Trauma & PTSD

When most people think of PTSD, they think of veterans returning from combat. While this group does represent a significant portion of those diagnosed with PTSD, many other people experience the same symptoms due to sexual or physical assault, car accidents, natural disasters, life-threatening illnesses, or witnessing someone being seriously injured or killed. These types of events are known as “big-t trauma,” events, and it is these events that are required for a diagnosis of PTSD. PTSD, however, is not the only trauma related disorder. There are many “small-t trauma,” events that can cause stress reactions and interfere with emotional functioning.

There are also a number of events which can contribute to developmental trauma. This type of trauma occurs during childhood and is characterized by chronic abuse, neglect, and household dysfunction. We have only recently begun to understand the impact of these early events on the likelihood of later physical, mental, emotional, and substance-related disorders. Most survivors of developmental trauma will not develop PTSD but are at a much higher risk of developing mental health disorders, substance use disorders, and a host of physical issues ranging from autoimmune disorders to increased risk of cancer and heart disease.

I utilize EMDR as my primary approach to therapy. EMDR is an evidence-based therapy shown to be effective for trauma-related disorders. I also integrate exercise and diet, yoga, and meditation into each client’s treatment plan. Each of these has proven effective in improving trauma related symptoms or associated co-occurring disorders. I schedule and attend weekly exercise groups with clients and also meet clients each week at area yoga studios.