Trauma is an emotional response to a terrible event that has shattered your sense of security or made you feel helpless. It can include events such as experiencing violence, natural disasters, car accidents, witnessing a death, or childhood abuse. Whatever the case, trauma has a valid and sometimes devastating effect on your life.
There are many reasons to get trauma treatment, but since there are so many types of trauma treatment, it can be overwhelming to pick which one is right for you. Harmony Hills’ trauma therapy program offers a range of evidence-based treatments. To find out if our trauma treatment is right for you or a loved one, contact us at 855.494.0357 today.
Causes of Trauma
There are a variety of experiences that can lead to trauma, including:
- Physical or sexual abuse
- Domestic violence
- Combat or war
- Violent crime
- Natural disaster
- Neglect Accidents
- Serious illness or injury
- The sudden loss of a loved one
Signs of Trauma
People react differently to trauma, and nobody’s reaction should be judged as right or wrong. However, some common signs that a person may need trauma treatment include the following:
- Hypervigilance
- Nightmares
- Flashbacks of the event
- Trouble relating to loved ones
- Physical symptoms such as nausea or headaches
- Change in appetite
- Sleep problems
- Strong emotions at what might be an inappropriate time
- New sensitivity to noises and smells around you
- Feeling strong emotions such as shame, depression, anxiety, guilt, and denial
Trauma Treatment Examples
Some people can heal independently after a trauma using self-care techniques such as exercise, mindfulness, and a balanced lifestyle. But others need professional help from a trauma-focused or trauma-informed therapist at a trauma therapy program. Some trauma treatment examples include cognitive-behavioral therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, somatic therapies, and medications. Here is a rundown of some common trauma treatment examples:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps people change their thought processes to influence how they behave or feel. Researchers have found CBT particularly effective in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD develops if trauma symptoms worsen over the months following the event and can significantly impair a person’s ability to function.
- In eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR therapy), patients relive their trauma while the therapist redirects eye movements to help them process the traumatic events.
- Some therapists also use somatic or body-based therapies. Trauma treatment examples that fall into this category are reliving the trauma in a safe place, touch therapies, and acupoint stimulation. In another example, the therapist combines psychotherapy with body-based techniques to turn the traumatic memories into strength sources.
- Doctors sometimes prescribe medications to help individuals manage symptoms while undergoing trauma therapy.
- Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can often be helpful. Still, it’s important to note that medication should not be the only form of treatment and should be used in conjunction with therapy.
No matter what type of trauma treatment you choose, it’s important to find a therapist who is trained in trauma therapy and understands your specific needs. At Harmony Hills, we offer a range of evidence-based interventions to help individuals heal from their past traumas.
Trauma Therapy at Harmony Hills
Harmony Hills uses several modalities to treat trauma. When you come to Harmony Hills, you first sit down with a therapist who will assess your personal and medical history and go over any possible reasons to get trauma treatment. If you do, in fact, have past trauma, your therapist will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that may include cognitive-behavioral therapy, EMDR, somatic therapy, and medication management.
Our trained trauma therapists will provide a safe environment for you to process your past traumas and learn strategies to cope with them in the future. We understand that healing is a journey, and we will work with you every step of the way. Contact us today at 855.494.0357.
