Get PTSD Treatment 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.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can emerge after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Understanding its symptoms, causes, and available treatment options is crucial for those affected and their loved ones. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy in Montrose, CA, we specialize in trauma therapy, providing personalized care to help clients navigate the challenges posed by PTSD. This article will explore what PTSD is, its symptoms, the underlying causes, and the various treatment options available to support healing and recovery.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that arises after an individual experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. This can include a range of distressing experiences such as military combat, sexual assault, natural disasters, serious accidents, or any situation that invokes intense fear, helplessness, or horror. PTSD is not limited to a specific demographic; it can affect individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life.
The symptoms of PTSD can be debilitating, significantly impacting daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. These symptoms may manifest in various ways and can be categorized into four main clusters:
Understanding the full scope of PTSD requires recognizing its varied symptoms and their potential impact on an individual’s life. For instance, a veteran returning from combat may find it challenging to reintegrate into civilian life due to flashbacks triggered by loud noises, which can resemble gunfire. Similarly, a survivor of a natural disaster may avoid specific locations or activities that remind them of their traumatic experience, further isolating themselves from their community.
The onset of PTSD symptoms can occur shortly after the traumatic event, but in some cases, they may not appear until months or even years later. This delayed response can complicate the identification of PTSD, as individuals may not immediately associate their symptoms with the original trauma. Early intervention is crucial in managing and mitigating the effects of PTSD, making it essential to recognize the signs and seek help promptly.
Factors influencing the development of PTSD can vary widely. These include:
Recognizing the signs of PTSD is crucial not only for those experiencing them but also for friends and family members who may notice changes in their loved ones. If someone you care about exhibits symptoms such as withdrawal from social interactions, increased irritability, or heightened anxiety, it’s vital to approach them with empathy and understanding. Encouraging open dialogues about their feelings can foster a supportive environment conducive to healing.
For those experiencing PTSD, various treatment options are available, tailored to individual needs and experiences. Psychotherapy, particularly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), has proven effective for many individuals suffering from PTSD. CBT helps individuals process their thoughts and feelings about the trauma, challenging negative patterns and facilitating healthier coping mechanisms.
Another effective form of treatment is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). This therapy involves guiding individuals through a series of eye movements while recalling the traumatic event, helping to desensitize their emotional responses over time.
In some cases, medication may be prescribed to help manage symptoms. Antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and other psychotropic drugs can assist in alleviating the emotional burden associated with PTSD, making it easier for individuals to engage in therapy and rebuild their lives.
Support groups can also play a vital role in the recovery process. Connecting with others who have experienced similar traumas can provide a sense of community and understanding that is often difficult to find elsewhere. These groups foster an environment where individuals can share their experiences, learn from one another, and offer support during the healing journey.
Understanding PTSD is a critical step toward effective treatment and healing. By recognizing its symptoms, the impact of trauma, and the available treatment options, individuals can take proactive steps towards recovery. If you or someone you know is struggling with PTSD, reaching out for help is a courageous and essential first step. Remember, healing is possible, and support is available.
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.
PTSD symptoms can be categorized into four main types:
These symptoms can vary in intensity and may appear soon after the traumatic event or even months or years later. Recognizing these symptoms is crucial for seeking help and starting the healing process.
The causes of PTSD can be complex and multifaceted. While trauma is the primary trigger, various factors can contribute to the development of the disorder:
Understanding these causes can help individuals and therapists tailor treatment approaches to address specific needs and challenges.
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.
Fortunately, various effective treatment options are available for those struggling with PTSD. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we offer a range of therapies designed to support healing and recovery:
CBT is a widely used therapeutic approach that helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with PTSD. This therapy is effective in addressing symptoms and improving coping strategies.
This evidence-based therapy involves gradually exposing individuals to trauma-related memories and situations in a safe environment. The goal is to reduce fear and anxiety associated with the trauma over time.
EMDR is a unique therapy that helps individuals process traumatic memories by using guided eye movements. This approach aims to alleviate distress and promote adaptive processing of the traumatic experience.
This body-centered therapy focuses on the physical sensations related to trauma. By helping individuals release stored tension and trauma in the body, somatic experiencing can facilitate emotional healing and resilience.
To traditional therapies, holistic approaches such as mindfulness, yoga, and meditation can also play a significant role in the healing process. These practices help individuals find balance and peace in their lives.
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.
Recognizing the symptoms of PTSD and understanding its causes is essential for those affected. If you or someone you know is struggling with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, taking the first step towards healing can often feel overwhelming. However, it's crucial to understand that seeking professional help is not just a step; it is a vital component of recovery. At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we are committed to offering personalized trauma therapy that addresses individual needs, guiding you through this challenging journey.
Understanding that PTSD can manifest in various ways is important. Symptoms may include intrusive memories, flashbacks, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the traumatic event. These symptoms can disrupt daily life, making it difficult to maintain relationships or even perform everyday tasks. Recognizing these signs in yourself or a loved one is the first step in seeking the appropriate Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder treatment.
When considering treatment options, it's essential to be informed about the various approaches available. Therapy plays a crucial role in recovery, and different types of therapies have shown effectiveness in treating PTSD. Here are some of the most common therapeutic approaches:
It’s also vital to consider the holistic aspects of healing. Alongside traditional therapy, integrating self-care practices can significantly enhance recovery. Here are some practical self-care strategies that can complement professional treatment:
As you consider your options for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder treatment, it’s important to find a therapist who specializes in trauma and PTSD. During your initial consultation, don’t hesitate to ask questions about their approach, experience, and what you can expect from the therapy process. Building a trusting relationship with your therapist is key to successful treatment.
At Touchstone Trauma Therapy, we understand that every individual’s journey is unique. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing you with the support and tools necessary to overcome challenges related to trauma, anxiety, and depression. We believe in a collaborative approach, working with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that respects your pace and preferences.
To individual therapy, we also encourage family involvement in the healing process. Educating family members about PTSD can foster understanding and empathy, creating a supportive home environment. Family therapy sessions can help address communication issues and strengthen relationships, which can be incredibly beneficial for those recovering from trauma.
Located in Montrose, CA, we invite you to reach out for a consultation. Contact Kristin at kristin@touchstonetraumatherapy.com or call us at 626-824-8572 to learn more about how we can assist you on your path to healing. Remember, taking that first step is a sign of strength, and you are not alone in this journey. With the right support and treatment options, recovery is not only possible but achievable.
As you navigate this process, remember that healing takes time. It’s essential to be patient with yourself and celebrate small victories along the way. Acknowledging progress, no matter how minor, can build confidence and motivation to continue on your healing journey.
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.
