Personalized PTSD Counseling Treatment in Montana

ptsd therapy

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Understanding PTSD

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It can cause distressing symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts about the event.

If symptoms persist for months or years and interfere with daily life, PTSD may be present. Seeking counseling at the nCenter can help manage symptoms and improve overall functioning.

Symptoms of PTSD

PTSD symptoms typically develop within three months of a traumatic event but can appear years later. These symptoms last over a month and significantly impact social, work, and daily life. PTSD symptoms fall into four categories:

1. Intrusive Memories

  • Recurrent, distressing memories of the event

  • Reliving the traumatic experience

  • Nightmares related to the trauma

  • Severe emotional or physical distress triggered by trauma-related memories

2. Avoidance

  • Avoiding thoughts or conversations about the trauma

  • Steering clear of people, places, or activities that might trigger trauma memories

3. Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood

  • Overwhelming negative thoughts

  • Feelings of guilt, shame, fear, or anger

  • Memory problems, including forgetting aspects of the trauma

  • Detachment from loved ones and loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities

  • Difficulty experiencing positive emotions

4. Changes in Physical and Emotional Reactions

  • Feeling easily startled or on edge

  • Risky or self-destructive behaviors

  • Sleep disturbances

  • Difficulty concentrating

  • Irritability, angry outbursts, or aggressive behavior

  • Physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, sweating, or shaking

For children under six, symptoms may include reenacting the trauma through play or experiencing frightening dreams. Jennifer Gribble, our nCenter therapist, sees children ages 5 to 10, and Christalie Kuglin works with children 13 to 17 and young adults who may suffer from PTSD.

When to Seek Help

If distressing thoughts and emotions persist for over a month or interfere with daily functioning, consider consulting with the nCenter to find the counselor who best fits you or your child’s needs. Our team includes:

  • Ruth Story (Belgrade and Bozeman)

  • Kyra Lauer (Belgrade and Bozeman)

  • Suzanne Panique (Kalispell)

  • Susan Jedd (Online)

Causes of PTSD

PTSD can develop after experiencing, witnessing, or learning about a life-threatening or violent event. Factors contributing to PTSD include:

  • Severity and frequency of trauma experienced

  • Genetic predisposition to mental health conditions

  • Personality traits (temperament)

  • Brain chemistry and stress response regulation

The nCenter offers neurostimulation, neurofeedback, and medication management for PTSD-related brain stress responses.

Risk Factors for PTSD

Anyone can develop PTSD, but certain factors increase the risk:

  • Experiencing long-lasting or severe trauma

  • Physical injury during the event

  • Previous exposure to trauma, especially in childhood

  • Occupations involving frequent trauma exposure (e.g., military, first responders)

  • Coexisting mental health conditions (anxiety, depression)

  • Substance misuse (alcohol, drugs)

  • Lack of social support

  • Family history of mental health disorders

Common Traumatic Events Leading to PTSD

  • Combat exposure

  • Physical or sexual assault

  • Childhood abuse

  • Threats involving weapons

  • Serious accidents

  • Natural disasters

  • Life-threatening medical conditions

  • Kidnapping, torture, or terrorist attacks

Complications of PTSD

PTSD can severely impact daily life, relationships, and physical health. It also increases the risk of:

  • Depression and anxiety disorders

  • Substance abuse

  • Suicidal thoughts and behaviors

  • Work and relationship difficulties

Prevention and Management

Not everyone exposed to trauma develops PTSD. However, seeking support can help reduce long-term effects. Steps to lower PTSD risk include:

  • Talking with trusted friends, family, or therapists about traumatic experiences

  • Seeking professional help early if distressing symptoms emerge

  • Building strong support systems to prevent isolation

  • Practicing healthy coping strategies instead of turning to alcohol or drugs

By recognizing PTSD symptoms and seeking timely intervention, individuals can manage their condition effectively and lead a more fulfilling life.

Complex PTSD (C-PTSD)

Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (C-PTSD) develops in response to chronic or prolonged trauma. C-PTSD can cause emotional dysregulation, low self-concept, and difficulty with relationships, in addition to symptoms similar to PTSD. Individuals who experience prolonged trauma—such as slavery, concentration camps, or chronic domestic abuse—may develop C-PTSD.

Treatment for PTSD and C-PTSD

Early counseling intervention can help those with PTSD or C-PTSD. The main treatments include:

  • Psychotherapy (Counseling):

    • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

    • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

    • Somatic Experiencing (SE)

  • Medication:

    • Antidepressants (SSRIs or SNRIs) are commonly prescribed

  • Neurostimulation & Neurofeedback:

Associated Medical Conditions

Trauma survivors often develop additional mental health concerns, including:

  • Depression, anxiety, and mood disorders

  • Substance use disorder (commonly co-occurring with PTSD)

  • Emotional regulation difficulties in children and adolescents (e.g., mood swings, anger outbursts, temper tantrums)

Take the Next Step

If you or your child may have PTSD, contact the nCenter to explore which services and providers best meet your needs. We can also check your insurance coverage to help you understand any financial obligations for treatment.

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