clarity clinic

PTSD

At Clarity Clinic, we understand the profound impact that trauma can have on your mental and emotional well-being. Our dedicated team of experienced mental health professionals is here to guide you on a transformative journey toward healing and recovery from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). We are committed to providing you with the highest level of care, support, and evidence-based treatments to help you overcome the challenges that PTSD presents and empower you to lead a fulfilling life.
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What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder is a mental disorder that can develop in people who have experienced or witnessed extremely stressful events, including military combat, sexual assault, war crimes, natural disasters, car accidents, and terrorist attacks, among others.

Those with PTSD continue to reexperience the traumatic event in the form of nightmares, flashbacks, or rumination long after the event has ended, usually months or years. The persistent thoughts of the event can cause sadness, anger, and depression, as well as hypervigilance and anxiety. Those struggling with symptoms may avoid certain places or people who remind them of the event and may have extreme reactions to sounds or other sensory experiences that trigger symptoms, such as a loud noise, certain smells associated with the traumatic event, or fear of crowded spaces.

Additional symptoms may include survivor’s guilt, shame, isolation, feelings of emptiness, disconnection with others whom they believe don’t understand their distress, anger, mistrust of others, and difficulty expressing emotions. Those struggling with PTSD may also go through a cyclical process of reexperiencing, avoiding, and numbing, which may include substance abuse.

The diagnosis of PTSD requires that a person be exposed to a traumatic event, although people struggling with posttraumatic stress can indirectly be exposed to extreme stressors – such as close family members who died violently and meet the criteria for PTSD.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly 8 million Americans 18 years and older suffer from post-traumatic disorder symptoms; children can also suffer from PTSD.

People with post-traumatic stress disorder are at a greater risk of co-occurring illnesses such as depression, substance abuse, or other anxiety disorders.

Post-TraumaticStress Disorder in Combat Veterans and Military

Posttraumatic stress disorder was first attributed to combat veterans, originally described as “shell shock” or “battle fatigue.” However, research has since proven that PTSD has been seen in individuals who have experienced traumatic events, other than war. However, research has suggested that there may be differences in treatment for veterans versus civilians. Veterans have been trained to go into dangerous situations to fight and may have a different degree of hypervigilance than civilians who experienced trauma outside of war. Their treatment may be different for veterans, focusing more on reentry into society and reducing their “fight” impulse.

Causes of PTSD

While there is uncertainty regarding the causes of post-traumatic stress disorder, there are several factors that can trigger PTSD symptoms. Those include:

Trigger of “Fight or Flight” Response

One theory on the trigger of PTSD involves our “flight or fight” response system that triggers the “survival” mode. Flashbacks or ruminations about the traumatic event may trigger our survival mechanism and we begin to believe we need to relive or re-experience the event so we can better prepare for it in the future. However, reliving the experience doesn’t allow healing or processing of the event itself.

Hormone Levels

Recent studies have shown that those who suffer from PTSD may have an abnormal level of stress hormones.

Childhood Trauma

Those who were sexually abused or experienced other severe childhood trauma may be at a greater risk of post-traumatic stress disorder should they experience another traumatic event in the future.

Risk Factors for Developing PTSD

These factors may increase your risk of developing PTSD:

  • Having a history of other mental disorders such as anxiety, depression, or substance abuse
  • Having experienced a multitude of previous traumas, including childhood trauma of sexual abuse or emotional neglect.
  • Having a job that increases your risk of traumatic events, such as first responders and medical personnel.
  • Lacking an empathetic support system

Signs and Symptoms of PTSD

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM), a reference manual used by healthcare professionals as the authoritative guide to the diagnosis of mental disorders – the criteria for a post-traumatic disorder diagnosis are listed below, although a formal diagnosis must come from a licensed and experienced clinician.

For an individual — an adult, adolescent, or child older than 6 — to be diagnosed with PTSD they must meet each of the criteria.

Criterion A

Have had exposure to actual or threatened death, serious injury, or sexual assault either through directly experiencing the event, witnessing the event, learning that the traumatic event occurred to a loved one, or experiencing repeated exposure to traumatic event vicariously through others (i.e., first responders or DCS workers exposure to child neglect or abuse).

Criterion B (one required)

Presence of one or more of the following intrusive symptoms:

  • Recurrent and involuntary memories of the event that causes distress
  • Recurrent distressing dreams connected to the traumatic event
  • Flashbacks that make people feel as if the event is recurring
  • Intense or prolonged psychological distress at exposure to cues that remind or resemble the event
  • Intense physiological reactions to reminders of the event.

Criterion C (one required)

Avoidance of trauma-related stimuli in the form of the following:

  • Avoidance of external reminders
  • Avoidance of thoughts or feelings

Criterion D (two required)

Negative thoughts or emotions that began and worsened after the trauma as evidenced by the following:

  • Struggle to recall specifics of the trauma
  • Low self-worth and negative perspective of one’s self
  • Flat or negative emotional effect
  • Disinterest in activities
  • Isolation and emptiness
  • Self-blame or blaming of others for the event
  • Difficulty showing emotion

Criterion E (two required)

Hyperarousal and negative reactivity connected to the trauma with the following symptoms:

  • Irritability or anger with little or no provocation
  • Hypervigilance
  • Exaggerated emotional response
  • Struggles with focus and concentration
  • Sleep disturbance

Criterion F

The symptoms have lasted at least one month.

Criterion G

The symptoms cause marked impairment and functioning in work and social settings.

Assessment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

A diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder requires an evaluation and diagnosis by a licensed clinician such as a psychiatrist or psychologist who specializes in bipolar disorders. Because the assessment process for PTSD can be painful, at Clarity Clinic, we are sensitive to the symptoms that may arise because of the trauma and ensure a safe environment to talk about the trauma experience. Additionally, our clinicians will assess for co-occurring disorders, such as substance abuse, anger issues, or suicidal ideation, which may need to be treated before developing the treatment plan for PTSD.

Treatment for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Both medication and psychotherapy in conjunction are effective in helping reduce symptoms of PTSD. At Clarity Clinic our experienced clinicians guide clients toward the proper treatments, including pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions.

Our psychiatrists ensure a proper diagnosis and take care of specialized medication management for clients treating depressive disorders through pharmacological treatment.

Medication Management

In some cases, medication can play a vital role in managing the symptoms of PTSD. Our trauma psychiatrists work closely with you to determine whether medication is an appropriate part of your treatment plan. If prescribed, we carefully monitor your progress and adjust medication as needed to ensure optimal results.

Evidence-Based Therapies

Our team of trauma therapists is trained in a range of evidence-based therapies that have shown remarkable efficacy in treating PTSD. These therapies may include:

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): By exploring the connection between thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, CBT equips you with practical skills to manage and reframe distressing thoughts related to the traumatic event.
  • Exposure Therapy: In a safe and controlled environment, exposure therapy helps you confront and process the memories and triggers associated with the trauma, reducing their emotional impact over time.
  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): EMDR combines structured therapy sessions with bilateral stimulation to help your brain reprocess traumatic memories, diminishing their intensity and power.
  • Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Learning mindfulness and relaxation techniques empower you to manage stress, anxiety, and hyperarousal, promoting a sense of calm and emotional balance.

Holistic Therapies

At Clarity Clinic, we believe in the importance of addressing the mind-body connection. Our holistic therapies, such as yoga, mindfulness, and art therapy, provide avenues for self-expression, relaxation, and healing. These therapies can complement traditional approaches and contribute to a comprehensive healing experience.

Your Journey to Healing Starts Here

At Clarity Clinic, we believe that healing from PTSD is not only possible but achievable. Our compassionate team of trauma experts is dedicated to walking alongside you every step of the way, providing you with the tools, support, and guidance you need to reclaim your life from the grip of trauma. We are here to remind you that you are not defined by your past, and a brighter future is within reach.

PTSD Providers

Jessica
Jessica Selk, LPC
Therapy
Rebecca
Rebecca Helm, LSW
Therapy
Peri
Peri Drury, Clinical Intern
Therapy
Ryan
Ryan Atkins, PA
Psychiatry
Kaitlyn
Kaitlyn Ehler, LSW
Therapy
Cesar
Cesar Feijoo, PA-C
PA-C
Hannah
Hannah Wychocki, PA-C
PA-C
Lauren
Lauren Isdale, NP
Nurse Practitioner
Gabriella
Gabriella Lerner, PA-C
PA-C
Cyrus
Cyrus Ma, PA-C
PA-C
Nicholas
Nicholas Zaris, MA
Therapy
Raul
Raul Andrade, MA
Therapist
Sarah
Sarah Tarabey, LCPC
Therapist
Kumail
Kumail Hussain, MD
Young Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist
Jaimee
Jaimee Jaucian, LCPC, BC-DMT
Therapy
Sloan
Sloan Kodroff, LCPC
Therapist, Clinical Supervisor
Rahael
Rahael Mathew, LCPC
Therapist
Megan
Megan Becker, PA-C
PA-C
Emma
Emma Arsic, PA-C
PA-C
Paul
Paul Bamberger, PA-C
PA-C
Tonie
Tonie White, LCSW
Therapy
Jason
Jason Brescia, LCPC
Therapy
Sankrant
Sankrant Reddy, MD
Psychiatrist
Virginia
Virginia Harren, LCPC
Clinical Supervisor
Stephanie
Stephanie Osborne, PA-C
Psychiatry
Ashley
Ashley Seredynski, PA-C
PA-C
Christine
Christine Lantin, PA-C
PA-C
Brittney
Brittney Segoviano, LCPC
Therapist
Callie
Callie Perlman, LPC, NCC
Therapist
Chad
Chad Gaynier, LCPC
Therapist
Victoria
Victoria Nieman, LCPC
Therapist
Sudhakar
Sudhakar Shenoy, MD
Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist
Tara
Tara Ufer, LCPC, CADC
Therapist
Sharon
Sharon Koys, PA-C
PA-C
Sara
Sara Fakhri, MA
Therapy
Sarah
Sarah Beerman, LCSW, CADC
Therapist
Sahar
Sahar Eftekhar, DO
General & Addiction Psychiatrist
Rebecca
Rebecca Gilfillan, MD
Psychiatrist
Rebecca
Rebecca Kuhn, PA-C
PA-C
Sonnie
Sonnie Cousins, MA
Therapy
Elana
Elana Horowitz, PA-C
PA-C
Pavan
Pavan Prasad, MD
Psychiatrist
Melissa
Melissa Melzer, LPC
Therapy
Mary
Mary Leighton, LPC
Therapy
Raymond
Raymond Myles, PsyD
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Lovea
Lovea Smith, LCPC
Director of Therapy– Loop
Mariyah
Mariyah Hussain, MD
Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist
Leslie
Leslie Wolf, LCPC
Therapist
Marc
Marc Sandrolini, MD
Psychiatry
Katerina
Katerina Fager, LCPC
Clinical Specialist
Kiran Binal
Kiran Binal Maharaja, MD
Psychiatrist
Karen
Karen Richardson, LCSW, ICDVP
Therapy
Lizzie
Lizzie Ausland, LCPC, CADC
Therapist
Katherine
Katherine Evans, LCPC
Therapist
Kalyan
Kalyan Rao, MD
Psychiatrist
Jonathan
Jonathan Kolakowski, MD
Psychiatrist
Judy
Judy Bitzer, LCPC
Therapist
James
James Histed, Clinical Intern
Therapy Clinical Intern
Keith
Keith Merrifield, LCSW, CCTP, ADHD-CCSP
Therapist
Jessica
Jessica Masbaum, LCSW
Therapist, Clinical Supervisor
Erika
Erika Bielenstein, LCPC
Therapist
Janel
Janel Wenger, AMFT
Therapist
Ivy
Ivy Poma, PA-C
PA-C
Jeanette
Jeanette Marinier, PA-C
PA-C
Jamie
Jamie Schubert, PA-C
PA-C
Sherita
Sherita Hernton, PA-C
PA-C
Emily
Emily Schaffer, PA-C
PA-C
Emily
Emily Maurer, LCPC
Therapist
Frank
Frank Sassetti, PsyD
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Emily
Emily Street, PA-C
PA-C
Emily
Emily Shelton, LCPC, LMHC, CADC, CAGCS, CRSS
Therapy
Thomas
Thomas Thurlow, NP
Psychiatry
Savannah
Savannah Sullivan, PA-C
PA-C
Kathryn
Kathryn Ross, PA-C
Psychiatry
Summer
Summer Slininger, PA-C
PA-C
Irena
Irena Markova, PMHNP
Psychiatry
Ravali
Ravali Poreddy, MD
Psychiatrist
Ariella
Ariella Panos, PA-C
PA-C
James
James Ham, PA-C
Psychiatry
Rayna
Rayna Gorstein, PA-C
PA-C
Victoria
Victoria Akhteebo, LPC
Therapy
Sierra
Sierra Purcell, PA-C
PA-C
Emily
Emily Hoag, MD
Psychiatrist
Ali
Ali Sheikha, PA-C
PA-C
Grace
Grace Starrs, PA-C
Psychiatry
Cassie
Cassie Donahue, PA-C
Psychiatry
Gayathri
Gayathri Ganesh, PA-C
PA-C
Samuel
Samuel Budyszewick, LCSW
Director of Therapy- Evanston
Sydney
Sydney Means, LCSW
Therapist, Clinical Supervisor
Samuel
Samuel Eckert, PA-C
PA-C
Chloe
Chloe Wesley, Clinical Intern
Therapy
Nayeli
Nayeli Cruz-Castillo, LCPC
Therapy
Rafael
Rafael Lopez, MD
Psychiatrist
Nicholas
Nicholas Little, PA-C
PA-C
Samantha
Samantha Espinosa, MA
Therapy
Kaitlin
Kaitlin Digrispino, LPC
Therapy
Madison
Madison Gunter,
Therapy Clinical Intern
Scott
Scott Shadrick, PA-C
PA-C
Khadija
Khadija Manzoor, LPC, CRC
Therapy
Mira
Mira Ebalo, PA-C
PA-C
Lauren
Lauren Stanley, LCSW
Therapy
Meredith
Meredith Henry, LSW
Therapy
Miriam
Miriam Mixon, LCSW
Therapist, Clinical Supervisor
Justin
Justin Lee, PA-C
PA-C
Jordan
Jordan Valentic-Holden, MA
Therapy
Jerri
Jerri Ganz, LCSW
Therapy
Heather
Heather Holmes, PA-C
PA-C
Sam
Sam Donham, LCPC
Therapy
Carol
Carol Briggs, LPC, NCC
Therapy
Emily
Emily Filip, PA-C
PA-C
Liz
Liz Hand, LCSW
Therapist, Clinical Supervisor
Jenna
Jenna Jacobson, PA-C
PA-C
Dane
Dane Davlantis, LCPC
Therapist, Clinical Supervisor
Caitlin
Caitlin Daughtry, PA-C
PA-C
Camryn
Camryn Schmidt, PA-C
PA-C
Dillon
Dillon Pfau, LSW
Therapy
Courtney
Courtney Daly, LPC, CADC
Therapy
Carolyn
Carolyn Klinkert, LCPC
Therapist, Clinical Supervisor
Alexandra
Alexandra Gregor, PA-C
PA-C
Allegria
Allegria Knouse, PA-C
PA-C
Bakhtawar
Bakhtawar Usman, PA-C
Psychiatry
Antonina
Antonina Lunetta, LCPC
Therapist, Clinical Supervisor
Alyssa
Alyssa Bobak, PA-C
PA-C
Aimee
Aimee Daramus, PsyD
Licensed Clinical Psychologist
Anita
Anita Weber, LSW
Therapy

Related Blog Posts

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June 28, 2023
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