PTSD resources could help people like these World War II Veterans
The San Francisco and bay area is full of military veterans that have been diagnosed with PTSD or may be presenting PTSD symptoms. Some of these symptoms could include recurring thoughts of a traumatic war experience, violence, a need to be extra secure around the home, substance abuse, and an avoidance of certain areas or situations that could remind them of the trauma. If you are experiencing some of these symptoms, refer to this list here of other possible symptoms and consult your local physician for further diagnosis. If you have been diagnosed with PTSD or want to find out more information, here are some local resources:
EMDR Therapists
Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a successful technique in helping people overcome traumatic experiences. It requires special certification. Broadly speaking, EMDR involves analyzing eye movements associated with recalling trauma and “reprogramming” them to react differently; therefore reducing anxiety and stress associated with the memories.
Local therapists: Mr. Simon Hodson Park Presidio Counseling Center 5028 Geary Blvd
San Francisco, California (415) 668-3904 x5; Mark Hirschfield MFT (415) 922 4444 999 Sutter Street, San Francisco, CA 94109.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
The San Francisco Bay Area Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Center (Oakland, CA (Rockridge) tel. 510.652.4455) will treat PTSD from the cognitive perspective, such as focusing on understanding the triggers, teaching coping skills and controlled exposure to traumatic cues in order to desensitize.
Support Groups
There is a support group called theComing Home Project (121 Clement Street San Francisco, CA 94118 415-387-0800). They are a non-profit group that offers help to veterans and their family members; they also hope to help create new ways of treating PTSD. The organization is supported and run by licensed professional counselors and military veterans.
MORE VETERANS ARTICLES:
Comments
Also, the Pathway Home in Yountville offers an excellent program for PTSD treatment. Call them at 707-948-3028
Swords to Plowshares in San Francisco can also help veterans with a variety of needs, including counseling, at no cost. Contact them at 415-252-4788 or visit 1060 Howard Street for help and referrals.
I would add that the San Francisco VA Medical Center has a PTSD Clinical Team that offers PTSD assessments and treatment if you are diagnosed with PTSD, which is free for all military/combat veterans whose PTSD is military related (through combat or training). There's also the San Francisco Vet Center on Polk St. which can provide further support for vets.
Veterans Resource in the East Bay provides donation based EMDR therapy for combat veterans. Their contact number is 925-271-7660.
The Early Intervention Clinic in Los Altos offers free therapy/support to eligible people. Visit www.eiclinic.org for information and eligibility.
EMDR is also very effective in treating other conditions such as Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety, Agoraphobia and Acute Stress Disorder. Many of which can arise in circumstances that are peripheral but close to the trauma underlying PTSD.
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