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Trauma Symptoms and Treatment

Trauma is a common experience that can have lasting effects on an individual's mental and physical health. If you are struggling with trauma, it's important to know that our trauma psychologists and therapists at Sunshine Coast offer effective treatments.

What is Trauma?

Trauma is a response to a distressing or disturbing event that overwhelms an individual's ability to cope. Traumatic events can include physical or sexual assault, natural disasters, accidents, combat, or witnessing violence. Trauma can have lasting effects on an individual's mental and physical health.

What are the symptoms of  Trauma?

The symptoms of trauma can vary depending on individual patient presentations, but common symptoms include:

  • Intrusive memories or flashbacks of the traumatic event

  • Avoidance of situations or activities that remind you of the traumatic event

  • Negative thoughts or feelings about yourself, others, or the world

  • Feelings of detachment or emotional numbness

  • Hypervigilance or increased startle response

  • Sleep disturbances or nightmares

  • Substance abuse or other unhealthy coping mechanisms

What are the treatment options for Trauma?

There are several types of treatments available for trauma, and the most effective treatment will depend on individual patient presentations. Common treatment options include:

  • Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT): TF-CBT is a type of therapy that helps individuals process traumatic experiences and develop coping skills and strategies to manage trauma symptoms. TF-CBT can be effective for a range of trauma experiences.

  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): EMDR is a type of therapy that involves using bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or hand tapping, to process traumatic memories and emotions. EMDR can be effective for a range of trauma experiences.

  • Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT): DBT is a type of therapy that helps individuals develop mindfulness and emotion regulation skills to manage difficult emotions associated with trauma. DBT can be effective for a range of trauma experiences.

  • Group Therapy: Group therapy can provide a supportive environment for individuals to process traumatic experiences and connect with others who have similar experiences.

What to expect in trauma therapy?

In trauma counselling, you will work with our trauma psychologists who are trained in treating trauma. Your trauma therapist will help you identify your specific trauma symptoms and develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your needs and goals. You will learn coping skills and strategies to manage your trauma symptoms, and you may be asked to complete homework assignments between sessions to practice these skills in real-life situations.

How will seeking mental health support benefit you?

Seeking mental health support for trauma can benefit you in many ways. It can help you:

  • Reduce symptoms of trauma and improve your overall mental and physical health

  • Develop coping skills and strategies to manage difficult emotions and situations

  • Improve your relationships with others

  • Increase your overall quality of life

If you are struggling with trauma, it's important to make a booking with ICP, and our team will align you with a trauma therapist who is trained in treating trauma counselling. With the right treatment and support, you can manage your symptoms and live a fulfilling life. 

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