Therapy for Trauma

Marcia Hesselgrave

Therapy for Trauma

Trauma can have a significant impact on you or a loved one’s mental health, and therapy can be an effective treatment for trauma-related symptoms. 

Traumatic experiences are psychologically distressing events including, but are not limited to, bereavement, chronic illness, business losses, and marital conflict. Additionally, events such as being attacked, terrorized, in war, natural disaster, or an accident, manifest symptoms of trauma.

If you or someone you know has been through a traumatic experience, be aware of the signs of PTSD including:

  • Being frightened or startled more easily.
  • Re-experiencing the traumatic event(s)
  • Difficulty sleeping and concentrating.
  • Mood swings.
  • Irritability or having emotional outbursts.

 

If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of trauma then having a diagnosis that involves comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional is a good place to start. 

 

Trauma diagnosis involves a clinical interview to assess symptoms, medical history, and history of trauma exposure. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), acute stress disorder, or other trauma-related disorders are serious conditions requiring treatment. If you think you may have been involved in a  trauma and feel you have symptoms of the same– do not hesitate to seek help.

There are several types of therapy that are commonly used to treat trauma, including:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a type of therapy that focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. It is often used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and can help individuals identify and challenge negative thoughts and beliefs related to their trauma. This can help reduce anxiety, depression, and other trauma-related symptoms.

Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)

TF-CBT is a specialized form of CBT that is designed to treat children and adolescents who have experienced trauma. It includes elements of CBT, play therapy, and family therapy to help children process their trauma and develop coping skills.

Psychodynamic Therapy

Psychodynamic therapy focuses on exploring the unconscious patterns and conflicts that may be contributing to a person's trauma-related symptoms. It can be helpful for individuals who have experienced long-term trauma or have a history of interpersonal trauma.

Group Therapy

Group therapy can be beneficial for individuals who have experienced similar types of trauma. It provides a safe and supportive environment for individuals to share their experiences, learn coping skills, and receive feedback from others.

    • While not all people that experience trauma develop PTSD, it still helps to be cautious. If the signs become apparent and interfere with your ability to cope and enjoy your life, then it is wise to consult with a therapist to properly deal with your trauma. Working with an experienced therapist  can help lessen the impact of trauma and/or PTSD on the quality of your daily life.

 

    • Marcia Hesselgrave is an experienced therapist serving the Cuyahoga and Lorain County areas including the  Northwest suburbs of Cleveland as an expert in helping patients, reduce work-related stress, break free from dysfunctional family dynamics, heal from trauma, and mood disorders, improve relationships and improve life balance. Marcia’s office is located in Westlake Ohio.

 

Would you like help reducing work-related stress, breaking free from dysfunctional family dynamics,  healing from trauma, and mood disorders, improving relationships, and improving life balance?

 

I’m Here To Help – Call Me At
440-841-2891