PTSD is more common than most people realize. Millions of people go through traumatic experiences throughout life—including children. While these different types of trauma can’t always be avoided, dealing with the aftermath is essential. Unfortunately, some people tend to push down the feelings and effects of PTSD for many years, only to struggle through life later. Whether you’ve recently gone through a traumatic event or are starting to recognize the impact of childhood trauma, it’s never too late to seek help for PTSD.
Let’s cover a few of the most effective treatments so you can determine what’s right for you.
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)
CPT is arguably the most widely-known therapy for treating PTSD. It’s stood the test of time for a reason—it is effective and familiar. This therapy is especially effective for people who may have experienced childhood trauma that is now resurfacing. It’s trauma-centered, so you can go into each session expecting to explore your traumatic memories. You’ll tap into whatever might be causing your trauma to come to the forefront of your mind, so you can finally effectively deal with it. You’ll also learn healthy coping mechanisms to manage your symptoms when you’re not in therapy. Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) is another common approach. You’ll talk your way through your traumatic experiences, and eventually, you’ll be able to reduce avoidance and feel more stable as you realize your trauma doesn’t define you. These two approaches have subtle differences. Talking to a therapist about what to expect and which option is right for you is important.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR isn’t a new type of therapy, but it’s gained a lot of popularity in recent years, thanks to its effectiveness. While EMDR does involve some talking, it requires far less than CBT or CPT. Instead, once you’ve discussed your history with your therapist, you will recall your trauma while they guide your eye movements back and forth. As you think about the trauma during that time, you’ll be able to desensitize yourself from it. The trauma will still be there. EMDR doesn’t cause you to forget what happened. Rather, it changes how you see it, so you know you’re in control. That’s what the “reprocessing” phase is all about. This is a great option for people who don’t necessarily want to open up about everything but want to take back their lives from the effects of lingering trauma.
Prolonged Exposure Therapy
It’s not uncommon for people with PTSD to avoid things they think will trigger them. Many people do everything in their power to push down memories and try not to think about what happened to them. Prolonged exposure therapy does just the opposite. The goal of this type of therapy is to eventually build up your tolerance toward what you experienced. You’ll be in a controlled and safe setting when asked to explore your past trauma and any experience that might have contributed to your PTSD. As you do, you’ll learn healthy coping mechanisms like deep breathing techniques. Learning how to relax as you face your trauma can make you feel more in control, and you won’t feel the need to “hide” from your experiences. As a result, you’ll be able to reintroduce certain “triggers” in your life. Most importantly, you won’t have to live in fear.
Contact Columbus Therapists For More Support Today!
Still on the fence about the best PTSD therapy? Don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help. Not only will a qualified therapist help you through your treatment, but they can help you decide on the right type of treatment to meet your needs. Our team of caring therapists would be honored to support you with in-person and online support across the state. You can start your therapy journey with Blue Boat Counseling by following these simple steps:
- Get in touch with Blue Boat Counseling using the button below
- Get connected with a caring therapist you can trust.
- Start improving your mental health!
Other Therapy Services Offered With Blue Boat Counseling
Our team offers a variety of other mental health services to meet your needs. We know that you may require support with other mental health services in addition to PTSD. This is why we are happy to also include services like anxiety therapy, depression therapy, and counseling specifically for teens, families, and couples. We also offer online therapy across the state, and support for military veterans. Contact us to get scheduled or visit our blog to learn more about mental health.
