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Residential Trauma and PTSD Treatment in Thailand
A Trusted Trauma Retreat
Trauma can be a heavy burden to bear, casting a shadow over your daily life and relationships. If you find yourself struggling with painful memories, overwhelming emotions, or a pervasive sense of fear, know that you are not alone. At The Dawn, we understand the complex nature of trauma and its impact. We’re here to guide you on a transformative journey towards healing, empowerment, and renewed hope with our specialised trauma programme.
What's the Difference between PTSD vs. C-PTSD?
Trauma comes in many forms, and no two experiences are exactly alike. “Big T” traumas are typically associated with life-threatening events such as serious accidents, natural disasters, or violent assaults. On the other hand, “small t” traumas are often more subtle and prolonged, stemming from chronic experiences like childhood neglect, bullying, or toxic relationships.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is the response to “Big T” trauma, while Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) is the response to “Small t” trauma, each with its own unique challenges.
PTSD symptoms include:
- Intrusive memories and avoidance of trauma reminders
- Hypervigilance and negative changes in mood and cognition
- Sleep disruption, irritability, and social withdrawal
- Distorted threat perception and increased fearfulness
C-PTSD or “Small T” trauma symptoms include:
- Difficulties with emotion regulation
- Negative self-perception
- Difficulties in interpersonal relationships
- Anxiety, anger, and depression
Experience Our Trauma Healing Retreat in Thailand
At The Dawn, we recognise that most mental health issues, including addiction and other maladaptive behaviours, stem from emotional trauma experienced at some point in an individual’s life. To address this, we have developed a person-centred, trauma-informed treatment approach that follows our Treatment Roadmap. We first tackle your presenting mental health or addiction issues, followed by addressing your underlying trauma, be it PTSD or C-PTSD.
With our team’s extensive experience in Trauma Informed Care and evidence-based therapies, we’ll help you reclaim your life with hope and resilience.
How Our PTSD and Inpatient Trauma Treatment in Thailand Works
Our Trauma and PTSD Programme is designed to ensure a safe and effective healing process. It can begin only after a client has been stabilised. Delving into trauma prematurely without the proper groundwork often leads to retraumatisation and increased anxiety.
To mitigate these risks, we require a minimum commitment of 8-10 weeks, allowing for the careful unfolding of therapeutic interventions and a stable transition back into everyday life. Our programme consists of 3 main elements that complement each other – group work, individual work, and somatic work:
Our group sessions provide a supportive environment where you can engage in various forms of trauma-focused therapies:
- Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF-CBT) – Learn techniques to reframe and manage traumatic memories.
- Narrative Therapy – Reshape your personal recovery story through guided sessions.
- Psychoeducation Groups – Gain insights and strategies for managing trauma effectively.
Our one-on-one sessions provide a safe and confidential place where you work with your Primary Therapist.
- Individual Therapy – These sessions extend the modalities explored in Group Therapy and allow for deeper personal exploration and confidentiality. This approach is ideal for those who have trauma that may be too sensitive to share in a group environment such as sexual abuse.
- Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) – A proven therapy to reduce the emotional distress associated with trauma and enhance coping mechanisms.
Our Somatic Work incorporates various mind-body techniques to enhance trauma recovery, including:
- Trauma Releasing Exercises (TRE) – Techniques designed to help the body release stress.
- Polyvagal Therapy – Explores techniques like controlled breathing and social interaction exercises, polyvagal therapy helps you effectively reduce anxiety and enhance emotional stability.
- Wellness Programme – Includes yoga and meditation that is scientifically proven to reduce stress hormones, improve mental clarity and promote overall wellness.
What Makes The Dawn the Best Trauma and PTSD Retreat in Thailand
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The only CARF-accredited treatment facility in Asia putting us on par with top centres in the US - ensuring we abide by international standards in trauma-informed care, safety, and client support.
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A personalised PTSD treatment plan tailored to your unique needs - guided by our Treatment Roadmap to address both immediate symptoms and underlying issues systematically.
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Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) - the only non-hospital facility in Thailand offering this FDA-approved therapy, highly effective for treatment-resistant depression often associated with PTSD.
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Integration of evidence-based holistic therapies to reduce stress levels - a key factor in PTSD recovery. These practices such as yoga, meditation,and polyvagal therapy also provide practical coping strategies for daily life.
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1/2 the price of similar Western facilities - allowing for extended treatment, crucial for addressing all forms of trauma.
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Free Lifetime Aftercare Support - bi-weekly online group sessions to guide you through post-treatment challenges.
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Alumni Programme - resources, global peer support, and discounts on The Dawn's services to help maintain your progress in trauma recovery.
Why a Trauma Retreat is More Effective than Outpatient Therapy
When considering treatment options for trauma and PTSD, it’s crucial to understand why residential retreats offer a more comprehensive and immersive healing experience compared to outpatient therapy. Here’s a closer look at the key differences:
Residential Retreat vs. Outpatient Therapy
Residential – Distances you from your daily stressors and distractions so that you can focus on treatment.
Outpatient – Stressors present while you balance treatment with daily responsibilities.
Residential – Faster results due to participating daily in an intensive, structured programme employing a multifaceted approach = psychotherapy (individual + group), TMS, wellness therapy, psychiatric support.
Outpatient – Progress is drastically slower when just participating in individual therapy on a weekly/fortnightly basis. It also requires strong discipline to not postpone appointments.
Residential – All facets of treatment are accessible in one place.
Outpatient – If requiring medication, or other types of treatment, you will have to visit different providers.
Residential – Group therapy benefits: Mental health issues are worsened due to self-isolation and impaired ability to communicate. Studies show that group therapy is the best remedy.
Outpatient – Only individual therapy sessions are offered, with a limited scope of treatment.
Choosing the right level of care can make a significant difference in your recovery journey. At The Dawn, our holistic, inpatient approach addresses the root causes of your condition, promoting comprehensive healing. We equip you with sustainable strategies for maintaining balance and well-being after treatment.
FAQS
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) manifests through various symptoms that can significantly impact daily life. The 17 key symptoms are:
- Intrusive thoughts
- Nightmares
- Flashbacks
- Severe emotional distress
- Physical reactions to reminders of the trauma
- Avoiding thoughts or feelings related to the trauma
- Avoiding places, people, or activities that trigger memories
- Memory problems
- Negative thoughts about oneself or the world
- Distorted feelings of guilt or blame
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Feelings of detachment or estrangement from others
- Difficulty experiencing positive emotions
- Irritability or angry outbursts
- Reckless or self-destructive behaviour
- Hypervigilance
- Difficulty concentrating
Helping someone with PTSD involves several supportive actions:
- educate yourself and understand PTSD
- listen without judgement to offer a safe space
- encourage professional help
- be patient – recovery takes time
- be mindful of triggers
- help create a safe environment
- respect boundaries – give space when needed
Managing a relationship with someone with PTSD requires understanding and patience. Learn about PTSD and maintain open communication about both your feelings. Respect their need for space and be patient, recognising that recovery takes time. Offer both emotional and practical support and encourage professional help, such as therapy. It is important to stay flexible and adapt to their changing needs and moods.
A PTSD episode can include flashbacks, where the person vividly relives the trauma, and severe anxiety, characterised by overwhelming fear or panic. They may experience disassociation, feeling detached from reality, and intrusive memories. Physical reactions like trembling or nausea, intense emotions, and avoidance of trauma reminders are common. Hypervigilance, or heightened alertness, and sleep disturbances, such as nightmares or insomnia, are also typical symptoms.
FAQs
1. What are the 17 symptoms of PTSD?
A: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) manifests through various symptoms that can significantly impact daily life. The 17 key symptoms are:
- Intrusive thoughts
- Nightmares
- Flashbacks
- Severe emotional distress
- Physical reactions to reminders of the trauma
- Avoiding thoughts or feelings related to the trauma
- Avoiding places, people, or activities that trigger memories
- Memory problems
- Negative thoughts about oneself or the world
- Distorted feelings of guilt or blame
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Feelings of detachment or estrangement from others
- Difficulty experiencing positive emotions
- Irritability or angry outbursts
- Reckless or self-destructive behaviour
- Hypervigilance
- Difficulty concentrating
2. How to help someone with PTSD?
A: Helping someone with PTSD involves several supportive actions:
- educate yourself and understand PTSD
- listen without judgement to offer a safe space
- encourage professional help
- be patient – recovery takes time
- be mindful of triggers
- help create a safe environment
- respect boundaries – give space when needed
3. How to deal with someone with PTSD in a relationship?
A: Managing a relationship with someone with PTSD requires understanding and patience. Learn about PTSD and maintain open communication about both your feelings. Respect their need for space and be patient, recognising that recovery takes time. Offer both emotional and practical support and encourage professional help, such as therapy. It is important to stay flexible and adapt to their changing needs and moods.
4. What does a PTSD episode look like?
A: A PTSD episode can include flashbacks, where the person vividly relives the trauma, and severe anxiety, characterised by overwhelming fear or panic. They may experience disassociation, feeling detached from reality, and intrusive memories. Physical reactions like trembling or nausea, intense emotions, and avoidance of trauma reminders are common. Hypervigilance, or heightened alertness, and sleep disturbances, such as nightmares or insomnia, are also typical symptoms.
A Day at The Dawn Thailand Trauma Retreat
We believe in healing the whole person. You will receive intensive psychotherapy, but meditation, relaxation, and recreational activities will all play an important therapeutic role in your treatment. Here’s an example of what a typical day looks like at The Dawn:
07:00: | Group Exercise |
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08:00: | Breakfast |
09:30: | Group Process |
11:00: | Group Therapy |
12:00: | Lunch |
13:00: | Focus Group |
14:30: | Individual Counselling, Massage, Fitness Training, Mindfulness Meditation or TMS (optional) |
18:00: | Dinner |
19:00: | Group Activity, Offsite NA / AA meeting |
20:30: | Rest & Relaxation |
22:00: | Bedtime |
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