Trauma Therapies

WHAT TRAUMA TREATMENTS ARE

Prolonged Exposure (PE), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), and DBT-PTSD are evidence-based treatments. Prolonged Exposure (PE) is a type of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy that teaches us how to gradually approach stimuli (situations, memories, and emotions) we have been avoiding since experiencing a traumatic event, as well as talking about difficult emotions and memories associated with the traumatic event. Confronting safe situations and memories we are afraid of through planned, structured exposures will significantly reduce PTSD symptoms. PE treatment is typically conducted over the course of 9 to 12 (90-minute sessions). Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) is a type of trauma therapy that focuses on the negative aspects of a traumatic event and uses eye movements, sounds or taps, to reprocess them. When a traumatic event happens, it often is improperly stored in the memory network, which causes current symptoms and drives ineffective and unhealthy behaviors. EMDR focuses on bringing up the most negative pictures of those memories and the negative beliefs we have about ourselves as a result. We work to detach those beliefs from the memory and attach a more positive one. Prior to beginning EMDR, we focus on identifying and incorporating healthy coping skills, as well as self-calming techniques that clients can utilize throughout the process. The length of time of EMDR is dependent on the trauma, but averages around 6-12 sessions.

For complex trauma, DBT-PTSD is a multifactorial treatment modality and requires a specialized approach. DBT-PTSD is a protocol which takes into account that trauma can be developmental, repeated over a long period of time, or otherwise complicated by other mental health conditions. Complex trauma often needs a combined treatment approach. This protocol follows DBT’s modular-based approach to treatment of Emotion Regulation, Mindfulness, Interpersonal Effectiveness, and Distress Tolerance skills, while weaving in cognitive and exposure-based interventions and skills. Acceptance and change are core concepts to DBT-PTSD and are designed to improve quality of life and deepen compassion.

WHAT TRAUMA THERAPIES TREAT

Trauma therapist treat Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other traumatic experiences.