Areas of Specialty

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

As our understanding of mental health grows,, our appreciation of trauma's impact on an individual also grows. PTSD has become a well-known disorder that is often portrayed in movies and other forms of media. The increased awareness of mental health disorders and the de-stigmatization of seeking services is an important part of our growth as a society. Unfortunately, PTSD is also often misrepresented in these types of mediums. 

PTSD is a complex disorder that has many symptoms and presentations beyond just flashbacks, hypervigilance, and sleep disturbances. A critical component to effective treatment is not only an accurate diagnosis but also an empirically supported treatment plan that is carefully implemented in a non-traumatizing manner. One of the most common reasons that an individual with PTSD stops seeking treatment is because the treatment methods used are not intended for trauma processing and can even be re-traumatizing. 

All of the therapeutic approaches utilized at our practice are the most up-to-date, empirically supported methods for working with trauma, and I will partner with you as an individual to help you achieve the emotional and physical relief that you are seeking. If you think you may be suffering from PTSD, please contact us for a consultation. 

Dissociative Disorders

Have you ever driven home and realized you don’t remember the drive? What about being in a class or at a meeting at work, but you don’t remember any of it because your mind had drifted off somewhere else? These are examples of dissociation; in many cases, this type of dissociation is common, normal, and healthy. The human brain's ability to shift focus from the present allows us to be resilient, creative, and innovative. Some people, however, may experience this type of disconnection frequently, unwillingly, and often inconveniently. 

Dissociation is often a protective response to trauma, and the symptoms of dissociation after a traumatic event can last hours, days, months, or even years. The largest challenge with dissociative symptoms is that they are often misdiagnosed, resulting in ineffective treatment and medication management plans. Paws2Heal is dedicated to helping clients with dissociative disorders get appropriately identified and understood and collaborating with them to establish an effective and appropriate treatment plan that best suits their needs. 

Anxiety and Depression

Anxiety and depression are two of the most commonly experienced mental health conditions, and symptoms can vary from mild to severe. No matter the level of distress you are experiencing, anxiety and depression are just that – distressing! Understanding underlying causes of anxiety or depression, learning the physiological reasons why we experience such symptoms, and exploring both natural and chemical forms of treatment can go a long way in improving your comfort and quality of life. If you have suffered from either anxiety or depression and want to explore your symptoms further, please contact us to get more information. 

Mood and Personality Disorders

Mood and personality disorders are some of the most stigmatized and misrepresented disorders in mental health. Because of this, a mood or personality disorder diagnosis can be scary, embarrassing, or even enraging. Like any label, these disorders are a form of communication; an individual is always more than their label. 

If you have been diagnosed with a mood or personality disorder, it is important to work with a professional who can help you understand what that means, how it impacts you, and how you can become empowered to cope with the symptoms associated with the diagnosis. At Paws2Heal, we incorporate a Trauma-Informed Approach to create a collaborative therapeutic environment, and together, we will explore how your symptoms are shaped by your experiences and how you can become empowered to change them.