Assess
Most commonly, a psychodiagnostic interview is used to diagnose PTSD and other trauma related disorders. Questionnaires may be used as well. Heart Rate Variability (HRV) assessments and Quantitative Electroencephlagram are also conducted to identify anomalies.
Plan
With the assessment complete, a plan can be developed for your therapy. This would typically included referral to your physician for a medical assessment and medication if warranted. In addition, a plan can be developed for psychotherapy, biofeedback and neurofeedback. Although EMDR is commonly used in trauma, some individuals may not be good candidates for the approach or may be seeking additional therapy after already having experienced a course of EMDR.
Practice
Once the planning stage is complete, psychotherapy, biofeedback, and neurofeedback may begin. Typically some form of psychotherapy would be included with biofeedback and neurofeedback. Often times individuals will use their therapy as a impetus to rethink the events that have occurred to them. In addition, triggered emotional reactions and nightmares can be decreased.
