Trauma Therapy

Dr. Nam’s goal is to support trauma survivors in not only healing from past wounds but also in fostering personal growth and empowerment. By providing tools for self-regulation, self-compassion, and reprocessing traumatic memories, she can help individuals move towards a life of greater fulfillment and resilience through trauma therapy.

Some common symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) are: 

  • Intrusive memories about the trauma

  • Nightmares

  • Flashbacks

  • Avoiding any triggers that remind you of the trauma

  • Negative emotions related to the trauma

  • Feeling “not connected” to friends and family members 

  • Irritability

  • Problems with sleep 

  • Feeling hyperaware of one’s surroundings and others 

An individual who has experienced trauma over a extended period of time may also experience additional symptoms such as:

  • Persistent sadness or depression

  • Explosive anger

  • Forgetting parts of the trauma

  • Feeling detached from one’s body

  • May feel helpless, shame, guilt

  • Feeling overwhelmed when thinking about the trauma

  • Using alcohol and/or substances to “numb out” feelings and thoughts about the trauma

  • Engaging in self-harm behaviors

  • Difficulties with managing relationships

Jennifer Nam San Francisco DBT cpt trauma ptsd PE therapist

Treatment

There are two evidence-based treatments for PTSD, which are Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Prolonged Exposure (PE). Both treatments are relatively short-term (12 to 16 sessions) and highly efficacious. As well, both treatments also incorporate skills on addressing interpersonal/relationship difficulties that are related to a trauma response.

Trauma Treatment for Journalists

As a trauma therapist, Dr. Nam is also developing a sub-specialty in working with journalists who are exposed to occupational chronic stress and trauma. She has a strong appreciation for the role of journalism in society, and considers it a privilege to work with news professionals. She has received training from the Dart Center for Journalism and Trauma on the professional culture and occupational challenges of journalists. In addition to using HIPAA-compliant telehealth software, she also has received training from the Freedom of the Press Foundation on best practices for digital security when using telehealth technology.

Ready for lasting change?

Work with a trauma therapist and get the help you need.