The LodeStone Center for Behavioral Health provides a variety of types of therapy for treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD. Many of our current clinicians provide therapy and treatment for PTSD, using a variety of techniques and with each focusing on different ages. It is our goal to match you with a therapist that will best fit your needs and provide you with the best care possible. If you would like more information, or would like to request a first visit with a therapist, you can either fill out the contact form on this page and we will get in touch with you or you can also call us directly at 847-802-4058.
What is PTSD?
Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a psychological condition that sometimes develops following a life-threatening event or situation. The human brain and body are equipped with multiple systems that surge us into a state of hyper-arousal and readiness when faced with extreme danger. This “fight or flight” response can sometimes be easily re-activated by non-threatening conditions, or can remain “turned on” to a lesser degree chronically over time.
PTSD can include the following symptoms:
- Intrusive thoughts or memories of the event(s)
- Recurrent distressing dreams related to the event(s)
- Feeling as though the event is re-occurring (flashbacks)
- Intense distress in response to stimuli associated with the event(s)
- Unusually intense emotional reactivity
- Numbness and detachment
- Avoidance of friends, family and activities
PTSD Therapy:
Therapy for PTSD typically involves multiple approaches and addresses a multitude of symptoms. It is a very complex condition, requiring complex treatment. Many times the focus starts by teaching skills to reduce the physical response and reaction to the trigger, these skills include breathing techniques, relaxation training, and a range of cognitive (mental) skills that help to re-train the brain to react in a more appropriate way to stimuli. Because PTSD impacts so many areas of the person’s life (such as relationships and work), therapy often focuses on building up coping skills in affected areas as well. Medications are often also used with PTSD counseling, and your mental health professional can help you with making that decision and finding the right provider to help manage your medication treatment.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding therapy for PTSD, please don’t hesitate to call and speak with one of our therapists. We are happy to answer questions, help look into your insurance benefits or explain how counseling might be beneficial to you. If you have questions, and would like to speak to one of our mental health professionals, contact us today.