Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

When PTSD is worth addressing

PTSD can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. It is not a sign of weakness, and it can appear soon after the event or months later.

Common experiences include intrusive memories or nightmares, flashbacks, avoiding reminders of the event, feeling constantly on guard, being easily startled, trouble sleeping, and changes in mood or how you see the world.

If these symptoms have lasted more than a month or are interfering with your life, it is worth reaching out. Trauma responses are treatable.

How I approach PTSD

My approach is thoughtful, unhurried, and trauma-informed. I move at a pace that feels safe for you and take time to understand your history before we discuss a plan.

Care is collaborative and evidence-based. Trauma-focused therapies are central to recovery, and I will help coordinate that care alongside medication when it is appropriate.

What your first appointment looks like

We begin with a complimentary 15-minute phone consultation to make sure we’re a good fit. If we move forward, your first visit is a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. This is an in-depth conversation about your clinical history and current concerns that ends with a personalized treatment plan.

From there, follow-up visits let us track how you’re doing and fine-tune your plan over time. All visits are virtual, for adults across California.

Medication and ongoing care

When medication is part of the plan, I focus on options with strong evidence for PTSD and adjust carefully based on how you respond. Medication often works best alongside trauma-focused therapy.

Please note that I do not prescribe benzodiazepines (such as Xanax, Ativan, or Klonopin), which are generally not recommended for PTSD.