Trauma and PTSD

Some traumas are intense, violent, and profoundly overwhelming. Other traumas are more like hot coals or burning acid. They smolder away, unnoticed, until the suffering is too much. Some of us put those feelings in a box and hide them on the highest shelf. But, we know they’re there, that they won’t go away. So let’s talk about trauma.

Trauma is very personal.

Our suffering is very personal. What is traumatic for one person may not be for someone else. Not everyone will understand or be able to recognize how or why we’re suffering. This is why working with a specialized, Trauma-informed therapist is important. Our practice is mindful of the complexities experienced in healing after trauma. We’ve built a practice on gathering the best and most effective techniques available to help you process and move beyond.

Trauma feels many different ways.

Traumatic events may overwhelm our ability to cope with the intensity of our experiences. This can lead to problems with anxiety and depression, difficulties with focusing, feeling on-edge, prone to explosive anger and emotional instability. We can feel like we’re jumping at everything, lashing out, going from 0-to-60 over the slightest things. Having the guidance of a trauma-specialists can help unpack and make sense of an intense “spaghetti of emotions”. Start your path to healing today!

Trauma often comes with fear.

Trauma is often associated with feelings of intense fear and panic. There isn’t always an identifiable cause, but we may still feel scared, pressured or under extreme distress.  Battling these unpredictable emotions can leave us stuck in “survival mode”, where everything feels somehow harder, emotions hit us more intensely, we’re always a half-step from giving up and running for safe space.  Systems Family Therapy teaches specific skills to help you weather the storm. We use focused-techniques to help you unpack your story. Even if you’re shy, soft-spoken, feel beaten down and silenced, we can help you find the words.  Our purpose is to help you heal and put you back in control of your life.

Trauma can change everything.

Trauma can overwhelm our normal coping mechanisms, the way we handle everyday things. It can lead to a range of emotional issues and behavioral reactions that may seem extreme, even to ourselves. These responses may include a heightened sense of anxiety, panic-attacks, intense worrying, hyper-vigilance, over-reactive responses, dissociation or momentarily disconnecting from the present-moment, avoidance, and a sense of numbness. Over time, our frustrations to control these feelings can lead us to just shut down and give up.

Don’t Give Up.

Take the first step towards healing and schedule your appointment today. We can help!

Florida Trauma Resources

If you or someone you know is dealing with psychological trauma in Florida, there are several resources available to provide support and assistance. Here are some organizations and services that may be helpful:

  1. Florida Psychological Association (FPA):

    • Website: Florida Psychological Association

    • The FPA can provide information on licensed psychologists in Florida who specialize in trauma and can help you find a suitable professional for counseling or therapy.

  2. Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF):

    • Website: www.myflfamilies.com

    • The DCF offers various mental health services, including trauma-focused therapy. You can contact them for information on available programs and services.

  3. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Florida:

    • Website: namiflorida.org

    • NAMI offers support, education, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by mental health issues. They may have resources related to trauma support and recovery.

  4. 211 Helpline:

    • Website: 211.org

    • Dialing 2-1-1 can connect you to a helpline that provides information and referrals for various community resources, including mental health services.

  5. Florida Crisis Hotlines:

    • Florida Suicide & Crisis Hotlines:

      • 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255)

      • Text "HELLO" to 741741

    • Florida Domestic Violence Hotline:

      • 1-800-500-1119

    • These hotlines offer immediate support for individuals in crisis or those experiencing trauma.

  6. SAMHSA's Behavioral Health Treatment Services Locator:

    • Website: SAMHSA Treatment Locator

    • The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) provides an online directory of mental health treatment services, including trauma-focused options.

Remember that seeking professional help is an important step in dealing with psychological trauma. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or experiencing a crisis, please call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.