Trauma therapy: moving on after a traumatic experience

A traumatic event can leave deep scars. Sometimes the symptoms disappear on their own after a while, but sometimes memories, tension, or panic reactions continue to affect your life. Trauma therapy helps you process the experience so that it has less grip on you.

What is trauma?

We speak of trauma when someone has experienced an event that was perceived as threatening or overwhelming. Think of an accident, violence, a sudden loss, or prolonged unsafe situations in childhood. Not everyone develops symptoms after such an experience, but if they persist, treatment can make a big difference.

Signs that trauma therapy can help

• recurring memories, images, or nightmares
• avoiding situations that remind you of the event
• being frightened, having trouble sleeping, or being constantly alert
• depression, guilt, or feeling isolated from others

What treatments are available?

Trauma therapy is a collective term. Common and well-researched forms include EMDR and trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, such as imaginal exposure. Additionally, some therapists work with body-oriented methods or with schema therapy when it comes to childhood trauma. Which approach is appropriate depends on your symptoms and history.

How does a trajectory work?

A treatment begins with an initial assessment, during which the therapist maps out your symptoms and situation. Then a treatment plan is created together. Some treatments are short-term and intensive, others require more time. A secure bond with your therapist is important in this context.

Seek help

If you continue to experience persistent symptoms, you can consult your GP, who can refer you on. Traumabehandeling (trauma treatment) within the healthcare system is in many cases reimbursed by the basic insurance. If you need immediate help or think of suicide, call 113 (0800-0113) or your GP.

Curious about whether trauma therapy is right for you? See therapists who offer trauma therapy.