THE FRIDA METHOD® INSTITUTE FOR NEURODEVELOPMENT
TRAUMA, PTSD & CPTSD
Re-building connection between body, brain, and nervous system after trauma.
What Are PTSD & CPTSD?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) are mental health conditions that can develop after experiencing or witnessing traumatic events. Both conditions can significantly impact a person’s daily life and well-being.
PTSD is characterised by symptoms after a single traumatic event (accident, natural disaster, combat, assault):
- Intrusive memories: recurrent, involuntary memories, flashbacks, distressing dreams.
- Avoidance: efforts to avoid reminders of the trauma.
- Negative changes in mood & cognition: hopelessness, emotional numbness, memory or concentration issues.
- Altered arousal & reactivity: irritability, hypervigilance, sleep disturbances, exaggerated startle.
CPTSD arises from prolonged or repeated trauma (interpersonal, chronic abuse, neglect, domestic violence). It includes PTSD symptoms plus:
- Emotional regulation issues: intense anger or sadness.
- Dissociation: feelings of detachment from self or world.
- Negative self-perception: shame, guilt, worthlessness.
- Interpersonal difficulties: challenges forming/maintaining trust and relationships.
What Happens in the Body & Brain
Our method addresses PTSD and trauma through a comprehensive understanding of how trauma impacts brain function and bodily awareness.
Research shows trauma alters brain structure and function (amygdala hyperactivity, reduced hippocampal volume, disrupted prefrontal regulation) and affects nervous system regulation (HPA axis, autonomic system) which can manifest physically, emotionally, and relationally
Our Approach to Trauma Healing
To overcome trauma, we focus on foundational building blocks that go beyond traditional talk therapy. Our approach integrates the body’s psychophysiology with techniques such as reflex integration, autonomic nervous system balancing, and trauma release. Each session is designed to foster sensory-informed communication skills, enabling individuals to navigate their lives more effectively and cultivate a deeper connection to themselves.
- Manual Therapy & Movement – gentle somatic work to reconnect brain-body.
- Sensory-Motor & Reflex Integration – rebuilding foundational motor/sense patterns impacted by trauma.
- Autonomic Nervous System Regulation – calming fight/flight/freeze responses, rebuilding nervous system flexibility.
What to Expect
- Initial Consultation & Assessment – trauma history, nervous system baseline, reflex/movement scan.
- Custom Program Design – tailored to an individual’s trauma profile, nervous system status, and goals.
- Therapeutic Sessions – somatic/manual/movement/reflex integration work.
- Coaching & Home Practice – tools for emotional regulation, sensory/motor tasks, environment support.
- Review & Maintenance – check-ins, progression, transition to self-sustaining regulation.
Support available for teens and adults. Our method works for those with formal PTSD/CPTSD diagnosis and those encountering trauma symptoms without formal labelling
What Success Looks Like
Each person’s healing journey is unique. Many clients report greater nervous system stability, fewer trauma-driven symptoms, improved emotional regulation, better relationships, and deeper body-mind connection.
Frequently Asked Questions About PTSD and CPTSD
Do I need a formal PTSD or CPTSD diagnosis?
No. We assess nervous system function and trauma effects and build a plan based on your profile.
Is this therapy replacing talk therapy or medical treatment?
We complement and integrate with existing therapies and medical care; our focus is somatic and nervous system regulation.
How long is the program?
Duration varies depending on trauma history, nervous system status and age; typically X-Y months.
What ages do you serve?
Teens and adults — ages ___ to ___.
Can I engage virtually or remotely?
Yes. Some components can be done remotely and home-based; in-office somatic work is ideal when possible.
Ready to Begin the Your Journey?
Schedule your free 30-minute consult today to explore how our somatic-based trauma approach can support you or your loved one toward deeper nervous system regulation and recovery.
