PTSD & Trauma Treatment

After a traumatic experience, it is natural to feel shaken. For some people, the distress doesn't fade. Memories intrude, the body stays on high alert, and avoiding reminders slowly makes life smaller. This is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and it is highly treatable.

Common signs of PTSD

• Intrusive memories, flashbacks, or nightmares
• Avoiding people, places, conversations, or feelings that bring up reminders
• Feeling on edge, easily startled, or unable to relax or sleep
• Guilt, shame, or self-blame about what happened
• Feeling numb, detached, or disconnected from others
• Irritability, anger, or difficulty concentrating
• Changes in how you see yourself, other people, or the world

PTSD can follow a single event or ongoing experiences — including accidents, assault, violence, medical trauma, sudden loss, first responder or workplace trauma, and childhood experiences. I also work with complex trauma (C-PTSD).

What is Prolonged Exposure (PE)?

Prolonged Exposure (PE) is one of the most researched and effective treatments for PTSD. Avoidance is a natural response to trauma, but over time it keeps fear locked in place. PE helps you gradually and safely approach the memories, feelings, and situations you've been avoiding, so they lose their power and you can finally process what happened.

PE is structured and focused. We move at a pace that feels manageable, and you stay in control throughout.

What to expect with PE

It's normal to feel uncertain about starting trauma treatment. PE is paced and structured, and you'll never be asked to face more than you're ready for.

The first few sessions. We'll talk about how trauma affects the mind and body, why avoidance keeps PTSD going, and what each step of treatment involves. You'll also learn a simple calming breathing technique you can use anytime.

How often we meet. PE sessions are held weekly, usually over about 8 to 10 sessions.

Approaching what you've avoided. Together we'll identify safe situations, places, or activities you've been avoiding since the trauma, and you'll begin re-engaging with them gradually, starting with the easier ones.

Working with the memory. When you feel prepared, we'll revisit the trauma memory together in session, at a pace you can manage, and then talk through what it means to you now. This part of the session is recorded so you can listen back during the week, which helps the memory gradually lose its intensity.

Ups and downs are normal. Some people feel more tired or notice more memories for a short time after starting. This is common and usually a sign that you're engaging with the work — not that things are getting worse.

My approach also considers the whole person: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health, collective family histories, lifestyle, and nutrition.

Ready to take the first step?

Sessions are held virtually for clients in Ontario, Alberta, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Newfoundland and Labrador.

The best way to set up an appointment is through my online booking portal. This allows you to set up an online profile, complete intake, privacy and consent forms, and select days and times best suited for you. If you have a question before booking, you're welcome to reach out through my contact page.