PTSD TREATMENT
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
PTSD can occur after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic
event such as a natural disaster, serious accident, terrorism,
war/combat, or assault. You are not alone-and effective
help is available.
Compassionate Care
Evidence-Based Treatment
Telepsychiatry from Home
Personalized Support
4 Categories of PTSD Symptoms
Symptoms of PTSD most often appear in the first few months after a traumatic event, though they can also
remain dormant until years later. There are four primary categories that symptoms of PTSD can fall into.
Intrusive thoughts
Involuntary memories of the traumatic event that forces the person to relive their experience. These may occur as conscious flashbacks, or during sleep.
Negative thoughts and feelings
Many believe they are bad or broken, or have difficulty seeing the world as "good" or "safe."
Avoidance
Individuals with PTSD often try to avoid situations that may trigger distressing memories of their past trauma, such as people, places, or activities.
Changes in physical or emotional reactions
People with PTSD are easily startled and "on edge." reacting more intensely to certain stimuli around them.
Risk Factors to Consider
Several factors can increase the risk of developing PTSD
- Added stress after a traumatic event
- Feelings of helplessness or intense fear
- A history of mental illness or substance abuse
- Not having adequate support from friends and/or oved ones after a traumatic event
- Seeking help early and building healthy coping strategies can reduce risk and improve recovery.
Treatment for PTSD
Effective treatment can help you heal and regain control of your life. The most common methods include medications and psychotherapy.
Medications for PTSD Management
Medications can help manage mood changes, anxiety. irritability, and sleep problems. Treatment is personalized based on your unique needs.
Types of Psychotherapy Used for PTSD
Psychotherapy (talk therapy) helps process trauma and develop healthier thoughts and coping skills. The most effective approaches include:
Effective Psychotherapy Approaches
Exposure Therapy
As its name would suggest, this form of psychotherapy is based on exposing the individual to their fears in order to relive the event in a safe environment that will not cause them any kind of harm. After experiencing the event in a safe and controlled space, many patients are able to realize that their avoided situations are not likely to cause a dangerous outcome, which can allow them to begin immersing themselves in previously enjoyed activities once again
Cognitive Restructuring (CBT)
It is common for individuals with PTSD to remember the event in a more serious and dramatic way than how it actually occurred. This can lead to feelings of shame or guilt that the trauma was the person’s own fault, even though this is often untrue. Cognitive restructuring focuses on reliving the event in a more realistic way and reframing negative or distorted thoughts about the event or yourself.
Schedule an Appointment for Testing & Treatment in Texas and Washington State
No two patients are alike, which is why Melaine takes an individualized approach to each patient she treats. If you have been struggling to focus in school, at work, better and at home Call Us Today
(469) 389-0960