How We Treat
Specialized treatment, tailored for youth
PTSD manifests differently at various life stages. Our providers work closely with you or your child to develop a personalized treatment plan focused on overall well-being.
Self Scheduling
Available to all patients, providing greater flexibility and convenience without the need to make a phone call.
Virtual Appointments
Allowing our Youth-Link providers to see patients in the places where they feel safest and most comfortable.
Secure Messaging
Accessible through our patient portal, enabling patients and legal guardians to securely message their provider at any time.
Specialized Providers
Providers are assigned based on the patient’s age and their specific symptoms, ensuring specialized, tailored care for each individual.
Digital Documentation
Providing a single location for all forms to be completed and accessed. Everything is available in your patient portal.
Extended Benefits
Offering telehealth services, bringing vital mental health care to Arizona communities that lack local access to adolescent psychiatric support.
Condition
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Our knowledgeable providers collaborate closely with patients to create personalized treatment plans that may incorporate behavioral strategies and, when necessary, medication management. Our aim is to assist individuals in managing their symptoms, enhancing their focus, and fostering resilience in their daily lives.
What is PTSD?
A condition that can develop after an individual experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. This can include events such as natural disasters, serious accidents, violence, or military combat. Symptoms of PTSD often include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the traumatic event. Individuals with PTSD may also experience emotional numbness, avoidance of reminders of the trauma, and heightened reactions to stress.
Prevalence Among Adolescents
Approximately 3.7% of adolescents in the United States experience PTSD at some point in their lives. Factors such as exposure to trauma, personal history, and family dynamics can influence the likelihood of developing PTSD in young people
Types of PTSD
PTSD can be classified into several types based on the duration and nature of the symptoms experienced. Here are the main types:
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Acute Stress Disorder (ASD): This type occurs in response to a traumatic event and features symptoms similar to PTSD but lasts for a shorter duration, typically from 3 days to 4 weeks. If symptoms persist beyond a month, it may evolve into PTSD.
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Chronic PTSD: This type is diagnosed when symptoms persist for more than a month after the traumatic event. Chronic PTSD can significantly impair daily functioning and may require long-term treatment.
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Delayed-Onset PTSD: In this case, symptoms do not appear until at least 6 months after the traumatic event. Individuals may initially seem to cope well but later develop PTSD symptoms as they begin to process the trauma.
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Complex PTSD: This type often results from prolonged or repeated exposure to trauma, such as ongoing abuse or captivity. It includes symptoms of traditional PTSD, along with additional challenges like difficulties in emotional regulation, self-perception issues, and problems in relationships.
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Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD): While not classified under traditional PTSD, RAD can occur in children who experience severe neglect or trauma. It can lead to difficulties in forming healthy emotional attachments and can share some overlapping symptoms with PTSD.
Symptoms of PTSD
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Intrusive Thoughts:
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Recurrent, unwanted memories of the traumatic event.
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Flashbacks, where the individual feels as though they are reliving the trauma.
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Nightmares related to the traumatic experience.
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Avoidance:
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Avoiding reminders of the trauma, including places, people, or activities that trigger memories.
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Emotional numbing, where individuals may feel detached from friends and family or lose interest in activities they once enjoyed.
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Negative Changes in Mood and Cognition:
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Persistent negative thoughts about oneself or others.
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Feelings of hopelessness or helplessness.
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Difficulty experiencing positive emotions or feeling emotionally “flat.”
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Difficulty concentrating or remembering details related to the traumatic event.
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Hyperarousal Symptoms:
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Heightened startle response.
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Irritability or anger outbursts.
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Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or restless sleep.
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Difficulty concentrating and being easily distracted.
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How Our Service Works
Comprehensive virtual care guiding patients at every turn, why virtual care is right for you or your child
Telepsych
Psychiatry Mobile Dashboard
Secure Messaging
Telepsych
1:1 Telehealth Sessions
Schedule an appointment and access your mental health provider on any device to discuss your symptoms or treatment.
Everything In One Place
Enjoy full access to your appointments, bills, and medical documents through our online service
Comprehensive Treatment
Say goodbye to the hassle of getting the care you need. We provide a seamless and comprehensive experience for your diagnosis and treatment.
Secure Messaging
Have concerns during treatment? Reach your provider anytime with secure messaging for peace of mind.