Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Shalimar, FL
![Photo of Stephanie Butler, LMHC-S, NCC, MCAP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a525fad6-0379-4aa2-83d6-e532b8c754f7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Through a holistic and trauma-informed approach, I help clients develop self-compassion, manage anxiety, challenge negative thought patterns, and heal from traumas.
Are you exhausted from trying to keep up the “having it all together” persona you’re known for? Maybe you're used to being able to figure things out, but this time seems different. Are you wondering if this is your new normal? The things that used to come easily to you (and that seem to come so easily to everyone else) may now feel almost impossible. Despite your achievements and the life you’ve built, you feel stuck in this rut of unfulfillment and unhappiness. You’ve tried to get a handle on this—maybe even by going to therapy before—but nothing is changing.
Through a holistic and trauma-informed approach, I help clients develop self-compassion, manage anxiety, challenge negative thought patterns, and heal from traumas.
Are you exhausted from trying to keep up the “having it all together” persona you’re known for? Maybe you're used to being able to figure things out, but this time seems different. Are you wondering if this is your new normal? The things that used to come easily to you (and that seem to come so easily to everyone else) may now feel almost impossible. Despite your achievements and the life you’ve built, you feel stuck in this rut of unfulfillment and unhappiness. You’ve tried to get a handle on this—maybe even by going to therapy before—but nothing is changing.
![Photo of Katie O’Brien, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d755c6d4-9b25-44a4-b049-e0bf18742911/1/320x400.jpeg)
Katie O’Brien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Shalimar, FL 32579
Not accepting new clients
Katie utilizes trauma informed approaches with patients of all ages.
Have you ever wondered how you are going to get through something that feels so overwhelming, and you’re feeling unsure where to start to getting things back on track? The journey of Life often poses what feels like roadblocks, instead of road bumps. The power of therapy helps us to navigate uncertainties, while encouraging and experiencing our own personal development. Katie trusts in the therapeutic process that encourages self-growth, created from an accepting and collaborative experience. Katie received her Master of Social Work Degree with an emphasis in Clinical Social Work from Florida State University.
Katie utilizes trauma informed approaches with patients of all ages.
Have you ever wondered how you are going to get through something that feels so overwhelming, and you’re feeling unsure where to start to getting things back on track? The journey of Life often poses what feels like roadblocks, instead of road bumps. The power of therapy helps us to navigate uncertainties, while encouraging and experiencing our own personal development. Katie trusts in the therapeutic process that encourages self-growth, created from an accepting and collaborative experience. Katie received her Master of Social Work Degree with an emphasis in Clinical Social Work from Florida State University.
![Photo of Jessica M. Alea, EdD, MA, LMHC, CCTP, CCATP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/992059c1-5935-4b49-a536-44dc9610c0dc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hello, I am Jessica Alea, LMHC. If you have gotten this far, then you understand how much trauma and/or anxiety can impact a person’s ability to find joy. Our minds can be our own worst bully. Experiencing anxiety and trauma, can leave one feeling tired and frustrated. You may feel irritable or too exhausted to deal with social situations. You may spend a lot of time thinking through how to handle social situations because it feels unsafe. Each situation presents another battle with how much you can handle. It just feels like your mind is always "on." If sounds familiar, I can help you find relief.
Hello, I am Jessica Alea, LMHC. If you have gotten this far, then you understand how much trauma and/or anxiety can impact a person’s ability to find joy. Our minds can be our own worst bully. Experiencing anxiety and trauma, can leave one feeling tired and frustrated. You may feel irritable or too exhausted to deal with social situations. You may spend a lot of time thinking through how to handle social situations because it feels unsafe. Each situation presents another battle with how much you can handle. It just feels like your mind is always "on." If sounds familiar, I can help you find relief.
![Photo of Heidi Anderson, LCSW, PsyD, RPT, JSOT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bcb55e10-3851-4a15-a08a-91f99b75fae5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heidi Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyD, RPT, JSOT
Verified Verified
Shalimar, FL 32579 (Online Only)
My approach focuses on utilizing the brain’s ability to adapt through neuroplasticity to develop resiliency over experienced trauma. I have provided therapeutic services to a wide variety of populations including foster children, adjudicated adolescents, victims of domestic violence, service members and their families. I am truly in awe of the ability of the mind to recover and grow beyond the effects of trauma throughout the lifespan. My passion for this process has inspired me to pursue my doctorate in clinical psychology, in order to offer evidence based approaches that encourage lasting life change.
My approach focuses on utilizing the brain’s ability to adapt through neuroplasticity to develop resiliency over experienced trauma. I have provided therapeutic services to a wide variety of populations including foster children, adjudicated adolescents, victims of domestic violence, service members and their families. I am truly in awe of the ability of the mind to recover and grow beyond the effects of trauma throughout the lifespan. My passion for this process has inspired me to pursue my doctorate in clinical psychology, in order to offer evidence based approaches that encourage lasting life change.
![Photo of Amanda L. Brunson, LCSW, MCAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cce2cb87-8f37-4009-a9af-26a5f110dd98/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda L. Brunson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MCAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Shalimar, FL 32579
Not accepting new clients
She utilizes EMDR and other therapeutic interventions to help her patients with trauma recovery, substance abuse and recovery, depression, anxiety and other life-adjustment challenges.
Have you ever responded to a situation that felt like it escalated too quickly or responded in a surprising way that wasn’t intended? Sometimes, the things we experience throughout life can impact the way that we respond to the situations we are currently going through. Opening up to someone can be challenging and leave you feeling vulnerable. Amanda focuses on building rapport to create a safe place for processing. Amanda is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She specializes in working with military families and veterans. Amanda helps patients to identify their goals and learn to cope through life’s challenges in a healthy way.
She utilizes EMDR and other therapeutic interventions to help her patients with trauma recovery, substance abuse and recovery, depression, anxiety and other life-adjustment challenges.
Have you ever responded to a situation that felt like it escalated too quickly or responded in a surprising way that wasn’t intended? Sometimes, the things we experience throughout life can impact the way that we respond to the situations we are currently going through. Opening up to someone can be challenging and leave you feeling vulnerable. Amanda focuses on building rapport to create a safe place for processing. Amanda is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She specializes in working with military families and veterans. Amanda helps patients to identify their goals and learn to cope through life’s challenges in a healthy way.
![Photo of David I Copeland, PhD, LMHC S, BSP, CCTP, CtH, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f075295-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
If you are experiencing the symptoms from trauma/PTS (simple, complex or from military), I can help individuals & families understand what is happening.
STOP feeling "STRESSED OUT"! Is your life being driven by anxiety/depression? You can learn better ways to reduce anxiety/stress and experience inner peace. How? By using effective proven coping skills that work and can be used anytime! Taking a whole approach (heart, soul and mind) I help individuals gain a healthy and lasting balance. My experience includes PTSD issues, addiction issues, marital problems, life transitions, and premarital counseling. Stop losing life's energy and regain better resilience! Military? As a retired veteran, I understand the challenges faced in transitions.
If you are experiencing the symptoms from trauma/PTS (simple, complex or from military), I can help individuals & families understand what is happening.
STOP feeling "STRESSED OUT"! Is your life being driven by anxiety/depression? You can learn better ways to reduce anxiety/stress and experience inner peace. How? By using effective proven coping skills that work and can be used anytime! Taking a whole approach (heart, soul and mind) I help individuals gain a healthy and lasting balance. My experience includes PTSD issues, addiction issues, marital problems, life transitions, and premarital counseling. Stop losing life's energy and regain better resilience! Military? As a retired veteran, I understand the challenges faced in transitions.
![Photo of Kathlyn C White, MA, LMHC, LMFT, QS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f57d52e4-075c-4a13-a416-ec631bcb4735/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kathlyn C White
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMHC, LMFT, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shalimar, FL 32579
I am especially adept at working with PTSD related issues.
I have been a practicing counselor since 1991. I am duly licensed as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My office is conveniently located in Niceville, FL. I have had great success in treating Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, OCD, marital issues, adolescent issues, adultery, divorce recovery, and complex issues. I am also a Christian Counselor and can address spiritual issues others may not understand. Join me in exploring how we can, together, improve your and your family's quality of life. I am also a Qualified Supervisor for LMHC and LMFT Registered Interns.
I am especially adept at working with PTSD related issues.
I have been a practicing counselor since 1991. I am duly licensed as a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. My office is conveniently located in Niceville, FL. I have had great success in treating Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, OCD, marital issues, adolescent issues, adultery, divorce recovery, and complex issues. I am also a Christian Counselor and can address spiritual issues others may not understand. Join me in exploring how we can, together, improve your and your family's quality of life. I am also a Qualified Supervisor for LMHC and LMFT Registered Interns.
![Photo of Pamela Lee Downey - Emerald Coast NeuroFeedback , MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3b13dd0c-1f3e-4d58-8ac7-a58659a138c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Since 2013, I’ve worked with a range of mental health concerns in my private practice. In 2015 I learned of NeruoTherapy and utilized it as part of a wellness based inpatient program. And in 2017 I introduced it to my private practice. After seeing remarkable improvements with so many client concerns, (Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, TBI, Stroke Recovery, ADHD, Sleep Issues, Memory, Focus, Performance Enhancement, and more), Emerald Coast NeruoFeedback was founded in 2021, making it available outside of my counseling practice. At ECNF we combine cutting edge software with years of clinical experience from assessment to implementation.
Since 2013, I’ve worked with a range of mental health concerns in my private practice. In 2015 I learned of NeruoTherapy and utilized it as part of a wellness based inpatient program. And in 2017 I introduced it to my private practice. After seeing remarkable improvements with so many client concerns, (Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, TBI, Stroke Recovery, ADHD, Sleep Issues, Memory, Focus, Performance Enhancement, and more), Emerald Coast NeruoFeedback was founded in 2021, making it available outside of my counseling practice. At ECNF we combine cutting edge software with years of clinical experience from assessment to implementation.
![Photo of Earnestine Carswell, LMHC, CCTP, CRCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/680525ee-b3b6-4328-a269-19922e0464a6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Your Empowering Solutions (Y.E.S), every “YES” in your life is associated with demands of time, commitment, rest and focus. When we run into challenges it can be so tough to develop a plan that contains self-love, empowerment and confidence. For those who have been victims of interpersonal violence (domestic violence, sex assault, survivor of childhood trauma or assault) or a traumatic experience. My 15 years of experience offers recognizing patterns, expressing emotions, communication skills and setting boundaries Together we will create a plan, of ways to cope, heal, and live a high performing life!
Your Empowering Solutions (Y.E.S), every “YES” in your life is associated with demands of time, commitment, rest and focus. When we run into challenges it can be so tough to develop a plan that contains self-love, empowerment and confidence. For those who have been victims of interpersonal violence (domestic violence, sex assault, survivor of childhood trauma or assault) or a traumatic experience. My 15 years of experience offers recognizing patterns, expressing emotions, communication skills and setting boundaries Together we will create a plan, of ways to cope, heal, and live a high performing life!
![Photo of Colleen L Wenner, MA, LMHC, MCAP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/22af7a41-2388-42d0-8d23-703338d58059/1/320x400.jpeg)
We want the most life has to offer. At times, circumstances, habits and trauma does not serve us well.... we wake up to find we aren't where we thought. If you're here, you are not alone. Colleen’s compassion, honesty, knowledge and transparency enables you to uncover your own abilities to cope, heal, and move through challenges. Colleen’s strengths include breaking down issues into manageable pieces to empower patients to move toward healing. She uses evidenced based methods like CBT and is also a Certified EMDR trauma-recovery therapist.
We want the most life has to offer. At times, circumstances, habits and trauma does not serve us well.... we wake up to find we aren't where we thought. If you're here, you are not alone. Colleen’s compassion, honesty, knowledge and transparency enables you to uncover your own abilities to cope, heal, and move through challenges. Colleen’s strengths include breaking down issues into manageable pieces to empower patients to move toward healing. She uses evidenced based methods like CBT and is also a Certified EMDR trauma-recovery therapist.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Dr. Tonice Krueger, PsyD, MA, LCP, QS, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5131d374-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm an Air Force Veteran and a military spouse. I have a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and a Master's Degree in Marriage & Family Therapy. I've been a mental health provider since 2010. I treat a wide range of conditions including depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic stress, binge eating, relationship issues, and more. I believe that in order to improve a person's overall health and wellness, we need to focus on healing the mind and body. In striving toward integrated healing, we will work together to tailor a treatment plan that fits your personal goals, needs, and pace. Additionally, I provide Psychological Assessments/Testing.
I'm an Air Force Veteran and a military spouse. I have a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and a Master's Degree in Marriage & Family Therapy. I've been a mental health provider since 2010. I treat a wide range of conditions including depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic stress, binge eating, relationship issues, and more. I believe that in order to improve a person's overall health and wellness, we need to focus on healing the mind and body. In striving toward integrated healing, we will work together to tailor a treatment plan that fits your personal goals, needs, and pace. Additionally, I provide Psychological Assessments/Testing.
![Photo of Tripoli Hall, LMHC-QS, LPC, RPT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2479fbc2-ec3e-4ee5-8acb-5012679368fe/3/320x400.jpeg)
Tripoli Hall
Counselor, LMHC-QS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
Not accepting new clients
By utilizing play therapy interventions and other evidence based practices, children, adolescents, and adults receive a safe place to deal with trauma and emotional issues through metaphoric play.
Each client and their family want to feel unique and that the therapeutic process we embark on is tailored to them. At The Wisdom Tree Counseling Services, a non-judgmental space is created along with empowerment and encouragement so that no matter the stage of life you are in, the results of this transformation will be powerful. At the end of every session, you have hope that you will accomplish all of the treatments goals and objectives that have been identified in our initial session.
By utilizing play therapy interventions and other evidence based practices, children, adolescents, and adults receive a safe place to deal with trauma and emotional issues through metaphoric play.
Each client and their family want to feel unique and that the therapeutic process we embark on is tailored to them. At The Wisdom Tree Counseling Services, a non-judgmental space is created along with empowerment and encouragement so that no matter the stage of life you are in, the results of this transformation will be powerful. At the end of every session, you have hope that you will accomplish all of the treatments goals and objectives that have been identified in our initial session.
![Photo of Aleighsha Webber, MS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5811008d-abd3-432f-a352-16df03fe3454/1/320x400.jpeg)
Aleighsha Webber
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
I also specialize in drug and alcohol treatment by tackling substance use from the root which can involve resolving trauma, depression, and/or anxiety.
I create a safe and trusting alliance with you to get to the root of your concerns and create the life you most want. I provide a non-judgmental space for you to process your struggles by being warm, compassionate, supportive, and down to earth. I deeply care about helping you obtain a more peaceful present. Past experiences can manifest in many different forms, and I address individuals from a holistic perspective. You are the expert on yourself while I provide a safe relationship and space to explore that collaboratively.
I also specialize in drug and alcohol treatment by tackling substance use from the root which can involve resolving trauma, depression, and/or anxiety.
I create a safe and trusting alliance with you to get to the root of your concerns and create the life you most want. I provide a non-judgmental space for you to process your struggles by being warm, compassionate, supportive, and down to earth. I deeply care about helping you obtain a more peaceful present. Past experiences can manifest in many different forms, and I address individuals from a holistic perspective. You are the expert on yourself while I provide a safe relationship and space to explore that collaboratively.
![Photo of Kelly Micaela Mayor - Mayor Mental Health LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f816fae1-2191-4ddc-886c-2fe618a63fcc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mayor Mental Health LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
Mayor Mental Health LLC has clinicians that specialize in the following areas: trauma, PTSD, military and First Responders, OCD, anxiety, postpartum depression/anxiety, military spouses, teens and kids, pornography/sex addiction, depression, stress and life transitions, and faith-based counseling.
Welcome to Mayor Mental Health LLC! We are a mental health clinic in Fort Walton Beach, offering both virtual and in-person sessions. We are owned by a husband/wife team of licensed therapists- Robert Mayor, LMHC and Kelly Mayor, LCSW. Together we have 24 years combined experience in the mental health field. We have a few other clinicians on our staff as well. We provide high-quality and evidenced-based care to assist our clients with improving their mental health. We love watching our clients succeed in reaching their goals.
Mayor Mental Health LLC has clinicians that specialize in the following areas: trauma, PTSD, military and First Responders, OCD, anxiety, postpartum depression/anxiety, military spouses, teens and kids, pornography/sex addiction, depression, stress and life transitions, and faith-based counseling.
Welcome to Mayor Mental Health LLC! We are a mental health clinic in Fort Walton Beach, offering both virtual and in-person sessions. We are owned by a husband/wife team of licensed therapists- Robert Mayor, LMHC and Kelly Mayor, LCSW. Together we have 24 years combined experience in the mental health field. We have a few other clinicians on our staff as well. We provide high-quality and evidenced-based care to assist our clients with improving their mental health. We love watching our clients succeed in reaching their goals.
![Photo of Robert Mayor, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/401f06d1-9095-43e1-8003-ec94598b9109/1/320x400.jpeg)
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or stress, I am here to help. In addition, I have experience working with military families and service members. I have helped clients with military unique stressors, combat trauma, sexual assault trauma, nightmares, hyper-vigilance, irritability, and anger. Besides treating PTSD, I have also assisted clients with anxiety, depression, family issues, life stress, parenting challenges, and men's issues. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), which is an evidenced based modality for treating PTSD and trauma.
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or stress, I am here to help. In addition, I have experience working with military families and service members. I have helped clients with military unique stressors, combat trauma, sexual assault trauma, nightmares, hyper-vigilance, irritability, and anger. Besides treating PTSD, I have also assisted clients with anxiety, depression, family issues, life stress, parenting challenges, and men's issues. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), which is an evidenced based modality for treating PTSD and trauma.
![Photo of Shareen Ancog, MS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/26574d3b-376d-4cf5-8c67-b6bdeaea0830/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shareen Ancog
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
If you need help, I am here for you. Regardless of your mental health situation, I am committed to supporting you. I offer assistance with grief, PTSD, anxiety, depression, dissociation, bipolar disorder, body image issues, PNES, and various other concerns. My approach is transparent, and I tailor my methods to suit each unique situation. My goal is to help you become the best version of yourself through a variety of therapeutic processes, including CBT, DBT, self-havening, audio therapy, hypnotherapy, VNS activation, autogenics, EMDR, and IFS.
If you need help, I am here for you. Regardless of your mental health situation, I am committed to supporting you. I offer assistance with grief, PTSD, anxiety, depression, dissociation, bipolar disorder, body image issues, PNES, and various other concerns. My approach is transparent, and I tailor my methods to suit each unique situation. My goal is to help you become the best version of yourself through a variety of therapeutic processes, including CBT, DBT, self-havening, audio therapy, hypnotherapy, VNS activation, autogenics, EMDR, and IFS.
![Photo of Erika Garcia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/237def75-c27b-47d3-a650-57d9d10a7b5b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Erika Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
Not accepting new clients
Trauma changes us and the way we see the world.
What does it mean to be human? Often it means feeling lost, confused, and at war with yourself. It can mean feeling like the weight of the world is on your shoulders, and that you’re expected to have everything figured out. But being human is all these painful things, and so much more. It’s feeling the sun shining on your face, laughing with people you love, being truly seen and understood. Feeling safe and calm in your body. Riding the waves of life with an inner trust that you can handle whatever comes. Therapy is a place to practice being human. To feel your messy emotions and be celebrated in setting goals and achieving them.
Trauma changes us and the way we see the world.
What does it mean to be human? Often it means feeling lost, confused, and at war with yourself. It can mean feeling like the weight of the world is on your shoulders, and that you’re expected to have everything figured out. But being human is all these painful things, and so much more. It’s feeling the sun shining on your face, laughing with people you love, being truly seen and understood. Feeling safe and calm in your body. Riding the waves of life with an inner trust that you can handle whatever comes. Therapy is a place to practice being human. To feel your messy emotions and be celebrated in setting goals and achieving them.
![Photo of Isaly Palacios, MA](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c089966f-4b97-46e9-8bf2-29ce06a94ca1/1/320x400.png)
Isaly Palacios
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
Isaly is open to working with youth and adults to address various issues including trauma, depression, anxiety, and other complex emotions and behaviors.
Taking the first step toward a journey of healing can be difficult. Let Isaly offer support and guidance through life's challenges by providing a safe and empathic environment. Isaly, is a registered mental health counselor who completed their masters degree from Pepperdine University. She recognizes each person’s unique experience with mental health and utilizes an integrative approach when working with patients.
Isaly is open to working with youth and adults to address various issues including trauma, depression, anxiety, and other complex emotions and behaviors.
Taking the first step toward a journey of healing can be difficult. Let Isaly offer support and guidance through life's challenges by providing a safe and empathic environment. Isaly, is a registered mental health counselor who completed their masters degree from Pepperdine University. She recognizes each person’s unique experience with mental health and utilizes an integrative approach when working with patients.
![Photo of Alina Griffith, MS, CCTP, ASDCS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f0ba45f-a63e-429c-8c8a-d39b8e657cb7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alina Griffith
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, CCTP, ASDCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include children, adolescents, teens, and adults with anxiety, trauma, depression, emotional disturbances, and individuals diagnosed with Autism and ADHD.
I create a trusting space and build rapport so that you can have a place to process challenges, which also creates growth. Creating a safe space for my clients also means creating a space of compassion, empathy, understanding, and non-judgment. I value the transformative nature of a strong therapeutic relationship. Sometimes, there are disruptions in life that affect not only the present but the future as well. These disruptions can impact how we see ourselves, how we see others, and how we perceive the world in a negative way. I draw from the modalities of CBT, DBT, Person-Centered Therapy, and SandTray Therapy.
My specialties include children, adolescents, teens, and adults with anxiety, trauma, depression, emotional disturbances, and individuals diagnosed with Autism and ADHD.
I create a trusting space and build rapport so that you can have a place to process challenges, which also creates growth. Creating a safe space for my clients also means creating a space of compassion, empathy, understanding, and non-judgment. I value the transformative nature of a strong therapeutic relationship. Sometimes, there are disruptions in life that affect not only the present but the future as well. These disruptions can impact how we see ourselves, how we see others, and how we perceive the world in a negative way. I draw from the modalities of CBT, DBT, Person-Centered Therapy, and SandTray Therapy.
![Photo of Christina Patterson, MS, RMHCI, EMDR, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a6b616bf-3a50-40c8-bbc0-b83b5b80bfe7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christina Patterson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, RMHCI, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Walton Beach, FL 32547
Please know you do not have to go through this alone. In my role as a mental health counselor, my approach to building trust is rooted in authenticity, empathy, and collaborative engagement. I recognize that the therapeutic relationship is a dynamic and evolving partnership, and my commitment to fostering trust is paramount. I strive to create a space where clients feel seen, heard, and understood. Ultimately, my goal is to build trusting alliance that empowers clients to explore their challenges, develop resilience, and work towards positive change.
Please know you do not have to go through this alone. In my role as a mental health counselor, my approach to building trust is rooted in authenticity, empathy, and collaborative engagement. I recognize that the therapeutic relationship is a dynamic and evolving partnership, and my commitment to fostering trust is paramount. I strive to create a space where clients feel seen, heard, and understood. Ultimately, my goal is to build trusting alliance that empowers clients to explore their challenges, develop resilience, and work towards positive change.
See more therapy options for Shalimar
Nearby Trauma and PTSD Therapists Searches for Shalimar
- Baker
- Crestview
- Destin
- Fort Walton Beach
- Freeport
- Gulf Breeze
- Hurlburt Field
- Mary Esther
- Miramar Beach
- Navarre
- Niceville
- Santa Rosa Beach
Trauma and PTSD Therapists
When should I seek treatment for trauma?
Not everyone who undergoes trauma needs therapy to heal, but many do. If, after experiencing a traumatic event, you find yourself struggling with symptoms such as nightmares, dissociation, irritability, or emotional numbness—especially if these symptoms last more than a month and are severe enough to interfere with your daily functioning—you may benefit from seeking out therapy with a trauma-informed provider.
How long does trauma therapy take?
Different types of therapy for trauma unfold on different timelines. Prolonged exposure therapy and cognitive processing therapy, for example, each take about three months, while trauma-informed CBT may last anywhere from 8 to 25 sessions. Other approaches, especially those that are less structured or that incorporate elements from multiple modalities, may be more open-ended, though many patients report feeling better within the first few months of treatment.
What happens if trauma is left untreated?
Unaddressed trauma can have serious—even devastating—effects on relationships, career, and day-to-day functioning. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can lead people to distrust or lash out at others, making it difficult to maintain intimate relationships; it can also trigger symptoms such as flashbacks or hyperreactivity that can interfere with a person’s ability to function effectively, personally and/or professionally. Some sufferers turn to drugs to find relief. Symptoms may lessen on their own with time, but there is no guarantee that PTSD will resolve on its own.
Can PTSD come back after treatment?
It is possible for PTSD symptoms to recur months or years after successful treatment. This is because, like most mental health disorders, it is not possible to “cure” PTSD, and stressful life events may cause symptoms to recur in even the most resilient individuals. There is no shame in re-experiencing PTSD symptoms nor in returning to therapy when such relapses occur; indeed, many forms of trauma therapy explicitly encourage periodic “maintenance sessions” to reinforce coping skills and ensure that symptoms stay manageable.