5 Types Of Therapy That Effectively Treat PTSD
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a highly complex condition. Two people can be exposed to the same traumatic event, but the effect that trauma has is imprinted on them to different degrees. This has indicated the importance of person-focused recovery programs that provide multi-modal and adaptive treatment, based on the individual’s needs. In this article, we outline 4 types of therapy that are effective at treating and managing PTSD.
The team at PTSDrecovery are trained to offer a variety of therapeutic recovery techniques for participants suffering from PTSD. Our primary focus is on helping individuals manage symptoms and work towards PTSD recovery. We offer support all the way from our pre-admissions program to post-treatment support.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy examines the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and the behaviours you exhibit. The valuable element is recognizing how changes in any one area can improve the outcomes of the others. For example, correcting negative thought patterns can lead to them exhibiting healthier behaviours and healthier emotional responses.
How Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Helps Treat PTSD
Applying the definition above, if therapists can help you change certain problematic thought patterns, it becomes possible to regain control of your emotional response to triggers or stimuli, which will allow you to make positive changes to your behaviour. CBT is about reprogramming and retraining the mind that has been altered by trauma or traumatic events.
Self Regulation Therapy (SRT)
SRT is designed to help participants retrain their nervous system, physical responses, and subconscious reactions after experiencing a traumatic event. Trauma leaves a lasting imprint on those who experience it, but it is possible to retrain your brain and rewire your central nervous system with practice!
Pent-up energy lives on in your nervous system, SRT helps you discharge this energy, releasing you from a constant state of “fight or flight”.
How Self-Regulation Therapy Helps
SRT can help resolve specific conditions like PTSD, anxiety, and panic attacks, as well as with more broad symptoms like stress management. The goal is to help participants with overactive nervous systems learn to restore balance and regulate their body’s physical responses.
In the end, you find it easier to make better decisions, have better clarity, and become free from old habits that might be causing you stress.
Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
The word Dialectical means “the existence of opposites.” While Utilizing DBT, participants are encouraged to apply two opposite frames of mind to their trauma. The first is acceptance; accepting that your experiences happened, and the behaviours you exhibit are valid. The second is focused on change; that you have the power and responsibility to make positive changes to regulate your emotions and move forward in a constructive way.
How Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Helps Treat PTSD
Those with PTSD tend to have difficulty managing their emotions and emotional response. A side effect of that is trouble with relationships or that they may engage in self-destructive behaviours, like self-harm. There is plenty of evidence to support the effectiveness of DBT for PTSD – like this NIH study, indicating significant improvements in PTSD symptoms while also addressing depression and dissociation.
Somatic Therapy
Somatic therapy is a body-centred therapy that examines the connection of mind and body; while using psychotherapy and physical therapies in conjunction with one another for more comprehensive PTSD recovery. Somatic therapy utilizes talk therapy and mind-body exercises to help release any built-up tension that is impacting your physical and emotional wellbeing.
How Somatic Therapy Helps Treat PTSD
Somatic therapy helps people improve self-awareness and self-regulation. It helps participants gain a deeper understanding of the body/mind connection and helps to release and regulate emotions associated with PTSD. Somatic therapy also helps:
- Diffuse stress
- Resolve trauma
- Navigate through transitions in life and relationships
- Build emotional resilience
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR is a form of therapy that encourages participants to briefly focus on the memory of the traumatic event, while simultaneously performing bilateral stimulation, in this case, eye movements. This technique has been associated with a reduction in the vividness and emotional response associated with traumatic memories.
How Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Helps Treat PTSD
EMDR can help you process painful or emotional memories and thoughts related to your trauma. By strategically processing these experiences, you can experience relief in PTSD symptoms. Those with PTSD often have trouble coming to terms with what actually happened to them. EMDR helps your brain process the trauma, which gives you the opportunity to heal.
Multi-Modal Recovery Therapy Available at PTSDrecovery
The team of clinicians at PTSDrecovery takes a holistic approach when treating PTSD. Our team recognizes the value and necessity of multi-modal therapy and treatment. In the same way that each person’s experiences and traumas are unique, so are the response to different therapies. We work in collaboration with you to find the methods that offer you the most benefit.
PTSD Recovery Programs Available in Kelowna, BC
If you have experienced traumatic events or recognize the symptoms of PSTD, you may be a great candidate for the Traumatic Stress Recovery Programs offered at PTSDrecovery. From pre-admission to post-treatment, our team of specialists has the knowledge and resources that can help you manage or treat your PTSD.
If you have questions about our program offerings or would like help finding helpful resources, reach out to the team at PTSDrecovery today. Call our office to speak with a representative from our team or schedule an appointment online.
