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Trauma Therapy in Philadelphia, PA

Trauma can steal your sense of peace. Trauma and PTSD Therapy in Philadelphia can help you get it back. Lifebulb offers the best licensed professionals and affordable rates. We accept most major insurances and offer low self-pay rates.

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Reclaim Your Mental Health with Trauma Therapy in Philadelphia

70% of adults will experience a trauma at some point in their life. Of those, 1 in 5 will develop Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Trauma and PTSD can have a serious negative impact on mental and physical wellbeing. However, they are also highly treatable, with between 70-90% of people experiencing symptom relief after receiving trauma therapy or PTSD therapy treatment. Our trauma therapists near Philadelphia can help you heal from a traumatic experience.

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What is the Difference Between Trauma and PTSD?

Trauma is the brain’s natural defense mechanism against a highly distressing event. Typically, the mind will return to a stable and healthy state given time. However, sometimes the aftermath of trauma can culminate in Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). In this case, professional therapy can help the brain back to a balanced state. The types of trauma one can experience include:
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This category pertains to a single, severe traumatic incident, such as a natural catastrophe, sexual assault, medical emergency, physical aggression, or a mass shooting. The negative symptoms of acute trauma typically last around six months, but can be exacerbated by external factors such as chronic stress, unhealthy coping mechanisms, or repeated reminders of the trauma.

Chronic trauma encompasses the persistent and prolonged exposure to traumatic circumstances, including situations like homelessness, poverty, domestic violence, emotional abuse, or chronic illness over an extended timeframe. Chronic trauma is more likely to result in long-term PTSD and is best addressed by a licensed professional like the trauma therapists in Philadelphia.

Complex Trauma originates from enduring traumatic events during childhood, potentially leading to chronic Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (cPTSD). These experiences may encompass childhood abuse, neglect, recurring instances of sexual or physical assault, extended periods of destitution or homelessness, or residing in war-torn regions, among others. Professional help is recommended for those experiencing cPTSD symptoms.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder represents a mental illness that may develop after experiencing a traumatic event. PTSD can persist anywhere from six months to many years following the initial trauma. Several risk factors contribute to the development of PTSD, including prior traumatic experiences, a family history of PTSD, limited social support, high levels of persistent stress, or a lower socioeconomic status.

Who Needs Trauma Therapy?

Healing from PTSD can be hard because the brain will continue to protect itself from processing the trauma. Professional mental health services, like the trauma therapy in Philadelphia, can expedite this healing process and help you cope with symptoms such as:

  • Flashbacks or bad dreams of the trauma
  • Dissociation and depression
  • Anxiety and avoidance of anything that might remind you of the trauma
  • Being easily startled or constantly on guard
  • Having difficulty concentrating or a bad brain fog
  • Feeling irritable or experiencing angry outbursts
  • Engaging in risky behaviors
  • Negative self-talk or intense self-blame
  • Withdrawing from others
  • Suicidal ideation

What Causes PTSD?

Only one in three people who experience trauma will develop PTSD from it. However, the harmful symptoms of experiencing a trauma alone is enough to seek professional help. Traumatic events that our Philadelphia trauma therapists see people for include:

  • Natural disasters
  • Sexual Assault
  • Physical assault
  • Domestic, emotional, or childhood abuse
  • Neglect
  • Witness violence
  • Serious illness or injury
  • Loss of a loved one
  • Car crashes
  • Exposure to work-place trauma

Does Trauma Therapy Work?

Yes! Studies have found trauma-informed care and specific PTSD therapy treatments are highly effective in treating trauma and PTSD symptoms. The PTSD therapists in Philadelphia are highly trained in trauma systems therapy, trauma informed therapy, and other types of PTSD Therapy, including:

EMDR

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy is one of the most effective methods of trauma therapy. During EMDR, your Philadelphia trauma psychologist will use bilateral stimulation of the brain (activating both sides of your brain alternatively) to assist in working through the trauma. EMDR acts as a hack to your brain and facilitates faster healing during trauma therapy.

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Trauma Systems Therapy

A type of trauma therapy for children who have experienced complex traumas. Trauma Systems Therapy addresses both the emotional needs and the current social environment of the child, to prevent further harm, equip the child with coping mechanisms, and help them heal from past trauma.

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Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT)

This is a type of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) designed specifically for trauma therapy. In Philadelphia, your trauma psychologist will help you develop healthy coping skills, educate yourself on how your trauma is impacting you, and challenge the maladaptive thoughts and patterns that trauma can imprint on your brain.

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Narrative Exposure Therapy

This type of trauma therapy in Philadelphia is best used for survivors of complex or chronic trauma. During it, a compassionate trauma therapist will help you (either individually or in a group setting) assess how the trauma impacted your choices and who you are now, with the end goal of empowering you to recenter yourself in your story and take back the narrative.

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Treatment Process
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Preparing for Your First Session

It’s normal to be nervous for your first therapy session. But at Lifebulb, we pride ourselves on creating a safe, nonjudgmental environment for you to come exactly as you are. Our licensed trauma therapists will meet you and begin building trust. During your first session with them, they will focus on getting to know you—why you’re at therapy, what your goals are, and a little about your past. It’s okay if you don’t have all the answers; there is no “right way” to do therapy. Show up as you are, and let our professionals handle the rest.
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Meet Our Team of Trauma and PTSD Therapists

Our team in Philadelphia has the best therapists for PTSD and therapy. Highly trained in trauma systems therapy and other PTSD therapy treatment options, they are licensed, experienced, compassionate, and affordable. Match with your trauma psychologist near Philadelphia today.

Coping Mechanisms for PTSD and Trauma

Trauma therapy in Philadelphia can be highly effective in treating and healing from PTSD. During a trauma therapy session, your counselor will work with you in building healthy coping mechanisms you can use at home. A coping mechanism is anything that helps you regulate your emotions and thoughts, decrease the presence of harmful symptoms, and begin to heal your brain. Examples of healthy coping mechanisms for trauma and PTSD are:

  • Take a cold shower: Shocking your nervous system with a cold shower can lessen anxiety. Start with lukewarm water and slowly turn it colder as you get used to the temperature.
  • Eat something sour: The flavor of sour is known to decrease anxiety. For example, eat sour candy and focus on how it feels in your mouth and what it tastes like.
  • Get under a weighted blanket: The weight can help people feel grounded and present.
  • 5-4-3-2-1 Mindfulness Exercise: Get comfortable and look around you. Name five things you can see, four you can touch, three you can hear, two you can smell, and one you can taste.
  • Take a walk: It can help to walk to music or a podcast to distract your brain and move your body.
  • Call a friend: When you are feeling aggravated, lean on your support system.
  • Distract your brain: Sometimes, when you’re experiencing heightened emotions, it’s best just to distract yourself and ride it out. Watch a TV show, make art, or learn something new.
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Insurance We Accept

Our commitment is to ensure that therapy is within reach for all Philadelphia residents. We gladly accept most major commercial insurance plans, and if yours isn't listed, we'd be happy to verify your benefits for potential coverage. If that's not possible, we offer a cost-effective self-payment alternative.

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Google Ratings

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What Our Clients Are Saying

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Have had such a wonderful experience working with everyone at Lifebulb. I was nervous about finding the right counselor but they made the process feel simple and safe. I was matched with an amazing counselor who provides the exact mentorship and life coaching I need.

Diana

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They are wonderful and really have a heart to help people!

Ethan

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If you want to be supported and heard, then Lifebulb is a great place to go. Their care and guidance are invaluable. Totally recommend!

Alicia

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The folks at Lifebulb have a genuine desire to help people. You won't find a better group of counselors in this area!

Todd

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I can't say enough good things about this place. I highly recommend Lifebulb to anyone looking for counseling. Finding someone to talk to that I could connect with and trust was very easy. My counselor is very knowledgeable and very helpful in finding ways to help me. It is so amazing to be able to have a safe space to talk with someone who is so caring and committed to help with any situation. This place has definitely helped change my life in such a positive way!

katie

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It's so good to have someone to objectively listen and help us solve our problems. Thank you

Lora

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A really nice place - beautiful and comfortable and it’s great to have the option of online or in person!

Leah

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Mental health is just as important as physical health, and seeking professional help can sometimes be necessary to tackle life's challenges. Lifebulb Therapy & Counseling in Philadelphia, PA offers a wide range of mental health services to help individuals overcome their struggles. Our services include but not limited to:

If you are searching for a supportive and empathetic counseling team, look no further than Lifebulb Counseling.

There are several options to book an appointment for counseling in Philadelphia. You can call our office and talk to a team member who will find a licensed therapist for you. We’ll look over your insurance information and go over a few simple policies before emailing you a confirmation of your session date and time. Or, you can review our list of expert therapists in Philadelphia to find one that you think would be best for you and then you can select a session time all from our website. We will reach out shortly to confirm your appointment details.

Taking the step to reach out to a therapist takes courage, and it can be disheartening to take that leap and then spend weeks or months on a waitlist. We believe in connecting you with a therapist quickly, so we’ve made the process as easy as possible. If you know what you’re looking for, you can browse our Philadelphia therapists’ bios to find the right fit for you and schedule a session for teletherapy all through our website. Or, you can call our office and a team member will make sure you’re matched with the right therapist for you and your goals. Choosing the right therapist is important—they’ll be the ones to come up with an individualized treatment plan and help you reach your mental healthcare goals.

For all mental health emergencies, please call 911. Lifebulb is not a crisis center and our therapists and counselors do not provide emergency services. However, we understand that urgent, non emergency matters happen. All clients are given direct email and phone access to their Philadelphia therapist, who will do their best to respond as quickly as possible. If your treatment plan requires more frequent interactions, your therapist can provide you with outside resources.

We have a flexible cancellation policy. Call our office or reach out to your therapist at least 24 hours before your therapy session time to cancel or reschedule any appointment at no cost.

Maintaining your privacy is a serious matter. Lifebulb is considered a covered entity under HIPAA guidelines, which means we are subject to all HIPAA rules and regulations. If you have any questions (or recommendations) about our privacy and security practices, we want to help. Contact us at privacy@lifebulb.com.

No, Lifebulb never records online therapy sessions and always uses a secure line.

Yes! Lifebulb believes in affordable therapy. We accept most major commercial insurance plans and offer an affordable self-pay rate. For more information, call our team.

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