Trauma and PTSD Psychiatrists in Waterbury, CT

Photo of Ayelet Stein, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Ayelet Stein
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
With over ten years of experience in healthcare and board certified as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I maintain a firm belief that life can be enjoyed despite trauma and mental illness.
I provide a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental approach with the goal of creating a holistic treatment plan that makes sense to you. It’s hard to let someone in when you are at your most vulnerable and I am sensitive to that. This may be your first time seeking psychiatric help or you may be looking for a new medication provider. I am here to create a treatment plan that works for you or provide support for an existing treatment plan that you are already comfortable with.
With over ten years of experience in healthcare and board certified as a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I maintain a firm belief that life can be enjoyed despite trauma and mental illness.
I provide a warm, supportive, and non-judgmental approach with the goal of creating a holistic treatment plan that makes sense to you. It’s hard to let someone in when you are at your most vulnerable and I am sensitive to that. This may be your first time seeking psychiatric help or you may be looking for a new medication provider. I am here to create a treatment plan that works for you or provide support for an existing treatment plan that you are already comfortable with.
(475) 244-9822 View (475) 244-9822
Photo of Dominique Sanders, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Dominique Sanders
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHNP
Online Only
Treatment focuses on anxiety, OCD, depression, PTSD, PMDD, and perinatal/postpartum mental health through psychiatric medication management.
I specialize in working with adults struggling with anxiety and panic attacks, whether it’s been long-term or due to recent traumatic events. Clients come to me looking for a provider who can offer warmth, compassion, and a safe place where they are seen and understood. Because this should be an experience where you feel seen, heard and cared for.
Treatment focuses on anxiety, OCD, depression, PTSD, PMDD, and perinatal/postpartum mental health through psychiatric medication management.
I specialize in working with adults struggling with anxiety and panic attacks, whether it’s been long-term or due to recent traumatic events. Clients come to me looking for a provider who can offer warmth, compassion, and a safe place where they are seen and understood. Because this should be an experience where you feel seen, heard and cared for.
(253) 544-4674 View (253) 544-4674
Photo of Deborah Daniel, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
Deborah Daniel
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-, BC
7 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you feeling overwhelmed by a high-stress job, past trauma, or struggles with anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, or substance use?
I utilize various treatment modalities, including but not limited to medication management and integrative psychiatric approaches. These approaches include meditation, mindfulness, pharmacy grade supplements, genetic testing, lifestyle coaching, psychotherapy, and BrainTap.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by a high-stress job, past trauma, or struggles with anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, OCD, or substance use?
I utilize various treatment modalities, including but not limited to medication management and integrative psychiatric approaches. These approaches include meditation, mindfulness, pharmacy grade supplements, genetic testing, lifestyle coaching, psychotherapy, and BrainTap.
(959) 214-2198 View (959) 214-2198
Photo of Julie C. Burns, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Julie C. Burns
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
1 Endorsed
Waterbury, CT 06708
I support people navigating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, trauma, PTSD, and substance use concerns.
I provide compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care tailored to your needs. My specialties include treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, trauma, PTSD, and substance use disorders. I offer medication management, including MAT, through both telehealth and in-person visits.
I support people navigating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, trauma, PTSD, and substance use concerns.
I provide compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care tailored to your needs. My specialties include treating anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, ADHD, OCD, trauma, PTSD, and substance use disorders. I offer medication management, including MAT, through both telehealth and in-person visits.
(475) 262-7799 View (475) 262-7799
Photo of Christta Sprott, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C
Christta Sprott
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, PMH-C
5 Endorsed
Waterbury, CT 06708
Waitlist for new clients
Supporting clients across CT and NY! I am the practice owner and lead psychiatric specialist at Destination Psychiatry. I’m a board-certified practitioner with over 15 years of experience, including 13 years focused on psychiatry. I offer thoughtful, individualized care to support your unique mental health journey and overall well-being. My approach centers on a warm, trusting environment that fosters comfort and openness. I also offer telehealth options for added convenience.
Supporting clients across CT and NY! I am the practice owner and lead psychiatric specialist at Destination Psychiatry. I’m a board-certified practitioner with over 15 years of experience, including 13 years focused on psychiatry. I offer thoughtful, individualized care to support your unique mental health journey and overall well-being. My approach centers on a warm, trusting environment that fosters comfort and openness. I also offer telehealth options for added convenience.
(475) 325-5847 View (475) 325-5847
Photo of Akinola Mobolaji, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Akinola Mobolaji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I am Akinola O. Mobolaji, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-BC, a dedicated Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and expert medication management. My professional journey is defined by perseverance and dedication. Coming from a humble background, I have worked tirelessly to achieve my goals, and that same dedication now fuels my commitment to my clients. As a proud graduate of New York University, I bring over a decade of experience serving tens of thousands of clients as a psychiatric clinician. I am deeply committed to the well-being of individuals facing mental health challenges.
I am Akinola O. Mobolaji, MSN, CRNP, PMHNP-BC, a dedicated Psychiatric and Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in comprehensive psychiatric evaluation and expert medication management. My professional journey is defined by perseverance and dedication. Coming from a humble background, I have worked tirelessly to achieve my goals, and that same dedication now fuels my commitment to my clients. As a proud graduate of New York University, I bring over a decade of experience serving tens of thousands of clients as a psychiatric clinician. I am deeply committed to the well-being of individuals facing mental health challenges.
(475) 255-7898 View (475) 255-7898
Photo of Rachel Chesny, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Rachel Chesny
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, FNP
Online Only
I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS), with experience in anxiety, depression, trauma, and emotional regulation.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with experience supporting adolescents and adults navigating anxiety, depression, mood concerns, and life stressors. I am dedicated to helping you feel more balanced, understood, and in control of your mental health. I offer compassionate, patient-centered care tailored to your unique needs. I believe healing begins with feeling heard, and I create a warm, supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can openly explore your thoughts, experiences, and goals while building clarity, confidence, and a path forward that feels right for you.
I am a licensed Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner, trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS), with experience in anxiety, depression, trauma, and emotional regulation.
I am a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with experience supporting adolescents and adults navigating anxiety, depression, mood concerns, and life stressors. I am dedicated to helping you feel more balanced, understood, and in control of your mental health. I offer compassionate, patient-centered care tailored to your unique needs. I believe healing begins with feeling heard, and I create a warm, supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can openly explore your thoughts, experiences, and goals while building clarity, confidence, and a path forward that feels right for you.
(203) 884-0746 View (203) 884-0746
Photo of Chengping Wang - WCT Health & Wellness, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
WCT Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Waterbury, CT 06705
Our specialities include, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, life transitions, life coaching, LGBTQIA+, adoption, depression, mood disorders, trauma/ PTSD, substance misuse , personality disorders, schizophrenia, anger management , family conflict , couples counseling , grief/ loss and stressors of every day life.
Welcome! We are a group practice of 60 licensed counselors and medication providers. We have a multi disciplinary team which is trained in several models to tailor each of our clients needs. Our biggest focus, is you, our client. We provide family, couples and individual counseling. Medication management for psychiatry and also offer Primary Care Services.
Our specialities include, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, life transitions, life coaching, LGBTQIA+, adoption, depression, mood disorders, trauma/ PTSD, substance misuse , personality disorders, schizophrenia, anger management , family conflict , couples counseling , grief/ loss and stressors of every day life.
Welcome! We are a group practice of 60 licensed counselors and medication providers. We have a multi disciplinary team which is trained in several models to tailor each of our clients needs. Our biggest focus, is you, our client. We provide family, couples and individual counseling. Medication management for psychiatry and also offer Primary Care Services.
(203) 916-4595 View (203) 916-4595
Photo of Anita Durnen, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Anita Durnen
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP-B, FNP-BC
Online Only
Same week appointments available for psychiatric evaluations, med management, and holistic treatment planning. Are you exhausted from trying to keep it together? Maybe your mind won’t slow down, sleep feels impossible, or you’re feeling stuck. You don’t have to go through this alone—I’m here to help you regain clarity and balance. Hi! I’m Anita. I specialize I anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar and mood disorders, women’s mental health concerns, and sleep difficulties. I’m dual board-certified in Psychiatry and Family Medicine, with over 9 years of experience supporting those through complex mental health challenges.
Same week appointments available for psychiatric evaluations, med management, and holistic treatment planning. Are you exhausted from trying to keep it together? Maybe your mind won’t slow down, sleep feels impossible, or you’re feeling stuck. You don’t have to go through this alone—I’m here to help you regain clarity and balance. Hi! I’m Anita. I specialize I anxiety, OCD, depression, bipolar and mood disorders, women’s mental health concerns, and sleep difficulties. I’m dual board-certified in Psychiatry and Family Medicine, with over 9 years of experience supporting those through complex mental health challenges.
(860) 512-9713 View (860) 512-9713
Photo of Dr. Bethany Harper, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Bethany Harper
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
I also draw on mindfulness and trauma informed techniques.
Expertise and clarity define Dr. Harper’s practice. An experienced board-certified psychiatrist, she integrates psychotherapy into every session, connecting neurobiology with emotional patterns to guide lasting change. Patients work with a clinician who values both evidence and meaning, blending medical precision with therapeutic depth.
I also draw on mindfulness and trauma informed techniques.
Expertise and clarity define Dr. Harper’s practice. An experienced board-certified psychiatrist, she integrates psychotherapy into every session, connecting neurobiology with emotional patterns to guide lasting change. Patients work with a clinician who values both evidence and meaning, blending medical precision with therapeutic depth.
(857) 244-0119 View (857) 244-0119
Photo of Gaele Angelicka Pompee, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Gaele Angelicka Pompee
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP, FNP
Waterbury, CT 06708
I am a board-certified PMHNP specializing in psychiatric evaluations and medication management for conditions like depression, anxiety , PTSD, bipolar , schizophrenia, schizoaffective different types, and addiction, etc
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the weight of anxiety, the cycles of bipolar disorder, or the exhaustion of managing a substance use disorder? You might be an adult or senior who feels like your mental health is a barrier to the life you want to lead. My ideal clients are those seeking medication management to have relief; they want a partner who understands the emotional and cultural nuances of their struggle. You want a safe, nonjudgmental space where you are respected and heard. You're looking for a provider who can bridge the gap between clinical expertise and deep empathy to help you feel empowered and steady once again.
I am a board-certified PMHNP specializing in psychiatric evaluations and medication management for conditions like depression, anxiety , PTSD, bipolar , schizophrenia, schizoaffective different types, and addiction, etc
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the weight of anxiety, the cycles of bipolar disorder, or the exhaustion of managing a substance use disorder? You might be an adult or senior who feels like your mental health is a barrier to the life you want to lead. My ideal clients are those seeking medication management to have relief; they want a partner who understands the emotional and cultural nuances of their struggle. You want a safe, nonjudgmental space where you are respected and heard. You're looking for a provider who can bridge the gap between clinical expertise and deep empathy to help you feel empowered and steady once again.
(475) 259-2848 View (475) 259-2848
Photo of Ivie Okunbor - CareVille Psychiatry PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, PMHNP
CareVille Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse, APRN, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Our practice addresses a comprehensive range of disorders, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, panic attacks, OCD, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorders.
Ivie Okunbor, the owner of CareVille Psychiatry, stands out by providing culturally sensitive, compassionate, person-centered, and evidence-based care. She fosters a safe, nonjudgmental environment where patients feel supported and empowered. She develops individualized treatment plans that cater to each patient's unique needs, incorporating psychotherapy and medication management to achieve optimal outcomes. She offers in-person and telehealth services through secure platforms, allowing patients to receive therapy and medication management from the comfort of their homes. This approach ensures convenience and continuity of care
Our practice addresses a comprehensive range of disorders, including depression, anxiety, ADHD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, panic attacks, OCD, schizophrenia, and schizoaffective disorders.
Ivie Okunbor, the owner of CareVille Psychiatry, stands out by providing culturally sensitive, compassionate, person-centered, and evidence-based care. She fosters a safe, nonjudgmental environment where patients feel supported and empowered. She develops individualized treatment plans that cater to each patient's unique needs, incorporating psychotherapy and medication management to achieve optimal outcomes. She offers in-person and telehealth services through secure platforms, allowing patients to receive therapy and medication management from the comfort of their homes. This approach ensures convenience and continuity of care
(475) 447-1443 View (475) 447-1443
Photo of Tessa Perry - TSG Mental Health Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
TSG Mental Health Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Online Only
I specialize in diagnosing and treating ADHD, ODD, Conduct Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, DMDD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, Suicide Prevention, and PTSD.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in caring for children, adolescents, and adults. With dual certifications as both a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner, I bring a unique and comprehensive approach to mental health care. My goal is to provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation followed by a personalized, dynamic plan that addresses both emotional and physical well-being.
I specialize in diagnosing and treating ADHD, ODD, Conduct Disorder, Anxiety, Depression, OCD, DMDD, Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, Suicide Prevention, and PTSD.
I am a dedicated Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner specializing in caring for children, adolescents, and adults. With dual certifications as both a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and a Family Nurse Practitioner, I bring a unique and comprehensive approach to mental health care. My goal is to provide a thorough psychiatric evaluation followed by a personalized, dynamic plan that addresses both emotional and physical well-being.
(860) 743-0369 View (860) 743-0369
Photo of Betsy LaRose - SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PCCN, FNP-C, APRN
SMPsychotherapy & Counseling Services
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PCCN, FNP-C, APRN
Serves Area
They work with patients with PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, insomnia, and ADHD.
Is anxiety or depression impacting or derailing your life? Do you have goals you want to accomplish but struggle just to get out of bed or stay focused? Mental health issues can keep you from living the life you want or feeling that sense of calmness and serenity you prefer. You want to stop letting mental illness control your life, but you aren’t sure where to start. Many people struggle with mental illness - don’t let it hold you back any longer. Finding the right mental healthcare professional is critical. The right help is available; we can get through this together.
They work with patients with PTSD, anxiety, depression, bipolar, insomnia, and ADHD.
Is anxiety or depression impacting or derailing your life? Do you have goals you want to accomplish but struggle just to get out of bed or stay focused? Mental health issues can keep you from living the life you want or feeling that sense of calmness and serenity you prefer. You want to stop letting mental illness control your life, but you aren’t sure where to start. Many people struggle with mental illness - don’t let it hold you back any longer. Finding the right mental healthcare professional is critical. The right help is available; we can get through this together.
(860) 609-6210 View (860) 609-6210
Photo of Gony Alexandra Weiss, Psychiatrist, MD
Gony Alexandra Weiss
Psychiatrist, MD
Serves Area
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, burn out, stress, poor motivation, difficulty focusing or general dissatisfaction with where you are in life?
My goal is to help you feel good, understand the source of your current struggles, help you clear blocks, and support you in creating the life you want. If we see that symptoms make functioning too difficult, we can discuss utilizing medications to relieve symptoms. Together, we can help you feel happy again creating a life you love.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, burn out, stress, poor motivation, difficulty focusing or general dissatisfaction with where you are in life?
My goal is to help you feel good, understand the source of your current struggles, help you clear blocks, and support you in creating the life you want. If we see that symptoms make functioning too difficult, we can discuss utilizing medications to relieve symptoms. Together, we can help you feel happy again creating a life you love.
(475) 242-8026 View (475) 242-8026
Photo of Ogechi Ebere, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
Ogechi Ebere
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNPBC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I offer talk therapy and medication management for Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia.
I work closely with my patients to promote healing and address life's challenges. Together, we create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. I rely on proven methods and, if necessary, use safe medications with minimal side effects to help you reach your goals
I offer talk therapy and medication management for Anxiety, Bipolar, Depression, OCD, PTSD, Schizophrenia.
I work closely with my patients to promote healing and address life's challenges. Together, we create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. I rely on proven methods and, if necessary, use safe medications with minimal side effects to help you reach your goals
(860) 775-6069 View (860) 775-6069
Photo of Joann Diaz, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Joann Diaz
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Joann is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science in Nursing from Regis College, Massachusetts. With over 35 years of nursing experience, she has cared for individuals across the lifespan, including those with intellectual, behavioral, and mental disabilities.
Joann is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner with a Master of Science in Nursing from Regis College, Massachusetts. With over 35 years of nursing experience, she has cared for individuals across the lifespan, including those with intellectual, behavioral, and mental disabilities.
(959) 210-1081 View (959) 210-1081
Photo of Merit Nwosu, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Merit Nwosu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you suffering from a mood disorder such as depression or anxiety, ADHD, substance use disorder, or OCD? Have you tried therapy before, but you just don’t seem to find someone you feel a connection with? Mental health challenges can keep you from living the life you want. You may feel lost, hopeless, or disempowered, but you don’t have to struggle alone. Connect with Merit today to learn important tools to nurture your mental health and make life more enjoyable and fulfilling. Merit offers a blend of individual therapy and medication management and is ready to help you reach the fulfilling life you deserve.
Are you suffering from a mood disorder such as depression or anxiety, ADHD, substance use disorder, or OCD? Have you tried therapy before, but you just don’t seem to find someone you feel a connection with? Mental health challenges can keep you from living the life you want. You may feel lost, hopeless, or disempowered, but you don’t have to struggle alone. Connect with Merit today to learn important tools to nurture your mental health and make life more enjoyable and fulfilling. Merit offers a blend of individual therapy and medication management and is ready to help you reach the fulfilling life you deserve.
(860) 791-1805 View (860) 791-1805
Photo of Bridgitte F Ackeifi - Mental Health and Psychiatry Services MHPS, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Mental Health and Psychiatry Services MHPS
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
Accepting NEW Patients Ages 3 to 65 and up with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorder, OCD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder/DMDD, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective, Opioid Use Disorders, Alcohol Use Disorders, and Substance Use Disorders, Buprenorphine/Suboxone Treatment.
Appointments go to www.mhpspsych.com, call or email. Bridgitte F. Ackeifi APRN, PMHNP-BC Mental Health and Psychiatry Services MHPS holistically work with patients and their families with mental health and substance use illnesses to create an individualized treatment plan using evidence-based research, and a patient-centered approach with the use of medication management, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and encourages psychotherapy as needed to promote function, increase potential, decrease symptoms/hospitalizations, empowering, and instilling more hope, positivity, support, and love, healing one patient, one day at a time.
Accepting NEW Patients Ages 3 to 65 and up with Depression, Anxiety, Bipolar disorder, ADHD, PTSD, Social Anxiety, Panic Disorder, OCD, Oppositional Defiant Disorder/DMDD, Insomnia/Sleep Issues, Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective, Opioid Use Disorders, Alcohol Use Disorders, and Substance Use Disorders, Buprenorphine/Suboxone Treatment.
Appointments go to www.mhpspsych.com, call or email. Bridgitte F. Ackeifi APRN, PMHNP-BC Mental Health and Psychiatry Services MHPS holistically work with patients and their families with mental health and substance use illnesses to create an individualized treatment plan using evidence-based research, and a patient-centered approach with the use of medication management, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and encourages psychotherapy as needed to promote function, increase potential, decrease symptoms/hospitalizations, empowering, and instilling more hope, positivity, support, and love, healing one patient, one day at a time.
(203) 935-8632 View (203) 935-8632
Photo of Lyndsie Ryalls, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Lyndsie Ryalls
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNPBC
Serves Area
I primarily work with adolescents and adults seeking medication evaluation and ongoing medication management for a range of issues including anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and comorbid mental health and substance abuse.
I believe medication is a tool to be used in addition to psychotherapy and always strive to use the least amount of medication as possible.
I primarily work with adolescents and adults seeking medication evaluation and ongoing medication management for a range of issues including anxiety disorders, OCD, depression, mood disorders, PTSD, ADHD, and comorbid mental health and substance abuse.
I believe medication is a tool to be used in addition to psychotherapy and always strive to use the least amount of medication as possible.
(203) 889-9155 View (203) 889-9155

See more therapy options for Waterbury

FAQ - Trauma and PTSD Psychiatrists
How can psychiatrists help with trauma and PTSD?
Trauma and conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are characterized by distressing symptoms like flashbacks, insomnia, intrusive memories, hopelessness, and irritability in the wake of a major event. Trauma can also result from a chronic series of events, resulting in a condition known as complex trauma. Not all individuals who experience a traumatic event seek psychiatric support or gain a diagnosis for a trauma-related disorder; indeed, many individuals with strong social supports and/or coping skills, which can contribute to resilience, can manage complex feelings after a traumatic event on their own. However, many individuals do benefit from seeing a psychiatrist for medication or other therapeutic support, particularly if they are experiencing acute symptoms or are particularly vulnerable to trauma due to other emotional conditions or challenges.

How do psychiatrists treat trauma and PTSD?
Psychiatrists can help individuals struggling with trauma by prescribing medication that helps to reduce the intensity of symptoms. Medications are often most effective, however, when used in conjunction with evidence-based therapy interventions, such as Exposure Therapy or Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT). These forms of treatment help individuals overcome trauma-related symptoms through guided exposure to trauma-related triggers in a controlled therapeutic environment. In some cases, psychiatrists will conduct these sessions with clients, or they may work with a client's therapist or counselor who offers these services. This team-based approach to care for trauma can be particularly useful, as can ongoing maintenance sessions with a psychiatrist even following an initial period of more intensive treatment, since many individuals with trauma or PTSD may experience relapses or the return of symptoms even after initial progress. In such cases, having a psychiatrist who can adjust the treatment plan or medication in accordance with a client's needs can be an important part of maintaining long-term recovery.

How can I find a psychiatrist who specializes in trauma and PTSD?
The Psychology Today online directory can be a helpful resource to search for psychiatrists (MDs) and psychiatric nurse practitioners (PMHNPs) who specialize in trauma, PTSD, and related conditions. In addition to searching for psychiatrists who specialize in these conditions, you may consider searching by psychiatrists who specialize in working with a particular population, such as veterans or children. When searching for a provider, ask about their specific experience treating symptoms of trauma and what their approach to therapy and medication is. It is also important to determine whether their office is accessible (either close-by or via telehealth) and if they accept your insurance.