A psychological crisis, especially one triggered by trauma, is like a violent storm that invades our lives. It’s not just the memory of a difficult event – it’s a deep wound that affects our thoughts, emotions, body, and sense of safety. The reactions you’re experiencing are not a sign of weakness. They are a normal response of your nervous system to an abnormal event.

Understanding what is happening to you is the first step toward regaining control. Remember that healing is possible, and professional help is here to support you in this process.

We help individuals who have gone through difficult experiences regain a sense of safety and agency. We utilize proven methods such as EMDR therapy, prolonged exposure, and Somatic Experiencing, supporting the gradual processing of memories and treatment of PTSD and cPTSD symptoms to facilitate a return to emotional balance.

How to Recognize Trauma?

Trauma disrupts our brain’s natural ability to process information. The brain, attempting to protect us from further threat, shifts into survival mode. This is why symptoms can be so intense and affect many areas of life. According to scientific knowledge, symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can be divided into four main groups:

Re-experiencing (Intrusions):

It's as if the trauma is happening all over again, intruding into the present against your will. Common trauma symptoms include:

  • Flashbacks: Sudden, vivid recollections that make it feel like you are reliving the event.
  • Nightmares: Recurring dreams related to the traumatic event.
  • Intrusive thoughts: Unwanted images and thoughts about the event.
  • Strong emotional and physical reactions to reminders (known as triggers), e.g., a racing heart at the sound of a siren.

Avoidance

A natural reflex to stay away from anything that reminds you of the pain. Common trauma symptoms:

  • Avoiding places, people, or conversations associated with the trauma.
  • Avoiding your own thoughts and feelings about the event, attempts to “not think about it”.
  • Feelings of emotional numbness or withdrawal.

Negative changes in thinking and mood:

Trauma can change the way you perceive yourself, others, and the world. Common trauma symptoms:

  • Loss of interest in activities that once brought joy.
  • Feelings of estrangement and disconnection from others.
  • Difficulty experiencing positive emotions (joy, love).
  • Persistent feelings of guilt, shame, or anger.
  • Negative beliefs about oneself (“I am broken”) or the world (“No one can be trusted”).
  • Memory problems regarding important aspects of the traumatic event.

Hyperarousal and Reactivity (Hyperactivation):

Your nervous system is in a constant state of readiness, as if the threat is still near. Common trauma symptoms:

  • Hypervigilance – constantly scanning the environment for danger.
  • Exaggerated startle response to sudden stimuli (e.g., jumping at the sound of a doorbell).
  • Difficulty concentrating.
  • Sleep disturbances (difficulty falling asleep or frequent waking).
  • Irritability and angry outbursts.
  • Self-destructive or reckless behaviors.

What to Do After Experiencing Trauma?

Before deciding on therapy, you can take a few steps to care for yourself in the here and now.

Acknowledge your experience and emotions.

Allow yourself to feel fear, sadness, anger, or numbness. These are natural reactions. Don't judge them – simply notice their presence.

Seek support from loved ones

You don't have to go through this alone. Talking to a trusted person who will listen without judgment can bring immense relief.

Take care of your body

Trauma is also a physical experience. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and prioritizing sleep are foundations for healing. They support nervous system regulation.

Practice simple relaxation techniques

Breathing techniques (e.g., slow abdominal breathing), meditation, or mindfulness help you anchor yourself in the present and reduce feelings of being overwhelmed by stress.

Give yourself time

The healing process is a marathon, not a sprint. Be understanding and patient with yourself. There's no single, universal pace for healing.

When Professional Support is Needed

When symptoms persist and interfere with daily functioning, specialist help is crucial. Modern psychotherapy offers scientifically proven methods that help process trauma and restore balance.

In our practice, we offer specialized support based on proven approaches.

Effective Trauma Therapy Methods:

EMDR

EMDR therapy, which stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is recognized as one of the most effective methods for treating PTSD.

It utilizes bilateral stimulation (e.g., eye movements) to help the brain “unblock” and process painful memories, reducing their emotional charge.

Prolonged Exposure

Prolonged Exposure (PE) therapy helps you gradually and safely confront avoided memories, thoughts, and situations.

Through regular exposure, your system learns that past threats belong to the past, and anxiety responses lose their intensity.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) helps identify and change destructive thought patterns (e.g., guilt) and behaviors that perpetuate trauma symptoms.

TF-CBT combines elements of working with emotions, thoughts, and behaviors, creating a cohesive process that leads to lasting improvements in quality of life.

Somatic Therapies

Somatic therapies, such as Somatic Experiencing®, focus on releasing tensions and “frozen” defensive responses stored in the body. They help restore a sense of safety at a physiological level.

This approach is particularly helpful when post-trauma difficulties manifest primarily as physical symptoms.

Regain Peace and Inner Balance

Our support is always tailored to your individual needs. We understand that reaching out for help takes courage. We are here to accompany you on this journey, offering a safe space to heal wounds and regain a sense of control over your life.

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