Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Traumatic experiences overwhelm the central nervous system, triggering the body’s fight-or-flight response when faced with real or perceived danger. These events can have lasting emotional and physical effects. Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) occurs when the mind and body remain “stuck” in re-experiencing the trauma, even after the danger has passed. For those with PTSD, the trauma feels ever-present, making it hard to feel safe, process emotions, or move forward.

Symptoms of PTSD

Symptoms of PTSD fall into four main categories:

Intrusion Symptoms:
- Flashbacks, nightmares, or dissociative reactions where the trauma feels as if it is happening again.
Avoidance Symptoms:
- Actively avoiding thoughts, memories, or external reminders of the traumatic event.
Changes in Mood and Cognition:
- Negative emotions, memory problems, feelings of detachment or isolation, and difficulty experiencing positive emotions.
Hyperarousal Symptoms:
- Hypervigilance, an exaggerated startle response, irritability, or trouble sleeping.

Not everyone who experiences trauma develops PTSD. Protective factors, such as strong social support and coping skills, can mitigate its effects. However, even without a full PTSD diagnosis, processing trauma with a clinician can help individuals find closure, build resilience, and foster growth after trauma.

A few facts about Trauma and Stressor Related Disorders

0 %

of U.S. adults are experiencing PTSD yearly

0 %

of adolescents have been
diagnosed with PTSD

0 %

of people with PTSD benefit
from treatment

Our Multidisciplinary Approach to PTSD

At Mind Study Center in Pasadena, we provide evidence-based and compassionate care to help individuals heal from trauma and reclaim their sense of safety.

Our Team Approach Includes:

Comprehensive Assessments:
- Our psychologists and psychiatrists conduct thorough evaluations to assess PTSD symptoms and co-occurring conditions, such as anxiety, depression, or substance use.
Evidence-Based Therapies:
- Our therapists specialize in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), two highly effective treatments for PTSD.
- We also incorporate cognitive therapies such as prolonged exposure and cognitive processing therapy to help individuals reframe traumatic memories and regain control of their thoughts and behaviors.
Somatic and Narrative Approaches:
- Techniques such as EMDR and somatic experiencing help individuals address the physiological effects of trauma, while Narrative Exposure Therapy assists in contextualizing and making meaning of their experiences.
Collaborative and Holistic Care:
- Our multidisciplinary team works together to create personalized treatment plans tailored to each individual’s needs, integrating therapy, medication management, and emotional support.

Why Choose Mind Study Center?

Located in Pasadena, Mind Study Center provides expert, compassionate care for individuals struggling with PTSD and the effects of trauma. Our goal is to help clients feel safe, supported, and empowered to heal and move forward in their lives.

Trauma-Informed Therapists: Our therapists specialize in evidence-based approaches like Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences.
Comprehensive Care Plans: We create personalized treatment plans that address the unique needs of each client, focusing on both emotional and physiological healing.
Collaborative, Multidisciplinary Approach: Our psychologists and psychiatrists work together to provide therapy, medication management, and holistic care as needed.
Safe, Supportive Environment: We offer a compassionate space where clients feel understood and respected as they work through their experiences.

To schedule a complimentary 15-minute consultation and take the first step

toward personalized care and support.