It’s time to quiet that inner critic.

Therapy for
Complex Trauma/
C-PTSD throughout Arizona

Have you always felt like you are not enough? Like no matter what you do, you can’t shake the feeling of unworthiness and shame?

You’ve heard the term PTSD—it’s when someone witnesses a terrible accident, or is a victim of a crime, someone who’s been in military combat, or some other terrible event. There’s another type of PTSD that is related but different, and it’s called Complex PTSD or C-PTSD. Some other terms used to describe the same issue are relational trauma, developmental trauma or attachment trauma. This refers to the type of trauma that develops in response to chronic, long-term exposure to traumatic events, usually of an interpersonal nature, such as childhood family dysfunction, emotional or physical abuse or neglect, bullying, loss or separation. Even if what you went through in childhood doesn’t feel “as bad” as what some others go through, you can still experience C-PTSD.

Can you relate to any or all of the following?

  • Emotional struggles. You have intense and unpredictable emotions, sometimes feeling extremely sad, angry, or anxious. You find it difficult to manage these big emotions.

  • Self-esteem and identity issues. You sometimes struggle with self-esteem and self-worth. You find yourself ashamed or guilty, even when you’re not at fault. You often struggle to have a clear sense of self.

  • Relationship challenges. It has always been very hard to trust others and let people get close to you. You struggle with forming and maintaining healthy relationships, even though you’ve always wanted to.

  • Hypervigilance. You feel constantly on edge or alert. Your are easily startled or agitated.

  • Sense of hopelessness. You often feel like the trauma will never end or get better.

You are weary of bearing the weight of past family challenges. You long to shed the burden of self-doubt and discover your true worth.

How therapy for C-PTSD CAN HELP

Therapy for C-PTSD can be highly beneficial in helping you cope with
and recover from the effects of complex trauma.

Emotional Regulation. You will learn techniques and strategies to help manage intense and overwhelming emotions. You will also learn skills to identify, understand, and regulate emotions, reducing emotional reactivity and distress.

Self-Esteem and Self-Worth. We will focus on improving self-esteem and self-worth, helping you develop a healthier self-concept, which can lead to increased self-confidence and a more positive self-image.

Processing Traumatic Memories: If it’s appropriate to your unique situation, I can assist in safely processing traumatic memories and experiences, helping you come to terms with their past and reduce the emotional charge associated with those memories.

Healthy Relationships. We will address difficulties in forming and maintaining relationships. You will be able to learn healthy communication, boundaries, and interpersonal skills.

Trauma-Informed Care: All of our work is conducted in a trauma-informed and empathetic manner, recognizing your unique needs and experiences. This approach fosters a safe and supportive therapeutic environment.

Improved Quality of Life: Ultimately, C-PTSD therapy aims to improve your overall quality of life by addressing the core issues and challenges associated with complex trauma, allowing for greater well-being and personal growth.

Frequently asked questions about C-PTSD therapy

FAQs

  • PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) and C-PTSD (Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) are related but distinct. PTSD results from single or closely related traumatic events, while C-PTSD is associated with prolonged, chronic trauma, often of an interpersonal nature, and has a broader range of symptoms. PTSD is an official diagnosis, while C-PTSD is sometimes referred to as "complex trauma" or "developmental trauma disorder" in the literature. I can help provide an accurate assessment and treatment options

  • Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) is not an official diagnosis, but it's a widely recognized concept in the field of psychology. Instead of having its own label, its symptoms are often considered within related diagnoses like PTSD or other trauma-related conditions. Although it does not have its own official diagnosis, many of us are trained to help individuals with complex trauma experiences.

  • Having a difficult or traumatic childhood doesn't necessarily mean you have C-PTSD. C-PTSD typically develops in response to chronic, ongoing traumatic experiences, often of an interpersonal nature, such as childhood abuse or neglect. However, a challenging childhood can still have a significant impact on your mental and emotional well-being. I can help to assess your specific experiences and symptoms to determine the most accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, if needed.

  • Take that essential first step and request a free consultation. We can talk about whether we may be a good fit and how ready you may be to commit to your own well-being. Learn more

You possess everything you need inside you to reclaim your worthiness.