Trauma is a complex experience that can have a lasting impact on an individual’s mental and emotional wellbeing. While many individuals may experience a range of emotions and symptoms after experiencing a traumatic event, Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) is a disorder that occurs after prolonged exposure to a traumatic event or a series of traumatic events.
One of the most challenging symptoms of C-PTSD is dissociation. Dissociation, or a disconnection from reality and self, can make it challenging for individuals to cope with the after-effects of traumatic events. In this blog post, we will explore the connection between C-PTSD and dissociation and discuss how EMDR therapy in Orlando can help.
Dissociation is a common symptom among individuals with C-PTSD. While it can take many forms, it generally involves a feeling of being disconnected from oneself, one’s surroundings, or one’s memories. For individuals with C-PTSD, dissociation can make it difficult to remain present and engaged in the moment, and can impact their daily lives.
Dissociation can occur in a range of ways, from feelings of depersonalization, where an individual may feel as though they are detached from their body, to derealization, where the person may feel that the world around them is unreal or distorted. Individuals with C-PTSD may also experience dissociative episodes characterized by memory loss, loss of time, or significant changes in their personal identity.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an evidence-based treatment for C-PTSD that can help individuals overcome the negative impacts of dissociation. EMDR therapy involves a series of guided eye movements, which can help desensitize the individual to the traumatic event and reduce the associated emotional and physical symptoms.
During EMDR therapy, the goal is to help individuals process their traumatic experiences and reintegrate the memories into their overall life narrative. By identifying negative thoughts or beliefs that arose as a result of the trauma, clients can then replace these negative thoughts with healthier, more positive beliefs.
Patients who have received EMDR therapy can experience a significant reduction in symptoms related to C-PTSD, including dissociation. They may also report feeling more in control of their lives and more connected to their sense of self. EMDR therapy can be an effective treatment for individuals who have experienced trauma, and who struggle with the lasting impacts of their experience.
Trauma can have a lasting impact on an individual’s mental and emotional wellbeing. Dissociation is a common symptom among individuals with C-PTSD, which can significantly impact their daily lives. However, EMDR therapy can be an effective treatment for C-PTSD and can help reduce dissociative symptoms. If you are seeking EMDR therapy in Orlando, contact Orlando Thrive Therapy to book an appointment and begin your journey towards healing.
Heather Oller is the owner and founder of Orlando Thrive Therapy, Coaching, and Counseling. She is a licensed counselor and a family mediator who has over 23 years of dedicated work as a professional in the mental health field. Through her company's mission, she continues to pave the way for future therapists, and their clients, who want a higher quality of life....and who want to thrive, rather than just survive. You can contact Orlando Thrive Therapy at (407) 592-8997 for more information.