Trauma & PTSD

Thoughtful, Structured Psychiatric Care for Trauma-Related Conditions

Trauma can affect how individuals think, feel, and respond to the world long after an event has passed. For some adults, trauma-related symptoms become persistent and disruptive, affecting mood, sleep, concentration, relationships, and overall functioning.

At Embrace Psychiatry, trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are treated through careful psychiatric evaluation, responsible medication management, and integrated therapeutic support when clinically appropriate. Care is provided via secure telehealth for adults located in Idaho, Utah, Oregon, and Washington.

Treatment Approach

Trauma-related treatment at Embrace Psychiatry emphasizes safety, stability, and gradual progress. Medication management may be used when clinically indicated to support symptom reduction, improve sleep, or reduce physiological reactivity.

Psychiatric appointments may also incorporate evidence-informed therapeutic support alongside medication management when appropriate. This may include , grounding strategies, and discussion of emotional and behavioral patterns related to trauma responses.

Treatment plans are individualized and adjusted over time based on response and ongoing reassessment rather than fixed timelines.

Telehealth mental health services for trauma and post-traumatic stress disorders

Understanding Trauma and PTSD

Trauma refers to the psychological and emotional response to distressing or overwhelming experiences. These experiences may include accidents, medical events, military service, interpersonal violence, loss, or prolonged exposure to stress.

PTSD is a trauma-related condition in which symptoms persist and interfere with daily life.

Trauma symptoms may vary widely and can include:

Intrusive memories or distressing thoughts
Heightened alertness or irritability
Avoidance of reminders associated with the event
Emotional numbness or detachment
Sleep disturbance or nightmares
Difficulty concentrating or regulating emotions

Not everyone who experiences trauma develops PTSD, and symptoms may emerge gradually or fluctuate over time. Because trauma responses can overlap with anxiety, depression, substance use, or mood disorders, careful evaluation is essential.

Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation

Treatment begins with a thorough psychiatric assessment focused on understanding both current symptoms and their broader context. Evaluation is not limited to a single event, but considers how trauma has affected emotional regulation, functioning, and mental health over time.

Assessment typically includes discussion of:

Symptom history and progression
Nature and timing of traumatic experiences
Sleep patterns and nervous system responses
Co-occurring mental health conditions
Prior treatment experiences
Medical history and medications

This structured approach helps guide appropriate treatment planning and ensures care is grounded in clinical understanding rather than assumptions.

LETS CHAT

Trauma-Specific Questions

Can trauma symptoms improve with psychiatric care?

Yes. Many individuals experience improvement in symptom intensity and daily functioning with appropriate psychiatric treatment and ongoing support.

Is medication always part of trauma treatment?

Not always. Medication may be recommended based on individual symptoms and needs, and decisions are made collaboratively following evaluation.

Can trauma be treated through telehealth?

For many adults, telehealth allows effective outpatient psychiatric care, particularly when symptoms are stable and follow-up is consistent.

How is trauma different from anxiety or depression?

Trauma-related conditions involve changes in how the nervous system responds to perceived threat or stress. While anxiety and depression may overlap with trauma, trauma symptoms are often tied to past experiences and can include heightened reactivity, avoidance, or emotional numbing.

Can trauma symptoms appear years after an event?

Yes. Trauma symptoms may emerge long after an event, particularly during periods of stress, loss, or change. It is not uncommon for individuals to seek care years after the original experience.