Strengths Based Treatment for PTSD | Advanced Counselor Training
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Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes presents a strengths-based biopsychosocial approach to understanding PTSD and CPTSD, focusing on the functional aspects of behaviors and reactions, and the reasons why PTSD affects some individuals more than others. She describes human and animal behaviors as stress responses—anger, fear, and a 'forget about it' attitude—that serve protective purposes. PTSD results from exposure to a traumatic event, while CPTSD stems from repeated exposure to traumatic events where escape is perceived as impossible. The content explores the traumatic experiences leading to PTSD and CPTSD, particularly abuse, neglect, and the inability to escape threatening environments. Symptoms such as re-experiencing traumatic events, intrusive memories, flashbacks, nightmares, and intense reactions to trauma reminders are discussed, along with the body's natural stress response. Sleep disturbances, irritability, hypervigilance, and heightened stress responses are identified as challenges for individuals with PTSD and CPTSD. The narrative acknowledges the fatigue from constant vigilance and the need for a sense of safety and empowerment. It also touches on somatic complaints, addictive behaviors, and interpersonal symptoms of trauma, such as difficulties in sustaining relationships. Emotional challenges include mistrust, betrayal, exhaustion, and a loss of interest in social engagement. The importance of validating an individual's feelings of trauma and addressing affect regulation issues is emphasized. Cognitive symptoms like difficulty concentrating and dissociative symptoms are linked to stress and lack of sleep. The content discusses managing triggers to prevent dissociation and the importance of addressing persistent negative beliefs about oneself. It also explores how specific traumatic triggers can generalize, leading to a broader sense of threat. Factors increasing the likelihood of developing PTSD are identified, including victim similarity and proximity of trauma to previously safe zones. The critical period within the first 48 hours following a traumatic event is highlighted, with the importance of feeling safe and empowered to reduce the risk of post-traumatic stress issues. The Internet is noted as a resource for finding support groups, and the importance of tailored support is underscored. The mnemonic 'IDEA' is introduced to help develop emotional intelligence. The 'PIECES of motivation' framework is presented to help individuals engage in recovery activities, and the importance of setting SMART goals is stressed. Trauma recovery is likened to a grief process, and strategies for managing emotional and cognitive responses to trauma are provided. Finally, strategies for managing environmental triggers and creating a sense of safety are discussed, including Feng Shui principles and the concept of 'anchoring'.
Dr. Dawn-Elise Snipes presents a strengths-based biopsychosocial approach to understanding PTSD and