Residential Trauma and PTSD Treatment in Thailand
A Trusted Trauma Retreat
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:
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- 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
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- 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.
What are treatments for PTSD?
To determine what therapy is best for trauma and PTSD, you need a comprehensive approach that prioritises safety and stability. Structured, trauma-specific interventions delivered by experienced clinicians in a supportive environment yield the most successful outcomes for processing trauma and managing PTSD symptoms.
What are the different types of trauma therapy?
At The Dawn, we offer trauma-focused therapy that only begins after a client has been stabilised – which usually takes up to 8 weeks Delving into trauma prematurely without the proper groundwork often leads to retraumatisation and increased anxiety.
So what is trauma-focused therapy? It is a specialised approach that directly addresses traumatic experiences and their lasting effects on mental health. Our Trauma and PTSD Programme integrates various approaches using three main treatment elements – group work, individual therapy, and somatic work.
How Our PTSD and Inpatient Trauma Treatment in Thailand Works
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.
How long does therapy take for childhood trauma?
The length of therapy for childhood trauma depends on several factors, but typically ranges from 6 months to 2 years. Key factors include:
- Severity and duration of the trauma
- Individual's support system and resources
- Emotional stability & willingness of the individual to engage in the therapeutic process
Recovery from childhood trauma is not a linear process. Some clients make progress in 6-12 months, while others benefit from longer-term support as they process different aspects of their experiences. There's no 'right' timeline for recovery - what's most important is moving at a pace that feels safe and manageable.
What Sets The Dawn Apart as a Trauma and PTSD Retreat in Thailand
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The only CARF-accredited treatment facility in Asia, a mark of premium treatment centres in the US - ensuring adherence to 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.
Can therapy make trauma worse?
While therapy is generally safe and effective for trauma healing, diving into traumatic memories too quickly or without proper support can intensify symptoms. This is why working with a qualified trauma specialist who can properly pace your treatment is essential.
Why an Inpatient PTSD and Trauma Retreat is More Effective than Outpatient Therapy
Residential Retreat vs. Outpatient Therapy
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.
How long is PTSD treatment?
Just as clients often ask how long does trauma therapy take, the timeline varies significantly for each person. The Dawn’s PTSD treatment in Chiang Mai prioritises equipping you with strategies to cope with your symptoms prior to addressing your underlying issues. This holistic approach promotes true healing.
PTSD Treatment Cost
Our PTSD treatment in Thailand costs significantly less when compared to other internationally accredited Western facilities. See what our fees cover and include.
Weekly Timetable
View a sample weekly schedule. This includes personalised therapy and wellness activities for holistic health and recovery.
Holistic Wellbeing
Our programme integrates evidence-based practices like yoga, meditation, and polyvagal therapy to support emotional regulation, stress management, and overall wellness.
Our Expert Team
Meet our compassionate experts specialising in trauma treatment. Our multidisciplinary team collaborates to provide comprehensive, personalised care for your unique needs.
Depression Retreat
Our programme offers personalised care using evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, and EMDR to guide you towards lasting wellbeing in overcoming depression.
FAQS
Q. 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
Q. 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
Q. 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.
Q. 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
| 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 |
