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Corey O Connell

Overcoming the Fear and Avoidance of Trauma Triggers with Therapy

Overcoming the Fear and Avoidance of Trauma Triggers with Therapy

Traumatic experiences leave a lasting imprint in our minds and change the way we see the world.  These imprints cause some people to develop a fear of people, places, or objects associated with the traumatic event.  Having a reaction to a reminder of past trauma is called a trigger.  Triggers can cause significant stress and unrest in our lives. The pattern of staying away from social situations, specific memories, objects, places, or even smells, is called avoidance.  Avoiding triggers can lead to feelings of powerlessness and isolation. Today we will explore how therapy can help us overcome fear and avoidance of trauma triggers and regain control of our lives.

Coping with the Numb, Disconnected, and Detached Feelings Caused by Trauma

Coping with the Numb, Disconnected, and Detached Feelings Caused by Trauma

Trauma manifests in different ways for different people. Some people experience flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety. Others feel numbness, disconnection, or detachment from reality. These symptoms make it hard to function normally, leading to social isolation and feelings of hopelessness. These emotions can also make it difficult to connect with others and can even interfere with daily tasks such as work. Coping with trauma is not easy, but there are strategies you can use to manage these difficult emotions. In this post, we will explore coping mechanisms for those struggling with numbness and disconnection.

Identifying and Changing Negative Thought Patterns After Trauma

Identifying and Changing Negative Thought Patterns After Trauma

Trauma affects more than our bodies; it also affects our perception of the world around us. Trauma changes the way we see ourselves and our relationships with others. It is not surprising that survivors often develop negative thought patterns after an event that can take years to heal. Negative thoughts are harmful for your mental health and physical well-being. It is important to identify these patterns and learn how to change them.

5 Signs You May Need a Trauma Therapist in Tampa, FL

5 Signs You May Need a Trauma Therapist in Tampa, FL

Trauma is a challenging experience, but with the help of a trusted therapist, you can rebuild your life. It is normal to seek help from mental health professionals when needed. A therapist can provide the proper guidance you need to get on the path to healing. If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma, it is important to seek help from a licensed therapist who specializes in trauma treatment.

Living with Dissociative Identity Disorder: Recognizing Symptoms and Getting Treatment

Living with Dissociative Identity Disorder: Recognizing Symptoms and Getting Treatment

Living with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) can be a difficult, exhausting, and sometimes very frustrating experience. DID is a complex disorder that develops in response to prolonged exposure to trauma, such as childhood abuse or neglect. DID can cause significant disruptions in a person's life. This blog post aims to discuss five of the most common symptoms of DID, as well as discuss the causes of the disorder. We will also provide information on the best treatment options available for those who are struggling with this disorder.

How Do I Set Boundaries In A Relationship?

How Do I Set Boundaries In A Relationship?

Personal boundaries define who and what we are. They define what we are responsible to control (personal thoughts, behaviors, actions) and what we are not responsible to control. The personal boundaries of individuals come into contact when two or more people interact about their wants or needs. You have something another person wants (time, support, body, permission, forgiveness, love, advice, possessions, etc.) and boundaries determine the way you will respond to these requests or what you will request of others.

Understanding Depression and How Counseling Can Help

Understanding Depression and How Counseling Can Help

Depression is more than feeling down for a few days. To be “depressed” one must have the majority of the following symptoms present for 2 or more consecutive weeks. (1) Difficulty performing normal tasks, or feeling numb when hearing good news. (2) The loss of interest in normally enjoyable activities. (3) Changes in appetite (increased or decreased) and weight changes are also common. (4) Change in sleeping habits. Either finding it difficult to sleep or sleeping longer than normal. (5) A change in energy, feelings of fatigue or moving slowly. (6) Trouble concentrating or thinking. (7) Feelings of being worthless, guilty about past failures, and at times thoughts of suicide. (8) Some people will also be more irritable, “on edge”, or seem distracted.

What Is Anxiety?

What Is Anxiety?

If you are reading this blog post, you have most likely been experiencing symptoms for many years. The national average for a person to reach out for help from the time they first noticed symptoms is eleven years (nami.org). Reaching out for help can be difficult. The idea of sharing personal fears with a counselor can feel uncomfortable, which is why people wait so long to reach out for help. However, a good counselor understands the value of building a strong relationship with their clients in which they will feel comfortable sharing. When seeking help from a competent professional, one can expect to receive genuine care and understanding while being helped to build the necessary tools needed to reduce anxiety.

Complex Trauma Recovery Group in Tampa

Complex Trauma Recovery Group in Tampa

Christian Counseling of Tampa is offering a trauma support group for survivors of trauma. This trauma support group will educate participants about the neurobiological impact of trauma. The group will also serve as a support group and allow the members to grow from their experiences. There will be a limit of 10 participants with at least 6 people committed to the trauma support group before it will start. The group focuses on helping those who have experienced physical abuse, emotional abuse, neglect, and relationship betrayal. Christian values will be incorporated as part of the group process. If interested, please contact Christian Counseling of Tampa. You can meet with a trauma therapist to set up an interview with the group facilitator.

What Does Trauma Look Like?

What Does Trauma Look Like?

She shared with tears that she was not a good wife. Also, she found it difficult to make decisions around the house and at work even over the most basic things. She also shared that sometimes when her husband touched her, she felt scared and didn't understand why. Paige said that her husband always treated her with kindness and was respectful. She felt confused, needed help, and did not know where to turn for answers.

Paige did not understand she was experiencing a reaction to previous traumas in her life. It can be difficult for someone to determine when they need help for reactions they do not understand.