PTSD

Traumatic events can affect your mental well-being. While most people recover from their trauma, some may have symptoms that linger and perhaps get worse over time, leading to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Joy Kwakuyi, DNP, PMHNP-BC, at Faith Integrated Psychiatry in Tucson and Phoenix, Arizona, specializes in diagnosing and treating PTSD. Call the office or book an in-office or telemedicine appointment online today.

Schedule an Appointment Today

What is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)?

PTSD is a mental health condition that some people develop after a traumatic event. Though it’s normal to feel anxious or afraid after a shocking or dangerous event, these symptoms usually improve over time.

However, in PTSD, the fear and anxiety continue and worsen over time.

Anyone can develop PTSD. Though most people with PTSD show signs and symptoms within three months of the event, the symptoms can appear years later.

What are the symptoms of PTSD?

While PTSD symptoms vary, they fall into four broad categories.

Re-experiencing symptoms

The re-experiencing type of symptoms in PTSD includes flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts.

Avoidance symptoms

People with PTSD may avoid certain places or activities that remind them of the trauma. These avoidance symptoms may alter a person’s entire routine.

Cognitive and mood symptoms

Cognitive and mood symptoms in PTSD include negative thoughts and distorted feelings about themself. People with PTSD may also have a hard time recalling details of the event.

Arousal symptoms

Feeling tense, having angry outbursts, and being easily startled are arousal symptoms of PTSD.

What can I expect during a PTSD evaluation?

You can expect a compassionate, patient-centered exam when you visit Faith Integrated Psychiatry for a PTSD evaluation. Dr. Kwakuyi aims to give you hope and heal your emotional trauma.

During your evaluation, Dr. Kwakuyi conducts a diagnostic psychiatric evaluation, which includes a life mission and spiritual assessment. He also talks to you about your concerns and goals and reviews your medical history.

What are some PTSD treatment options?

There’s no single medication or therapy that works for all people with PTSD. Dr. Kwakuyi customizes your treatment plan based on the results of your diagnostic evaluation and your personal goals.

Treatment for PTSD may include:

Medication management

Dr. Kwakuyi offers medical management to help find the right psychiatric medications to minimize your PTSD symptoms.

Psychotherapy

Dr. Kwakuyi also provides psychotherapy, which may include individual or family therapy. He uses various therapeutic techniques to help you cope with your trauma, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

Christian counseling

For his patients searching for spiritual guidance for managing their PTSD, Dr. Kwakuyi offers Christian counseling. This spiritual counseling combines the teachings of Christianity with psychotherapy to improve your mind and soul.

Dr. Kwakuyi is an integrated psychiatric nurse practitioner and pastor, the perfect combination for healing your spiritual and emotional well-being.

To schedule your PTSD evaluation, call Faith Integrated Psychiatry, or book an appointment online today.

We treat patients for anxiety, depression, social anxiety, panic attack, anxiety attacks, bipolar disorder, and more. We understand there are various types of depression, separation anxiety, and it can be seasonal depression. We are here to help. Call us to book your appointment today.

TRUE HOLISTIC