Trauma, PTSD, and CPTSD

PTSD is a cluster of symptoms that arise after experiencing a terrifying event (either experiencing or witnessing). These symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares and severe anxiety, severe emotional distress or physical reactions or pain due to something that reminds you of the traumatic event, as well as uncontrollable thoughts about the event. Trauma can also be experienced as CPTSD and Intergenerational Trauma. Because we know that trauma memories are stored in the body, it is important to treat both mental and somatic body symptoms. To treat trauma I use a combination of psychodynamic therapy, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, and ERP.

Here are some symptoms you may have: 

  • Becoming easily overwhelmed
  • Recurrent, unwanted distressing memories of the trauma
  • Body pain or sensations 
  • Avoiding situations that trigger you
  • Sleep problems
  • Nightmares
  • Feeling numb and detatched
  • Feeling hopeless or despair
  • Persistent negative thoughts about yourself
  • Beoming easily startled
  • Irritability

Recovery from PTSD can look like this:

  • Reduced distressing memories
  • Increased ability to think about the trauma without becoming overwhelmed
  • Reduced nightmares
  • Ability to sleep more restfully
  • Improved self confidence 
  • Feeling more joyful and relaxed
  • Decreased feelings of sadness and irritability
  • Ability to experience a fuller range of emotions
  • Utilizing better coping skills
  • Ability to participate more fully in life and in relationships
  • Improved ability to concentrate
  • Reduction of body pain and body symptoms