Trauma is a life-altering event, or series of events, that is so shocking that it interferes with the brain’s ability to properly process and store memory.
The National Institute of Mental Health defines trauma as “an event or experience that is so overwhelming and distressing that it surpasses the individual’s ability to cope or integrate it into their life.” For some people, even everyday stressors can be too much to handle and can lead to developing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
Trauma can occur from a single event, like an assault, or repeated events, such as childhood abuse or neglect. It can also result from experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, such as a natural disaster, car accident, or violent attack.
Many people who experience trauma may develop anxiety, depression, and intrusive thoughts or flashbacks.
Trauma comes in many forms, including physical, emotional, and sexual abuse; experiencing a natural disaster or life-threatening event; and being involved in a severe accident. Common trauma symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance of certain situations or triggers, difficulty sleeping or concentrating, and feelings of guilt or shame.
Treatment options include therapy, medication, support groups, and self-care strategies. It is possible to heal from trauma and lead a fulfilling life. By seeking help and support, you can begin the journey toward healing and recovery.
The effects of trauma can be long lasting and manifest in physical, emotional, and behavioral ways. Some common effects include guilt or shame, mood swings, difficulty trusting others, substance abuse, trouble with intimacy and relationships, physical symptoms such as headaches or body pain, and self-destructive behaviors such as self-harm or suicidal thoughts.
By addressing and working through the traumatic experience, individuals can learn coping strategies and improve their overall well-being.
There is no set timeline for healing from trauma, as every person’s journey is unique.
Integritas Wellness and Recovery specializes in working with individuals who have experienced trauma and its aftermath. Our team of therapists is trained in evidence-based interventions such as EMDR and somatic experiencing to support clients in processing and healing from traumatic events.
No matter the trauma a person has experienced, we understand that it can have long-lasting and pervasive effects on one’s mental and physical health. We prioritize creating a safe and supportive environment for our clients to explore their experiences and begin their journey toward healing and restoration.
If you or someone you know is struggling with the aftermath of trauma, please reach out to us for support. We are here to help you reclaim your power and bring healing to your life.
Integritas Wellness and Recovery LLC is based in Bryn Mawr, which is convenient to Ardmore, Wayne, Radnor, Haverford, Newtown Square, Villanova, Wynnewood, Lower Merion, Havertown, Berwyn, Devon, Paoli, Rosemont, Gladwyne, Narberth, Broomall, West Chester, Media and other towns in Montgomery County, Delaware County, and Chester County, PA.
There is no clear indicator of trauma, as everyone may experience and express it differently. Some common signs include feeling numb or detached from everyday life, experiencing flashbacks or nightmares related to the traumatic event, avoiding people or places associated with the trauma, constantly feeling on edge, or having difficulty concentrating.
There is no set answer to this question, as it can vary greatly from person to person. Some individuals may experience lingering effects for months or even years, while others may be able to process and move on relatively quickly. It also depends on the severity and nature of the trauma experienced.
There is no right or wrong answer to this question. It ultimately depends on your individual experience and perception of the situation. Trauma is defined by the individual. There is no set list of experiences that qualify universally as trauma. If you have an experience that still causes you pain or shame in the present, it is worth investigating in trauma-informed therapeutic treatment.
Some may consider a particular event traumatic, while others may not see it the same way, which can feel invalidating. Know that it’s your journey – if the event overwhelms your ability to cope, it is traumatic.
We work diligently with every client to ensure they feel stabilized and prepared to begin trauma processing. The trauma therapy journey is completely individualized for each client. Everyone’s history is different, so we must proceed at a different pace for each client. We will constantly evaluate our work together to be sure that you have the support you need to maintain your responsibilities and relationships outside of therapy.
Our sessions are $175/hour for individual sessions and $225/hour for intensive sessions. We are an out-of-network provider for insurance companies. We do not take insurance, but we can provide you with the documentation you need to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement. We are happy to explain this process to you and help you navigate it. We also partner with a company called Advekit, which speeds the processing of insurance reimbursement. For more details, see www.advekit.com
Carolyn Solo, an Integritas Wellness and Recovery LLC therapist, offers EMDR intensives for current clients who need extra support and new clients who prefer to work intensively
Michaela McDonald, LSW, an Integritas Wellness and Recovery LLC, offers weekly EMDR therapy.
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