Most people will experience some form of trauma in their lifetime whether it’s a car accident, past or current abuse or neglect, or the sudden death or illness of a loved one.

While many people can recover from trauma with the love and support of their family and friends, others may discover lasting effects of trauma. These can cause a person to live with deep emotional pain, fear, confusion, or post-traumatic stress far after the event has passed.

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

Research has proven psychotherapy to be an effective form of treatment for trauma. The support, guidance and assistance of a therapist is fundamental to the healing process after trauma.

I am confident that I can help and invite you to contact me today for a free consultation.