PTSD Treatment in Portland, Maine: Your Guide to Trauma-Informed Healing
Trauma can alter your life in deep and lasting ways. It can bring on feelings of fear, helplessness, guilt, and numbness. If you’re living with trauma or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), you’re not alone—and support is available right here in Portland, Maine.
At Eastern Shore Counseling, our trauma-informed therapists provide a safe, compassionate space to begin your healing journey. Using somatic therapy, mindfulness-based interventions, and evidence-based approaches, we help you process your experience and reconnect with your sense of self.
Key Takeaways
Trauma-informed care is essential for safe, effective PTSD treatment.
Eastern Shore Counseling in Portland, Maine offers holistic, individualized trauma therapy.
Somatic therapy and mindfulness practices support body-based healing.
Evidence-based treatments like CBT help reshape thoughts and behaviors tied to trauma.
A safe, supportive relationship with a therapist is central to recovery.
Understanding PTSD and Trauma Responses
PTSD is a mental health condition triggered by a traumatic event. It impacts both the body and mind, often disrupting sleep, emotions, memory, and relationships. Understanding your symptoms is the first step in finding the right PTSD therapy in Portland, Maine.
Common Symptoms of PTSD
Flashbacks or intrusive thoughts
Avoidance of reminders of the trauma
Hypervigilance or exaggerated startle response
Mood swings, irritability, or numbness
Recognizing these signs can guide you to effective PTSD treatment options available in Portland.
How Trauma Affects the Body and Mind
Trauma activates the body’s stress response. When left unresolved, it can lead to chronic anxiety, depression, fatigue, and physical pain. Trauma also disrupts relationships, emotional regulation, and self-trust.
Therapy helps you understand these effects and build resilience.
Effective PTSD Therapy in Portland, Maine
At Eastern Shore Counseling, we offer an integrated approach to PTSD therapy that considers your unique history and goals. Below are key modalities we use:
Somatic Therapy for Trauma Processing
Somatic therapy, or somatic experiencing, focuses on body awareness. It helps release trauma stored in the nervous system, reducing anxiety and improving emotional regulation. This approach is especially helpful for clients who feel disconnected from their bodies or have difficulty verbalizing their trauma.
Mindfulness-Based Interventions
Mindfulness practices such as meditation, breathwork, and grounding exercises support clients in staying present. This reduces overwhelm and helps regulate emotions triggered by trauma memories.
Cognitive Behavioral Techniques (CBT)
CBT is a gold-standard approach for PTSD treatment in Maine. It helps identify negative thought patterns and replace them with more adaptive beliefs. CBT reduces distress, improves problem-solving, and increases feelings of empowerment.
Eastern Shore Counseling: Trauma-Informed Care in Portland
Eastern Shore Counseling offers trauma-informed therapy in a safe, welcoming environment. We understand how trauma impacts all areas of life, and we approach each client with empathy, respect, and individualized care.
Meet Josh Masterson, LCSW: PTSD Recovery Specialist
Josh Masterson, LCSW, is an experienced trauma therapist in Portland, Maine. He specializes in PTSD treatment, somatic work, and mindfulness-based approaches. Josh tailors each session to meet you where you are, helping you regain a sense of control, safety, and inner peace.
Whether you're recovering from acute trauma, childhood trauma, or complex PTSD, Josh provides trusted support for deep and lasting healing.
Types of Trauma Treated
At Eastern Shore Counseling, we treat a wide range of trauma, including:
Childhood Trauma
Unresolved childhood trauma can affect adult relationships, self-esteem, and emotional safety. We provide a safe, compassionate space to explore and heal early experiences.
Acute Trauma and PTSD
Sudden traumatic events such as accidents, assault, or loss can lead to PTSD. We help clients process the shock and symptoms to restore emotional balance.
Complex PTSD
Chronic trauma over time—such as ongoing abuse or neglect—often results in complex PTSD. Our team uses trauma-informed methods to support clients in rebuilding trust and emotional safety.
Individual and Couples Therapy for Trauma Recovery
Trauma doesn’t only affect individuals—it can strain relationships as well. That’s why we offer both individual therapy and couples therapy in Portland, Maine.
How Trauma Affects Relationships
Trauma can cause emotional withdrawal, communication difficulties, and mistrust. These issues may create distance between partners, making healing even more difficult.
Benefits of Individual Therapy
One-on-one PTSD counseling helps you:
Understand your emotional patterns
Rebuild a sense of safety
Develop coping tools for flashbacks, anxiety, and triggers
Couples Therapy for Healing Together
Couples therapy offers a space to:
Rebuild trust
Improve communication
Understand trauma’s role in your dynamic
Heal together in a supported way
Preparing for Your Healing Journey in Portland
Beginning therapy is an act of courage. At Eastern Shore Counseling, we aim to make your first steps feel safe, clear, and empowering.
What to Expect in Your First Session
You’ll meet with your therapist to discuss your history, goals, and any concerns. Your comfort and confidentiality are top priorities.
Creating a Safe Therapeutic Environment
We prioritize safety, consent, and empowerment in every session. Our office in Portland, Maine is a warm, confidential space for deep work.
Fees, Insurance, and Scheduling Your Free Consultation
We want therapy to be accessible. That’s why we offer a free initial consultation to explore your needs and answer your questions.
Individual Therapy with Josh Masterson, LCSW has a rate of $150 per 50 minute therapy session.
To get started, simply call or email us. We’ll help you schedule a time that works for you.
Conclusion: Take the First Step Toward Healing
You don’t have to carry your trauma alone. If you’re ready to find support, Eastern Shore Counseling in Portland, Maine is here for you. Our team, including trauma specialist Josh Masterson, LCSW, is committed to walking beside you as you heal.
Start your recovery today. Reach out for your free consultation and take the first step toward peace, connection, and wholeness.
FAQ
What is trauma-informed care, and how does it help in PTSD treatment?
Trauma-informed care emphasizes safety, choice, and trust in therapy. It supports healing by creating a space where clients feel respected and empowered.
What are the common symptoms of PTSD, and how do they affect daily life?
Symptoms include flashbacks, avoidance, anxiety, and hypervigilance. These symptoms can interfere with relationships, work, and daily functioning.
How does somatic therapy help trauma survivors process their experiences?
Somatic therapy helps release stored trauma in the body, reducing physical symptoms and emotional overwhelm.
What types of trauma does Eastern Shore Counseling treat?
We work with childhood trauma, acute trauma, and complex PTSD using mindfulness, CBT, and somatic approaches.
Can couples therapy help if trauma is affecting my relationship?
Yes. Couples therapy supports communication, builds understanding, and helps partners heal together.
What should I expect in my first therapy session?
Your first session includes a welcoming conversation about your history, your goals, and what you need from therapy.
Does Eastern Shore Counseling accept insurance?
Yes. We work with most major insurance providers. Call to confirm your coverage.
How do I schedule a consultation?
You can call or email us to schedule your free consultation with Josh Masterson, LCSW, in our Portland, Maine office.