PTSD

Expert Psychiatrists Offering Comprehensive PTSD Diagnosis and Treatment

Understanding Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Recognizing Trauma and the Path to Healing

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a profoundly distressing or life-threatening event. While terms like “shell shock” or “combat fatigue” once referred to similar experiences, PTSD can affect anyone—regardless of age, background, or life situation.

Those with PTSD may experience vivid flashbacks, nightmares, intense emotional distress, and a sense of isolation. Triggers such as loud sounds, certain places, or even specific people can evoke powerful memories of the trauma. These symptoms can persist long after the event and significantly interfere with daily functioning.


How PTSD Develops

Roughly 15 million adults in the U.S. are affected by PTSD each year. Common causes include:

  • Physical or sexual assault
  • Abuse or neglect
  • Serious accidents (e.g., car crashes)
  • Combat or war experiences
  • Natural disasters
  • Sudden loss of a loved one
  • Acts of violence or terrorism
 

PTSD can also develop in people who didn’t directly experience trauma but were close to someone who did—like a parent of a critically ill child. Members of the LGBTQ+ community may be at higher risk due to increased exposure to violence, discrimination, and victimization.


Risk Factors for PTSD

Several elements may increase someone’s likelihood of developing PTSD:

  • Personal injury or witnessing harm to others
  • A sense of helplessness during the trauma
  • Lack of emotional or social support afterward
  • Ongoing stress related to the trauma, such as displacement or job loss
  • Co-occurring issues such as substance misuse


Core Symptoms of PTSD

Mental health professionals generally group PTSD symptoms into four main categories:

1. Intrusive Thoughts:

  • Flashbacks and vivid memories of the trauma
  • Disturbing dreams or nightmares
 

2. Avoidance:

  • Steering clear of people, places, or events that remind you of the trauma
  • Disengaging from daily responsibilities and routines
 

3. Negative Changes in Thinking or Mood:

  • Persistent guilt or shame
  • Feeling emotionally detached from others
  • Negative thoughts about oneself or the world
  • Memory gaps regarding the traumatic event
 

4. Arousal and Reactivity:

  • Being easily startled or constantly on edge
  • Difficulty sleeping or concentrating
  • Outbursts of anger or irritability
  • Reckless or self-destructive behaviors
 

PTSD can also appear alongside conditions like depression or anxiety, making it essential to receive a comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan.


Treating PTSD

PTSD is treatable, and recovery is absolutely possible. At Equilibrium Mental Health Services, we offer personalized, evidence-based therapies to help you find lasting relief and emotional strength.

Treatment options include:

  • Trauma-focused therapy (such as Cognitive Processing Therapy or EMDR)
  • Exposure and Response Prevention therapy (ERP)
  • Medication management
 

Common medications include:

  • Sertraline (Zoloft®)
  • Paroxetine (Paxil®)
 

These SSRIs may help regulate mood, reduce intrusive thoughts, and ease anxiety. If PTSD coexists with other conditions, additional medications may be incorporated.


Why Early Treatment Matters

  • Delaying treatment can lead to worsening symptoms and long-term health effects
  • Even if trauma occurred years ago, therapy can still be life-changing
  • If previous treatments weren’t effective, new approaches may bring better results
 

Recovery is within reach—it’s never too late to heal.


Compassionate PTSD Care at Equilibrium Mental Health Services

If you or someone you love is struggling with PTSD, seeking help is a powerful first step. Equilibrium Mental Health Services offers both virtual and in-person sessions with providers trained in trauma-informed care. We’ll work with you to build a plan that fits your needs, supports your healing, and restores your quality of life.

Let us walk alongside you on the path to recovery—with empathy, expertise, and lasting support.

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Key Benefits of Treatment :

Getting help for PTSD can lead to powerful, lasting improvements in emotional health and daily life. With the right support, individuals can reduce the frequency and intensity of symptoms, rebuild routines, strengthen relationships, and regain a sense of stability. At Equilibrium Mental Health Services, we provide virtual care that is consistent, compassionate, and led by licensed professionals. By combining evidence-based therapies with attentive medication management, clients receive practical tools and personalized guidance to manage PTSD and move forward with greater confidence and resilience.

Initial 60-Minute Session

Our hour-long session offers a detailed review of your emotional health needs, letting us learn your challenges and goals. We’ll cover symptoms, treatment options, and create a customized care plan.

20-30 Minute Follow Up Sessions

Routine follow-up appointments offer continuous assistance and might involve medication monitoring so that your care plan remains effective and customized for you.

Flexible Scheduling

• Evening and weekend appointments available.
• Access to telehealth services from the comfort of your home.
• Reschedule or cancel sessions easily through our online portal.

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Our Value

Our Professional Psychiatric Providers Are Here to Support You

If you’re experiencing flashbacks or other symptoms related to past traumatic events, you’re not alone and support is available. At Equilibrium Mental Health Services we provide hope and assistance to those struggling with PTSD. Make an appointment today and get started on the road to recovery.

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