Choosing Effective PTSD Treatment: Options and Approaches

How To Choose An Effective PTSD Treatment

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) affects millions of Americans and can cause symptoms that adversely impact work, relationships, and daily life. PTSD can be complex and includes biological, psychological, and social components. The condition is often treated with talk therapy or medication. If you’re looking to decide which type of PTSD treatment is most effective for you, there are a few options to consider.

The effects of PTSD

The brain of a person with PTSD shows marked differences from a person without the condition. For example, brain imaging shows increased activity in the amygdala, the brain area controlling the fight or flight impulse that occurs when individuals are faced with danger. Brain imaging also shows changes in how the amygdala is integrated with the prefrontal cortex, the brain region responsible for rational thinking and judgment.

This altered brain structure partially explains the four symptom clusters that The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) describes as criteria for a PTSD diagnosis, including the following:

• Re-experiencing symptoms: Re-experiencing the traumatic event through nightmares, physical reactivity, distressing memories, and flashbacks
• Avoidance symptoms: Avoiding trauma-related stimuli, including external reminders, such as specific places, conversations, or objects, and internal reminders, such as thoughts and emotions
• Cognitive symptoms: Unwanted thoughts or feelings, such as blaming oneself. The person might also demonstrate negative attitudes about the world or others
• Arousal symptoms: Changes in arousal levels, such as feeling on edge, irritability, increased anger, difficulty concentrating, hypervigilance, or easy startle

Without treatment, some people’s symptoms may gradually lessen, while others may experience worsening symptoms or even physical medical problems, like hypertension.

Psychotherapeutic treatments for PTSD

Successful treatment for PTSD can depend on the individual. However, a few factors may influence the success of treatment.

According to the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the most effective first-line treatments for PTSD are cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Other therapies for PTSD may include prolonged exposure therapy and cognitive processing therapy (CPT).

In some instances, symptoms may be so severe they interfere with psychotherapy. Effective therapy often requires “talking through” or “remembering” traumatic memories, and this experience may be difficult or impossible for some people. In cases like these, medications might ease symptoms so an individual can focus on the treatment plan their therapist builds for them.

Important considerations regarding PTSD treatment at ReachLink

At ReachLink, our licensed clinical social workers are highly trained in providing therapeutic interventions for PTSD. However, it’s important to understand that our providers do not prescribe medications. If medication appears to be a beneficial component of your treatment, our therapists can collaborate with your existing medical providers or refer you to appropriate medical professionals who can evaluate medication options.

Consult your mental health and medical team before starting, changing, or stopping a medication. The information provided here is generalized and not specific to any individual. You should not take any action without consulting a qualified medical professional.

Questions to consider about PTSD treatment approaches

When discussing treatment options with your healthcare providers, consider the following questions:

• Do you have other mental health problems besides PTSD, like panic disorder or major depressive disorder, that might influence treatment approaches?
• What are your thoughts about combining therapy with medication if recommended by a medical professional?
• Have you tried therapy or medication before, and what was your experience?
• Do you have any health conditions that may impact treatment options?
• Which PTSD symptoms are bothering you the most?
• What is your goal for recovery?
• How does your schedule and lifestyle affect your ability to engage in regular therapy sessions?
• Do you prefer in-person or telehealth therapy options?

Thinking about these questions before talking to your therapist may help you articulate your concerns and preferences about the type of treatment approach that might be most helpful in your situation.

Therapeutic approaches for PTSD at ReachLink

At ReachLink, our licensed clinical social workers utilize several evidence-based therapeutic approaches for treating PTSD:

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT helps individuals identify and change negative thought patterns related to trauma. This approach focuses on the relationships between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, helping clients develop coping strategies to manage distressing symptoms. Through CBT, clients learn to recognize and challenge unhelpful thoughts and beliefs that maintain PTSD symptoms.

Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT)

This specialized form of CBT is specifically designed to address the needs of people who have experienced trauma. TF-CBT incorporates trauma-sensitive interventions with cognitive behavioral techniques to help process traumatic experiences and manage related emotional and behavioral difficulties.

Exposure Therapy

Exposure therapy involves gradually confronting trauma-related memories, feelings, and situations that are being avoided. Through controlled, therapeutic exposure, clients can process traumatic memories and reduce avoidance behaviors that maintain PTSD symptoms. Our therapists create safe environments where clients can work through trauma at their own pace.

Skills Training in Affective and Interpersonal Regulation (STAIR)

STAIR is a two-phase treatment that first focuses on developing emotional regulation and interpersonal skills, followed by narrative work addressing traumatic experiences. This approach is particularly helpful for individuals whose trauma has impacted their relationships and emotional regulation abilities.

The benefits of telehealth for PTSD treatment

ReachLink’s telehealth platform offers unique advantages for individuals seeking PTSD treatment:

Accessibility and comfort

Many individuals with PTSD experience anxiety about leaving their homes or being in unfamiliar environments. Telehealth allows you to engage in therapy from the comfort and safety of your own space, potentially reducing treatment barriers.

Consistency in treatment

Our flexible scheduling and elimination of travel requirements make it easier to maintain regular therapy sessions, which is crucial for effective PTSD treatment. Research shows that consistent engagement in therapy leads to better outcomes.

Privacy considerations

Some individuals may feel stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment. Telehealth provides a private way to access care without concerns about being seen entering a therapist’s office.

Research supports telehealth for PTSD

Research shows that telehealth therapy can be effective in treating PTSD. Studies have demonstrated comparable outcomes between video-based therapy and in-person treatment for trauma-related conditions. PTSD symptoms include anxiety that might be easier to manage when talking to a therapist through an online platform. In addition, telehealth therapy has the benefit of being accessible from home or any other location with internet connectivity, which can make a significant difference for people with PTSD who may struggle with leaving their homes or traveling to appointments.

Creating a comprehensive PTSD treatment plan

At ReachLink, we believe in personalized treatment planning that addresses each individual’s unique needs and circumstances. Your therapist will work collaboratively with you to develop a treatment plan that may include: therapy sessions, skill-building exercises, and coordination with medical providers if medication is part of your comprehensive care. The plan is flexible and can be adjusted as your progress and needs evolve, ensuring that you receive the most effective support possible throughout your recovery journey.

Choosing an effective PTSD treatment involves understanding your symptoms, preferences, and lifestyle considerations. At ReachLink, our trauma-informed approach and use of evidence-based therapies aim to empower you to regain control and improve your quality of life. Remember, healing from trauma is a process that takes time, patience, and professional guidance tailored to your unique experience.

If you or a loved one is struggling with PTSD, know that help is available. Taking the first step by reaching out to a qualified therapist can set you on the path toward lasting recovery and renewed hope. At ReachLink, we are committed to supporting you every step of the way.