PTSD Treatment

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition associated with exposure to a traumatic event. This can include directly experiencing a traumatic event, witnessing a traumatic event occurring to others, learning that a traumatic event occurred to a close family member or friend, and experiencing repeated or extreme exposure to aversive details of traumatic events (e.g., first responders).

It can develop in response to highly stressful events in life such as car accidents, assaults, war/combat/military and many other areas.

Who Can Suffer from PTSD?

People of all ages and stages of life can suffer from PTSD. Anyone who has gone through a traumatic experience is at risk of developing it. Trauma can be defined as an emotional or psychological response to an event or series of events that are deeply distressing or disturbing. Recognizing and treating traumatic stress early is key to managing symptoms and improving quality of life.

Symptoms of PTSD

PTSD involves a number of debilitating symptoms such as intrusion symptoms (e.g., recurrent memories, nightmares, dreams), avoidance of stimuli associated with the event (e.g., avoiding external reminders such as people, places, conversations, activities or situations related to the event), and changes in mood and cognition. It also involves changes in arousal and reactivity, such as feeling more irritable, angry, hypervigilant, and an exaggerated startle response. Many individuals also experience problems with concentration and sleep disturbance.

Common Triggers of PTSD

PTSD triggers can include sights, sounds, or even smells that remind the individual of the traumatic event. For example, a loud noise might trigger memories of a car accident, or a specific scent could bring back memories of an assault. Identifying these triggers is an important step in managing PTSD.

How Therapy Helps

Evidence-based treatment for PTSD is essential in helping individuals process their trauma, manage symptoms, and regain control over their lives. At Dr. Melanie Cochrane & Associates, our specialized PTSD treatment is tailored to each individual, providing a safe space to explore trauma and develop adaptive coping strategies. Whether you’ve had PTSD for months or years, therapy can significantly improve your quality of life, helping you move forward with hope and resilience.

Get Started Today

Schedule An Appointment