Understanding PTSD and Complex PTSD

What is PTSD, and how is it diagnosed?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, such as an accident, assault, natural disaster, or combat. While PTSD can affect anyone, the symptoms often persist and interfere with daily life. Common symptoms of PTSD include:

• Intrusive memories, nightmares, or flashbacks of the traumatic event.

• Avoidance of reminders, such as places, people, or activities associated with the trauma.

• Emotional numbness or feeling disconnected from others.

• Hypervigilance, being easily startled, or experiencing difficulty relaxing.

• Intense feelings of guilt, shame, or self-blame.

• Difficulty sleeping, concentrating, or managing irritability.

Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) can arise after prolonged or repeated trauma, such as childhood abuse, domestic violence, or long-term captivity. In addition to PTSD symptoms, individuals with C-PTSD often experience:

• Persistent difficulties with relationships and trust.

• Chronic feelings of emptiness or hopelessness.

• Difficulty regulating emotions or frequent intense emotional reactions.

• A negative self-image, often tied to shame or guilt.

A psychiatrist carefully evaluates these symptoms and takes a comprehensive history to diagnose PTSD or C-PTSD. Screening tools and a thorough understanding of your unique experiences guide an effective treatment plan.

How do PTSD and C-PTSD affect daily life?

PTSD and C-PTSD can profoundly impact work, relationships, and overall well-being. Individuals often feel stuck in a cycle of reliving the trauma, avoiding triggers, or managing overwhelming emotions. Left untreated, these conditions can contribute to anxiety, depression, substance use, and physical health issues. However, with the right care, recovery is possible, and many patients regain a sense of control and safety in their lives.

What are the treatment options for PTSD and C-PTSD?

Effective treatment for PTSD and C-PTSD combines evidence-based therapies, medications, and holistic approaches to address the root of symptoms and promote healing.

Therapies:

• Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT): Helps patients process trauma and reframe unhelpful thoughts.

• Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): A specialized approach to reducing the emotional intensity of traumatic memories.

• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT): Builds skills for managing intense emotions and improving interpersonal relationships.

• Psychodynamic Therapy: Explores the emotional roots of trauma and fosters deeper self-awareness.

Medications:

• SSRIs and SNRIs: Medications like Zoloft, Paxil, and Effexor can reduce symptoms of PTSD.

• Prazosin: Often used to manage trauma-related nightmares.

• Mood Stabilizers or Atypical Antipsychotics: For individuals with severe symptoms or co-occurring conditions.

What if previous treatments haven’t worked?

Treatment-resistant PTSD and C-PTSD require a personalized and nuanced approach. If you haven’t found relief from previous treatments, I offer advanced strategies such as:

• Adjusting or combining medications for optimal results.

• Addressing co-occurring conditions like depression or anxiety, which often complicate recovery.

• Tailoring therapeutic modalities to your specific needs and trauma history.

Holistic and Non-Medication Approaches

In addition to therapy and medications, non-medication strategies can be instrumental in healing from trauma:

• Mindfulness Practices: Techniques like meditation or grounding exercises to reduce hypervigilance.

• Lifestyle Adjustments: Regular exercise, improved sleep habits, and nutrition to support emotional stability.

• Creative Therapies: Art, journaling, or movement-based therapies to process emotions in new ways.

Seeking Help for PTSD and C-PTSD

As a board-certified psychiatrist in Los Angeles, I specialize in treating PTSD and Complex PTSD, including treatment-resistant cases. My approach is compassionate and collaborative, combining advanced therapies, evidence-based medications, and holistic strategies to foster deep healing and lasting change.

Whether you are navigating the aftermath of a single traumatic event or seeking help for complex trauma, I am here to guide you. I see patients across California and beyond via secure telemedicine appointments, ensuring accessible, personalized care.

Contact my office today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward reclaiming your sense of safety, trust, and balance.