Post-Traumatic Stress
Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD symptoms are generally categorized into four types:

1. **Intrusive Memories**: This includes nightmares or unwanted memories of the trauma.
2. **Avoidance**: People may avoid situations that remind them of the trauma.
3. **Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood**: These are shifts that affect how individuals view themselves and their world.
4. **Changes in Physical and Emotional Reactions**: This may manifest as heightened reactions, anxiety, or a depressed mood.

Treatment typically involves various types of trauma-focused psychotherapy, along with medications to help manage symptoms. At Quest Wellness Center, we have the necessary tools to identify and assist patients in overcoming PTSD. Our Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) utilize an evidence-based approach, addressing both the short-term and long-term consequences of violent victimization and neglect, including mental health issues like PTSD, depression, and substance abuse.

IOP Treatment for PTSD

IOP programs are designed for individuals who do not require inpatient treatment and have moderate to mild symptoms. They are often recommended as a subsequent stage for patients transitioning from inpatient care or stepping down from a more intensive PHP, indicating symptoms are under control and that individuals may only need a support structure. IOP allows participants to follow their treatment plans while regaining the confidence to begin a new sober life with adequate support. Many IOP affiliate programs encourage participants to engage in a 12-step program to facilitate their path to sobriety. The extent of IOP also depends on insurance coverage limits. Typically, IOP programs last about 3-4 hours per day, 3-5 days a week.

PHP Treatment for PTSD

Patients usually enter PHP directly after completing detoxification or inpatient treatment. PHP requires daily attendance, and it generally involves a greater time commitment than IOP. PHP programs typically last about 5-6 hours per day, 3-5 days per week.
PHP consists of substantial individual and group therapy sessions where patients learn coping mechanisms to manage their stress, offering healthier alternatives to alcohol and drug use for solace or self-medication. This program is sometimes referred to as “day treatment,” indicating that patients receive care on a nearly full-time basis during the day and go home in the evenings.

Understanding Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD can present itself in various ways. It usually develops after experiencing a particularly traumatic event or series of events that evoke feelings of helplessness. Stressful situations beyond one’s control, such as car accidents, wars, or being a victim of crime or abuse (physical, sexual, or emotional), can be potential sources of trauma.

PHP Support for PTSD

At Quest Wellness Center, we have observed that PTSD can result in persistent stress, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, sleep disorders, and feelings of hopelessness and shame, all of which can interfere with daily activities. We offer a wide range of therapies and techniques to help identify and overcome PTSD, including Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), mindfulness practices, hypnotherapy, and traditional psychotherapy.