When I first came to Korea, I thought I had left my past behind. But the truth was, the trauma I had experienced years ago continued to haunt me. I struggled with flashbacks, anxiety, and an overwhelming sense of fear. It was affecting my ability to focus at work, connect with people, and just live a normal life. I had tried to push it down for years, but eventually, I realized I couldn’t continue ignoring it. I needed professional help.
After doing some research and asking around, I decided to visit Seoul Psychiatry Clinic in Gangnam. I had heard positive things, especially about their approach to treating trauma and PTSD. I was a bit anxious at first, unsure about whether I could trust a clinic in Korea to understand my struggles. But from the moment I walked in, I felt like I was in good hands.
The Initial Consultation and Diagnosis
During my first visit, I met with Dr. Paul J. Woo, who took a compassionate, patient approach to understanding my experiences. He spent a lot of time listening to my story, understanding the nature of my trauma, and how it had been impacting my mental health. Unlike other therapists I’d seen before, Dr. Woo didn’t rush into any quick diagnoses. He took the time to ensure I was comfortable sharing and truly understood my symptoms.
Dr. Woo explained that PTSD is not only about reliving traumatic memories, but also about how these memories affect one’s current emotions, behaviors, and thoughts. He made it clear that PTSD is treatable, and we could take a gradual, holistic approach toward healing.
Therapies and Methods for Treating PTSD
- Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Dr. Woo recommended trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which is one of the most effective treatments for PTSD. This therapy helped me understand the connections between my trauma, my negative thought patterns, and my emotional reactions. We worked through identifying and challenging the distorted thoughts I had about myself, others, and the world around me. CBT gave me tools to break the cycle of fear and anxiety, and gradually, I began to feel more in control of my emotions.
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Another key treatment Dr. Woo suggested was Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). At first, I was skeptical, but EMDR turned out to be one of the most transformative therapies for me. The technique involves recalling traumatic memories while following the therapist’s hand movements with your eyes, which helps process the trauma in a less distressing way. Over several sessions, EMDR helped me begin to view my traumatic memories from a less overwhelming perspective, reducing their emotional charge.
- Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
In addition to these therapies, Dr. Woo introduced me to Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) techniques. Learning to be more present and aware of my body’s responses to stress was crucial. Mindfulness exercises helped me stay grounded in the moment, even when I felt triggered. I learned how to observe my thoughts and feelings without getting overwhelmed by them, which made a huge difference in reducing my anxiety.
- Medication (When Necessary)
At one point, Dr. Woo suggested that we could explore medication options to help manage the intensity of my anxiety and sleep disturbances. He was very thoughtful and cautious about recommending medication, ensuring I was fully informed about my options. He recommended SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) to help manage my anxiety and depression, which helped improve my ability to focus and sleep, and allowed me to better engage in therapy.
What I Found Most Effective
The combination of CBT, EMDR, and mindfulness has been incredibly effective for me. While EMDR was the breakthrough therapy that allowed me to process and release some of the deepest emotional scars from my trauma, CBT gave me the tools to manage my thoughts and reactions on a day-to-day basis. I still use mindfulness techniques regularly, and they’ve helped me stay centered when things get overwhelming.
As I progressed through treatment, I felt a gradual but significant improvement. I started to feel more like myself again, without the constant weight of anxiety and fear. The best part was how Dr. Woo and Dr. Han-mil Choi, who also worked with me on occasion, were always there to support me, adjusting my treatment as necessary and providing the compassion and expertise I needed.
Why I Recommend Seoul Psychiatry Clinic
If you’re struggling with PTSD, I wholeheartedly recommend Seoul Psychiatry Clinic in Gangnam. Their team is incredibly experienced with trauma and PTSD, and they offer a personalized approach to treatment that includes the latest therapies like EMDR and CBT, along with ongoing support. The clinic’s approach is patient-centered, and they take great care in tailoring treatments to meet each individual’s needs.
The support I received at Seoul Psychiatry was a turning point in my journey toward healing. PTSD is a long-term process, but I now feel like I have the tools and support to live a full, peaceful life again. I can’t thank Dr. Paul J. Woo and Dr. Han-mil Choi enough for helping me regain control over my life.
Here’s how to get in touch with them: Seoul Psychiatry Clinic – Gangnam
Dr. Paul J. Woo
Dr. Han-mil Choi
If you’re dealing with PTSD or any form of trauma, seeking professional help can be life-changing. Seoul Psychiatry Clinic is a wonderful place to start your healing journey.
A Thoughtful, Individualized Approach
Evidence-Based Treatments That Worked
Long-Term Wellness
Final Thoughts
I highly recommend Seoul Psychiatry Gangnam, especially if you need care in English or want compassionate, trauma-informed professionals. Dr. Woo and Dr. Choi quite literally helped me find peace after years of chaos.