What Is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, such as serious injury, violence, accidents, or other life-threatening situations. While temporary distress after trauma is common, PTSD occurs when symptoms persist and interfere with daily functioning.

PTSD reflects how the brain and nervous system respond to overwhelming stress and can affect children, adolescents, and adults. Symptoms may begin shortly after the event or emerge later, often fluctuating over time and during periods of increased stress.

At Behavior Therapy Associates, clinicians support individuals impacted by trauma through evidence-based psychological care focused on emotional regulation, coping, and recovery.

Symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Symptoms of PTSD can vary in intensity and may increase when reminders of the trauma are present. Common symptoms include:

• Intrusive experiences, such as distressing memories, nightmares, or flashbacks
• Avoidance, including efforts to avoid thoughts, feelings, or situations linked to the trauma
• Changes in mood and thinking, such as persistent fear, guilt, emotional numbness, or detachment from others
• Heightened reactivity, including feeling on edge, difficulty sleeping, irritability, or trouble concentrating

PTSD Services for Children and Adolescents

Children and adolescents who experience trauma may show changes in behavior, emotions, learning, or relationships. Trauma can affect attention, emotional regulation, sleep, and a child’s sense of safety, sometimes appearing long after the event has occurred. Support that is developmentally appropriate and consistent can help young individuals process their experiences and build coping skills.

At Behavior Therapy Associates, clinicians work with children, adolescents, and their families to support emotional regulation, coping, and day-to-day functioning following traumatic experiences. Care is individualized and may include collaboration with parents and schools to help create supportive environments across home and academic settings.

PTSD Services for Adults

Adults who have experienced trauma may continue to feel its effects through heightened stress responses, emotional distress, difficulties with sleep or concentration, and challenges in relationships or work. Trauma can impact how individuals process emotions, respond to stress, and navigate daily responsibilities, sometimes long after the event has passed.

At Behavior Therapy Associates, clinicians support adults with PTSD by providing individualized, evidence-based psychological care focused on emotional regulation, coping strategies, and improving day-to-day functioning. Services are tailored to each person’s experiences and goals, with attention to supporting recovery across personal, professional, and relational settings.

Supporting Individuals with PTSD

Supporting individuals with PTSD involves helping them understand their responses to trauma, build effective coping strategies, and strengthen emotional regulation over time. Symptoms may fluctuate, especially during periods of stress or change, making consistent and individualized support important for long-term functioning.

At Behavior Therapy Associates, clinicians work collaboratively with individuals and families to support recovery and improve daily functioning across home, work, and community settings.

Get Started with PTSD Services

If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms related to trauma, early and evidence-based support can help reduce distress and improve quality of life.

At Behavior Therapy Associates, our clinicians provide individualized psychological services for children, adolescents, and adults impacted by trauma. To learn more or to schedule an initial consultation, please contact our office.