Outpatient Trauma and PTSD Therapy Modalities

Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy

Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy is an evidence-based Cognitive-Behavioral approach that helps clients confront and process traumatic memories, reducing their distress over time.

PE Therapy involves two main components:

• Imaginal Exposure, where clients recount their traumatic experiences in detail, and
• In Vivo Exposure, which encourages them to face real-life situations they have been avoiding due to trauma-related anxiety.

The goal of PE Therapy is to help you gradually confront your fears, leading to decreased avoidance behaviors and improved emotional regulation. It's important to work with a trained ACRS PE Therapist to ensure a safe and supportive environment throughout the process.

Research proves that PE Therapy:

• Is effective in reducing PTSD symptoms.
• Ultimately helps you regain control over your life.
• And, improves your overall well-being.

Discover the transformative potential of Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE)—find out more today!

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely used, evidence-based therapeutic approach that focuses on the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

CBT is based on the premise that negative thought patterns can lead to emotional distress and maladaptive behaviors. The therapy aims to help you identify and challenge these distorted thoughts, replacing them with more realistic and positive ones.

CBT is structured, goal-oriented, and typically involves short-term treatment, making it effective for various mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and stress.

The process includes techniques such as

• Cognitive Restructuring,
• Exposure Therapy, and
• Behavioral Activation.

CBT is a colaborative approach where you work with your ACRS CBT Therapist to develop coping strategies and problem-solving skills.

By fostering self-awareness and promoting healthier thinking patterns, CBT empowers you to manage your symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.

Find out more about Cognitive Behaviorial Therapy (CBT).

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a comprehensive, evidence-based treatment approach designed to help you with

• Emotional Regulation,
• Interpersonal Effectiveness,
• Distress Tolerance, and
• Mindfulness.

Originally developed for individuals with borderline personality disorder, DBT is now used to treat various mental health issues, including Trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders.

The therapy combines Cognitive-Behavioral Techniques with Mindfulness Practices, emphasizing the balance between acceptance and change.

DBT consists of Individual Therapy sessions and skills training Groups, where you learn practical skills to manage your emotions and improve relationships.

It is important to have a supportive therapeutic relationship and and experienced ACRS DBT Therapist to guide you through the process.

By fostering self-awareness and resilience, DBT aims to empower you to lead a more fulfilling life and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

Find out more about Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an innovative treatment designed to help you process traumatic memories and reduce the distress associated with them.

EMDR is particularly effective for those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related conditions.

EMDR therapy involves eight phases, including:

• History-Taking,
• Preparation,
• Assessment,
• Desensitization,
• Installation,
• Body Scan,
• Closure, and
• Reevaluation.

During the Desensitization phase, clients recall distressing memories while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation, typically through guided eye movements. Bilateral stmulation helps reprocess traumatic memories, reducing their emotional charge and allowing you to integrate these experiences more adaptively.

When you receive EMDR Therapy, it's important to be in a safe therapeutic environment and to be guided by a trained ACRS EMDR Therapist.

EMDR is a powerful tool for Trauma recovery, promoting emotional healing and improved mental well-being.

Find out more about Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).

Other Therapy Modalities

• Narrative Therapy: Encourages you to tell your stories, helping you understand your experiences.
• Somatic Experiencing: Focuses on your body’s physical response to Trauma and aims to release stored tension and trauma
• Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Includes meditation and deep breathing to help you manage Trauma-related stress and anxiety.
• Psychoeducation: Educating you about Trauma and its effects can help you understand your experiences and develop coping strategies.