also called arousal symptoms) may include:

• Being easily startled or frightened

• Always being on guard for danger

• Self-destructive behavior

• Substance Abuse/Dependence 

• Living in constant distraction 

• Trouble sleeping

• Trouble concentrating

• Irritability, angry outbursts or aggressive behavior

• Overwhelming guilt or shame