Therapy for Trauma

in Portland, OR

Trauma can leave individuals with a lasting mark. Those who have endured traumatic

events may find themselves haunted by persistent, distressing memories and emotions.

Therapy for Trauma
in Portland, OR

Trauma can leave individuals with a lasting mark. Those who have endured traumatic

events may find themselves haunted by persistent, distressing memories and emotions.

Therapy for Trauma in Portland, OR

Trauma can leave individuals with a lasting mark. Those who have endured traumatic events may find themselves haunted by persistent, distressing memories and emotions. This could manifest as hypervigilance, a constant feeling of being on edge, and/or emotional numbness. Individuals often struggle with intrusive thoughts that disrupt their daily routines, making it difficult to maintain relationships or perform at work. Trauma can also result in physical symptoms like headaches, insomnia, and a weakened immune system, further complicating an already challenging situation.

Fight, Flight, or Freeze

Most people have heard the term fight, flight, or freeze when talking about trauma. This is how our body responds when faced with traumatic events. Unfortunately, those who experience symptoms of trauma continue to have this response when faced with situations that remind them of the traumatic event.

You may experiences some or all of these symptoms:

Intense anxiety, fear, and anger.

The nightmares make it hard to sleep.

Being around people is overwhelming. You worry about something terrible may happen again.

Constantly feel on guard.

Easily startled around loud sounds or people getting too close to you.

It’s hard to trust others, so you keep to yourself and push them away.

You start avoiding things that trigger you.

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(971) 331-1366

15110 Boones Ferry Road, Lake Oswego,

Oregon 97035, United States

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Trauma can be effectively treated. By starting to look for a therapist, you are taking a the first step towards improving your mental health. At Forest Psychological Clinic our therapists have worked with many people who are also processing trauma and helped them break through the pain and hopelessness.

How to Know If You Need Therapy for Trauma

How to Know If You Need Therapy
for Trauma

Determining the need for therapy can sometimes be difficult, especially when coping mechanisms seem sufficient. However, if you find that memories of the traumatic event are overwhelming and persistent, affecting your ability to live a normal life, it may be time to seek professional help. Indicators include feelings of intense fear, anger, or sadness that do not subside, avoiding people or places that remind you of the trauma, and experiencing flashbacks or nightmares. When these symptoms interfere with your ability to function day-to-day, professional therapy can provide the necessary support.

Therapy offers a structured approach to processing and healing from trauma. It is an opportunity to understand and manage the profound impact that traumatic experiences have on your mental health. Professional therapists can help you navigate the complex emotions tied to your trauma and work through the psychological barriers that it creates. Seeking therapy is not just about managing symptoms; it's about reclaiming control over your life and breaking free from the constraints that trauma imposes.

What Should I Expect From Trauma Therapy?

Trauma therapy can include a range of evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy, and other therapy options. These methods are designed to help you confront and integrate traumatic memories, reducing their emotional charge. Therapy will also focus on developing coping strategies to handle everyday triggers and stressors, promoting stability and safety.

Engaging in trauma therapy offers profound benefits. It helps reduce the intensity and frequency of trauma-related symptoms, allowing for better emotional regulation and overall mental health. Therapy supports the development of healthy coping mechanisms, which can alleviate stress and improve resilience. Additionally, working through trauma in therapy can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself and foster stronger, more supportive relationships. Over time, many individuals find that they are able to return to a more balanced and fulfilling life.

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Questions and Answers

Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about our services.

What type of therapist is best for trauma?

A trauma-informed therapist is best for treating trauma. These professionals practice trauma-informed care, which ensures a deep understanding of how trauma impacts mental health. They may be licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs), psychologists, psychiatrists, or counselors trained in evidence-based therapies such as EMDR therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy for trauma, trauma-focused CBT, dialectical behavior therapy for trauma, somatic therapy, and internal family systems therapy. If someone is dealing with complex trauma or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a therapist with experience in prolonged exposure therapy can also be beneficial.

What therapy is used to let go of trauma?

Several therapies are effective for processing and releasing past trauma, including:

EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing): Helps reprocess traumatic memories and reduce distress.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Trauma (CBT): Identifies and changes negative thought patterns linked to trauma.

Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT): Specifically designed for trauma survivors, especially children and adolescents.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Trauma (DBT): Teaches coping skills for emotional regulation and distress tolerance.

Somatic Therapy: Focuses on releasing trauma stored in the body.

Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS): Helps process trauma by working with different "parts" of the self.

Prolonged Exposure Therapy: Useful for those experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder or traumatic stress disorder, helping them gradually face traumatic memories in a safe environment.

Group Therapy: Can be a helpful setting for individuals to share their experiences, gain support, and learn effective coping skills.

What is the therapy for trauma called?

- Trauma-Informed Care

- Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE)

- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

- Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)

- Dialectical Behavior Therapy for Trauma (DBT)

- Somatic Therapy

- Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS)

- Group Therapy

How do you get therapy for trauma?

Find a Trauma-Informed Therapist:

Search for professionals who specialize in trauma-informed care via directories like Psychology Today, TherapyDen, or local mental health services.

Check with Your Insurance:

Determine what trauma therapy options are covered.Explore Community Resources: Some non-profits and clinics offer low-cost or free trauma therapy for individuals with past trauma, complex trauma, or post-traumatic stress.

Consider Group Therapy:

If individual therapy is not an option, group therapy can provide peer support and shared healing strategies.

Look for Online Trauma Therapy:

Platforms like BetterHelp, Talkspace, and SonderMind offer virtual sessions for trauma-informed care.

We provide a safe space where you can find peace within yourself. Our expert therapists guide you through overcoming mental challenges with personalized care.