Trauma & PTSD

"Owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing we'll ever do."

TRAUMA THERAPY IN EDMONTON

At Nova Psychology in Edmonton, we understand the profound impact of trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) on an individual’s mental health. Trauma can result from a range of experiences, and its effects often extend beyond the initial event. Our dedicated team of professionals specializes in providing comprehensive support and evidence-based interventions to help individuals overcome the challenges associated with trauma and PTSD. Through a personalized approach, we address the unique needs of each individual, fostering a safe and empathetic environment for exploration and healing. Our therapists utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities to empower clients in understanding and processing their experiences, building resilience, and reclaiming a sense of control over their lives. If you or someone you know is seeking assistance in overcoming trauma and PTSD, Nova Psychology is here to guide you on the path to renewed mental well-being. Your journey toward healing begins here, and our compassionate team is ready to support you every step of the way.

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SYMPTOMS OF TRAUMA/PTSD

Trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can manifest in a variety of symptoms, impacting both mental and emotional well-being. It’s important to note that individuals may experience these symptoms differently, and the severity can vary. Common symptoms of trauma and PTSD include:
    • Intrusive Memories: Recurrent, distressing memories, flashbacks, or nightmares related to the traumatic event.
    • Avoidance: Efforts to avoid reminders, thoughts, or feelings associated with the trauma, including avoiding places or people.
    • Negative Changes in Thoughts and Mood: Persistent negative beliefs about oneself or the world, distorted blame or guilt, and persistent feelings of fear, anger, or sadness.
    • Hyperarousal: Constant feelings of being on edge, heightened irritability, difficulty concentrating, and exaggerated startle response.
    • Changes in Emotional Reactivity: Emotional numbness, detachment from others, and a diminished interest in activities once enjoyed.
    • Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia, nightmares, or restless sleep.
    • Hypervigilance: Constant scanning of the environment for potential threats, leading to a heightened state of alertness.
    • Negative Changes in Beliefs and Feelings: Loss of trust in others, feelings of betrayal, and a persistent sense of fear and danger.
    • Difficulty Concentrating: Trouble focusing on tasks or remembering details.
    • Outbursts of Anger or Irritability: Difficulty managing and regulating emotions, leading to sudden episodes of anger or irritability.
It’s essential to recognize these symptoms and seek professional help if they persist or significantly impact daily functioning. Trauma-focused therapy, such as EMDR or cognitive-behavioural therapy, can be effective in addressing the effects of trauma and promoting healing. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of trauma or PTSD, reaching out to our mental health professionals at Nova Psychology is crucial for appropriate assessment and support.

coping with ptsd WITH emdr COGNITIVE BEHAVIOURAL THERAPY (CBT)

Coping with trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can be effectively addressed through evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT).

  • EMDR:
    EMDR is a therapeutic technique designed to help individuals process distressing memories by stimulating bilateral brain activity. Through guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation, EMDR facilitates the reprocessing of traumatic memories, allowing for their integration into a less distressing form. This approach helps individuals desensitize and release the emotional charge associated with traumatic experiences, promoting adaptive coping and emotional healing.

  • Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT):
    CBT is a structured and goal-oriented therapeutic approach that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. In the context of trauma and PTSD, CBT helps individuals recognize and challenge distorted beliefs related to the traumatic event, fostering healthier cognitive processing. Behavioral interventions in CBT aim to modify maladaptive behaviors and promote positive coping strategies, empowering individuals to manage symptoms and regain a sense of control.

  • Combined Approach:
    The integration of EMDR and CBT in treatment can offer a comprehensive strategy for coping with trauma. EMDR addresses the emotional and sensory aspects of traumatic memories, while CBT targets cognitive distortions and maladaptive behaviours associated with PTSD. Together, they provide individuals with a multifaceted toolkit for managing symptoms, enhancing resilience, and fostering post-traumatic growth.

By incorporating these evidence-based approaches, individuals can work with therapists to develop coping mechanisms, process traumatic memories, and build skills to navigate the challenges associated with trauma and PTSD. The goal is to empower individuals to regain control over their lives, cultivate a sense of safety, and ultimately move towards healing and recovery. If you or someone you know is struggling with trauma or PTSD, reaching out to our mental health professionals trained in these therapeutic modalities is a crucial step toward well-being.

BENEFITS OF THERAPY FOR TRAUMA/PTSD

Therapy for trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) offers a range of benefits aimed at promoting healing and restoring overall well-being. Some key advantages include:
    • Emotional Regulation: Therapy provides tools and strategies to help individuals manage overwhelming emotions associated with trauma, fostering emotional resilience.
    • Trauma Processing: Therapists guide individuals in safely exploring and processing traumatic memories, enabling them to integrate these experiences into their narrative and reduce their emotional charge.
    • Coping Skills Development: Therapeutic interventions equip individuals with practical coping mechanisms to deal with triggers and stressors, empowering them to navigate challenges more effectively.
    • Increased Self-Awareness: Therapy fosters self-reflection, helping individuals gain a deeper understanding of the impact of trauma on their thoughts, emotions, and behaviours.
    • Improved Relationships: Therapy addresses interpersonal challenges that may arise from trauma, enhancing communication skills and fostering healthier connections with others.

BENEFITS OF THERAPY FOR TRAUMA/PTSD

    • Enhanced Sense of Safety: Through therapeutic interventions, individuals learn to establish a sense of safety within themselves and their environment, reducing hypervigilance and fear.
    • Rebuilding Trust: Therapy assists in rebuilding trust, both in oneself and in relationships, allowing for the cultivation of a more positive outlook on social connections.
    • Decreased Symptom Severity: Evidence-based therapies such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and cognitive-behavioral therapy have demonstrated effectiveness in reducing PTSD symptoms.
    • Improved Sleep: Therapy addresses sleep disturbances often associated with trauma, promoting better sleep hygiene and restoring healthier sleep patterns.
    • Post-Traumatic Growth: Through the therapeutic process, individuals can experience post-traumatic growth, finding new perspectives, strengths, and a renewed sense of purpose following trauma.
    • Prevention of Relapse: Therapy provides individuals with skills and tools to prevent relapse, supporting ongoing mental health and resilience.
    • Empowerment: Therapy empowers individuals by providing them with agency over their healing journey, helping them regain control and ownership of their lives.
It’s essential to recognize that the benefits of therapy can vary for each individual, and a personalized approach is crucial in addressing the unique needs and experiences associated with trauma and PTSD. Seeking professional help at Nova psychology is a vital step toward healing and recovery.

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