THERAPY FOR TRAUMA
IN NYC

you’re not alone

Definition and Explanation of Trauma Therapy

Trauma therapy is a specialized form of psychotherapy designed to help individuals process and recover from traumatic experiences. Trauma can be caused by a wide range of events, including physical or emotional abuse, natural disasters, accidents, combat, or the sudden loss of a loved one. Trauma therapy aims to provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to confront and work through their traumatic experiences, reducing the negative impact of trauma on their daily lives.

Trauma therapy can take many forms, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), somatic therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). Each of these approaches has its own unique techniques and strategies for addressing trauma, but they all share the common goal of helping individuals heal and recover from traumatic experiences.

Importance of Seeking Treatment for Trauma

Seeking treatment for trauma is essential for several reasons. First, trauma can have a profound impact on an individual’s mental health, leading to anxiety disorders, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). If left untreated, these conditions can worsen over time, leading to significant impairment in daily life.

Second, trauma can affect not only the individual who experienced the traumatic event but also their loved ones. Family members and friends may struggle to understand and support the individual, leading to strained relationships and social isolation.

Finally, seeking treatment for trauma can help individuals regain control over their lives and improve their overall well-being. Trauma therapy can provide individuals with the tools and strategies they need to manage their symptoms, rebuild their sense of self, and develop a more positive outlook on life.

We Specialize in Therapy for Trauma in NYC

There are many definitions of trauma but the most common theme is that trauma is any event which overwhelms a person’s ability to cope with it. Trauma affects your mental, emotional, social, and spiritual health and can make it difficult to live your life as you did before the trauma came into your life.

Trauma can come as either a one-time event or as a prolonged series of events. Trauma therapists provide specialized support for individuals affected by various forms of trauma, including PTSD and childhood abuse, using evidence-based treatment approaches like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).

Different causes of Trauma:

• Sexual Assault + Abuse
• Intimate Partner Violence/Domestic Violence
• Childhood Abuse and/or Neglect
• Natural Disasters
• Financial Uncertainty
• Food Insecurity
• Homelessness
• Community Violence
• Medical/Health-Related Trauma
• Traumatic Grief

Common Symptoms of Trauma

It’s important to know that the symptoms that you may be experiencing following trauma exposure are actually a very normal and natural response to a very abnormal situation. Some of these symptoms include:

PTSD symptoms are also a common response to trauma exposure.

Psychological + Emotional

• Anxiety, fear, and panic attacks
• Depression and feelings of hopelessness
• Shock, denial, or disbelief
• Confusion, difficulty concentrating
• Mood swings, anger, and irritability
• Shame, guilt, and self-blame
• Hypervigilance, or a feeling of always being on edge
• Feelings of numbness or dissociation
• Social isolation and relational issues

Physical symptoms

• Difficulty sleeping or nightmares
• Feeling overly tired or easily fatigued
• Heightened startle response
• Difficulty concentrating on normal tasks
• Racing heartbeat or heart palpitations
• Bodily aches and pains
• Muscle tension

Understanding Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after an individual experiences a traumatic event. PTSD is characterized by a range of symptoms, including flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance of reminders of the trauma, and hyperarousal.

Causes and Symptoms of PTSD

PTSD can be caused by a wide range of traumatic events, including combat, natural disasters, accidents, and physical or emotional abuse. The symptoms of PTSD can vary widely, but common symptoms include:

• Flashbacks or intrusive memories of the traumatic event
• Nightmares or difficulty sleeping
• Avoidance of reminders of the trauma, such as people, places, or activities.
• Hyperarousal, including difficulty concentrating, irritablility, and an exaggerated startle response
• Hypervigilance, including difficulty relaxing or feeling safe

How PTSD Affects Daily Life

PTSD can have a significant impact on an individual’s daily life, affecting their relationships, work, and overall well-being. Individuals with PTSD may struggle to maintain relationships, as they may become withdrawn or isolated. They may also experience difficulty concentrating or completing tasks, leading to problems at work or school.

In addition, PTSD can lead to a range of physical health problems, including chronic pain, headaches, and gastrointestinal problems. Individuals with PTSD may also be at increased risk for substance abuse and other mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety disorders.

Fortunately, PTSD is treatable, and a range of therapies, including cognitive processing therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, and somatic therapy, can help individuals manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being.