Finding a competent CPTSD therapist

[Little2Nuthin]

I was wondering if anyone knows a good way to find a therapist that really understands CPTSD. I have a few who have tried to help, but always seem to fall short.

I've wondered if it is just me. If anyone has suggestions I would appreciate input.

 

[Freddyt]

First thing- Have you been recommended a method of treatment?

Is there a local, state, or national Psychologist association you can look for a psychologist in?
I think Psycology Today (?) website has a place for psychologists to advertise for customers, and you can look in your area.

 

[Friday]

Look for trainings in trauma specific modalities.

- TF CBT (trauma focused CBT)
- EMDR + advanced coursework in complex trauma)
- PE (prolonged exposure therapy)
- SIT (stress inoculation therapy)
Etc.

This also means your search is going to be limited, in most places, to masters level & above, practitioners. Psychologists, PsyDs, LCSWs, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners (doctorate level for nursing specializing in mental health), Clinical Psychiatry (most psychiatrists don’t conduct therapy, instead focusing on medication management, but some do).

 

[Little2Nuthin]

Thanks for the information. One issue I have is I'm limited to T's who accept Medicare. Otherwise I cannot afford to pay for therapy.

 

[Friday]

One issue I have is I'm limited to T's who accept Medicare. Otherw

Then you will NOT find anyone who advertises CPTSD. Fullstop. As Medicare does not cover anything not covered in the DSM. That does not mean you cannot find people specialized on complex trauma (which the DSM Includes), but if you have your heart set on unicorns? Expect to stay in your imagination, instead of real life.

 

[Little2Nuthin]

Not sure how to process the last portion of your reply. But, thanks again for the info. I was not aware of Medicare's limitations. I am certain that having a T that is not really trauma informed would only be a detriment and not a positive.

 

[Charbella]

Psychology Today can let you filter for a therapist based on insurance, yes Medicare is on there and if they do PTSD/trauma I’d also add CBT or EMDR to the filters as it ought to narrow out some of those claiming to handle trauma. I suggest you run a search in your area and then call and do some phone interviews. Most therapists are honest. I called a few and said I have ptsd and CSA in my past and many said I should look elsewhere.

 

[Friday]

I am certain that having a T that is not really trauma informed would only be a detriment and not a positive.

There’s a major series of differences between
- Trauma Informed
- Trauma Therapist
- Advertises in CPTSD

- Trauma informed = apx 2/3s - 3/4s of all therapists.
- Trauma Therapist = apx 4%-6% of therapists
- Trauma Therapist specializing in complex trauma - A percent of the above 4-6%
- Advertises in CPTSD = (nearly) 0 in the USA, even if they’re big names in attempting to get CPTSD classified as a disorder