Trauma and PTSD Psychiatrists in Gig Harbor, WA

Photo of Angela Barnett, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Angela Barnett
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
2 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Weekend and evening appointments available! I am a Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who specializes in treating adults only. I love and strive to take the stigma out of mental health and help my patients make sense of their lives by embracing their unique journey. I am comfortable and proficient in treating a variety of mental health challenges and I am LGBTQIA friendly!
Weekend and evening appointments available! I am a Board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP-BC) who specializes in treating adults only. I love and strive to take the stigma out of mental health and help my patients make sense of their lives by embracing their unique journey. I am comfortable and proficient in treating a variety of mental health challenges and I am LGBTQIA friendly!
(206) 309-3846 View (206) 309-3846
Photo of Kelly Lawson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Kelly Lawson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I provide care for a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, trauma-related disorders, and substance use concerns.
With advanced training as a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and over two decades of experience as an RN, I bring a compassionate, holistic approach to mental health care. My practice focuses on the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—using an empathic and non-judgmental style that fosters trust and collaboration. I combine evidence-based, complementary, and integrative approaches to support healing and growth. Treatment plans may include lifestyle and behavioral changes, psychotherapy, and medication management when appropriate and safe.
I provide care for a wide range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorders, trauma-related disorders, and substance use concerns.
With advanced training as a Board-Certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner and over two decades of experience as an RN, I bring a compassionate, holistic approach to mental health care. My practice focuses on the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—using an empathic and non-judgmental style that fosters trust and collaboration. I combine evidence-based, complementary, and integrative approaches to support healing and growth. Treatment plans may include lifestyle and behavioral changes, psychotherapy, and medication management when appropriate and safe.
(253) 289-7408 View (253) 289-7408
Photo of Jennifer Irwin, Psychiatrist, MD
Jennifer Irwin
Psychiatrist, MD
1 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Dr. Irwin is a general psychiatrist interested in an integrative care approach to healing, incorporating medication, psychotherapy and exercise. After graduating Hartwick College, in upstate New York, summa cum laude with departmental honors in Biology, Dr. Irwin attended Michigan State Medical School. She went on to complete four years of residency training in Psychiatry at the Henry Ford Health System in Detroit and moved to Washington in 1999. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, hiking, skiing, and practicing yoga and meditation.
Dr. Irwin is a general psychiatrist interested in an integrative care approach to healing, incorporating medication, psychotherapy and exercise. After graduating Hartwick College, in upstate New York, summa cum laude with departmental honors in Biology, Dr. Irwin attended Michigan State Medical School. She went on to complete four years of residency training in Psychiatry at the Henry Ford Health System in Detroit and moved to Washington in 1999. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, hiking, skiing, and practicing yoga and meditation.
(253) 338-5169 View (253) 338-5169
Photo of Dr. Valerica Ene-Stroescu, Psychiatrist, MD
Dr. Valerica Ene-Stroescu
Psychiatrist, MD
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I help adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and substance abuse to improve their mood, sleep, focus, and motivation to embark on a healing journey of self-discovery.
During my 22+ years of practicing psychiatry, I have seen how integrative the bio-psycho-social and spiritual approach is to diagnose and treat psychiatric conditions. Addressing the complexities of genetic predispositions, childhood experiences, social relations and spiritual aspects is at the core of this model and defines how I practice psychiatry. I have worked almost 20 years in a state psychiatric hospital helping those with the most severe and devastating psychiatric illnesses. I have expanded the focus of my work to include those in an outpatient setting using the newest treatment modalities.
I help adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, and substance abuse to improve their mood, sleep, focus, and motivation to embark on a healing journey of self-discovery.
During my 22+ years of practicing psychiatry, I have seen how integrative the bio-psycho-social and spiritual approach is to diagnose and treat psychiatric conditions. Addressing the complexities of genetic predispositions, childhood experiences, social relations and spiritual aspects is at the core of this model and defines how I practice psychiatry. I have worked almost 20 years in a state psychiatric hospital helping those with the most severe and devastating psychiatric illnesses. I have expanded the focus of my work to include those in an outpatient setting using the newest treatment modalities.
(253) 525-5216 View (253) 525-5216
Photo of Dr. Naomi Bradfute - Circle Psychiatry PLLC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ND , PMHNP, PMH-C
Circle Psychiatry PLLC
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ND , PMHNP, PMH-C
3 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
At Circle Psychiatry, you’ll feel seen, heard, and supported. Your own efforts and self knowledge will be valued and used as a starting point. I approach mental health with a focus on health promotion, using sleep, nutrition, intentional movement, conscious socialization and more. I bring 30 years of experience as an RN with a focus on women's health. You are the expert on your life. My role is to work with you, building together a plan that restores peace, renews hope, and supports your overall health.
At Circle Psychiatry, you’ll feel seen, heard, and supported. Your own efforts and self knowledge will be valued and used as a starting point. I approach mental health with a focus on health promotion, using sleep, nutrition, intentional movement, conscious socialization and more. I bring 30 years of experience as an RN with a focus on women's health. You are the expert on your life. My role is to work with you, building together a plan that restores peace, renews hope, and supports your overall health.
(360) 295-2768 View (360) 295-2768
Photo of Kate Donahue, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Kate Donahue
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Kate is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and a licensed Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner (ARNP). She earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Xavier University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Frontier Nursing University. Kate believes in individualized and evidenced based care. She provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management services for both children and adults and treats a wide spectrum of psychiatric diagnoses. Her main areas of focus include depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
Kate is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and a licensed Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner (ARNP). She earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Xavier University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Frontier Nursing University. Kate believes in individualized and evidenced based care. She provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management services for both children and adults and treats a wide spectrum of psychiatric diagnoses. Her main areas of focus include depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
(253) 400-3215 View (253) 400-3215
Photo of Henry Suarez - Helping Anxiety, ADHD, Depression Henry Suarez, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Helping Anxiety, ADHD, Depression Henry Suarez
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Hi, I’m Henry. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by your thoughts, struggling to focus, or feeling misunderstood in how your mind works, it can be exhausting trying to push through every day. Many people I work with have lived for years with anxiety, ADHD, autism, or depression, quietly holding it together while feeling burnt out, discouraged, or unsure why things feel harder for them than for others.
Hi, I’m Henry. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by your thoughts, struggling to focus, or feeling misunderstood in how your mind works, it can be exhausting trying to push through every day. Many people I work with have lived for years with anxiety, ADHD, autism, or depression, quietly holding it together while feeling burnt out, discouraged, or unsure why things feel harder for them than for others.
(253) 802-8423 View (253) 802-8423
Photo of Michael Arenson, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Michael Arenson
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
My name is Michael Arenson (he/they), and I am a Psychiatric Nurse practitioner. I provide mental health care across the lifespan, with particular interest in anxiety and mood disorders, psychotic disorders, Autism spectrum, ADHD, and OCD. I know from experience that walking into a mental health office can be intimidating and takes courage. My role is to listen to your lived experience with curiosity and respect, not judgment. I won’t pathologize your normal reactions to an abnormal world. Sometimes a diagnosis perfectly captures your lived experience, and sometimes a diagnosis should be written in pencil instead of pen.
My name is Michael Arenson (he/they), and I am a Psychiatric Nurse practitioner. I provide mental health care across the lifespan, with particular interest in anxiety and mood disorders, psychotic disorders, Autism spectrum, ADHD, and OCD. I know from experience that walking into a mental health office can be intimidating and takes courage. My role is to listen to your lived experience with curiosity and respect, not judgment. I won’t pathologize your normal reactions to an abnormal world. Sometimes a diagnosis perfectly captures your lived experience, and sometimes a diagnosis should be written in pencil instead of pen.
(253) 319-3866 View (253) 319-3866
Photo of Angela Tefft, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Angela Tefft
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
As a board-certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years in healthcare, I help children, teens, and adults who feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, trauma, mood instability, or chronic stress regain stability and hope.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, and stress-related conditions in children, teens, and adults. I offer personalized psychiatric evaluations, medication management, supportive therapy, and holistic treatment approaches focused on improving daily functioning and overall well-being.
As a board-certified Psychiatric and Family Nurse Practitioner with over 30 years in healthcare, I help children, teens, and adults who feel overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, trauma, mood instability, or chronic stress regain stability and hope.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, ADHD, trauma, mood disorders, and stress-related conditions in children, teens, and adults. I offer personalized psychiatric evaluations, medication management, supportive therapy, and holistic treatment approaches focused on improving daily functioning and overall well-being.
(253) 499-7022 View (253) 499-7022
Photo of Jennifer Scroggie, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, MSN
Jennifer Scroggie
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, MSN
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I also focus on trauma informed care and supportive therapy.
Hi, my name is Jennifer, and I know reaching out for emotional support can be a vulnerable experience. I aim to bring curiosity, calm, and thoughtful attention to our work together, honoring both your struggles and the strengths that have carried you this far. I help adults discover clarity and balance through compassionate psychotherapy and expert medication management. Over the years I have worked with clients struggling with many types of difficulties.
I also focus on trauma informed care and supportive therapy.
Hi, my name is Jennifer, and I know reaching out for emotional support can be a vulnerable experience. I aim to bring curiosity, calm, and thoughtful attention to our work together, honoring both your struggles and the strengths that have carried you this far. I help adults discover clarity and balance through compassionate psychotherapy and expert medication management. Over the years I have worked with clients struggling with many types of difficulties.
(253) 215-2919 View (253) 215-2919
Photo of Jang E. Cho, Psychiatrist, MD
Jang E. Cho
Psychiatrist, MD
Online Only
Now accepting appointments for patients in WA, NY, CA, VA, MD &DC. I am a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who uses both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to evaluate, diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental health conditions- depression, anxiety, panic disorders, ADHD, behavioral dysregulation and school difficulties.
Now accepting appointments for patients in WA, NY, CA, VA, MD &DC. I am a board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist who uses both psychopharmacology and psychotherapy to evaluate, diagnose and treat a wide variety of mental health conditions- depression, anxiety, panic disorders, ADHD, behavioral dysregulation and school difficulties.
(253) 893-8090 View (253) 893-8090
Photo of Diana L Liebner, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
Diana L Liebner
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, ARNP, PMHNP
6 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
I treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, perinatal and postpartum depression, adjustment disorders, ADHD, and bipolar.
I offer in-office or tele-psych appointments. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), educated and trained at the University of Washington in Seattle. I assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions with therapy and targeted medications. The path to mental wellness may involve multiple therapies and medication strategies. I am experienced in a range of therapeutic approaches and safe, targeted medication management, thus able to provide a tailored plan of care for individual needs and support each client in achieving better mental health.
I treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, perinatal and postpartum depression, adjustment disorders, ADHD, and bipolar.
I offer in-office or tele-psych appointments. I am a board-certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP), educated and trained at the University of Washington in Seattle. I assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions with therapy and targeted medications. The path to mental wellness may involve multiple therapies and medication strategies. I am experienced in a range of therapeutic approaches and safe, targeted medication management, thus able to provide a tailored plan of care for individual needs and support each client in achieving better mental health.
(253) 313-0267 View (253) 313-0267
Photo of Erin S McManus - McPsych, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
McPsych
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, ARNP, PMHNP
1 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Now, as a provider, I offer my services to individuals aged 10-55, addressing a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, autism, DMDD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and psychosis.
To accommodate your preferences and schedule, I offer both in-person and telehealth appointments. Everyone has unique needs, and I'm committed to providing the flexibility and support necessary for your comfort and success. No matter where you are in life, I encourage you to find your victory story with McPsych. Together, we'll set short and long-term goals
Now, as a provider, I offer my services to individuals aged 10-55, addressing a wide range of mental health concerns, including depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, autism, DMDD, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and psychosis.
To accommodate your preferences and schedule, I offer both in-person and telehealth appointments. Everyone has unique needs, and I'm committed to providing the flexibility and support necessary for your comfort and success. No matter where you are in life, I encourage you to find your victory story with McPsych. Together, we'll set short and long-term goals
(206) 752-2556 View (206) 752-2556
Photo of Jenny Nwankwo, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, ARNP
Jenny Nwankwo
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP-B, ARNP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide variety of mental health conditions and disorders. I have extensive experience working in various healthcare settings, including psychiatric units and outpatient care. I believe in a patient-centered approach, working collaboratively with your therapist to ensure you receive the care you deserve. I am committed to ensuring your healthcare journey is both personalized and effective. Throughout my career, I have honed my skills in patient care, management, and education and utilize those skills to make healthcare less complex and more approachable for you.
I specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide variety of mental health conditions and disorders. I have extensive experience working in various healthcare settings, including psychiatric units and outpatient care. I believe in a patient-centered approach, working collaboratively with your therapist to ensure you receive the care you deserve. I am committed to ensuring your healthcare journey is both personalized and effective. Throughout my career, I have honed my skills in patient care, management, and education and utilize those skills to make healthcare less complex and more approachable for you.
(253) 881-8251 View (253) 881-8251
Photo of Kate Donahue, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Kate Donahue
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-B
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Kate is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and a licensed Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner (ARNP). She earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Xavier University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Frontier Nursing University. Kate believes in individualized and evidenced based care. She provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management services for both children and adults and treats a wide spectrum of psychiatric diagnoses. Her main areas of focus include depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
Kate is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP) and a licensed Advanced Practice Nurse Practitioner (ARNP). She earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Xavier University and a Master of Science in Nursing from Frontier Nursing University. Kate believes in individualized and evidenced based care. She provides psychiatric evaluations and medication management services for both children and adults and treats a wide spectrum of psychiatric diagnoses. Her main areas of focus include depression, anxiety, and ADHD.
(253) 242-2634 View (253) 242-2634
Photo of Heather King, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, PhD
Heather King
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, BC, PhD
1 Endorsed
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
As a psychiatric mental nurse practitioner, I provide comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, medication management, genetic testing & therapeutic support for individuals affected anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar, ADD/ADHD, trauma, grief, and life transitions.
Hello, I'm Heather and I am glad you are here! My goal is to empower you to show up as you are and feel truly cared for, valued, heard, safe, and trusted. I have a safe welcoming environment and stive to provide the best care possible. Every individual is unique and this means that care should be individualized and tailored to meet your needs. I take a lot of pride in getting to know individuals and work to develop collaborative, evidence-based, individualized care to help you on your wellness journey. I am compassionate about caring, but also direct. I love working with clients ready to make positive changes in their lives!
As a psychiatric mental nurse practitioner, I provide comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, medication management, genetic testing & therapeutic support for individuals affected anxiety, depression, insomnia, bipolar, ADD/ADHD, trauma, grief, and life transitions.
Hello, I'm Heather and I am glad you are here! My goal is to empower you to show up as you are and feel truly cared for, valued, heard, safe, and trusted. I have a safe welcoming environment and stive to provide the best care possible. Every individual is unique and this means that care should be individualized and tailored to meet your needs. I take a lot of pride in getting to know individuals and work to develop collaborative, evidence-based, individualized care to help you on your wellness journey. I am compassionate about caring, but also direct. I love working with clients ready to make positive changes in their lives!
(253) 364-0576 View (253) 364-0576
Photo of Dr. Jennifer Irwin - LifeStance Health, Psychiatrist, MD
LifeStance Health
Psychiatrist, MD
Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Our team of psychiatrists, therapists, psychologists, and advanced practice nurses specializes in treating in a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, trauma, PTSD, and more.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Our team of psychiatrists, therapists, psychologists, and advanced practice nurses specializes in treating in a wide range of mental health conditions, including anxiety, depression, ADHD, addiction, trauma, PTSD, and more.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(253) 544-5059 View (253) 544-5059
Photo of Brenda Smith, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Brenda Smith
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Online Only
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I provide comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, medication management, counseling and support for individuals affected anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADD/ADHD, trauma, grief, and many other psychiatric challenges.
Hi, I’m a psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about helping people feel better, think clearer, and live fuller lives. If you are struggling and need help, I am here. I will help you navigate your challenges in an honest, open, judgement free and professional way. I will create a safe place where we can build a trusting working relationship as you set goals to improve your mental health.
As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner I provide comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, medication management, counseling and support for individuals affected anxiety, depression, bipolar, ADD/ADHD, trauma, grief, and many other psychiatric challenges.
Hi, I’m a psychiatric nurse practitioner passionate about helping people feel better, think clearer, and live fuller lives. If you are struggling and need help, I am here. I will help you navigate your challenges in an honest, open, judgement free and professional way. I will create a safe place where we can build a trusting working relationship as you set goals to improve your mental health.
(253) 215-4137 View (253) 215-4137
Photo of Shelley Tantau, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, AGACNP
Shelley Tantau
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, AGACNP
Online Only
Many of my clients come to me feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck - often carrying the burden of unprocessed trauma, burnout, or persistent self-doubt.
I help clients navigate ADHD, anxiety, trauma, and body image issues with a compassionate, collaborative approach. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer affirming, trauma-informed care, combining therapy and medication management when appropriate.
Many of my clients come to me feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck - often carrying the burden of unprocessed trauma, burnout, or persistent self-doubt.
I help clients navigate ADHD, anxiety, trauma, and body image issues with a compassionate, collaborative approach. As a psychiatric nurse practitioner, I offer affirming, trauma-informed care, combining therapy and medication management when appropriate.
(206) 966-4034 View (206) 966-4034
Photo of Julie Kaigler, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
Julie Kaigler
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, ARNP, PMHNP, BC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, mood disorders, and more.
Hi, I’m glad you’re here. Many of my clients come to me feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck in depression, or struggling to manage ADHD, mood swings, perimenopausal/menopausal brain fog or experiencing sleep challenges. Some aren’t even sure what’s wrong—they just know something feels off and they’re ready for relief. What they’re really looking for is clarity, balance, and a provider who truly listens and understands. I offer both in-person and telehealth appointments with timely appointments.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, mood disorders, and more.
Hi, I’m glad you’re here. Many of my clients come to me feeling anxious, overwhelmed, stuck in depression, or struggling to manage ADHD, mood swings, perimenopausal/menopausal brain fog or experiencing sleep challenges. Some aren’t even sure what’s wrong—they just know something feels off and they’re ready for relief. What they’re really looking for is clarity, balance, and a provider who truly listens and understands. I offer both in-person and telehealth appointments with timely appointments.
(253) 300-4744 View (253) 300-4744

See more therapy options for Gig Harbor

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.