“I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. I felt fear myself more times that I can remember, but I hid it behind a mask of boldness. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.”
– Nelson Mandela
What is PTSD?
A high proportion of people will experience a traumatic event sometime in their lives, and struggle with the aftermath of trauma symptoms. Post traumatic stress is a normal human reaction to a traumatic event. Unfortunately, for some people, these reactions to the trauma can persist and interfere with your ability to live the life that you want. In some situations, this can rise to the level of a diagnosable problem, which is called Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I am highly trained in several of the most research-supported treatments that exist for PTSD, Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Cognitive Behavior Therapy with co- occurring alcohol/substance use disorder (COPE).
What is Prolonged Exposure Therapy?
PE uses both imaginal and in vivo exercises. In retelling of the traumatic experience for the purpose of integrating the memory, the client is able to process negative emotions and thoughts. By confronting the trauma memory in a safe environment clients learn to decrease their PTSD symptoms over time. Offered in 10 individual 90 minute weekly sessions.
What is Cognitive Processing Therapy?
CPT is used to improve PTSD symptoms by challenging a client’s stuck points which are thoughts that impede recovery from the traumatic event(s). Offered in 12 individual 60 minute weekly sessions.
What is COPE?
COPE combines both PE and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. It was developed for people with both PTSD and alcohol & substance use disorders. The treatment is designed to address both the trauma memory while helping clients manage triggers for alcohol/drug cravings, high risk thoughts and learn coping skills. Offered in 12 individual 90 minute weekly sessions.
Together, we will set personalized treatment goals and will decide what type of treatment will best meet your unique needs and preferences. PE, CPT and COPE have been proven to decrease your symptoms, improve your overall functioning, and help you move forward.
Recommended Reading
The Body Keeps The Score by Bessel Van Der Kolk, M.D.
Trauma & Recovery by Judith Herman, M. D.