top of page

Trauma

Trauma: What You Need to Know

Trauma is defined by exposure to actual or threatened death, serious injury, or sexual violence. This exposure can come from direct experiences, witnessing these events happen to others, or hearing about them. Trauma can result from a variety of experiences such as accidents, personal losses, abuse, threats, and natural disasters. The effects of trauma can be long-lasting, significantly affecting mental health, relationships, and overall well-being if not properly addressed. When reactions to trauma become persistent and disruptive, one may be experiencing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). PTSD impacts your life and ability to function in numerous ways.

Trauma

Recognizing the Symptoms of PTSD


The symptoms of PTSD can manifest in both physiological and psychological forms. Recognizing these symptoms early is crucial for seeking help and achieving recovery. Common signs include:

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Flashbacks

  • Nightmares or night terrors

  • Emotional numbness

  • Trouble concentrating

  • Mood swings

  • Feeling detached from reality

  • Recurrent, involuntary, and intrusive distressing memories of the traumatic event(s)

  • Avoidance of reminders of the traumatic event(s)

  • Hypervigilance

  • Persistent, exaggerated negative beliefs about oneself, others, and the world

  • Persistent negative emotional states such as fear, guilt, horror, anger, and shame

  • Persistent inability to experience positive emotions, such as happiness


Is Trauma Therapy the Right Choice for You?


If you are experiencing reactions and symptoms related to a traumatic event that are impacting your life, it is important to seek help. Traumatic experiences can be inherently frightening, often leaving you feeling isolated and alone. Therapy can provide the support you need to manage and reduce your symptoms, allowing you to break free from the trauma and reclaim your life.


How Upper East Side Psychology Can Help You with Your Trauma


At Upper East Side Psychology, our therapists are trained in evidence-based treatments for trauma. We understand the profound impact trauma can have on your well-being and life. Our clinicians will support you through this challenging time to help you forge a positive path forward. Our process begins with a thorough intake and evaluation to gain a comprehensive understanding of your present challenges, symptoms, and history. Together, we’ll work to better understand your trauma, its origins, your triggers, how it affects your life, and your current coping mechanisms. Based on your needs and symptoms, we utilize evidence-based practices to provide you with tools and skills aimed at reducing symptoms and improving your overall well-being. We employ treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and mindfulness techniques to assist you in achieving your goals and minimizing distress.


We provide the support and tools necessary to help you successfully recover from and cope with your trauma. Our goal is to maintain an empathetic, compassionate, non-judgmental, and supportive therapy experience. We teach you to identify and manage triggers, modify problematic thoughts and behaviors, and develop coping skills and techniques for reducing symptoms, moving you toward the healthy, happy, and fulfilling life you deserve.


Contact us today for a free consultation to learn how we can help you heal from your trauma and its effects on your life.

bottom of page