Trauma Therapy and PTSD Treatment in Raleigh, NC
Trauma treatment all ages in Raleigh, NC, and surrounding areas (Cary, North Raleigh, Fuquay-Varina, and Durham).
“Trauma is not what happens to us, but what we hold inside in the absence of an empathetic witness.” Dr. Bessel van der Kolk
Understanding the Impact of Traumatic Experiences
Going through a traumatic event—something frightening, dangerous, or life-threatening—can deeply impact your sense of safety and well-being. If you're struggling with the effects of trauma, you're not alone, and support is available. Seeing loved ones go through traumatic events can also be incredibly difficult. Research shows that around 64% of U.S. adults have experienced at least one Adverse Childhood Experience (ACE), like parental divorce, abuse, neglect, or a family member’s addiction. If this resonates with you, you're not alone, and healing is possible.
Trauma's impact extends beyond immediate emotional responses; it can alter brain function and structure, affecting areas responsible for memory, decision-making, and emotional regulation. These changes can lead to heightened stress responses, even in safe environments, as the body remains on high alert, anticipating danger.
Understanding that trauma resides in both the body and mind is crucial. Triggers reminiscent of the original event can evoke intense reactions, causing individuals to feel threatened even when no immediate danger is present. Recognizing these responses is the first step toward healing and developing strategies to manage them effectively.
Understanding Traumatic Stress
Traumatic stress occurs when someone experiences intense emotional or psychological reactions to a traumatic event. This can include feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or unsafe after encountering events that threaten one’s life or the well-being of others, such as accidents, abuse, violence, or natural disasters. The effects of traumatic stress can linger long after the event, leading to symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, or difficulty trusting others. If you're experiencing traumatic stress, it's important to know that support and healing are possible.
While not all such traumatic events lead to lasting difficulties, children who have been exposed to a traumatic event may experience traumatic stress.
PTSD and Trauma Symptoms in Children
Intense and prolonged feelings of emotional distress, depression, or anxiety
Behavioral changes (e.g., acting out, withdrawal)
Difficulties with emotional regulation (e.g., irritability or mood swings)
Loss of previously acquired skills or developmental regression (e.g., bedwetting, trouble with schoolwork)
Difficulty sleeping or frequent nightmares
Changes in appetite (eating too much or too little)
Increased reports of aches and pains (e.g., stomachaches or headaches)
Trauma Therapy
PTSD Treatment & Trauma Therapy Approaches
We offer several highly effective, research-supported treatment interventions for children & adults who have experienced trauma.
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)
TF-CBT is an evidence-based treatment for children and adolescents impacted by trauma. This intervention utilizes a components-based treatment model that incorporates trauma-sensitive interventions with cognitive behavioral, family, and humanistic principles and techniques. A parent or caregiver is highly involved in the treatment intervention. TF-CBT is appropriate for children and adolescents aged 3-21 years old. Completion of this treatment model is based on mastery, but typically takes 4 to 6 months of weekly therapy. TF-CBT is offered at two of our locations by Briana Joseph, LCMHC and Dakota Becker, LCSW in North Raleigh and Dakota Becker, LCSW and Kate Bridgers, LPA in our central Raleigh location.
Child Parent Psychotherapy (CPP)
CPP is an intervention for children aged 0-6 who have experienced at least one traumatic event and/or are experiencing mental health, attachment, and/or behavior problems, including posttraumatic stress disorder. The primary goal of CPP is to strengthen the parent-child relationship which leads to improvement in the child’s emotional and behavioral functioning. Treatment begins with an extended assessment phase (mostly with the parent or caregiver) and then involves conjoint, play based sessions with the child, caregiver, and therapist. Completion of CPP is based on mastery and improved functioning, but typically takes 8-12 months of weekly therapy. CPP is offered in our Raleigh and North Raleigh locations by Kate Bridgers, Psychologist and Dakota Becker, LCSW.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a scientifically validated therapy that has shown remarkable effectiveness in treating various mental health issues, particularly trauma-related disorders. Grounded in extensive research and endorsed by organizations such as the American Psychological Association (APA) and the World Health Organization (WHO), EMDR involves a structured eight-phase protocol designed to facilitate the processing of traumatic memories and alleviate associated distress. Studies have demonstrated that EMDR can lead to significant reductions in symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and other psychological difficulties among adolescents and adults alike. By engaging the brain's natural capacity for healing and adaptive processing, EMDR enables individuals to reprocess traumatic memories in a safe and controlled manner, resulting in lasting therapeutic benefits. EMDR is offered in BOTH Raleigh and Cary locations by Alexis Hall, LCMHCA.
Brainspotting
Brainspotting is a powerful, focused treatment method that works by identifying, processing and releasing core neurophysiological sources of emotional/body pain, trauma, dissociation and a variety of other challenging symptoms. Brainspotting works with the deep brain and the body through its direct access to the autonomic and limbic systems within the body’s central nervous system. Brainspotting is accordingly a physiological tool/treatment which has profound psychological, emotional, and physical consequences. Brainspotting is offered in our Cary location by Akejah McLaughlin, LCMHCA.
PCIT (Parent Child Interaction Therapy)
Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) is an evidence-based treatment designed to improve the parent-child relationship and reduce disruptive behaviors in young children. Grounded in decades of research, PCIT is effective for children ages 2 to 7 and focuses on enhancing positive communication, increasing cooperation, and decreasing behaviors like defiance, aggression, and tantrums. Whether your child has ADHD, autism, or behavioral challenges without a diagnosis, PCIT offers practical tools and measurable progress. It is especially helpful when other parenting strategies haven't worked. With decades of research and real-world success, PCIT is one of the most effective therapies for young children with behavioral difficulties.
Why Choose our Team of Trauma Therapists in Apex, Durham, Holly Springs, North Raleigh, and Raleigh?
Our team of skilled, compassionate trauma therapists specializes in helping children, teens, and adults navigate the effects of trauma. With years of experience, we offer a variety of therapeutic approaches, including play therapy, EMDR, TF-CBT, and more, to address the emotional and behavioral challenges that arise from traumatic experiences. We are committed to working closely with you and your family to create a safe, welcoming space for healing and growth. With expertise in trauma, neurodiversity, and family dynamics, we tailor our approach to meet the unique needs of each individual, fostering trust and promoting healing every step of the way. We look forward to partnering with you on this journey.
Begin Your PTSD Treatment & Trauma Therapy Journey in Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Fuquay-Varina or North Raleigh Today!
Ready to start your healing journey? Our team of trauma therapists in North Carolina is here to support you. Follow these simple steps to begin:
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Other Services Offered at Birch Therapy in North Carolina
At Birch Therapy in Cary, Durham, North Raleigh, and Fuquay-Varina, we offer more than just trauma therapy. In addition to PTSD treatment and trauma therapy for adults, teens, and children, we provide a wide range of therapeutic services, including:
Neurodivergent affirming therapy
Circle of Security® Classroom
Evidence-based therapies such as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and EMDR
At Birch Therapy, we are committed to providing a variety of therapeutic options tailored to meet the needs of children, teens, and parents. We’re here to walk with you every step of the way.
