Sometimes going through something traumatic is hard to talk about or heal from. Everyone handles trauma differently, but trauma therapy is good for anyone who has been through a traumatic event. Even if you do not think you have been affected by something, it is possible you are repressing your emotions due to denial. Reach out to a trauma therapist if you would like some professional insight. 

What Is Trauma?

Trauma is your emotional response to something that has deeply hurt or distressed you. Trauma will generally affect your ability to cope. Shock and denial come hand-in-hand with trauma. 

Some examples of trauma include:

• Unexpected death of a loved one
• Domestic violence 
• Sexual abuse
• Car accident
• Burglary
• War

There are many more examples of trauma. Trauma does not have to involve man-to-man violence. Things like hurricanes and tornados can also cause trauma. 

Types of Trauma Therapy

There are a few different types of trauma therapy available to try. 

Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, is probably one of the most common variations of therapy. This involves talking with a trauma therapist so they can identify unhealthy thought patterns. Your trauma therapist will also offer solutions and assignments to help you overcome and heal from your trauma. 

Cognitive Processing Therapy

Cognitive Processing Therapy, or CPT, is commonly used through writing and talking through an event. This type of therapy is good if you were unable to process the traumatic event until long after it happened. Usually, this will cause you to develop unhealthy thoughts and behaviors. CPT's goal is to identify those new unhealthy behaviors and come up with healthier ways to cope. 

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, or EMDR, will typically begin with talking with a therapist. You and your therapist would then pinpoint an event or memory that is difficult for you to face. While recounting the memory, your therapist will instruct you to do eye movements that are aimed at helping you frame that memory in a more positive way. 

Alternative Therapy Options

There are some alternative options to traditional therapy. These days, online therapy is becoming more and more popular. Some like the option to be able to chat or text with their therapist instead of meeting face-to-face. This is a good step to take even if you are not ready to vocally express your feelings.

A few things that can be used on top of therapy include:

• Medication
• Meditation
• Yoga
• Journaling
• Regular sleep schedule

If you have questions about trauma, contact a local trauma therapist.