Therapy for Trauma & PTSD in Ottawa
Understanding Trauma and PTSD
Trauma can arise from many experiences: sudden accidents, ongoing stress, abuse, first responder or military service, or difficult life events. For some, these experiences lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), with symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, or emotional numbness.
In Ottawa, where many people work in high-stress roles such as healthcare, government, military, or policing, trauma and PTSD are common but often hidden. Living with trauma can leave you feeling disconnected, anxious, or overwhelmed, but healing is possible with the right support.
How Therapy Can Help with Trauma & PTSD
Therapy provides a safe, supportive space to process painful experiences and begin rebuilding a sense of safety and control. At Tiny Therapy Collective, we use evidence-based, trauma-informed approaches to help clients in Ottawa work toward healing. Our therapists may draw on:
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Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT): A proven approach for PTSD that helps you examine and reframe unhelpful beliefs related to trauma.
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Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): To identify and change patterns of thought and behaviour that keep you stuck.
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Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT): To build skills in managing emotions and reducing distress.
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Grounding and mindfulness techniques: To regulate the nervous system and reduce the impact of triggers.
These approaches can help you:
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Process and make sense of traumatic experiences
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Reduce symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, and hypervigilance
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Build healthier coping strategies for stress and anxiety
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Rebuild trust and strengthen relationships
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Reconnect with your identity, values, and sense of purpose
Everyday Supports for Coping with Trauma
Alongside therapy, small steps can help you manage trauma symptoms day to day:
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Grounding techniques: Use your senses (touch, sound, smell) to bring yourself back into the present moment.
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Routine: Gentle structure in your day can create predictability and safety.
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Movement: Exercise, stretching, or mindful walks to release tension.
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Journaling: Write down feelings or triggers to notice patterns and progress.
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Connection: Lean on trusted friends, family, or Ottawa community supports.
Our Approach in Ottawa
Tiny Therapy Collective is a virtual practice serving clients across Ontario, including Ottawa. We understand the unique ways trauma affects people in this city, from first responders and military personnel to individuals navigating personal or family trauma. Our therapists bring compassion, clinical expertise, and evidence-based approaches like CPT, CBT, and DBT to support your healing journey.
Take the Next Step
Trauma doesn’t have to define your life. With the right support, recovery is possible.
Schedule a free 15-minute consultation today to connect with a therapist in Ottawa who understands trauma and PTSD and can help you begin to heal.
