Our therapists offer PTSD & trauma therapy in Maitland, FL

My go-to approaches for PTSD/trauma therapy are solution-focused brief therapy and EMDR. I prefer solution-focused brief therapy because, with solution-focused brief therapy, individuals are asked to draw on their past successes, strengths, and resources to create their desired future. I appreciate the respect this method has for clients, that it is non-judgmental and compassionate. I have also seen the effectiveness of a positive approach. I prefer EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy) because it helps you heal from trauma and other distressing life experiences. Studies have shown that EMDR can be effective in a short period of time.

In PTSD/trauma therapy with solution-focused brief therapy, I help you develop tools and skills, based on your current strengths, that you can use moving forward. These tools and skills may help you change harmful behaviors, achieve your life goals, and manage difficult situations. In PTSD/trauma therapy with EMDR, stress reduction techniques are taught to help you manage your emotions during and between sessions, including breathing exercises and resourcing techniques.

I know a client is making meaningful progress in PTSD/trauma therapy with solution-focused brief therapy when they see themselves as capable, strong, and wise. A client is also making meaningful progress when they can see a way toward their goals and when they experience hope and optimism. I know a client is making meaningful progress in PTSD/trauma therapy with EMDR when there is a reduction in disturbing emotions and sensations, positive beliefs replace negative beliefs, there is a reduction in body tension, and changes are stable.

Clients can supplement their time in PTSD/trauma therapy with solution-focused brief therapy by keeping an eye out for when their problems are less present or gone altogether. The client can then identify what is different about these times, and do more of what is already working. Clients can also keep a journal of their distress while rating it on a 1-10 scale. Clients can supplement their time in PTSD/trauma therapy with EMDR by noticing thoughts, images, emotions, and sensations that come up between sessions, as well as vivid dreams, and sharing this information at the following therapy session.

To prepare for their first PTSD/trauma therapy session with solution-focused brief therapy, someone can reflect on these questions: From the time you set up this visit to today, what have you noticed that’s already slightly improving? If you have done therapy before, what worked best for you? You can also think about your goals for therapy. What would you like to be different in your life as a result of the therapy? To prepare for their first PTSD/trauma therapy session with EMDR, some optional steps are to read about EMDR, exercise regularly, learn meditation, and practice breathing exercises. Don't forget to bring a list of your current medications.