big-wave-drmitchkeil

Trauma Psychologist Orange County

"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 carry a deep, aching sense that their true self—their real strengths and potential—is buried beneath layers of pain and survival. Many find comfort in thinking others have suffered more, but the truth is your experience is valid and uniquely yours. The resilience, insight, and growth I’ve witnessed in people working through trauma or difficult childhoods reveal the profound strengths and rare sensitivities that survivors often possess.

The journey through trauma is not around it or away from it—it is through it. When someone decides to embark on that path, something remarkable happens: life begins to unfold in ways they once only imagined. Those who enter this process often desire more for themselves and from themselves—and frequently, that is exactly what they find.

Our team has helped many overcome and resolve symptoms of PTSD and reclaim meaningful, fulfilling lives. We take great pride in supporting individuals wherever they are on their healing journey. Many of our clinicians have VA (Veterans Affairs) training and have worked extensively with veterans facing some of the most challenging cases of PTSD through psychotherapy.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms below, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us:

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