One common benefit of trauma therapy is that it can help individuals who are struggling with post-traumatic stress disorder IPTSD) live fuller, better functioning lives. Many people who suffer from this disorder may have trouble feeling safe or trusting their peers. When therapy is successful, patients might learn once again to have trust in those with whom they live and work and engage in healthy relationships. Many therapists believe that trauma survivors also can benefit from using trauma therapy as a support system.
Trauma describes extreme shock or discomfort that is caused by one disturbing event or by a series of recurring events. Individuals who suffer from trauma often have problems functioning in day to day life and may be negatively affected by situations and objects that remind them of a traumatic event. For example, a trauma survivor who has been in a car accident may feel uncomfortable in or around automobiles moving at high speeds. Trauma therapy is a kind of psychoanalytic therapy in which trauma survivors work with therapists and counselors to explore roots of their trauma and to develop coping mechanisms.
Many people undergoing trauma therapy find that one of the greatest benefits is that it can help them to put trust in others. Abuse survivors and crime victims often feel mistrustful of those around them to such a degree that they may have trouble forming meaningful relationships with others. Trauma survivors often find that by speaking with a trained therapist, they are able to take some important steps toward feeling more comfortable in the presence of others.
Another common benefit of trauma therapy is that it can give individuals a valuable support system. Victims of trauma often feel anxious, depressed, or scared at unexpected times. Many trauma therapists make themselves available to their patients 24 hours a day. When a patient has negative feelings, he or she may call a therapist and discuss those feelings.
Trauma survivors also can learn about helpful tools, resources, and coping mechanisms in trauma therapy. Without help from a trained professional, a survivor may not know where to look for help for how to deal with his or her troubling feelings. An effective therapist can work closely with patients to help them learn which methods might help them best to deal with their traumas.
Trauma therapy professionals often find that new patients do not immediately benefit from therapy sessions since it can be difficult for them immediately to open up. Patients might be encouraged at first to attend therapy with loved ones with whom they feel most comfortable. It also may be advised that trauma survivors research available therapists to find one from whom they can benefit.