There are several different types of treatment providers who can diagnose and treat PTSD, such as psychiatrists and psychologists. If you're starting treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder or want to try something new, you have options. Some mental health providers offer psychotherapy and others prescribe medications. There are also those who can do both for the treatment of PTSD.
Learn about the different trainings for mental health providers who treat PTSD. Before receiving treatment for PTSD, a detailed evaluation of your symptoms will be done to ensure that the treatment is tailored to your individual needs. VA is a leader in treating mental health problems, including PTSD, and employs several different types of mental health providers. While trauma can have a profound impact on a person, the support services and guidance of licensed therapists can help them in their healing process and, ultimately, improve their quality of life.
Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychological treatment that has been shown to reduce the symptoms of PTSD. As it currently stands, virtual reality is commonly used as exposure therapy, which is a treatment that exposes patients to a simulated situation that would normally trigger their PTSD. Licensed social workers also focus on diagnosis and treatment, and specialize in areas such as mental health, aging, family, and children. You'll likely be offered treatment if you've had symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder for more than 4 weeks or if your symptoms are severe.
If you're looking for a particular type of treatment (such as medications) or a specialized approach, it's important to have the license and specialized training of the mental health provider. Despite the multitude of events, triggers, and symptoms associated with PTSD, there are a few ways in which counseling can be an effective treatment method. People who experience any of these symptoms on a consistent basis should seek the help of a licensed therapist or mental health professional. PTSD may be successfully treated many years after the traumatic event or events occurred, meaning it's never too late to seek help.
For example, your therapist may ask you to deal with your traumatic memories by describing aspects of your experience in detail. There are more types of therapists, counselors, and mental health providers who are qualified to treat trauma-related problems. Left untreated, PTSD has the potential to affect every aspect of a person's life, including their mental, emotional, and physical health.
