Trauma and PTSD Psychiatrists in Virginia

Photo of Jaaska Cather, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Jaaska Cather
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfax, VA 22030
Hello, my name is Jaaska and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide trauma informed care, utilizing Evidence Based Practices and Psychiatric Clinical Guidelines, when providing medication management options to my patients. I believe in collaborating with my patients to make safe decisions that best support them. I have specialization in anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I also have a special interest in Women's mental health and am an ally for the LGBTQ+ community.
Hello, my name is Jaaska and I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. I provide trauma informed care, utilizing Evidence Based Practices and Psychiatric Clinical Guidelines, when providing medication management options to my patients. I believe in collaborating with my patients to make safe decisions that best support them. I have specialization in anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, and PTSD. I also have a special interest in Women's mental health and am an ally for the LGBTQ+ community.
(571) 366-8213 View (571) 366-8213
Photo of Ryan Ernest, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ryan Ernest
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Henrico, VA 23228
Children, teens and adults, who may be dealing with symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, or mood disorders. Whether you have been through the ringer with medication trials in the past, or this is your first attempt at medications, I will be here to guide you through the process.
Children, teens and adults, who may be dealing with symptoms of depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma, or mood disorders. Whether you have been through the ringer with medication trials in the past, or this is your first attempt at medications, I will be here to guide you through the process.
(804) 567-8837 View (804) 567-8837
Photo of Cheryl R Zupancic, MA, MSN, APRN, CRNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cheryl R Zupancic
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MA, MSN, APRN, CRNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Danville, VA 24540  (Online Only)
From Level 1 trauma hospitals to community behavioral centers, Cheryl has seen it all.
Cheryl Zupancic is a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, licensed to practice in both Virginia and Maryland. With nearly two decades of specialized healthcare experience, she brings unique and enriching skills to her mental health clinical practice, facilitating her ability to serve her clients with compassionate, and effective care. Propelled by her commitment to assist clients on their unique journeys to mental health recovery and wellness, Cheryl is excited to serve a diverse client base at Epic Health Partners LLC and to meet them where they are.
From Level 1 trauma hospitals to community behavioral centers, Cheryl has seen it all.
Cheryl Zupancic is a board-certified psychiatric and mental health nurse practitioner, licensed to practice in both Virginia and Maryland. With nearly two decades of specialized healthcare experience, she brings unique and enriching skills to her mental health clinical practice, facilitating her ability to serve her clients with compassionate, and effective care. Propelled by her commitment to assist clients on their unique journeys to mental health recovery and wellness, Cheryl is excited to serve a diverse client base at Epic Health Partners LLC and to meet them where they are.
(434) 278-7963 View (434) 278-7963
Photo of undefined - Nourish Health & Wellness, Psychiatry, RD, NP, IFMCP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nourish Health & Wellness, Psychiatry
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, RD, NP, IFMCP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23230
My treatment approach is simple-- help you get to the underlying cause of your mental health symptoms and offer you effective solutions to help manage them. I believe that medications are only one tool among many that can help improve symptoms of mental health-- in my conversations with patients I put equal emphasis on the importance of good nutrition, optimal gut health, stress management, individual talk therapy, regular exercise, and excellent sleep hygiene. I am now pleased to also be offering ketamine-assisted therapy for individuals with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, OCD, and PTSD.
My treatment approach is simple-- help you get to the underlying cause of your mental health symptoms and offer you effective solutions to help manage them. I believe that medications are only one tool among many that can help improve symptoms of mental health-- in my conversations with patients I put equal emphasis on the importance of good nutrition, optimal gut health, stress management, individual talk therapy, regular exercise, and excellent sleep hygiene. I am now pleased to also be offering ketamine-assisted therapy for individuals with treatment-resistant depression, anxiety, OCD, and PTSD.
(804) 463-5572 View (804) 463-5572
Photo of Ryan R. Gorman, MSN, RN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ryan R. Gorman
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, RN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314  (Online Only)
I am an experienced mental health clinician with expertise treating depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I prescribe discerningly for adult clients who would benefit from a medication's role in their healing process. Additionally, I offer insight-oriented, strength-based psychotherapies which support the brain's natural ability to recover from trauma and attachment wounds. Whether you are accessing mental health treatment for the first time or wish to pursue your healing on a deeper level, I look forward to working together.
I am an experienced mental health clinician with expertise treating depression, anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). I prescribe discerningly for adult clients who would benefit from a medication's role in their healing process. Additionally, I offer insight-oriented, strength-based psychotherapies which support the brain's natural ability to recover from trauma and attachment wounds. Whether you are accessing mental health treatment for the first time or wish to pursue your healing on a deeper level, I look forward to working together.
(571) 200-2567 View (571) 200-2567
Photo of Leanne Hyler, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Leanne Hyler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225  (Online Only)
Regardless of the issue, anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, or PTSD, the WHOLE person has to be treated.
Hi! I'm Leanne and I am passionate about helping people manage mental health issues with medications, diet, exercise, and self-care. I can help you overcome and better manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Seeking help can be scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve to be the best version of yourself that you can be.
Regardless of the issue, anxiety, depression, bipolar, schizophrenia, or PTSD, the WHOLE person has to be treated.
Hi! I'm Leanne and I am passionate about helping people manage mental health issues with medications, diet, exercise, and self-care. I can help you overcome and better manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Seeking help can be scary but you're making the right choice. You deserve to be the best version of yourself that you can be.
(804) 376-8795 View (804) 376-8795
Photo of Cynthia Awadzi, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Cynthia Awadzi
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
My expertise spans a broad range of psychiatric challenges, encompassing conditions like depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, mood disorders, psychosis, ADHD, addiction disorders, and beyond.
I'm a psychiatric and family nurse practitioner with a doctoral degree, my professional journey spans comprehensive experiences in inpatient, community, and outpatient settings, affording me a deep understanding of diverse patient needs. Supportive therapy is included in all sessions, ensuring a holistic approach to care that addresses emotional well-being alongside other therapeutic modalities. Supportive therapy dives into fostering a safe environment for open dialogue, validating emotions, and providing guidance and coping strategies tailored to individual needs.
My expertise spans a broad range of psychiatric challenges, encompassing conditions like depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, mood disorders, psychosis, ADHD, addiction disorders, and beyond.
I'm a psychiatric and family nurse practitioner with a doctoral degree, my professional journey spans comprehensive experiences in inpatient, community, and outpatient settings, affording me a deep understanding of diverse patient needs. Supportive therapy is included in all sessions, ensuring a holistic approach to care that addresses emotional well-being alongside other therapeutic modalities. Supportive therapy dives into fostering a safe environment for open dialogue, validating emotions, and providing guidance and coping strategies tailored to individual needs.
(757) 996-5414 View (757) 996-5414
Photo of Seeta Patel, MD, Psychiatrist
Seeta Patel
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
McLean, VA 22101  (Online Only)
Dr. Seeta Patel is a Harvard-trained, board-certified adult psychiatrist. She provides evidence-based medication management for adults (18 years and older). She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma related concerns. She works with clients from a variety of cultural backgrounds and have seen how trauma can cause lifelong suffering. We often do not reach out until aspects of our life have already been affected in a negative way - for instance, when our relationships have fallen apart, or when we have lost a job. Reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness, but rather it is a sign of strength.
Dr. Seeta Patel is a Harvard-trained, board-certified adult psychiatrist. She provides evidence-based medication management for adults (18 years and older). She specializes in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma related concerns. She works with clients from a variety of cultural backgrounds and have seen how trauma can cause lifelong suffering. We often do not reach out until aspects of our life have already been affected in a negative way - for instance, when our relationships have fallen apart, or when we have lost a job. Reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness, but rather it is a sign of strength.
(571) 474-3261 View (571) 474-3261
Photo of Natalia ' Natasha ' Brigham, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Natalia ' Natasha ' Brigham
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22031
Waitlist for new clients
While I enjoy working with adults with a variety of diagnoses, I am particularly passionate about helping clients with emotional trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, insomnia, and dual diagnoses.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 10 years of clinical experience in outpatient and inpatient settings. My approach to treatment is strength-based and tailored to each client's preferences and individual needs. Together, we will develop a holistic and safe treatment plan acceptable to you – if it doesn’t work for you, it doesn’t work for me :).
While I enjoy working with adults with a variety of diagnoses, I am particularly passionate about helping clients with emotional trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, insomnia, and dual diagnoses.
I am a board-certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner with more than 10 years of clinical experience in outpatient and inpatient settings. My approach to treatment is strength-based and tailored to each client's preferences and individual needs. Together, we will develop a holistic and safe treatment plan acceptable to you – if it doesn’t work for you, it doesn’t work for me :).
(703) 988-1971 View (703) 988-1971
Photo of undefined - NeuroPsych Wellness Center, PMHNP, PhD, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
NeuroPsych Wellness Center
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, PhD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
My clinical expertise is in treating trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorders.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who believes in patient-centered and patient-driven care. I am here to listen without judgment and provide respectful care that you can easily access and feel comfortable with. I work with adults aged 16 and above, including active-duty military, veterans, and family members of those who have served.
My clinical expertise is in treating trauma, depression, anxiety, ADHD, and bipolar disorders.
I am a psychiatric nurse practitioner who believes in patient-centered and patient-driven care. I am here to listen without judgment and provide respectful care that you can easily access and feel comfortable with. I work with adults aged 16 and above, including active-duty military, veterans, and family members of those who have served.
(571) 568-7609 View (571) 568-7609
Photo of Deborah Schiavone, PhD, PMHCNS-, RN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Deborah Schiavone
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PhD, PMHCNS-, RN
Verified Verified
Annandale, VA 22003
I work collaboratively with individuals across the life span to address and treat emotional distress, like anxiety or depression, and trauma-related symptoms that interfere with a desired quality of life.
Since 1990, I have offered services as an advanced practice psychiatric nurse. Before obtaining my advanced degree, I practiced as a registered nurse caring for individuals with varying illnesses. My experience has taught me about the complex relationships between the brain and the body, recognizing that emotional and physical responses are intricately connected. Participation in psychotherapy can begin the process of healing and self-discovery.
I work collaboratively with individuals across the life span to address and treat emotional distress, like anxiety or depression, and trauma-related symptoms that interfere with a desired quality of life.
Since 1990, I have offered services as an advanced practice psychiatric nurse. Before obtaining my advanced degree, I practiced as a registered nurse caring for individuals with varying illnesses. My experience has taught me about the complex relationships between the brain and the body, recognizing that emotional and physical responses are intricately connected. Participation in psychotherapy can begin the process of healing and self-discovery.
(571) 601-4843 View (571) 601-4843
Photo of Maria Flick, FNP-C, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Maria Flick
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, FNP-C, PMHNP-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192
My career path includes working as a combat Air Force Air Evacuation Medic, civilian Trauma Nurse, Primary Care Manager for 1,000 military members and dependents, Oncology Nurse Practitioner, and more recently a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in an outpatient setting.
I offer a personalized approach in my practice, considering factors that influence one’s sense of well-being. I am a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in Family Practice and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My areas of expertise include the treatment of depression, anxiety, mood lability, trauma, and interpersonal issues. I take a warm and accepting approach to strengthen and stabilize individuals through developing healthy coping, improving communication, and improving self-esteem.
My career path includes working as a combat Air Force Air Evacuation Medic, civilian Trauma Nurse, Primary Care Manager for 1,000 military members and dependents, Oncology Nurse Practitioner, and more recently a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in an outpatient setting.
I offer a personalized approach in my practice, considering factors that influence one’s sense of well-being. I am a Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner in Family Practice and Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. My areas of expertise include the treatment of depression, anxiety, mood lability, trauma, and interpersonal issues. I take a warm and accepting approach to strengthen and stabilize individuals through developing healthy coping, improving communication, and improving self-esteem.
(571) 343-4279 View (571) 343-4279
Photo of Brianna Rodriguez, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Brianna Rodriguez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23223  (Online Only)
Brianna is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, panic disorders, grief, trauma, and life transitions. She focuses her practice on providing quality and evidenced-based care to her clients while using a compassionate approach. In her multifaceted role as a PMHNP, she acts as an educator, and mental health advocate, providing medication management and therapy services. Brianna completed her Master's in Nursing at Walden University with a specialty in Psychiatric and Mental Health.
Brianna is a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who manages and treats a wide range of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, panic disorders, grief, trauma, and life transitions. She focuses her practice on providing quality and evidenced-based care to her clients while using a compassionate approach. In her multifaceted role as a PMHNP, she acts as an educator, and mental health advocate, providing medication management and therapy services. Brianna completed her Master's in Nursing at Walden University with a specialty in Psychiatric and Mental Health.
(339) 244-7023 View (339) 244-7023
Photo of Ifeyinwa Utah, MD, Psychiatrist
Ifeyinwa Utah
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Glen Allen, VA 23060  (Online Only)
My professional interests include treating mood disorders, Bipolar disorder, Depression, anxiety disorders, women’s mental health and I have extensive experience in treating trauma related disorders such as PTSD.
Self-pay/No insurance: Self-Schedule at website at http://www.liftmentalhealth I have the unique ability of connecting and forming strong therapeutic alliance with my patients. My warm demeanor, empathy and professionalism makes me easy to work with. I focus on holistic, Integrative and individualized approaches to mental health. I believe in promoting patients' strengths, reframing cognitive distortions and using limited medications. I prescribe medications after ample consideration of the potential benefits, risks and alternatives
My professional interests include treating mood disorders, Bipolar disorder, Depression, anxiety disorders, women’s mental health and I have extensive experience in treating trauma related disorders such as PTSD.
Self-pay/No insurance: Self-Schedule at website at http://www.liftmentalhealth I have the unique ability of connecting and forming strong therapeutic alliance with my patients. My warm demeanor, empathy and professionalism makes me easy to work with. I focus on holistic, Integrative and individualized approaches to mental health. I believe in promoting patients' strengths, reframing cognitive distortions and using limited medications. I prescribe medications after ample consideration of the potential benefits, risks and alternatives
(804) 409-2692 View (804) 409-2692
Photo of undefined - Better Mental Health & Wellness, DNP, MEd, APRN, PMHNP, CNE, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Better Mental Health & Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, MEd, APRN, PMHNP, CNE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Welcome to Better Mental Health & Wellness, an integrated mental health practice owned and operated by Dr. Lee Moore, PMHNP-BC. We offer psychiatric services to Virginia residents via telehealth or in-person meetings. While we have focused experience working alongside LGBTQ+-identifying individuals, individuals with trauma histories, and individuals managing substance use concerns, we welcome ALL individuals seeking support and direction. Dr. Moore has experience working within a wide range of settings and with individuals across every spectrum, offering a unique perspective on care.
Welcome to Better Mental Health & Wellness, an integrated mental health practice owned and operated by Dr. Lee Moore, PMHNP-BC. We offer psychiatric services to Virginia residents via telehealth or in-person meetings. While we have focused experience working alongside LGBTQ+-identifying individuals, individuals with trauma histories, and individuals managing substance use concerns, we welcome ALL individuals seeking support and direction. Dr. Moore has experience working within a wide range of settings and with individuals across every spectrum, offering a unique perspective on care.
(804) 294-4811 View (804) 294-4811
Photo of Sanskruti Upasani, MD, Psychiatrist
Sanskruti Upasani
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
In addition to medication management, I utilize supportive therapy and cognitive-behavioral principles in practice and have significant experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and bipolar disorder.
I am an adult psychiatrist with over 20 years of psychiatry and behavioral health experience in the United States and India. I earned my medical degree and post-graduate diploma in psychiatric medicine from B.J. Medical College in Pune, India. I later completed my residency training in Adult Psychiatry and was Chief Resident for Psychiatry at the Albany Medical Center in New York. I have served as an Adult Psychiatrist at the Outpatient Clinic of the Fairfax Behavioral Clinic of Fort Belvoir Community Hospital for over four years.
In addition to medication management, I utilize supportive therapy and cognitive-behavioral principles in practice and have significant experience in the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD, and bipolar disorder.
I am an adult psychiatrist with over 20 years of psychiatry and behavioral health experience in the United States and India. I earned my medical degree and post-graduate diploma in psychiatric medicine from B.J. Medical College in Pune, India. I later completed my residency training in Adult Psychiatry and was Chief Resident for Psychiatry at the Albany Medical Center in New York. I have served as an Adult Psychiatrist at the Outpatient Clinic of the Fairfax Behavioral Clinic of Fort Belvoir Community Hospital for over four years.
(703) 854-9897 x405 View (703) 854-9897 x405
Photo of Ai Garner, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Ai Garner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richmond, VA 23225
My mission is to not only help adolescents and young adults overcome depression, anxiety, trauma, and stress, but to set them on a path to live their best life through transformative thinking, belief building, and effective action. It is incredibly rewarding to see young people get better and learn powerful skills to set them up for success as they prepare for the next chapter of their lives. No need to sit in a waiting room or wait weeks to be seen. Clients receive compassionate and timely treatment in the comfort and convenience of their home.
My mission is to not only help adolescents and young adults overcome depression, anxiety, trauma, and stress, but to set them on a path to live their best life through transformative thinking, belief building, and effective action. It is incredibly rewarding to see young people get better and learn powerful skills to set them up for success as they prepare for the next chapter of their lives. No need to sit in a waiting room or wait weeks to be seen. Clients receive compassionate and timely treatment in the comfort and convenience of their home.
(804) 294-4293 View (804) 294-4293
Photo of Oluwaseyi Soetan, NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Oluwaseyi Soetan
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, NP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23222
I love working with adolescents, young adults, and geriatrics with schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, bipolar and other mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, substance use disorders, Alzheimer's disease, and other cognitive disorders.
Oluwaseyi is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner committed to providing holistic, compassionate, and personalized care. He is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). He has over 20 years of clinical experience in the behavioral health specialty, treating patients across the lifespan, especially adolescents, young adults, and geriatrics. My therapeutic approach to providing mental healthcare is centered around a flexible, integrative framework that draws from multiple theoretical orientations to best meet the unique needs of each individual.
I love working with adolescents, young adults, and geriatrics with schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, bipolar and other mood disorders, anxiety, PTSD, substance use disorders, Alzheimer's disease, and other cognitive disorders.
Oluwaseyi is a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner committed to providing holistic, compassionate, and personalized care. He is a board-certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner through the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC). He has over 20 years of clinical experience in the behavioral health specialty, treating patients across the lifespan, especially adolescents, young adults, and geriatrics. My therapeutic approach to providing mental healthcare is centered around a flexible, integrative framework that draws from multiple theoretical orientations to best meet the unique needs of each individual.
(804) 494-4266 View (804) 494-4266
Photo of Victor Nwagwu, DNP, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Victor Nwagwu
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
He utilizes evidence-based approaches to deliver patient-centered and trauma-informed types of care, which are tailored to suit the patient’s needs, goals, and vision.
Victor is a doctorate prepared psychiatric and mental health provider who concentrates on children and adult with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Developmental problems, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Substance use disorders (Addiction Health), Bipolar disorder, Dementia, and other behavioral health issues. He has over 15 years experience in general and mental health care practice which spans across Canada and the US. He graduated from the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program at the University of South Alabama. He was inducted into the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society, Zeta Gamma Chapter.
He utilizes evidence-based approaches to deliver patient-centered and trauma-informed types of care, which are tailored to suit the patient’s needs, goals, and vision.
Victor is a doctorate prepared psychiatric and mental health provider who concentrates on children and adult with ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Developmental problems, PTSD, Schizophrenia, Substance use disorders (Addiction Health), Bipolar disorder, Dementia, and other behavioral health issues. He has over 15 years experience in general and mental health care practice which spans across Canada and the US. He graduated from the Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) program at the University of South Alabama. He was inducted into the Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society, Zeta Gamma Chapter.
(804) 587-8582 View (804) 587-8582
Photo of Nathacha Cerome, APRN, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Nathacha Cerome
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23228
Hello everyone! Thank you for considering me as your mental health partner. I'm Nathacha Cerome, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 10 years of clinical nursing in diverse medical settings, both inpatient and outpatient. My passion lies in providing comprehensive and compassionate care to adult patients facing various mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, and bipolar disorders.
Hello everyone! Thank you for considering me as your mental health partner. I'm Nathacha Cerome, a Board-Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) with over 10 years of clinical nursing in diverse medical settings, both inpatient and outpatient. My passion lies in providing comprehensive and compassionate care to adult patients facing various mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, PTSD, insomnia, and bipolar disorders.
(804) 886-2026 View (804) 886-2026
Trauma and PTSD Psychiatrists

When should I seek treatment for trauma?

Not everyone who undergoes trauma needs therapy to heal, but many do. If, after experiencing a traumatic event, you find yourself struggling with symptoms such as nightmares, dissociation, irritability, or emotional numbness—especially if these symptoms last more than a month and are severe enough to interfere with your daily functioning—you may benefit from seeking out therapy with a trauma-informed provider.

How long does trauma therapy take?

Different types of therapy for trauma unfold on different timelines. Prolonged exposure therapy and cognitive processing therapy, for example, each take about three months, while trauma-informed CBT may last anywhere from 8 to 25 sessions. Other approaches, especially those that are less structured or that incorporate elements from multiple modalities, may be more open-ended, though many patients report feeling better within the first few months of treatment.

What happens if trauma is left untreated?

Unaddressed trauma can have serious—even devastating—effects on relationships, career, and day-to-day functioning. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can lead people to distrust or lash out at others, making it difficult to maintain intimate relationships; it can also trigger symptoms such as flashbacks or hyperreactivity that can interfere with a person’s ability to function effectively, personally and/or professionally. Some sufferers turn to drugs to find relief. Symptoms may lessen on their own with time, but there is no guarantee that PTSD will resolve on its own.

Can PTSD come back after treatment?

It is possible for PTSD symptoms to recur months or years after successful treatment. This is because, like most mental health disorders, it is not possible to “cure” PTSD, and stressful life events may cause symptoms to recur in even the most resilient individuals. There is no shame in re-experiencing PTSD symptoms nor in returning to therapy when such relapses occur; indeed, many forms of trauma therapy explicitly encourage periodic “maintenance sessions” to reinforce coping skills and ensure that symptoms stay manageable.