PTSD | Trauma - Equimind Counselling

PTSD & Trauma

PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) and trauma are related concepts, but they have distinct meanings.

Trauma refers to a distressing or disturbing experience that causes emotional, psychological, or physical harm. Trauma can result from a variety of events such as accidents, violence, natural disasters, or other life-threatening situations. It’s important to note that people can respond to traumatic events differently, and what is traumatic for one person may not be traumatic for another.

PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), on the other hand, is a specific mental health condition that can develop in some individuals after they have experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. It involves a set of symptoms that persist for an extended period and significantly interfere with daily functioning.

Therapy for Trauma

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

CBT is a widely used approach that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with trauma. Exposure therapy, a form of CBT, involves gradually facing and processing traumatic memories in a safe and controlled environment.

Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT)

Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing, can help individuals stay present and reduce the emotional intensity associated with traumatic memories.

Psychodynamic Therapy

This type of therapy explores how past experiences, including traumatic events, influence current thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. The therapist and client work together to explore and understand the root causes of distress.

Narrative Therapy

Narrative therapy is a therapeutic approach that focuses on the stories people tell about their lives. It’s based on the idea that our identities and understanding of the world are shaped by the stories we construct.

Common symptoms of PTSD include:

Flashbacks: Repeated, involuntary memories of the traumatic event.
Nightmares: Disturbing dreams related to the traumatic event.
Avoidance: Avoiding reminders of the traumatic event, including people, places, and activities.
Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood: Persistent negative beliefs about oneself or the world, feelings of detachment or estrangement from others, and persistent inability to experience positive emotions.
Hyperarousal: Persistent symptoms of increased arousal, such as difficulty sleeping, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and exaggerated startle response.

It’s essential to recognize that different individuals may respond differently to various therapeutic approaches, and treatment plans should be tailored to the unique needs of each person. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of PTSD or struggling with the aftermath of trauma, seeking professional help from a mental health professional is strongly recommended.

Let's Move Forward Together

We understand that the decision to seek help can be a difficult one. That’s why our aim is to create a safe and supportive environment where you can feel heard and understood. Whether you’re dealing with relationship problems, anxiety, or any other issue, our team is here to guide you on your journey towards a brighter future. Book a free consultation now!

PTSD | Trauma

PTSD & Trauma

Therapy for Trauma

Symptoms of PTSD

Let's Move Forward Together

Providing in-person counselling in Vancouver and virtual counselling across BC

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