Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

Welcome to the Morgan Center for Counseling and Wellbeing. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, commonly called PTSD, can range from a mild to serious condition. It can have a variety of impacts including experiences of overwhelming fear and sometimes even terror. Often the symptoms include a feeling of helplessness, and those afflicted with PTSC may suffer flashbacks, depression, and other problems that interfere with daily living. For example, experiences such as assault, child abuse, or even an abusive relationship can have long-lasting residual impacts, leaving one with a lack of trust in others. The symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder may surface years after the actual trauma takes place. Sometimes, triggered by another event. However trauma has impacted you, it is important to know that help is available. At Morgan Center for Counseling, our Boca Raton Therapists will provide a nurturing environment and work with you to determine the best approach to help you reach your treatment goals.

Effects of Trauma and PTSD on the Body

When trauma occurs, the body responds by causing physical changes such as the production of stress hormones, the release of certain chemicals, all of which can be accompanied by a sense of intense fear. This is often referred to as “fight or flight” mode and it is a natural reaction of the body to what you perceive as a threat. This is because of the mind-body connection. These reactions happening over and over can take a toll on the body and its ability to deal with the stress. Sometimes they manifest in chronic health conditions. This is one reason it is important to address the root cause of trauma and PTSD. Resolving PTSD can significantly reduce stress and help to improve overall wellbeing.

Other Common Symptoms of PTSD and PTSD Treatments

PTSD can often lead to loss of sleep, a sense of despair, and helplessness. It can also be accompanied by feelings of confusion, hopelessness, and loneliness. In order to adequately treat the underlying cause of PTSD, a comprehensive plan of care needs to be in place. This is where post-trauma psychotherapy comes in.

There are a variety of therapies available to treat PTSD, including cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR therapy, psychodynamic therapy, clinical hypnotherapy, and various self-help programs. There are also medications that can be prescribed by medical doctors in order to alleviate some of the symptoms. Because there are numerous effective treatments for PTSD, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Research has shown that a combination of approaches can often be more effective than one therapy alone. This is why it is important to consult with a professional therapist who specializes in trauma and PTSD when looking into treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder.

For many who suffer from PTSD, the traditional course of action is PTSD counseling. PTSD counseling is designed to assist the patient deal with the symptoms of their condition, as well as learning coping skills and how to better deal with the various triggers that may cause an episode. The goal is to learn new methods of behavior in order to cope in more healthy ways that avoid the “fight or flight” reaction. Often when the client is comfortable with the therapist and has learned some initial coping skills, the therapist may introduce other modalities such as EMDR treatment and/or clinical hypnotherapy as complementary treatments. Also, depending on the severity of the condition and symptoms, the therapist may refer the client to a psychiatrist or their physician for a consultation as well. The exact approach to treating PTSD will vary from person to person, depending on the severity of the symptoms and the nature of the condition.

The good news is that there is help for those suffering from PTSD. Many of the treatments today are highly effective and can result in the client living a happier life. Additionally, for those who do not wish to enter counseling, there are support groups and organizations that provide support and information for sufferers of PTSD. These can help by providing resources such as newsletters, online chat rooms, and telephone hotlines. In addition, there are organizations and support groups that offer courses in a variety of approaches to cope with traumatic experiences and learn how to avoid triggering an attack.

At Morgan Center, we tailor each session to meet your individual needs and begin to address the goals and concerns that brought you to therapy. Call today if you have any questions about Post Traumatic Stress Disorder commonly referred to as PTSD. 561-717-2900