Sexual Assault/Abuse
I specialize in treating complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), particularly those experiencing the effects of childhood trauma (sexual, physical, and emotional abuse) and relational or interpersonal violence, such as rape, acquaintance rape, sexual assault and domestic violence.
I began my private practice career as an associate with Courtois & Associates PC, where I worked with Christine A. Courtois, PhD, an internationally renowned trauma expert and author of many publications on complex trauma. I received specialized training in the treatment of complex PTSD, specifically incest, childhood abuse (sexual, physical and emotional), neglect, abandonment, and interpersonal violence.
Common Effects of Trauma/Symptoms of PTSD:
- Anxiety, panic, fear, lack of feeling safe
- Flashbacks, intrusive memories
- Sleep disturbance/nightmares
- Depression
- Dissociation
- Emotional instability or numbness
- Impulsive behavior
- Stress
- Relationship problems
- Body image and/or identity concerns
- Concentration and/or memory difficulties
- Irritability
Trauma treatment can facilitate healing.
Treatment initially focuses on emotional regulation, safety, and stabilization through psycho-education and skill building.
Trauma processing involves confronting, working through, and integrating memories of traumatic experiences so that connections can be made between past events and present feelings and behaviors.
The goal is for traumatic memories to remain in the past and to stop interfering with and disrupting the present.
Therapy can provide a healing experience of safety and trust where obstacles to happiness can be addressed and life satisfaction can increase.