PTSD and Trauma

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can occur after an individual goes through a traumatic event like assault, child abuse, war, or disaster. After experiencing trauma, most everyone experiences some level of PTSD, such as nightmares or recurring thoughts of the event. These symptoms usually fade over a short period of time. For some, however, traumatic events can be devastating with long-lasting psychological effects and can interfere with their ability to function. People suffering from PTSD may have difficulty managing everyday activities and may avoid family and friends. They may experience frequent nightmares, flashbacks, or intense feelings of anxiety, depression, or guilt. PTSD symptoms can vary in intensity over time and stronger PTSD symptoms may be triggered when an individual is stressed or encounters reminders of the traumatic events.

Complex trauma or C-PTSD refers to trauma that is prolonged, occurs multiple times, involves harm in an important relationship such as a caretaker, and has the potential to impact your emotional development. C-PTSD frequently results from years of hurtful childhood experiences with caretakers, including emotional, physical, and sexual abuse. This repeated and ongoing exposure to trauma can have long-lasting psychological effects.

PTSD Symptoms:

  • Recurrent and intrusive distressing thoughts about the traumatic event
  • Recurrent nightmares
  • Feeling as if the event were recurring
  • Having intense physical reactions to reminders of the event, such as racing heart, rapid breathing, and muscle tension
  • Being easily startled
  • Avoiding thoughts and feelings associated with the trauma
  • Avoiding friends and family
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Feeling irritable or angry for no apparent reason
  • Substance abuse

If you are struggling with any of the following effects of a traumatic event, Dr. Mazzei is here to help you.

PTSD Treatment and Trauma Therapy

Dr. Mazzei, a trauma psychologist, fosters a safe space in which your healing from tragedy can occur. The brain and body have an amazing capacity to heal. Trauma therapy allows us to break free from deep emotional pain and thrive. Dr. Mazzei will provide you with emotional support as you process painful experiences. With therapy, you will develop skills to cope with distressing feelings and make positive life changes. The goal of psychotherapy is to lessen the psychological and physical effects of trauma, improve your mood, increase your self-worth, and give you hope for the future.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), relaxation training, mindfulness, and lifestyle guidance are trauma-informed techniques Dr. Mazzei uses in therapy. Additionally, she provides biofeedback and neurofeedback (i.e. alpha-theta training), which can be helpful adjuncts to the treatment of trauma-related symptoms. Working together, Dr. Mazzei and you will develop personalized strategies for coping with your emotional challenges and uncover the solutions you need for a better life.

What is Online PTSD Treatment Like?

Many people prefer online counseling for convenience, comfort, privacy, and safety. PTSD therapies can be easily modified for online therapy, including EMDR and CBT. Dr. Mazzei’s approach will help to foster a trusting and safe space in which you can work on overcoming the impact of trauma. Any communication and handouts can be easily transmitted virtually. A HIPAA compliant video-conferencing software is used so that your sessions remain private and secure.

How We Can Help

If you are suffering from trauma, or if you would like to talk to someone more about how Dr. Mazzei can help you, follow these simple steps:

  1. Text today at (480) 448-6755 or e-mail us for a free consultation
  2. Or, you can book directly online with Dr. Mazzei
  3. Begin your journey towards a fulfilling and healthier life

Dr. Mazzei offers both in-person and online PTSD treatment for residents of Arizona, Illinois, Tennessee, and from PSYPACT states. Her private practice is located at 3377 S. Price Rd., Suite 2104, Chandler, AZ.