PTSD/Trauma

The experience of trauma can impact our lives in many ways. Irritability, difficulty sleeping, memory issues, substance abuse, hypervigilance, difficulty maintaining relationships with others, and avoidance, are common for those who have witnessed or experienced a traumatic event. At Hess Psychological Services we will develop a comprehensive approach to explore your thoughts and feelings about your trauma and learn how to cope with the results of those events. Recovery from trauma will not mean that the even did not occur, but rather it will no longer define you.

What Is PTSD/ Trauma?

PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) is a severe response to exposure to trauma, or particularly distressing events in a person’s life. Trauma refers to the emotions you experience during and immediately after a traumatic event. The effects of trauma can last from a few days to a few months to even years. The effects of trauma can transcend all areas of life if not treated properly.

Signs and Symptoms of PTSD/Trauma

When you have experienced a traumatic event, you may notice some physical and emotional disturbances to your normal self. These can manifest as such:

• Being jumpy or easily startled.
• Feeling tense, on guard, or on edge.
• Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
• Trouble concentrating.
• Engaging in risky or destructive behavior.
• Feeling irritable, angry, or aggressive.
• Avoidance of certain people, places, or events
• Recurrent distressing memories, dreams, or flashbacks to the event
• Feeling estranged from others

Modalities of Treatments

What defines a trauma is different to every person. Trauma responses and PTSD are both the result of you surviving an extraordinary event. While physical injuries will heal with time, the mental scars gained require patient, empathetic, and holistic treatment. At Hess Psychological Services we offer PTSD/ trauma treatment in the form of psychotherapy such as trauma informed cognitive behavioral therapy, to help restore your confidence and comfort.

Schedule a Consultation

If you are struggling with feelings of fear, anxiety, and distress after a traumatic event it is time to get the help you deserve. At Hess Psychological Services, we are dedicated to helping our clients restore confidence and peace in their lives. To schedule a consultation with founder Dr. Heather Hess or one of her team members, please fill out an online contact form.