PTSD Therapy and Treatment
Living with PTSD can feel like you’re stuck in survival mode, but healing is possible. Drift Behavioral Health offers specialized, trauma-informed support to help you move forward with confidence.
Understanding Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after a traumatic experience. It’s more common than many people realize. According to the US Department of Veterans Affairs, about 6% of people in the US will have PTSD at some point in their lives.
Many people misunderstand post-traumatic stress disorder, thinking it only affects veterans or those who have been through extreme violence. In truth, PTSD can affect anyone who has experienced trauma, whether it’s physical, emotional, or psychological.
Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental health condition that can develop after someone goes through or witnesses a life-threatening or deeply distressing event. These events can range from accidents and abuse to natural disasters or combat. Symptoms can start soon after the trauma or may not show up until months later.
This disorder can be caused by a single traumatic event or a series of difficult experiences over time. These might include:
- Car accidents
- Physical or sexual assault
- Military combat
- Childhood neglect or abuse
- Natural disasters
- Ongoing domestic violence
When trauma happens repeatedly or over long periods, it can lead to complex PTSD (C-PTSD). This condition includes many of the same symptoms as post-traumatic stress disorder, but often with deeper emotional wounds and challenges in relationships or self-image.
PTSD symptoms can affect every part of a person’s life. Here are some of the most common signs:
Intrusive Symptoms
- Flashbacks or vivid memories of the trauma
- Nightmares or disturbing dreams
- Intrusive thoughts that feel hard to stop
- Feeling like the trauma is happening again
Emotional and Mood Changes
- Ongoing sadness or emotional numbness
- Anxiety or mood swings
- Irritability and anger
- Feelings of guilt or shame
Avoidance and Reactivity
- Avoiding reminders of the trauma
- Trouble sleeping or concentrating
- Easily startled or hypervigilant
- Turning to substances to escape
C-PTSD symptoms may also include chronic shame, feeling isolated, and struggling to feel safe even in secure environments.
Post-traumatic stress disorder can affect people in different ways. While the core symptoms are similar, the timing and experience per person may differ. Clinicians use four common types to better understand what someone is going through, even though only PTSD is officially listed in the DSM-5. These categories help guide treatment based on the unique details of your symptoms.
Acute Stress Disorder: Symptoms last less than one month after the trauma.
Uncomplicated PTSD: Involves clear symptoms without other mental health conditions.
C-PTSD: Develops after long-term trauma, such as ongoing abuse or captivity.
Delayed-Onset PTSD: Symptoms begin six months or more after the traumatic event.
Co-Occurring Conditions
Post-traumatic stress disorder rarely shows up alone. About 80% of people with PTSD have another mental health condition like depression, anxiety, or substance use disorder. These co-occurring disorders can complicate treatment, but dual diagnosis care helps address everything at once for better outcomes.
Treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Treatment takes a full-circle approach because trauma affects more than just the mind. It can change how you feel, connect with others, and respond to stress. A complete care plan should include therapy, medication, and strategies to support your body and emotions. Drift offers flexible options, including virtual therapy and online counseling services, so you can start wherever you feel safest.
PTSD Assessment and Diagnosis
Diagnosis starts with a mental health screening that looks at your history, symptoms, and trauma exposure. Providers may use a test or questionnaire based on PTSD diagnostic criteria in the DSM-5. If you’re not sure where to begin, we also offer virtual psychiatric evaluations.
Counseling and Therapies
Therapies for post-traumatic stress disorder focus on reducing fear, restoring trust, and helping you feel safe again. We use a trauma-informed care approach that centers on your needs. Some effective options include:
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
- Trauma-Informed Care
- Mindfulness-Based Therapy
- Group and Individual Counseling
- Holistic Therapy for emotional balance and stress relief
Medication for PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder medication can help ease symptoms like anxiety, depression, or sleep issues. Common medications include SSRIs like sertraline (Zoloft) and paroxetine (Paxil). Medications are usually paired with therapy and managed by a provider at Drift.
Get Expert PTSD Treatment at Drift Behavioral Health
At Drift, we treat post-traumatic stress disorder with a trauma-informed, compassionate approach. Our team understands the lasting impact of trauma and builds a care plan around your story. If you’re also struggling with substance use, we offer dual diagnosis treatment to address both issues at once. We also incorporate mindfulness, life skills development, and peer support for well-rounded care.
Our Outpatient Treatment Programs
We offer flexible levels of care depending on your needs and schedule:
Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
Structured therapy and support 5–6 days a week for people who need daily care.
Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Flexible treatment 3–5 days a week for continued support and therapy.
Telehealth PTSD Treatment
Virtual therapy and online counseling services you can access from home, including medication management and check-ins.
You don’t have to live in fear of your past. At Drift, we’re here to walk with you through recovery and help you build a safer, more grounded life. Contact us today to start treatment that supports healing, balance, and long-term well-being.
FAQs
How do you know if you have PTSD?
If you experience flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, or avoid certain places or people after trauma, a mental health screening can help clarify your symptoms.
Is PTSD a disability?
It can be. Post-traumatic stress disorder may qualify as a disability if it affects your ability to work or function daily.
What are some signs of emotional trauma in adults?
Common signs include mood swings, emotional numbness, trouble sleeping, or difficulty trusting others.
Can PTSD cause memory loss?
Yes. Trauma can impact memory and focus, especially during flashbacks or stress.
Does online mental health counseling help with PTSD?
Yes. Many people benefit from virtual therapy that offers structure, coping tools, and connection from the comfort of home.
What to do if someone is having a PTSD episode?
Stay calm, help them feel safe, and avoid forcing conversation. Gently remind them where they are and offer grounding support.
