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.

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.

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.

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.

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.