Get Stress and Emotional Overwhelm Therapy you can count on.
Serving Montrose, Glendale, Pasadena, Burbank, and all cities across CA.
At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, I provide deeply personalized, trauma-informed care for clients seeking a thoughtful and effective path toward healing. My practice is designed to offer a calm, private, and supportive therapeutic environment where individuals, couples, and teens can engage in meaningful inner work with depth, intention, and care.
I believe therapy should be both clinically grounded and highly individualized. My approach integrates evidence-based modalities with a nuanced understanding of trauma, creating a therapeutic experience that is compassionate, attuned, and tailored to the unique needs of each client. Every aspect of care is approached with sensitivity, professionalism, and respect for the complexity of each person’s healing process.
I am committed to offering a standard of care that feels both deeply supportive and exceptionally intentional. My goal is to help clients move beyond patterns of distress and toward greater clarity, resilience, emotional balance, and lasting well-being. Through a refined, relational, and trauma-informed approach, I strive to create a space where genuine healing and meaningful transformation can unfold.
Acute stress is a common experience that can arise from sudden changes or overwhelming situations, leading to feelings of anxiety, confusion, and emotional overwhelm. It is essential to address acute stress promptly to prevent it from escalating into more chronic conditions. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy in Montrose, CA, we specialize in acute stress treatment through tailored therapeutic approaches designed to help individuals regain control and find relief.
Acute stress occurs in response to immediate threats or challenges, whether they stem from personal crises, work-related pressures, or unexpected life events. Unlike chronic stress, which persists over time, acute stress is typically short-lived but can still have a profound impact on both mental and physical well-being. Symptoms may include:
Understanding acute stress is crucial for effective management and treatment. It is essential to recognize that while acute stress can serve as a natural response to danger or challenge—often referred to as the "fight or flight" response—it can also lead to significant distress if not managed properly.
Acute stress can be triggered by various situations, including:
Understanding the context of acute stress is essential for identifying coping mechanisms. For instance, someone facing acute stress due to a work deadline may benefit from time management techniques, while another person dealing with a personal crisis might find solace in emotional support from friends or family.
The physiological response to acute stress involves the release of hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. This hormonal surge prepares the body to react swiftly to danger, resulting in increased heart rate, heightened alertness, and improved energy levels. While this response can be advantageous in short bursts, chronic activation due to ongoing acute stress can lead to health issues such as hypertension, digestive problems, and weakened immune response.
Recognizing the signs of acute stress is the first step in effective management. Beyond the symptoms already mentioned, acute stress can manifest in behavioral changes, such as:
Once acute stress is identified, employing effective treatment strategies becomes crucial. Here are some practical approaches to managing acute stress:
Mindfulness practices can significantly reduce the impacts of acute stress. Techniques such as deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or guided visualization help ground individuals and bring their focus back to the present moment. For example, deep breathing exercises can be done anywhere and involve inhaling deeply through the nose for a count of four, holding for a count of four, and exhaling slowly through the mouth for a count of four. This simple exercise can help lower heart rates and induce a sense of calm.
Engaging in physical activity is one of the most effective ways to combat acute stress. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters. Even a short walk or a few minutes of stretching can provide immediate relief. Consider activities you enjoy, whether it’s dancing, hiking, or yoga, as these can transform stress energy into a more positive experience.
Reaching out to friends, family, or colleagues for support can alleviate feelings of isolation and helplessness. Talking about your experiences can provide new perspectives and solutions. Consider forming a support group where you and others can share your experiences and coping strategies.
Effective time management can help mitigate work-related acute stress. Create a prioritized list of tasks, breaking them into manageable steps. Techniques such as the Pomodoro Technique, which involves working in short bursts followed by breaks, can enhance productivity while reducing overwhelm.
In cases where acute stress becomes overwhelming, seeking professional help is a wise step. Therapists can provide tailored strategies and interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which focuses on changing negative thought patterns that contribute to stress. They may explore potential underlying issues that exacerbate acute stress reactions.
Another avenue for treatment is the incorporation of holistic approaches such as acupuncture, massage therapy, or aromatherapy, which can complement traditional therapies and promote relaxation and well-being.
Writing down thoughts and feelings can serve as a powerful tool for processing acute stress. Journaling allows individuals to articulate their emotions, identify triggers, and reflect on coping strategies that have worked in the past. It can also help clarify thoughts and reduce the intensity of racing thoughts that often accompany stress.
Understanding and managing acute stress involves a multifaceted approach. By recognizing the symptoms and employing effective coping strategies, individuals can navigate acute stress more effectively. It’s essential to be proactive in seeking support and using available resources to restore balance and well-being.
Experience compassionate trauma-informed therapy designed to support your emotional healing and recovery, helping you navigate psychological trauma and post-traumatic stress with expert guidance and understanding.
Experience compassionate self-esteem counseling that empowers you to build confidence, enhance your self-worth, and improve your body image through personalized therapy tailored to your unique journey.
Experience compassionate anxiety therapy designed to help you manage anxiety disorders, overcome challenges, and find peace through personalized support and effective treatment strategies.
At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we utilize a variety of evidence-based therapies tailored to individual needs. Here are some effective approaches we employ:
CBT is a structured, goal-oriented therapy that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. It helps individuals recognize how their thoughts contribute to stress and teaches them new coping strategies to manage acute stress effectively. For example, a person experiencing acute stress might have intrusive thoughts about an upcoming deadline. CBT helps them challenge these thoughts and replace them with more constructive perspectives, thus reducing anxiety.
In practice, CBT involves several steps:
Research shows that CBT can lead to significant improvements in stress management, making it a cornerstone of acute stress treatment.
This therapy focuses on understanding and managing intense emotions that arise during stressful situations. By learning to identify triggers and apply coping mechanisms, individuals can reduce their emotional reactivity and enhance their resilience. Emotional Regulation Therapy involves several key components:
For instance, someone who feels overwhelmed in social situations might learn to take deep breaths and remind themselves that it’s okay to take a step back when feeling anxious. Such skills not only help during acute stress episodes but also contribute to long-term emotional resilience.
Incorporating mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing exercises and meditation, can help individuals center themselves and reduce feelings of anxiety. These techniques promote relaxation and can be an essential part of acute stress treatment. Mindfulness encourages individuals to stay present, which can be particularly beneficial when stressors feel overwhelming.
Some effective mindfulness practices include:
Regular practice of these techniques not only aids in immediate stress relief but can significantly enhance overall emotional health, making them indispensable tools in acute stress treatment.
Somatic experiencing focuses on the connection between the mind and body. It helps individuals release stored tension and trauma, facilitating emotional healing and resilience. This approach can be particularly effective for those who have experienced overwhelming stress. It operates on the premise that trauma can manifest physically, leading to chronic tension and stress responses.
Key elements of somatic experiencing include:
For example, a client might learn to notice tension in their shoulders and practice gentle movements to release that tension, creating a sense of relief and empowerment.
Holistic therapy considers the whole person, integrating physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Techniques may include art therapy, yoga, and lifestyle changes that support overall health and stress management. This approach recognizes that acute stress does not affect individuals in isolation but rather impacts all aspects of their lives.
Examples of holistic therapies include:
By addressing the multifaceted nature of stress and its impact on daily life, holistic therapy provides comprehensive support for individuals navigating acute stress.
At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we utilize a variety of evidence-based therapies tailored to individual needs. Here are some effective approaches we employ:
CBT is a structured, goal-oriented therapy that focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors. It helps individuals recognize how their thoughts contribute to stress and teaches them new coping strategies to manage acute stress effectively.
This therapy focuses on understanding and managing intense emotions that arise during stressful situations. By learning to identify triggers and apply coping mechanisms, individuals can reduce their emotional reactivity and enhance their resilience.
Incorporating mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing exercises and meditation, can help individuals center themselves and reduce feelings of anxiety. These techniques promote relaxation and can be an essential part of acute stress treatment.
Somatic experiencing focuses on the connection between the mind and body. It helps individuals release stored tension and trauma, facilitating emotional healing and resilience. This approach can be particularly effective for those who have experienced overwhelming stress.
Holistic therapy considers the whole person, integrating physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Techniques may include art therapy, yoga, and lifestyle changes that support overall health and stress management.
Clear, practical answers for people considering Trauma Therapy and looking for a thoughtful next step.
Touchstone Trauma Therapy is a mental health practice located in Montrose, CA, specializing in trauma therapy. We provide personalized care to help clients navigate challenges such as trauma, anxiety, and depression through holistic, trauma-informed approaches.
Our services are designed for individuals, couples, and teens who are facing mental health challenges. Whether you are struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use concerns, relationship difficulties, self-esteem issues, emotional overwhelm, chronic stress, perfectionism, or feelings of disconnection, we are here to support you on your healing journey.
At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we offer a range of trauma-informed therapies tailored to individual needs. Our approaches may include EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness and Somatic therapies, and other holistic methods aimed at promoting healing and resilience.
If you are experiencing persistent feelings of anxiety, depression, or distress related to past experiences, trauma therapy may be beneficial. Our team can help assess your needs and guide you toward appropriate support.
During your first session at Touchstone Trauma Therapy, you will meet with a therapist who will discuss your background, current challenges, and goals for therapy. This initial assessment helps us create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Yes, therapy sessions at Touchstone Trauma Therapy are confidential. We adhere to strict ethical guidelines to ensure your privacy and safety, allowing you to share your experiences in a secure and supportive environment.
Somatic Therapy is a form of body-centered therapy that emphasizes the connection between the brain, mind, and body. It utilizes body awareness as a therapeutic tool to explore and resolve the somatic (physical) symptoms of psychological issues. This approach helps individuals recognize and release the physical tension that remains in the body due to past trauma and stress.
Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a transformative therapeutic model of psychotherapy that helps individuals understand and harmonize the various parts within themselves. According to IFS, we all have different parts within us that carry different thoughts, emotions, and beliefs. These parts can sometimes conflict with each other and create internal struggles and difficulties in our lives. IFS is commonly utilized to work with trauma memories or difficult childhood experiences.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured approach that treats trauma by safely reconnecting individuals with the traumatic images, thoughts, emotions, and body sensations they experienced, leveraging the brain’s natural healing process—Adaptive Information Processing (AIP).
Unlike traditional talk therapy, which often focuses on the traumatic event itself, EMDR targets the emotional disturbances and symptoms stemming from the trauma. The goal is to process these troubling memories, reduce their impact, and help clients develop healthier coping mechanisms.
Through EMDR, memories are transferred from the emotional part of the brain (limbic system) to long-term storage, transforming them from intrusive relived experiences into memories of past events that no longer wield disruptive power.
To therapy, developing healthy coping strategies is vital for managing acute stress. Here are some practical strategies you can incorporate into your daily routine:
At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we understand that each individual's experience with stress is unique. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized care that addresses your specific needs and circumstances. We are committed to helping you navigate the challenges of acute stress through:
If you or someone you know is struggling with acute stress, we encourage you to reach out for help. Our trained professionals are here to guide you on your journey toward emotional healing and resilience.
Experience compassionate depression counseling and effective clinical depression therapy tailored to your needs, utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to help you overcome major depressive disorder and mood disorders.
Experience compassionate EMDR therapy tailored for healing from PTSD, anxiety, phobias, grief, and abuse recovery, helping you navigate complex trauma and reclaim your life with confidence.
Experience healing through Somatic Experiencing Therapy, a holistic approach that combines body-oriented psychotherapy and mind-body techniques to alleviate stress and anxiety, promoting deep relaxation and emotional well-being.
At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, seeking support is an important first step toward healing. Whether you are navigating Trauma Therapy, anxiety, or emotional overwhelm, this is a calm place to begin with trust, care, and intention.
Talk with a trusted therapist and take the next step forward with confidence.
Trauma-informed care is an approach to therapy that recognizes how past trauma can affect a person’s thoughts, emotions, relationships, and physical responses. It focuses on creating a safe, supportive, and respectful environment where clients feel heard, empowered, and never pressured. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, trauma-informed care means tailoring treatment to each person’s needs while using approaches that support healing at a pace that feels manageable and safe. At TTT, we utilize Evidence Based modalities such as EMDR, IFS and Somatic/Mindfulness that are effective in addressing and healing from trauma, including complex trauma.
Starting therapy begins with reaching out to schedule an initial consultation or first appointment. During that first step, we will talk about what brings you to therapy, your goals, and any questions you may have about the process. From there, we can determine the best approach for your needs and begin creating a treatment plan that feels supportive, personalized, and manageable.
Yes, therapy sessions are confidential. Protecting your privacy is an important part of creating a safe and supportive therapeutic space. There are a few legal and ethical limits to confidentiality, which will be reviewed with you at the beginning of therapy, but in general, what you share in session is kept private and treated with care and respect.
Somatic therapy supports trauma healing by helping clients notice and work with how trauma is held in the body, not just in thoughts or memories. Trauma can affect the nervous system in ways that lead to tension, overwhelm, numbness, or feeling constantly on edge. Through gentle body-based awareness and regulation techniques, somatic therapy helps clients reconnect with their bodies, build a greater sense of safety, and process trauma in a way that feels grounded and manageable.
That is completely understandable. Not every therapy experience is the right fit, and a previous approach that did not feel helpful does not mean therapy cannot be meaningful for you now. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, I offer a personalized, trauma-informed approach tailored to your unique needs, goals, and pace. Together, we work to create a safe and supportive space that feels more aligned with the healing you are seeking.
Your first therapy session is an opportunity for me to begin building a thoughtful understanding of your experiences, concerns, and goals. I will guide the conversation with care, creating space to discuss what brings you to therapy, your personal history, and any questions you may have about the process. This initial session is designed to help you feel at ease while laying the foundation for a therapeutic approach that is personalized to your needs.
Experience transformative healing with Internal Family Systems Therapy, a compassionate approach that nurtures your inner parts, promoting personal growth and resilience through effective trauma healing and self-led therapy.
Experience compassionate and evidence-based PTSD treatment, including trauma-focused therapy and clinical counseling, designed to support your journey towards healing and recovery from post-traumatic stress disorder.
Experience compassionate relationship trauma counseling that focuses on healing interpersonal wounds, fostering secure attachments, and promoting resilience through specialized attachment-based therapy tailored to your unique journey.
Experience compassionate grief and loss counseling that supports your healing journey, helping you navigate bereavement, cope with loss, and find peace through specialized therapy tailored to your needs.
Experience compassionate support with our Stress and Emotional Overwhelm Therapy, designed to help you manage stress, regulate emotions, and overcome burnout through effective techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Don’t let acute stress control your life. Contact Touchstone Trauma Therapy today to schedule a consultation. We are located at 2441 Honolulu Ave., Suite 120, Montrose, CA 91020. You can reach us at 626-824-8572 or visit our website at touchstonetraumatherapy.com. Together, we can work towards effective acute stress treatment and help you regain control of your life.
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Individual therapy for clients ages 14 and older offers a personalized space to work through life's challenges, deepen self-understanding, and support lasting emotional well-being.
Trauma-informed care is an approach to therapy that recognizes how past trauma can affect a person’s thoughts, emotions, relationships, and physical responses. It focuses on creating a safe, supportive, and respectful environment where clients feel heard, empowered, and never pressured. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, trauma-informed care means tailoring treatment to each person’s needs while using approaches that support healing at a pace that feels manageable and safe. At TTT, we utilize Evidence Based modalities such as EMDR, IFS and Somatic/Mindfulness that are effective in addressing and healing from trauma, including complex trauma.
Starting therapy begins with reaching out to schedule an initial consultation or first appointment. During that first step, we will talk about what brings you to therapy, your goals, and any questions you may have about the process. From there, we can determine the best approach for your needs and begin creating a treatment plan that feels supportive, personalized, and manageable.
Yes, therapy sessions are confidential. Protecting your privacy is an important part of creating a safe and supportive therapeutic space. There are a few legal and ethical limits to confidentiality, which will be reviewed with you at the beginning of therapy, but in general, what you share in session is kept private and treated with care and respect.
Somatic therapy supports trauma healing by helping clients notice and work with how trauma is held in the body, not just in thoughts or memories. Trauma can affect the nervous system in ways that lead to tension, overwhelm, numbness, or feeling constantly on edge. Through gentle body-based awareness and regulation techniques, somatic therapy helps clients reconnect with their bodies, build a greater sense of safety, and process trauma in a way that feels grounded and manageable.
That is completely understandable. Not every therapy experience is the right fit, and a previous approach that did not feel helpful does not mean therapy cannot be meaningful for you now. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, I offer a personalized, trauma-informed approach tailored to your unique needs, goals, and pace. Together, we work to create a safe and supportive space that feels more aligned with the healing you are seeking.
Your first therapy session is an opportunity for me to begin building a thoughtful understanding of your experiences, concerns, and goals. I will guide the conversation with care, creating space to discuss what brings you to therapy, your personal history, and any questions you may have about the process. This initial session is designed to help you feel at ease while laying the foundation for a therapeutic approach that is personalized to your needs.
Our services are designed for individuals, couples, and teens seeking support for mental health challenges.
Whether you are dealing with trauma, relationship issues, or self-esteem concerns, Touchstone Trauma Therapy is here to guide you on your journey to healing.
TTT offers services to the cities of Montrose, Glendale, La Crescenta, La Canada, Burbank and Pasadena. TTT also offers remote video sessions throughout the state of California.
Individual therapy for clients ages 14 and older offers a personalized space to work through life's challenges, deepen self-understanding, and support lasting emotional well-being.
