What role does a psychologist play in treating PTSD?
A psychologist uses various evidence-based therapy approaches to treat PTSD. They can do this by helping the patient changing the negative meaning attached to the trauma, identify and replace unhealthy thoughts, emotions, behaviours related to the trauma with healthy ones, gradually exposing the patient to trauma related memories and learning that they are not dangerous, etc.
What is a psychologist trained in?
A psychologist is professionally trained to help people with a wide range of issues related to thoughts, behaviours, emotions, and overall mental health. A psychologist can work with a patient to diagnose, treat, and help them manage the symptoms of their mental health issue, ranging from daily life stressors and emotional regulation challenges to more serious mental health disorders.
How can a psychologist help family members of the PTSD patient?
Couples or family therapy can help make the family as a support system in order to enhance the symptom reduction of PTSD for the patient. Since PTSD affects interpersonal relationships of the patient, family therapy can target improving relationships of the family.
How can group therapy conducted by a psychologist help with PTSD?
Group therapy is an effective modality of treatment for a patient with PTSD. It can provide validation of their struggles, social support from others, can help patients enhance their self-esteem and self-efficacy when they contribute to help other members’, and can give them an opportunity to learn from the coping strategies of others.
