Find Trauma and PTSD Psychologists and Therapists in Cape Town (2024)

Colette Ann Rodrigues

Social Worker, MA

Verified Verified

Hout Bay7806

Waitlist for new clients

I am passionate about assisting people reach a place of contentment and fulfillment, be they coming from a place of loss and grief, life changes and divorce,

trauma

or bad choices. I am a qualified in EMDR. Inter-relational dynamics and family health are important, including communication, personal awareness and growth . I work strongly with children (play therapy), adolescents and adults around transitions, divorce, coping,

trauma

, grief and self development. My skills include addictions and co-dependency, mediation services, parenting plans and family assessments for care of children, helping children adjust and cope with change.

I am passionate about assisting people reach a place of contentment and fulfillment, be they coming from a place of loss and grief, life changes and divorce,

trauma

or bad choices. I am a qualified in EMDR. Inter-relational dynamics and family health are important, including communication, personal awareness and growth . I work strongly with children (play therapy), adolescents and adults around transitions, divorce, coping,

trauma

, grief and self development. My skills include addictions and co-dependency, mediation services, parenting plans and family assessments for care of children, helping children adjust and cope with change.

087 250 2042 x41

View 087 250 2042 x41

Alison Le Vieux

Registered Counsellor, BSocSci Hons, HPCSA - Counsellor

Verified Verified

1 Endorsed

Somerset West7130

I work within a person-centred framework and specialise in

trauma

, self-esteem issues and burnout; often drawing from art, mindfulness and body-based approaches, as well as cognitive-behavioural, solutions-focused and narrative techniques.

Welcome! Whatever has led you here, please know that I would be honoured to hear and hold your story, to talk with you, and to share tools and techniques to help you move forward and create the life that is in your heart. We all have moments in our lives where we find ourselves just not coping; that feeling of constantly treading water with no end in sight; struggling with overwhelm, burnout, stress, fatigue, anger, or anxiety, doubting ourselves and never feeling good enough; being in conflict with others or feeling alone. Perhaps you have gone through a traumatic situation or major life transition?

I work within a person-centred framework and specialise in

trauma

, self-esteem issues and burnout; often drawing from art, mindfulness and body-based approaches, as well as cognitive-behavioural, solutions-focused and narrative techniques.

Welcome! Whatever has led you here, please know that I would be honoured to hear and hold your story, to talk with you, and to share tools and techniques to help you move forward and create the life that is in your heart. We all have moments in our lives where we find ourselves just not coping; that feeling of constantly treading water with no end in sight; struggling with overwhelm, burnout, stress, fatigue, anger, or anxiety, doubting ourselves and never feeling good enough; being in conflict with others or feeling alone. Perhaps you have gone through a traumatic situation or major life transition?

087 250 2910 x87

View 087 250 2910 x87

Wilma Beukes (Cloete)

Psychologist, MPsych, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.

Verified Verified

Kuils River7580

Waitlist for new clients

What I offer therapeutically includes:

Trauma

work, Cognitive behavioural therapy, Mindfulness, Psychotherapy from a Christian Perspective, and personal growth work.

The wound is the place where the light enters you. - Rumi. Through dealing with my own wounds, I have realized that psychology gives me perspective. I do not take for granted, the priviledge of being part of a very personal process with my clients. I hope to create conditions in which my clients can empower themselves. During 2021 I had my radio, online, and TV debut. Mental health awareness and health promotion is very important to me. Psychology is not only what I do, it forms a profound part of who I am. Online article by Wilma Beukes: https://afrikaans.com/2021/09/24/geestesgesondheid-kom-ons-praat-daaroor/

What I offer therapeutically includes:

Trauma

work, Cognitive behavioural therapy, Mindfulness, Psychotherapy from a Christian Perspective, and personal growth work.

The wound is the place where the light enters you. - Rumi. Through dealing with my own wounds, I have realized that psychology gives me perspective. I do not take for granted, the priviledge of being part of a very personal process with my clients. I hope to create conditions in which my clients can empower themselves. During 2021 I had my radio, online, and TV debut. Mental health awareness and health promotion is very important to me. Psychology is not only what I do, it forms a profound part of who I am. Online article by Wilma Beukes: https://afrikaans.com/2021/09/24/geestesgesondheid-kom-ons-praat-daaroor/

087 250 0914 x40

View 087 250 0914 x40

Charlie Klein

General Counsellor

Verified Verified

1 Endorsed

Somerset West7130

My role as a radiographer and

trauma

counsellor has afforded me valuable insight into medical & health related concerns including cancer, HIV, cardiac disease.

Are you experiencing your own silent struggle? Let me support you on your journey to restoration – be it from

trauma

, loss & bereavement, stress, anxiety and depression or other health related issues. I am able to offer you a safe space, unconditional support, and a place to learn empowering self-care skills to assist you in managing psychological distress. Prioritising your mental health is integral to your overall well-being; the ultimate objective is to enable you to restore yourself to a state of being where you can thrive, rather than merely surviving.

My role as a radiographer and

trauma

counsellor has afforded me valuable insight into medical & health related concerns including cancer, HIV, cardiac disease.

Are you experiencing your own silent struggle? Let me support you on your journey to restoration – be it from

trauma

, loss & bereavement, stress, anxiety and depression or other health related issues. I am able to offer you a safe space, unconditional support, and a place to learn empowering self-care skills to assist you in managing psychological distress. Prioritising your mental health is integral to your overall well-being; the ultimate objective is to enable you to restore yourself to a state of being where you can thrive, rather than merely surviving.

087 250 0049 x22

View 087 250 0049 x22

Werner Gaigher

Verified Verified

Strand7139

Chronic stress, depression and

trauma

wreaks havoc on our lives. There is this constant feeling of being alone, confused, overwhelmed, which leaves us feeling depleted each day. This causes all kinds of issues in our health, relationships and the perception of ourselves and the world around us. Constantly being stuck in these states causes us to have fewer options and makes the future seem quite bleak and hopeless. I can imagine what you are longing for is someone to really listen, support and gently guide you in a direction of growth, resilience and living life to it's fullest potential.

Chronic stress, depression and

trauma

wreaks havoc on our lives. There is this constant feeling of being alone, confused, overwhelmed, which leaves us feeling depleted each day. This causes all kinds of issues in our health, relationships and the perception of ourselves and the world around us. Constantly being stuck in these states causes us to have fewer options and makes the future seem quite bleak and hopeless. I can imagine what you are longing for is someone to really listen, support and gently guide you in a direction of growth, resilience and living life to it's fullest potential.

087 250 0592 x10

View 087 250 0592 x10

Carin-Lee Masters

Psychologist, MPsych, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.

Verified Verified

Constantia7848 (Online Only)

Waitlist for new clients

My work focusses on clients who are struggling with the effects of childhood abuse and

trauma

as well as the emotional effects related to narcissistic abuse, past or present. I provide a space for clients to feel safe and to allow them to loosen their defences they needed to protect themselves and to understand their inner world and change old repetitive and obstructive patterns of being and relating. My focus is in working with young and older adults. I also include expressive therapy approaches, where needed, as a means to access emotions and experiences that are difficult to verbalise.

My work focusses on clients who are struggling with the effects of childhood abuse and

trauma

as well as the emotional effects related to narcissistic abuse, past or present. I provide a space for clients to feel safe and to allow them to loosen their defences they needed to protect themselves and to understand their inner world and change old repetitive and obstructive patterns of being and relating. My focus is in working with young and older adults. I also include expressive therapy approaches, where needed, as a means to access emotions and experiences that are difficult to verbalise.

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Imagine You therapeutic services

Registered Counsellor, HPCSA - Counsellor

Verified Verified

2 Endorsed

Durbanville Hills7550

You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. Life is too short to let

trauma

control you, unhealthy relationships or be anxious/angry all the time. I want you to be free from emotional pain, able to deal with life's unpredictability and to find meaning and purpose in all areas of your life. I want to help you through whatever challenges you face, while enjoying the process as much as possible. Therapy does not always need to be painful. My ideal client is focused upon personal growth and healing. Starting therapy can be intimidating, but I hope you will take a moment to call and see how I can help.

You deserve to live a life that leaves you excited to wake up every morning. Life is too short to let

trauma

control you, unhealthy relationships or be anxious/angry all the time. I want you to be free from emotional pain, able to deal with life's unpredictability and to find meaning and purpose in all areas of your life. I want to help you through whatever challenges you face, while enjoying the process as much as possible. Therapy does not always need to be painful. My ideal client is focused upon personal growth and healing. Starting therapy can be intimidating, but I hope you will take a moment to call and see how I can help.

Maryam Khan Waglay

Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Ind. Psych.

Verified Verified

Rylands Estate7764

Hi, My name is Maryam Khan Waglay, Psychologist, specializing in various forms of Counselling with individuals and groups. My client issues stem from personal and work related problems. My interest is Employee wellness, Organizational challenges, Career Coaching and

Trauma

therapy using specialist knowledge in Counselling and coaching, rooted in psychological principles; organizational development, HR consulting, career development & assessments. I offer counselling for anxiety, depression, stress, self esteem and confidence building utilizing various assessments and psychometric evaluations.

Hi, My name is Maryam Khan Waglay, Psychologist, specializing in various forms of Counselling with individuals and groups. My client issues stem from personal and work related problems. My interest is Employee wellness, Organizational challenges, Career Coaching and

Trauma

therapy using specialist knowledge in Counselling and coaching, rooted in psychological principles; organizational development, HR consulting, career development & assessments. I offer counselling for anxiety, depression, stress, self esteem and confidence building utilizing various assessments and psychometric evaluations.

087 250 0616 x50

View 087 250 0616 x50

Tana Silver

Registered Counsellor, MPsych, HPCSA - Counsellor

Verified Verified

Sea Point8005

My areas of specialty are

trauma

, emotional disorders, grief and psychosomatics.

My philosophy is that all of us have the necessary abilities to overcome any challenges in life with the right support. I offer an integrative approach to counselling that draws on Gestalt, existential and cognitive theories. I view counselling as a creative process of discovering the masterpiece in each client. I work within an interpersonal framework that places the relationship between the client and the therapist at the heart of the process.

My areas of specialty are

trauma

, emotional disorders, grief and psychosomatics.

My philosophy is that all of us have the necessary abilities to overcome any challenges in life with the right support. I offer an integrative approach to counselling that draws on Gestalt, existential and cognitive theories. I view counselling as a creative process of discovering the masterpiece in each client. I work within an interpersonal framework that places the relationship between the client and the therapist at the heart of the process.

087 250 2962 x79

View 087 250 2962 x79

Heidi Sandra Wichman

Psychologist, MPsych, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.

Verified Verified

Claremont7708

I am also trained in

trauma

therapy.

Hi. I am an experienced therapist who enjoys working with clients who are pursuing psychological growth and development. My goal is to provide an environment and professional skills which can assist you in achieving this goal. I look forward to taking this journey with you.

I am also trained in

trauma

therapy.

Hi. I am an experienced therapist who enjoys working with clients who are pursuing psychological growth and development. My goal is to provide an environment and professional skills which can assist you in achieving this goal. I look forward to taking this journey with you.

087 250 0914 x10

View 087 250 0914 x10

Gerda Kriel

Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.

Verified Verified

Somerset West7130

Gerda Kriel is a Clinical Psychologist with experience in both private and public sector. She has a special interest in working with infant and maternal mental health challenges, but also sees clients who struggle with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety,

PTSD

or phase-of-life-challenges. She views therapy as a collaborative partnership in which both therapist and client join hands in developing the changes the client seeks. Her approach is informed by Narrative therapy, but she also works in more structured modalities such as Eye movement integration and Resource therapy for clients with

trauma

.

Gerda Kriel is a Clinical Psychologist with experience in both private and public sector. She has a special interest in working with infant and maternal mental health challenges, but also sees clients who struggle with depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety,

PTSD

or phase-of-life-challenges. She views therapy as a collaborative partnership in which both therapist and client join hands in developing the changes the client seeks. Her approach is informed by Narrative therapy, but she also works in more structured modalities such as Eye movement integration and Resource therapy for clients with

trauma

.

087 250 0914 x98

View 087 250 0914 x98

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Find Trauma and PTSD Psychologists and Therapists in Cape Town (12)

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Rebecca Johns

Hannes Wessels

Psychologist, HPCSA - Ed. Psych.

Verified Verified

Panorama7500

I am a therapist / psychologist in Cape Town that specializes in the following areas: Anxiety, Depression, EMDR Therapy,

PTSD

, Individual Counseling, Teen Counseling and

Trauma

Counselling.

I am a registered psychologist in Cape Town and the Northern Suburbs. As a psychologist registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa, I strive to help you live a rich and meaningful life despite your emotional difficulties and life struggles. Together in therapy or counselling, we explore the most widely accepted therapy methods to help you. Most importantly I provide a non-judgemental and safe space as a psychologist. The psychological services I provide are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Career Counselling, Anxiety Therapy, and Assessments.

I am a therapist / psychologist in Cape Town that specializes in the following areas: Anxiety, Depression, EMDR Therapy,

PTSD

, Individual Counseling, Teen Counseling and

Trauma

Counselling.

I am a registered psychologist in Cape Town and the Northern Suburbs. As a psychologist registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa, I strive to help you live a rich and meaningful life despite your emotional difficulties and life struggles. Together in therapy or counselling, we explore the most widely accepted therapy methods to help you. Most importantly I provide a non-judgemental and safe space as a psychologist. The psychological services I provide are Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Career Counselling, Anxiety Therapy, and Assessments.

087 250 2219 x43

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Henning Gericke

Registered Counsellor, HPCSA - Counsellor

Verified Verified

Somerset West7130

I am an experienced therapist, having dealt with a variety of presenting problems in various contexts. This includes,

trauma

, stress, burnout, grief, relationship issues, challenges of adolescence, adjustment to a new life phase or stressor (such as a chronic or terminal illness) or feeling anxious or depressed. I have worked in educational, medical, community, on-site, online and private practice settings. My ideal client is anyone of 11 years or above who wants change. Any client requesting or attending therapy, I regard as a willing and positive client, capable of change.

I am an experienced therapist, having dealt with a variety of presenting problems in various contexts. This includes,

trauma

, stress, burnout, grief, relationship issues, challenges of adolescence, adjustment to a new life phase or stressor (such as a chronic or terminal illness) or feeling anxious or depressed. I have worked in educational, medical, community, on-site, online and private practice settings. My ideal client is anyone of 11 years or above who wants change. Any client requesting or attending therapy, I regard as a willing and positive client, capable of change.

084 209 5930

View 084 209 5930

Blythe Brigg

General Counsellor, BSocSci Hons

Verified Verified

1 Endorsed

Marina Da Gama7945

Hey there, I'm Blythe Brigg, a dedicated Specialist Wellness Counsellor registered with ASCHP and holding a B.Soc.Sc(Hons) in Psychology. My journey has taken me across the country and overseas, enriching me with insights into diverse cultures and life situations. Psychology isn't just my job; it's my passion, my purpose. I'm here to support individuals facing challenges such as addiction, anxiety, neurodivergence, personality disorders, and

trauma

. What makes my approach unique is my commitment to equipping clients with practical tools that resonate long after our sessions end.

Hey there, I'm Blythe Brigg, a dedicated Specialist Wellness Counsellor registered with ASCHP and holding a B.Soc.Sc(Hons) in Psychology. My journey has taken me across the country and overseas, enriching me with insights into diverse cultures and life situations. Psychology isn't just my job; it's my passion, my purpose. I'm here to support individuals facing challenges such as addiction, anxiety, neurodivergence, personality disorders, and

trauma

. What makes my approach unique is my commitment to equipping clients with practical tools that resonate long after our sessions end.

060 756 1843

View 060 756 1843

Luzelle Fish

Registered Counsellor, HPCSA - Counsellor

Verified Verified

Mowbray7700

I am a Registered Counsellor, focusing on

trauma

, childhood sexual abuse, confidence, self-worth, stress, phobias/fears, grief as well as sports performance.

Counselling provides a safe space to explore the problems that trouble all of us on this journey through life. We address behaviours, emotions and thoughts that are no longer serving us or which prevent us to optimally perform in different areas of our lives. This unfolding and unraveling may ultimately lead to improved relationships, new coping mechanisms, increased sense of self awareness, and personal development. My approach is warm and collaborative and I value the therapeutic relationship as a tool for meaningful change.

I am a Registered Counsellor, focusing on

trauma

, childhood sexual abuse, confidence, self-worth, stress, phobias/fears, grief as well as sports performance.

Counselling provides a safe space to explore the problems that trouble all of us on this journey through life. We address behaviours, emotions and thoughts that are no longer serving us or which prevent us to optimally perform in different areas of our lives. This unfolding and unraveling may ultimately lead to improved relationships, new coping mechanisms, increased sense of self awareness, and personal development. My approach is warm and collaborative and I value the therapeutic relationship as a tool for meaningful change.

087 250 2042 x71

View 087 250 2042 x71

Sadia Southgate

Registered Counsellor, HPCSA - Counsellor

Verified Verified

Plumstead7800

Areas of interest include; bullying, anger management, anxiety,

ptsd

,

trauma

, self-esteem, bereavement, behavioural issues, couples counselling, stress and any difficulties coping with life and challenges within yourself or family.

Counselling has become a part of my life and I believe that we should all strive to be our true authentic self. Counselling is not just a career but a calling where I can see how my purpose fuels my passion. Working as an effective, competent counsellor is what drives the level of integrity and willingness to see a difference in clients’ lives. Therefore I am dedicated to provide psychological services to individuals, toddlers, adolescents, young adults, adults, groups, couples and families. My aim is to create a space where clients can be their authentic self's.

Areas of interest include; bullying, anger management, anxiety,

ptsd

,

trauma

, self-esteem, bereavement, behavioural issues, couples counselling, stress and any difficulties coping with life and challenges within yourself or family.

Counselling has become a part of my life and I believe that we should all strive to be our true authentic self. Counselling is not just a career but a calling where I can see how my purpose fuels my passion. Working as an effective, competent counsellor is what drives the level of integrity and willingness to see a difference in clients’ lives. Therefore I am dedicated to provide psychological services to individuals, toddlers, adolescents, young adults, adults, groups, couples and families. My aim is to create a space where clients can be their authentic self's.

087 250 2389 x94

View 087 250 2389 x94

Morag Wilma Scordilis

Social Worker, MSocSci

Verified Verified

Plumstead7801

I provide short and mid term therapy in a caring, solution focussed approach and work with adults, children and adolescents. I am a qualified Brain Working Recursive Therapist and make use of this form of therapy for a variety of difficulties from anxiety, panic attacks and

trauma

to relationship and self esteem issues.

I provide short and mid term therapy in a caring, solution focussed approach and work with adults, children and adolescents. I am a qualified Brain Working Recursive Therapist and make use of this form of therapy for a variety of difficulties from anxiety, panic attacks and

trauma

to relationship and self esteem issues.

087 250 2962 x45

View 087 250 2962 x45

Margie Pankhurst

Art Therapist, MA

Verified Verified

2 Endorsed

Observatory7925

Drama therapy is an embodied practice that is active and experiential. I have a person-centred approach: radical acceptance, unconditional positive regard with a non-directive stance. I strive to work with the healthy resilience of the individual or group, creating a sense of safety in the present so that personal challenges can be explored in a contained way. Whilst creativity is the foundation for curiosity and expression, the sessions are client led focusing on their preferred mode of expression. The work (with children and adults) is

trauma

informed and diversity sensitive. Restoring and encouraging agency is ever present

Drama therapy is an embodied practice that is active and experiential. I have a person-centred approach: radical acceptance, unconditional positive regard with a non-directive stance. I strive to work with the healthy resilience of the individual or group, creating a sense of safety in the present so that personal challenges can be explored in a contained way. Whilst creativity is the foundation for curiosity and expression, the sessions are client led focusing on their preferred mode of expression. The work (with children and adults) is

trauma

informed and diversity sensitive. Restoring and encouraging agency is ever present

087 250 2962 x40

View 087 250 2962 x40

Diaan Bisogno

Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.

Verified Verified

Sun Valley7975

Trauma

work is my passion and addiction are often closely related to past traumas.

If you have been traumatized or have suffered a loss and are stuck in a cycle of addiction, I am here to help you navigate these issues and experience the change, relief, and lightness you’re looking for.

Trauma

work is my passion and addiction are often closely related to past traumas.

If you have been traumatized or have suffered a loss and are stuck in a cycle of addiction, I am here to help you navigate these issues and experience the change, relief, and lightness you’re looking for.

087 250 0536 x90

View 087 250 0536 x90

Christine Copley

Registered Counsellor, HPCSA - Counsellor

Verified Verified

Vierlanden7550

I also have experience counselling survivors of sexual

trauma

/rape.

You do not have to wait until you are in crisis before you reach out to a counsellor. One thing in life that is certain is change and facing challenges. Just navigating normal life transitions can be stressful and overwhelming. We are made to be in relationship with one another and when you are going through a difficulty there can be such power and healing in being able to express to someone in confidence what you are experiencing on a physical, emotional, mental and social level. We all need that space where we feel safe, we are able to share in confidence and there is no judgment.

I also have experience counselling survivors of sexual

trauma

/rape.

You do not have to wait until you are in crisis before you reach out to a counsellor. One thing in life that is certain is change and facing challenges. Just navigating normal life transitions can be stressful and overwhelming. We are made to be in relationship with one another and when you are going through a difficulty there can be such power and healing in being able to express to someone in confidence what you are experiencing on a physical, emotional, mental and social level. We all need that space where we feel safe, we are able to share in confidence and there is no judgment.

087 250 2389 x50

View 087 250 2389 x50

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See more therapy options for Cape Town

Online Therapy

Trauma and PTSD Counsellors

When should I seek treatment for trauma?

Not everyone who undergoes trauma needs therapy to heal, but many do. If, after experiencing a traumatic event, you find yourself struggling with symptoms such as nightmares, dissociation, irritability, or emotional numbness—especially if these symptoms last more than a month and are severe enough to interfere with your daily functioning—you may benefit from seeking out therapy with a trauma-informed provider.


How long does trauma therapy take?

Different types of therapy for trauma unfold on different timelines. Prolonged exposure therapy and cognitive processing therapy, for example, each take about three months, while trauma-informed CBT may last anywhere from 8 to 25 sessions. Other approaches, especially those that are less structured or that incorporate elements from multiple modalities, may be more open-ended, though many patients report feeling better within the first few months of treatment.


What happens if trauma is left untreated?

Unaddressed trauma can have serious—even devastating—effects on relationships, career, and day-to-day functioning. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can lead people to distrust or lash out at others, making it difficult to maintain intimate relationships; it can also trigger symptoms such as flashbacks or hyperreactivity that can interfere with a person’s ability to function effectively, personally and/or professionally. Some sufferers turn to drugs to find relief. Symptoms may lessen on their own with time, but there is no guarantee that PTSD will resolve on its own.


Can PTSD come back after treatment?

It is possible for PTSD symptoms to recur months or years after successful treatment. This is because, like most mental health disorders, it is not possible to “cure” PTSD, and stressful life events may cause symptoms to recur in even the most resilient individuals. There is no shame in re-experiencing PTSD symptoms nor in returning to therapy when such relapses occur; indeed, many forms of trauma therapy explicitly encourage periodic “maintenance sessions” to reinforce coping skills and ensure that symptoms stay manageable.


Find Trauma and PTSD Psychologists and Therapists in Cape Town (2024)

FAQs

What makes PTSD worse? ›

Stressful experiences, aging, and reminders of the traumatic event are some of the reasons why PTSD can get worse. Stress is a significant factor in any mental illness. It can cause anxiety and trigger flashbacks, making the symptoms worse.

How to heal trauma without therapy? ›

While therapy can be an effective way to heal from childhood trauma, there are also other ways to heal. Some people find that self-care practices such as meditation, exercise, and journaling can help them process their emotions and heal from childhood trauma without therapy.

What support can you get for PTSD? ›

A combination of a talking therapy and medicine may be recommended if you have severe or persistent PTSD. A GP can refer you to an NHS talking therapies service or, in some cases, a specialist clinic. You can also refer yourself directly to an NHS talking therapies service without a referral from a GP.

How do people with PTSD respond to trauma? ›

People with PTSD have intense, disturbing thoughts and feelings related to their experience that last long after the traumatic event has ended. They may relive the event through flashbacks or nightmares; they may feel sadness, fear or anger; and they may feel detached or estranged from other people.

What is the most severe form of PTSD? ›

Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (complex PTSD, sometimes abbreviated to c-PTSD or CPTSD) is a condition where you experience some symptoms of PTSD along with some additional symptoms, such as: difficulty controlling your emotions. feeling very angry or distrustful towards the world.

Does PTSD get worse with age? ›

There are a number of reasons why symptoms of PTSD can increase with age. Both chronological age (cohort effects of birth-year groupings) and developmental processes of aging impact the experience of PTSD.

What are the 7 symptoms of PTSD? ›

Arousal and reactivity symptoms
  • Being easily startled.
  • Feeling tense, on guard, or on edge.
  • Having difficulty concentrating.
  • Having difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
  • Feeling irritable and having angry or aggressive outbursts.
  • Engaging in risky, reckless, or destructive behavior.

What does trauma release in the body feel like? ›

As a quick summary, here are the signs your body is releasing trauma: Gut muscles relax and unclench. Breathing patterns change. Shoulder, neck, jaw, and head muscles can be engaged & upright, yet comfortably relaxed.

What is the most powerful treatment for PTSD? ›

The primary treatment is psychotherapy, but can also include medication. Combining these treatments can help improve your symptoms by: Teaching you skills to address your symptoms. Helping you think better about yourself, others and the world.

What is the best medication for PTSD? ›

Certain medications can be used to treat PTSD symptoms. The 3 recommended medications for PTSD are paroxetine, sertraline, and venlafaxine. If you decide to try a medication, you will work with your provider to check on your response, side effects, and to change your dose, if needed.

What does someone with PTSD need? ›

The cornerstone of treatment for PTSD involves confronting the traumatic memory and working through thoughts and beliefs associated with the experience as part of a safe relationship with a trained person. Trauma-focussed treatments can: reduce PTSD symptoms. lessen anxiety and depression.

How do traumatized people act? ›

Initial reactions to trauma can include exhaustion, confusion, sadness, anxiety, agitation, numbness, dissociation, confusion, physical arousal, and blunted affect.

Where is childhood trauma stored in the body? ›

This can happen anywhere in the body, and for trauma survivors, it is most commonly held in the core of the body, the stomach, abdomen, and low back, as well as the upper torso, chest, shoulders, and spine.

What does a PTSD episode feel like? ›

Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares and severe anxiety, as well as uncontrollable thoughts about the event. Most people who go through traumatic events may have temporary difficulty adjusting and coping, but with time and good self-care, they usually get better.

What aggravates PTSD? ›

PTSD triggers can be internal, such as emotions, feelings, memories, and thoughts. Other triggers may be external, including people, places, and situations that remind you of a traumatic event. These triggers lead to symptoms like feeling guilt, difficulty sleeping, and frightening thoughts.

What causes a PTSD flare-up? ›

Re-experiencing symptoms

Thoughts and feelings can trigger these symptoms, as can words, objects, or situations that are reminders of the event.

What exacerbates PTSD? ›

Triggers can include sights, sounds, smells, or thoughts that remind you of the traumatic event in some way. Some PTSD triggers are obvious, such as seeing a news report of an assault. Others are less clear. For example, if you were attacked on a sunny day, seeing a bright blue sky might make you upset.

What is bad for PTSD? ›

Anger and violent behavior

You may distance yourself from people who want to help. This is understandable. It's natural to feel angry after going through something traumatic. But anger and violent behavior can cause problems in your life and make it harder for you to recover.

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