West Area Psychology offers 40+ years of experience treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder

A man in distress, tossing in bed, haunted by vivid memories, capturing the turmoil and isolation of a PTSD nightmare.

Post-traumatic Stress disorder

An Overview of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after someone experiences or witnesses a traumatic event, like a violent assault or a serious accident. Those suffering from PTSD often find themselves re-experiencing the trauma through intrusive memories, flashbacks, or nightmares, causing significant emotional distress.

The symptoms of PTSD are varied and include persistent re-experiencing of the trauma through intrusive thoughts and flashbacks. Individuals may avoid reminders of the traumatic event and experience emotional numbness. Additionally, they might struggle with negative feelings such as guilt and shame. PTSD is also characterized by heightened arousal symptoms, which can manifest as irritability, difficulty sleeping, being constantly on alert, and an exaggerated startle response. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for recognizing and supporting those affected by PTSD.

Treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

At West Area Psychology, we use evidence-based therapies like exposure and desensitisation to help you safely process traumatic memories and reclaim your life.

These therapeutic techniques are designed to lower your anxiety levels and break the cycle of avoidance. Working at your own pace, we guide you through two core approaches:

Gradual Exposure: We help you safely and gently confront reminders of the trauma, such as discussing the event or revisiting certain locations. This step-by-step process reduces your avoidance behaviours and diminishes the power of your triggers.
Systematic Desensitisation: We pair your exposure steps with deep muscle relaxation techniques. By learning to calm your nervous system, you can effectively manage fear and stay grounded when faced with trauma reminders.

Together, these methods empower you to gain control over your emotional responses, significantly reduce distress, and rebuild a lasting sense of safety and well-being.