Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a trauma and stress related disorder that can develop after a person witnesses or experiences an extremely traumatic, tragic or terrifying event that involves a death, witnessing a death, sexual violence, assault, or a severe accident.
Alison’s integrated approach is practical for clients dealing with PTSD. Techniques like Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) help individuals process traumatic memories, reduce reactivity to triggers, and foster emotional regulation. By using Emotion-Focused Therapy and Narrative Therapy, clients are guided to reframe their trauma experiences, giving them a sense of empowerment and control over their stories. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) encourages clients to acknowledge their distressing emotions while committing to actions aligned with their values, and Self-Compassion practices foster self-kindness, reducing guilt and shame often associated with trauma. Together, these therapeutic approaches support PTSD clients in their healing journey, helping them manage symptoms and regain a sense of safety and well-being.
WHAT IS PTSD?
Re-experiencing or intrusions; intrusive memories or thoughts related traumatic event
Avoidance behaviours e.g. avoiding friends, family and social gatherings
Avoiding specific situations that are associated with the trauma.
Re-living the event in the form of flashbacks that merely appear at any time day or night.
Extreme worry, guilt, anger, or hopelessness
A loss of interest in things that once gave pleasure
Showing out of control bursts of anger or becoming violent.
Constantly being on the alert for danger.
Hyper-arousal and/or Hyper-vigilance behaviours e.g. startled easily, on guard
PTSD is often accompanied by depression, substance abuse, and/or anxiety disorders. This can negatively affect the quality of life for any person living with PTSD, so it’s important to treat all co-occurring conditions.
PTSD is a highly treatable condition and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is the best treatment for it.
