Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

When the past won’t stay in the past — we help you feel safe again.

What Is PTSD?

PTSD develops after exposure to a traumatic event — whether a single incident or prolonged experience — that overwhelms your ability to cope. It can follow events like assault, abuse, combat, accidents, natural disasters, or medical trauma.

PTSD is not a sign of weakness. It’s a natural reaction to overwhelming experiences, and it deserves expert, trauma-informed care.

Common Symptoms of PTSD

  • Flashbacks or intrusive memories
  • Nightmares or disturbed sleep
  • Hypervigilance or feeling constantly on edge
  • Avoidance of reminders (people, places, situations)
  • Emotional numbness or detachment
  • Difficulty trusting others or feeling safe
  • Anger, guilt, shame, or irritability
  • Trouble concentrating or feeling “present”

PTSD can affect how you think, feel, connect — and how you relate to your own body.

How PTSD Shows Up Differently

Veterans & First Responders

  • Combat-related trauma, moral injury
  • Survival guilt, loss of identity after service
  • Suppressed emotional expression due to “toughness” culture

Survivors of Abuse or Assault

  • Ongoing triggers in relationships, intimacy, or trust
  • Dissociation, body image concerns, or fear of being out of control
  • Complex PTSD from childhood trauma or repeated experiences

Medical & Birth Trauma

  • Anxiety triggered by hospitals, exams, or even reminders like beeping sounds
  • Postpartum PTSD from traumatic deliveries or NICU stays

Children & Adolescents

  • Behavioral regression, irritability, school avoidance
  • “Acting out” that’s actually a stress response
  • Misdiagnosis as ADHD or oppositional behavior

Our Trauma-Informed Treatment

We offer a safe, validating environment and a stepwise path to healing:

  • Comprehensive psychiatric assessment, including trauma screening
  • Personalized therapy using evidence-based models like:
    • Trauma-focused CBT
    • EMDR
    • Narrative therapy
    • Somatic and body-based approaches
  • Medication options to reduce reactivity, improve sleep, and stabilize mood
  • Collaboration with trusted support systems (family, medical providers, legal advocates if needed)

We move at your pace — whether you’re ready to process or just need help feeling steady.

FAQs – PTSD

  • How do I know if I have PTSD vs anxiety or depression?
    There’s often overlap. We help clarify what’s trauma-driven and create a treatment plan from there.
  • Is medication required?
    Not always. Many people improve with therapy alone, but medications can help reduce symptoms that interfere with progress.
  • Do I have to talk about my trauma in detail?
    No. Therapy can begin by focusing on safety, stabilization, and coping — you control the pace.
  • Can PTSD get better?
    Yes. With the right treatment, many people experience major relief and regain a sense of self.

✅ You Deserve to Feel Safe in Your Body and Your Life

📞 Call Us: (478) 745-9206
📍 3100 Ridge Ave, Macon, GA
🗓 Appointments within 1–2 weeks

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