Trauma/PTSD

Therapy for Trauma and PTSD

in Lake Oswego, OR

What is Traumatic and Posttraumatic Stress?

Trauma can leave an indelible mark and affect how you see the world and yourself. It may leave you questioning the safety and security of yourself and others. If traumatic stress symptoms become more severe and last for a longer duration, it may lead to posttraumatic stress. Trauma and posttraumatic stress symptoms are the mind and body’s attempt toward self preservation and to avoid further trauma.

Traumatic stress symptoms can include:

Feeling as if the trauma intrudes in your life
Attempting to avoid anything that resembles the trauma
Difficulties with how you feel and think about the trauma
Difficulties with how you respond/react since the trauma

Trauma symptoms might have just begun, or they may have been with you for a long time. Trauma symptoms are often the mind and body’s way of adapting to a situation or environment that was not safe. You need to feel safe, and this may have an impact on how you see the world, yourself, and how you interact in your relationships. If you’re having difficulty, there's hope for a brighter future.

Counseling can help you learn new strategies to address trauma

I help clients discover growth and healing after trauma. This is done with care and understanding of how trauma can affect the psyche, the body, as well as family systems from childhood through adulthood. Some clients have found more self compassion and deeper meaning in their lives, and consequently had improved relationships. Others have found the ability to feel much more at ease in situations they once avoided. Counseling can help you learn new ways to process trauma toward improved calm and safety.

It might be difficult to find a sense of calm if you haven’t been feeling safe. We can work toward finding or creating that space.

Reach out today for a complimentary consultation to discuss how I could help you.

I use trauma informed and integrative treatment methods for trauma and posttraumatic stress. The methods I use will pertain to each individual needs and goals. Some of the treatment modalities I use are: