Trauma

Traumatic reactions can include avoidance of reminders of the trauma, painful intrusive memories, nightmares, feeling irritable or in a heightened state of alert, anxiety, depression and edginess, guilt and shame. Seeking treatment is important.

Trauma

Most people will experience a trauma at some point in their lives. Traumatic reactions are a normal response to experiencing a trauma. These reactions can include avoidance of reminders of the trauma, painful intrusive memories, nightmares, feeling irritable and on edge, experiencing a heightened state of alert, anxiety, depression, guilt and shame. Seeking treatment after an experience of trauma is important to lessen the severity and persistence of traumatic reactions, to get you back to feeling like yourself sooner.

Traumatic reactions happen when a person experiences or witnesses a deeply disturbing and/or violent event that results in injury (emotional or physical) or death. Traumatic reactions can occur after events such as sexual assault, car and other physical accidents, witnessing violence, experiencing violence, and many other disturbing events. While these reactions are normal, they can become all consuming and disrupt everyday activities, relationships, and sense of self. It is important to seek support after a traumatic event. 

There are several evidence- based treatments for traumatic reactions for both children and adults.  My practice offers trauma-informed treatment integrating several research-driven approaches such as “talk therapy”, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and mindfulness therapies. Treatment focuses on assisting clients in developing more effective coping skills to reduce trauma stress reactions and symptoms so they can get back to living their lives.  Reach out now to learn more about what treatment could look like for you or your child. 

Area of Focus

Dr. Luisa's diverse skillset allows her to focus on many areas.

Wellness & Resiliency

Life is often stressful. Wellness and resiliency training turns those stresses into opportunities to learn and grow.

ADHD

Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder is a pattern of difficulty sustaining focus, attention, distractibility, and/or impulsivity and hyperactivity.

Anxiety

Anxiety can take many forms, from overwhelming worry thoughts, expecting the worst, panic, fears and phobias. Treatment involves assisting clients to calm their “fight-flee-freeze” reactions.

Depression

Depression is a common, but serious mood disorder that causes persistent sadness, loss of interest and sometimes irritability and isolation.

Sleep Difficulties

Sleep disorders involve problems with the quality, timing, and amount of sleep, which result in daytime distress and impairment in functioning. After ruling out medical causes for sleep difficulties, there are several treatments to address sleep issues in children and adults.

Autism Spectrum (ASD), Neurodiversity, and Children with Special Needs

Children and teens with special needs, learning differences and Asperger’s can face many challenges with regulating emotions, navigating social challenges and developing a positive self-image. 

Trauma

Traumatic reactions can include avoidance of reminders of the trauma, painful intrusive memories, nightmares, feeling irritable or in a heightened state of alert, anxiety, depression and edginess, guilt and shame. Seeking treatment is important.

Military Families & Transitions

Military Service Members, Veterans and their families often face challenges connected to the hardships and stress of service, trauma and sacrifices to serve. When service members return, they are encouraged to seek counseling to help themselves and their families adjust.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here area answers to a few of the most common questions

Do you provide an initial free consultation?

Yes, I schedule a 15-minute initial free phone consultation, to determine if I am a good fit and able to assist.

Do you provide virtual or in person sessions?

I offer virtual sessions for clients residing in California if the service would benefit the client.  I also offer in person sessions, following health safety guidance.

Do you accept insurance?

I provide a detailed bill/receipt that clients can use to submit to their insurer or self-pay. Regrettably, I do not accept insurance or submit claims. I accept payment through Zelle, Venmo, Paypal and check.

How long does therapy take?

The duration and pacing of therapy sessions is different for each client. During the initial consultation and assessment/intake process, the pacing and duration of therapy or wellness coaching can be better defined in collaboration with the client to support their goals.

What services do you offer?

I provide individual adult therapy, child and adolescent therapy, including young child therapy. Additionally, I provide parent coaching and support. Services include wellness and resiliency training and coaching. Tailored to the needs and goals of the client, I draw from several research-driven treatments (CBT, DBT, PCIT, Mindfulness, Psychodynamic, Developmental Theory, and Social Learning Theory) to provide an integrated approach. Services offered are non-crisis outpatient therapy.

Dr. Luisa Montaini-Klovdahl

Contact Dr. luisa

Questions, concerns or request a consultation by contacting me. If this is an emergency, please call 911.

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