Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Healing from trauma is possible — with specialized, trauma-informed care.

Overview

Understanding PTSD

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can develop after experiencing or witnessing a terrifying event — such as combat, assault, an accident, or a natural disaster. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. PTSD can disrupt every area of life, but specialized trauma-informed treatment helps patients process the experience and regain a sense of safety and control.

Common Symptoms

  • Intrusive memories, flashbacks, or nightmares of the trauma
  • Avoidance of places, people, or activities that trigger memories
  • Negative changes in mood and cognition — guilt, detachment, hopelessness
  • Hyperarousal — being easily startled, tense, or on guard
  • Difficulty sleeping and concentrating
  • Irritability or angry outbursts
  • Emotional numbness or disconnection from others

Potential Causes & Risk Factors

  • Direct experience or witness of a traumatic event
  • Combat exposure
  • Physical or sexual assault
  • Childhood abuse or neglect
  • Serious accidents or medical emergencies
  • Sudden loss of a loved one

How We Treat It

Evidence-Based Treatment Options

Trauma-focused therapy (EMDR, prolonged exposure, cognitive processing therapy)
SSRIs and other medications to manage anxiety and depression
Ketamine therapy for treatment-resistant PTSD symptoms
Prazosin for trauma-related nightmares
Mindfulness and grounding techniques

Frequently Asked Questions

Common Questions About PTSD

Does everyone who experiences trauma develop PTSD?

No. Most people experience some distress after trauma, but not everyone develops PTSD. Risk factors include the severity of the trauma, prior trauma history, and lack of support.

Can PTSD develop years after the event?

Yes. While symptoms often appear within a month, they can emerge months or even years later, especially triggered by a new stressor or reminder.

Is EMDR effective for PTSD?

Yes. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based therapy that helps the brain reprocess traumatic memories so they become less distressing.

Ready to Get Help?

If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of ptsd, our team is here to help. Schedule a confidential evaluation today.

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