PTSD Therapy in Ottawa: What to Expect and How to Prepare
Updated: June 7, 2024If you're dealing with trauma or PTSD, therapy can be a crucial step in your healing journey. Finding a trauma therapist in Ottawa who understands your unique needs is essential. Here's what you need to know to prepare for your sessions and find the right therapist.
Understand the different types of PTSD therapy.
When looking for PTSD therapy in Ottawa, it's crucial to find a therapist who specializes in trauma. Look for someone with experience working with clients who have faced similar traumas or who has extensive training in trauma therapy.
You can ask for referrals from your primary care physician, friends, or family members who have gone through trauma therapy. You can also search online for trauma therapists and read reviews from previous clients. Psychology Today is a good resource.
Prepare for your first treatment session.
Before your first session, it's important to prepare yourself mentally. Set aside some time to reflect on why you're starting therapy. It can be helpful to write down goals that you might have and make a list of your symptoms.
It can also be helpful to write down any questions or concerns you have for your therapist. Remember, therapy is a collaborative process, and your therapist will work with you to create a treatment plan that fits your needs and goals.
Finally, arrive on time with an open mind, ready to start your journey toward healing and recovery.
Be open and honest with your trauma therapist.
One of the most important things you can do during your trauma therapy sessions is to be open and honest with your therapist. This means sharing your thoughts, feelings, and experiences, even if they are difficult or painful to talk about. Your therapist is there to support you and help you work through your trauma, and they can only do this effectively if they have a clear understanding of your situation.
Remember that therapy is a safe and confidential space, and your therapist will not judge you or share your information with anyone else without your permission. By being open and honest, you can build a strong therapeutic relationship with your therapist and make progress towards your goals.
Practice self-care outside of therapy sessions.
While PTSD therapy can be helpful, it's important to remember that healing is a process that takes time and effort. One way to support your healing journey is to practice self-care outside of therapy sessions.
This can include things like getting enough sleep, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and engaging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. It's also important to set boundaries and prioritize your own needs, even if it means saying no to certain obligations or relationships. By taking care of yourself in these ways, you can support your mental and emotional well-being and make the most of your trauma therapy sessions.
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We also outline 3 types of therapy for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which are all well-supportive by research.
Connect with a Therapist who Can Help
At Virtual CBT Psychotherapy, we specialize in providing high-quality PTSD treatment that works. You can start to feel better in as little as 6-8 sessions. We offer two therapies that are effective and highly recommended by the American Psychological Association (APA), including Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure (PE) and EMDR.
Book a free consultation by clicking the tab below to get started with a trauma and PTSD specialist.