Whether it’s abuse, neglect, violence, loss, an accident, or a natural disaster, traumatic experiences have deep, lasting effects on an individual’s emotional well-being. If you’re experiencing lingering memories and feelings of fear, anxiety, or detachment following a traumatic event, you may have a trauma- or stressor-related disorder—but you don’t have to go through this alone. Riverside Psychology provides therapy for trauma and stressor-related disorders in Fairfield, Connecticut, to offer a path to healing.
Understanding Stressor-Related Disorders
While post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is the most frequently discussed trauma-related condition, there are several other disorders tied to stress and trauma. These include:
Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD)
Generally rooted in early childhood neglect or inconsistent caregiving, RAD can make it difficult for individuals to form healthy emotional connections with others.
Acute Stress Disorder (ASD)
This condition occurs in the weeks following a traumatic experience. Symptoms can include intense anxiety, dissociation, and intrusive thoughts.
Adjustment Disorder
Significant life changes, such as relocation, divorce, or job loss, can cause emotional or behavioral challenges as a person adjusts to a new routine or environment.
Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder (DSED)
DSED is often linked to childhood neglect. Individuals with this condition tend to have poor social boundaries and engage in overly familiar interactions with strangers.
Prolonged Grief Disorder
Those with prolonged grief disorder experience persistent, debilitating grief following the death of a loved one (at least 12 months for adults and six months for children).
Signs and Symptoms of Trauma-Related Disorders
Recognizing the signs of these disorders is an important first step toward seeking support. Some common symptoms include:
Distressing flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive memories
Persistent fear, anxiety, or irritability
Difficulty trusting others
Feelings of helplessness
Emotional numbness
Avoidance of people, places, or situations tied to the trauma
Withdrawal from emotional or physical intimacy
The good news is that therapy at Riverside Psychology can provide a safe path toward healing.
How Therapy Can Help
Healing from trauma requires intentional care and guidance. At Riverside Psychology, our empathetic therapists offer a supportive, non-judgmental space where you can explore your emotions and experiences at your own pace. We incorporate evidence-based approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness practices to help you process trauma and reestablish a sense of safety in your life. Our goal is to empower you and help you move toward emotional clarity and personal growth.
Begin Your Journey to Healing
Riverside Psychology offers compassionate therapy for trauma and stressor-related disorders in Fairfield, CT, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. Reach out today for a free consultation and ask about our virtual therapy options for added convenience.