Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a serious mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. At Bridging Connections Therapy, we are committed to providing specialized support and effective therapeutic approaches to help you manage and overcome PTSD. This page offers an overview of PTSD, its impact, and what you can expect from therapy.

​

What is PTSD?

PTSD is a mental health disorder triggered by exposure to traumatic events, such as combat, abuse, accidents, or natural disasters. It is characterized by persistent and distressing symptoms that affect your daily life and well-being.

​

Common Symptoms of PTSD:

• Re-experiencing the Trauma: This can include flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive thoughts related to the traumatic event.

• Avoidance: Steering clear of reminders of the trauma, including certain places, people, or activities that bring back distressing memories.

• Negative Changes in Mood and Cognition: This includes persistent negative feelings about oneself or others, difficulty experiencing positive emotions, and distorted beliefs about the trauma.

• Hyperarousal: Symptoms such as heightened alertness, irritability, difficulty sleeping, and an exaggerated startle response.

​

What Therapy for PTSD Looks Like

Effective therapy for PTSD helps you process the trauma, manage symptoms, and regain control over your life. At Bridging Connections Therapy, we offer a variety of therapeutic approaches tailored to your specific needs.

​

1. Initial Assessment

Your first session will involve a thorough assessment to understand your PTSD symptoms, history, and personal goals. This helps us develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs.

​

2. Evidence-Based Therapies

We use several evidence-based therapies that are proven to be effective in treating PTSD:

​

• Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT): CPT helps you understand and reframe unhelpful thoughts related to the trauma. It focuses on identifying and challenging distorted beliefs about the traumatic event and its impact on your life.

• Internal Family Systems (IFS): In IFS, therapy focuses on identifying and addressing conflicts between these parts, fostering a compassionate inner dialogue, and allowing the "Self"—the core, true self of the individual—to lead and heal. By working with these internal parts, IFS aims to resolve internal conflicts, reduce emotional distress, and promote overall psychological balance.

• Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE): PE involves gradually and systematically facing the memories and situations associated with the trauma. This helps reduce avoidance behaviors and decrease the emotional intensity of traumatic memories.

• Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT): TF-CBT combines cognitive-behavioral techniques with trauma-focused interventions. It helps you process the trauma, develop coping strategies, and improve emotional regulation.

​

3. Goal Setting and Treatment Planning

Together, we will set specific, achievable goals for therapy. This includes addressing key symptoms of PTSD and developing a treatment plan that aligns with your personal goals and needs.

​

4. Skill Building and Coping Strategies

Therapy sessions will focus on teaching you practical skills and strategies to manage PTSD symptoms. This may include:

​

• Coping Skills: Techniques for managing stress, anxiety, and emotional distress.

• Relaxation Techniques: Methods such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and mindfulness to reduce hyperarousal and promote relaxation.

• Emotional Regulation: Strategies to help you manage intense emotions and improve overall emotional stability.

​

5. Regular Check-Ins and Progress Monitoring

We will regularly review your progress and make adjustments to the treatment plan as needed. This ongoing evaluation helps ensure that therapy remains effective and responsive to your evolving needs.

​

6. Building a Support Network

In addition to individual therapy, we may discuss the importance of building a support network. Connecting with supportive friends, family, or support groups can provide additional emotional support and enhance your recovery.

​

7. Relapse Prevention and Ongoing Support

Therapy for PTSD includes preparing for future challenges and maintaining progress. We’ll work on strategies for managing potential setbacks and ensuring that you have the tools and resources needed for long-term well-being.

​

Taking the First Step

If you are struggling with PTSD, seeking therapy can be a crucial step towards healing and reclaiming your life. At Bridging Connections Therapy, we are here to support you with compassionate and effective care.

​

Contact Us Today

To learn more about our therapy services for PTSD or to schedule an appointment, please call or email us. We look forward to helping you manage PTSD and move towards a more balanced and fulfilling life.