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When it comes to therapy, it's really good to be an informed consumer. There are hundreds of different types of therapy, and each therapist is different in how they approach issues like PTSD. So whether you've never tried therapy before or have worked with other therapists in the past and want something different, learning more about different PTSD treatment modalities can be very helpful.
So first, what is trauma? Trauma is any experience that has been overwhelming, threatening, caused pain, distress, fear to the point where you feel helpless. This may include abuse, assault, witnessing tragedy, it may include frightening medical experiences, near-death experiences, or serious loss. When your reaction to these situations interferes with your life, you may receive a diagnosis of PTSD or, if the abuse has lasted for long periods of time, a diagnosis of complex PTSD (CPTSD). Symptoms include nightmares, feeling constantly tense or anxious, nervousness, feeling numb or detached, exhaustion and depression, and difficulties with relationships, sleep and work.
Although almost all therapists have some skills in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma or PTSD – due to their universal nature, not all therapists specialize in treating trauma. This means that most therapists have at least a handful of tools to treat PTSD, but some therapists have many skills, interventions, and resources as well as experience to help you. And this is not exclusive to trauma, the more specific your diagnosis, the more specific you can be in finding a therapist who offers interventions tailored to your needs.
OK, so what trauma treatment options are available and how do you find a therapist who uses them? There are billions of ways to treat PTSD, but I'm going to highlight those that are supported by research, meaning a solid body of consistent evidence that these treatments are effective.

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Therapy in Brief and information provided by Emma McAdam is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not a substitute for advice, diagnosis, or treatment regarding medical or mental health problems. Although Emma McAdam is a licensed marriage and family therapist, the opinions expressed on this site or any related content should not be considered medical or psychiatric advice. Always consult your doctor before making any decisions related to your physical or mental health.
In therapy, I use a combination of acceptance and commitment therapy, systems theory, positive psychology, and bio-psycho-social approach to treat mental illness and other challenges we all face in life. The ideas in my videos are frequently adapted from several sources. Many of these come from acceptance and commitment therapy, particularly the work of Steven Hayes, Jason Luoma, and Russ Harris. The sections on stress and the mind-body connection stem from the work of Stephen Porges (polyvagal theory), Peter Levine (somatic experiencing), Francine Shapiro (EMDR), and Bessel Van Der Kolk. I also rely heavily on the work of the Arbinger Institute for my overall understanding of our ability to choose the direction of our lives.
And deeper than all of this, the gospel of Jesus Christ guides my personal worldview and sense of security, peace, hope, and love https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/comeuntochrist/believe

If you are in crisis, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ or 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or your local emergency services .
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