Treatment Methods for Traumatic Stress: PTSD, Early Life Trauma, and Beyond
In the journey towards healing from trauma and PTSD, understanding the different therapeutic approaches available is crucial. Here are some of the most common methods used in Germany and around the world.
Firstly, it's important to note that the relationship with your therapist plays a significant role in therapy's success. Don't hesitate to ask about their experience, approach, and training. If something doesn't feel right, it's essential to find a new therapist.
One of the commonly used therapies is Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET), often employed in primary care settings. This approach helps individuals re-tell their stories to give their experiences meaning and shape how they see themselves and the world around them.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is another effective form of trauma therapy. This method aims to help individuals process and release traumatic memories through eye movements or bilateral stimulation. Research shows that EMDR can significantly reduce symptoms of PTSD and depression.
Resource-oriented therapies, such as imagination, skill training with dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) elements, psychoeducation, and body- and creative therapies like movement or art therapy, are also frequently applied. These therapies focus on boosting mental health and supporting healing from trauma.
Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) is a treatment mainly used for children and teens with trauma. This method helps them recognise false beliefs, correct unhealthy behavior patterns, and develop new ways to cope.
Prolonged exposure (PE) therapy involves confronting the source of fear to reduce anxiety and help overcome avoidance that developed after trauma.
Somatic therapies believe that traumatic memories are held in the body, not just the mind. These therapies aim to "release" pent-up trauma to relieve mental health symptoms and chronic pain, using methods such as developing body awareness and grounding in your body. A 2021 review found that somatic experiencing, which involves talking through past traumas while exploring the body's physical responses and sensations, is a promising approach to PTSD, but more research is needed to assess its efficacy.
Internal Family Systems Therapy is a type of talk therapy that considers your personality as comprising different "parts," each with its characteristics. The goal is to understand why some parts are hurting and learn how to help them with compassion rather than ignore or exile them.
Trauma Systems Therapy is designed for children, adolescents, and teens, emphasizing the person's emotions and actions and considering the role that a threatening social environment or system of care can play in keeping a young person in a dysregulated state.
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) is an effective PTSD treatment that can lead to a significant reduction in symptoms. According to the APA, narrative therapy is a conditionally recommended treatment for PTSD.
Art therapy can take various forms such as dance, drama, music, writing, and creative art. This therapy can help boost mental health and support healing from trauma. Music therapy can focus on helping people ground themselves by writing songs or compositions to create affirmations and regulate their thoughts or emotions.
It's essential to remember that therapy can help individuals integrate traumatic events, understand them, and begin the healing process. Therapy provides a safe space to process emotions, learn coping mechanisms, and rebuild a sense of control and resilience.
Approximately 6% of adults globally develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after experiencing trauma. If you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD or trauma, seeking professional help can make a significant difference in the healing journey.
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