Most people will experience trauma in their lifetime whether it’s a car accident, abuse or 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 from trauma over time with the love and support of family and friends and bounce back with resiliency, others may discover effects of lasting trauma, which can cause a person to live with deep emotional pain, fear, confusion, or posttraumatic stress far after the event has passed.

In these circumstances, the support, guidance and assistance of a counselor is fundamental to healing from trauma.

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 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.

If you or someone you know match the trauma symptoms listed above, I am confident that I can help and invite you to contact me today.