Telepsychiatry

Life-changing telepsychiatry services for PTSD

Break free from PTSD with an evidence-based treatment plan tailored to you.

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How we can help you conquer PTSD

Our approach to PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder) care begins with empathy and a deep understanding of how trauma affects your daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. We recognize that PTSD manifests differently for each person, which is why we create a personalized treatment plan based on your unique experiences, medical history, and the latest evidence-based approaches in trauma recovery.

60-Minute Psychiatric Assessment

Your journey to mental wellness starts with a 60-minute assessment, where one of our experts will take a deep dive into your specific challenges with PTSD to create a care plan tailored just for you. Your journey is as unique as you are, and we’re here to help you achieve your goals.

Evidence-Based Treatment

Our psychiatrists stay up to date with the latest research and treatments in mental health. Whether it’s therapy, medication, or a combination of both, we only recommend solutions backed by science to give you the best chance at success.

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Success Stories

What Our Patients Are Saying
5/5

"When I started to have anxiety issues and my doctor couldn't help, I began searching for somebody who could. In calling around, I couldn't get in with anyone for several weeks. I then called Platinum Psychiatry and spoke with Mel. She was kind and compassionate and went out of her way to help me book an appointment for the very next morning. Platinum Psychiatry was very helpful and I would recommend them."

4/5

"My initial visit with Dr. Shorten went very well. I was comfortable with discussing my problems and with his responses. I felt "equal." He seemed understanding of my choices and thoughts, which means a great deal to me. I'm looking forward to my next visit! I've been seeing psychiatrists for nearly ten years, and it is rare for me to look forward to seeing a new one. Decent prices without insurance."

5/5

"Very professional, compassionate, and genuinely concerned about you as a patient and not your pocket case. I came to Dr Shorten feeling like a wreck but he listened, listened, and listened again. He has both me and my teenage son on track to feeling more like our usual selves."

5/5

"I searched for a Dr. for my boyfriend to meet with for weeks knowing that my boyfriend was reluctant to go. I was most concerned that the experience might not go well and my boyfriend wouldn’t give it another shot. Boy am I glad we went here. Dr. Shorten was AMAZING and not only made us feel comfortable but nailed it across the board with listening and helping my boyfriend to understand what’s going on. Do yourself the favor and schedule. You will not be disappointed."

5/5

"A brilliant, patient-focused psychiatric practice. As another reviewer had mentioned, their customer service is impeccable. The doctor himself is VERY skilled in bedside manner, and hearing the patient out. He answers your questions thoroughly, and you feel as though he cares about how well you're doing. He has helped me to achieve better results than any practitioner I'd encountered before him. Truly a Platinum-level practice!"

"I have been a patient for several months. Easy to get refills, is one of the few doctors who actually listened to what my goals were, and what medication I wanted to stay away from. Highly recommend. He is open to both Western and Eastern medicine and is very thoughtful and understanding. Genuinely cares about his patients."

LEARN More About PTSD

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. While it is normal to feel distress following a traumatic experience, PTSD occurs when these feelings persist long after the event and begin to interfere with daily life.

PTSD affects millions of people, including military veterans, first responders, survivors of abuse, accidents, natural disasters, and other traumatic experiences. While PTSD can feel isolating, you are not alone—an estimated 6% of adults in the U.S. will experience PTSD at some point in their lives.

Seeking a diagnosis from a qualified mental health professional is an important first step toward understanding and managing PTSD. The good news is that PTSD is treatable, and with the right support, individuals can regain control over their lives and well-being.

PTSD vs. Typical Stress Response

It’s natural to feel afraid, anxious, or unsettled after experiencing trauma. In many cases, these feelings fade with time as the brain processes the event. However, for individuals with PTSD, symptoms persist for months or even years, affecting their ability to function.

Signs that stress may have developed into PTSD include:

  • Flashbacks, nightmares, or intrusive memories of the trauma
  • Avoidance of people, places, or situations that serve as reminders
  • Emotional numbness or detachment from loved ones
  • Hypervigilance, jumpiness, or difficulty relaxing
  • Persistent feelings of guilt, shame, or anger

If distressing symptoms continue long after the traumatic event and interfere with daily life, it may indicate PTSD.

Types of PTSD

PTSD can manifest in different ways depending on the severity and nature of symptoms:

Acute PTSD
  • Symptoms develop within one month of the traumatic event and last for at least four weeks.
  • May resolve over time or progress to chronic PTSD.
Chronic PTSD
  • Symptoms persist for longer than three months and can be ongoing for years.
  • Often requires long-term therapy and support.
Complex PTSD (C-PTSD)
  • Develops after prolonged or repeated trauma, such as childhood abuse or domestic violence.
  • Includes symptoms of PTSD along with difficulty trusting others, emotional dysregulation, and low self-worth.
Delayed-Onset PTSD
  • Symptoms do not appear until months or even years after the traumatic event.
  • Common in military veterans and survivors of long-term trauma.

Common Symptoms of PTSD

  • Nightmares or Disturbing Dreams
  • Emotional Numbness or Feeling Disconnected
  • Irritability, Anger, or Sudden Mood Swings
  • Insomnia or Trouble Sleeping
  • Self-Destructive or Reckless Behavior

Learn about the conditions we treat:

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Latest posts about PTSD

How do you treat PTSD?

Medication Management

Our expertise lies in the strategic use of medications to alleviate the symptoms of PTSD. This may include the use of antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, and other options specifically aimed at reducing anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances associated with PTSD. We carefully consider each patient’s situation to find the most effective medication regimen.

Supportive Services

While our primary focus is on medication management, we understand the importance of comprehensive care. We guide our patients towards supportive services and resources that can complement their treatment, such as peer support groups and counseling services. These resources can offer additional emotional support and coping strategies

Lifestyle Guidance

We advocate for the integration of healthy lifestyle practices as a vital part of the healing process. This includes advice on regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, adequate sleep, and stress reduction techniques, all of which can significantly impact the overall well-being of individuals with PTSD.

Educational Resources

Knowledge is empowering, especially when dealing with PTSD. Platinum Psychiatry provides educational materials and resources to help patients and their families understand the condition better. We also recommend support groups that can offer insights and shared experiences, aiding in the navigation of PTSD’s challenges.

Common medications for PTSD

Your mental health is a vital part of your overall well-being, and when it comes to treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), medication can be an important tool in managing symptoms. However, it’s essential to approach treatment with care and under the guidance of a qualified psychiatrist.

The first step is to consult with a mental health professional who can conduct a thorough assessment to diagnose PTSD and determine whether medication is a suitable part of your treatment plan. Since PTSD symptoms can vary—ranging from intrusive memories and hypervigilance to depression and anxiety—medication is often used alongside therapy and lifestyle changes for the best outcomes.

If medication is prescribed, your psychiatrist will carefully monitor its effectiveness and side effects, making adjustments as needed. Regular and open communication is crucial to fine-tuning your treatment plan and ensuring the best possible mental health outcomes. Remember, you are not alone in your journey—seeking professional guidance is a powerful step toward healing and recovery.

However, medication alone is not the sole approach—psychotherapy, lifestyle adjustments, and support systems are also critical components of effective bipolar management. Your psychiatrist will monitor your response to medication, adjusting dosages or prescriptions as needed to optimize stability while minimizing side effects.

Ongoing communication with your doctor is essential to fine-tune your treatment plan and ensure the best possible quality of life. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey, and seeking professional guidance is a proactive step toward better mental health.

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs)

SSRIs are often first-line medications for PTSD, as they help regulate serotonin levels in the brain, improving mood and reducing symptoms like anxiety, depression, and emotional numbness.

Common SSRIs prescribed for PTSD include:

  • Sertraline (Zoloft) – FDA-approved for PTSD treatment
  • Paroxetine (Paxil) – FDA-approved for PTSD treatment
  • Fluoxetine (Prozac) – Can help with depression and anxiety symptoms in PTSD
  • Escitalopram (Lexapro) – Sometimes used off-label for PTSD

SSRIs are typically started at a low dose and gradually increased to minimize side effects while achieving the best therapeutic effect.

SNRIs work similarly to SSRIs but also affect norepinephrine levels, which can help with PTSD-related hypervigilance and mood regulation.

  • Venlafaxine (Effexor XR) – Sometimes used for PTSD when SSRIs are ineffective
  • Duloxetine (Cymbalta) – May help with PTSD-related anxiety and depression

PTSD is commonly associated with nightmares and severe sleep disturbances. Prazosin, a medication originally developed to treat high blood pressure, has been found to significantly reduce nightmares in individuals with PTSD.

  • Helps reduce night terrors and insomnia
  • May improve overall sleep quality and relaxation

NOT SURE WHICH TREATMENT IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

Schedule a consultation today to talk with our providers about what’s right for you.

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If you’re having a medical or mental health emergency, call 911 or visit your local ER.