Life-changing telepsychiatry
services for PTSD.
Break free from PTSD with an evidence-based
treatment plan tailored to you.
PTSD Treatment Tailored to You.
Break free from PTSD with evidence-based telepsychiatry services.
OUR APPROACH
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 PTSD 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.
OUR APPROACH
Break Free From PTSD
60 Minute Psychiatric Assessments
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.
PATIENT REVIEWS
Real Patients, Real Stories
- Jeff
- Madison
- Christina
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.
- Michelle
- Cooper
- Alexis
- Rachel
- Tiffany
"I've been seeing Dr. Shorten for 4 months. He is very professional and listens intently to How the medication is affecting me. I would recommend him to anyone."
- Scott
- Mario
- Andrea
- Leo
- Emma
- Victoria
- Lisa
- Tony
- Colleen
PATIENT REVIEWS
Real Patients, Real Stories
- Jeff
- Madison
- Christina
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.
- Michelle
- Cooper
- Alexis
- Rachel
- Tiffany
"I've been seeing Dr. Shorten for 4 months. He is very professional and listens intently to How the medication is affecting me. I would recommend him to anyone."
- Scott
- Mario
- Andrea
- Leo
- Emma
- Victoria
- Lisa
- Tony
- Colleen
Learn More About PTSD
What is PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)?
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.
While everyone experiences ups and downs, bipolar disorder involves intense and prolonged mood changes that can interfere with daily life. It affects approximately 2.8% of adults in the U.S. and often begins in late adolescence or early adulthood.
A diagnosis from a licensed mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist, is essential for determining the type of bipolar disorder and creating an effective treatment plan.
The good news is that bipolar disorder is manageable. With the right treatment, individuals can stabilize their mood, enhance daily functioning, and lead fulfilling lives.
Ready to find relief from PTSD?
Types of ADHD
ADHD is classified into three main types, depending on the primary symptoms a person exhibits:
Predominantly Inattentive Presentation (ADHD-I)
- Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks or conversations
- Frequently losing things or forgetting appointments
- Becoming easily distracted by external stimuli
- Struggling to follow instructions or complete tasks
Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Presentation (ADHD-HI)
- Frequent fidgeting or inability to stay seated
- Excessive talking or interrupting conversations
- Impulsive decision-making
- Difficulty waiting for turns in conversations or activities
Combined Presentation (ADHD-C)
- A mix of both inattentive and hyperactive-impulsive symptoms
The presentation of ADHD can evolve over time, and symptoms may change with age and environmental factors.
Common Symptoms of ADHD
Difficulty Sustaining Attention
Frequent Forgetfulness or Losing Items
Easily Distracted by External Stimuli
Impulsivity or Acting Without Thinking
Hyperactivity (Excessive Movement or Fidgeting)
Difficulty Following Through on Tasks
Interrupting Others in ConversationsTrouble Managing Time or Staying Organized
Frequent Procrastination Restlessness or Feeling Constantly “On the Go” Difficulty Regulating Emotions Trouble Completing Long or Complex TasksHow do you treat ADHD?
Medication Management
Our primary approach to treating anxiety involves the careful use of medication. We specialize in prescribing a range of pharmacological treatments, including SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors), SNRIs (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors), and other anti-anxiety medications. Our experienced psychiatrists tailor medication choices to each patient’s symptoms, medical history, and response to treatment, aiming to reduce anxiety levels and improve daily functioning.
Supportive Services
While our focus is on medication management, we also recognize the importance of additional supportive services in the treatment of anxiety. We may suggest resources such as counseling or therapy, which can be beneficial in developing coping strategies and understanding the underlying causes of anxiety. We also encourage participation in support groups for peer-based sharing and support.
Lifestyle Guidance
Managing anxiety often extends beyond medication to include lifestyle modifications. We provide advice on integrating regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and relaxation techniques into your routine, as these can have a significant positive impact on anxiety levels. Good sleep hygiene practices are also emphasized to improve sleep quality, which is often affected by anxiety.
Educational Resources
Understanding anxiety is a big step towards managing it effectively. Platinum Psychiatry offers educational materials to help patients and their families gain insights into the nature of anxiety, its triggers, and coping mechanisms. This knowledge empowers patients to take an active role in their treatment and recovery process.
Common medications for bipolar disorder
Medications for mental health are just one component of a comprehensive treatment plan. In addition to medication, therapy and lifestyle adjustments may also play important roles in your recovery and well-being.
The chosen medication will be carefully monitored for its effectiveness and any potential side effects, and your psychiatrist will make adjustments as needed to ensure the best possible outcome.
Regular and open communication with your psychiatrist is paramount throughout this process. It allows for the fine-tuning of your medication regimen, tailored to your specific needs, and ultimately promoting optimal mental well-being while minimizing potential risks.
Remember, you’re not alone in your mental health journey, and seeking professional guidance is a positive step towards your overall health and happiness.
SSRIs
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) work by increasing levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that influences mood regulation. SSRIs are considered a first-line treatment due to their effectiveness and generally favorable side effect profile. They are typically started at a low dose that your doctor gradually increases. Examples of SSRIs used to treat anxiety include: escitalopram (Lexapro) fluoxetine (Prozac) paroxetine (Paxil) sertraline (Zoloft)
Benzodiazepines
Benzodiazepines are a class of medications used to treat anxiety and insomnia by enhancing the effects of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA has a calming effect, and benzodiazepines amplify this response, resulting in reduced anxiety, muscle relaxation, and sedation. Benzodiazepines help treat many kinds of anxiety disorders, including panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and social anxiety disorder. Examples of these drugs include: alprazolam (Xanax) clonazepam (Klonopin) diazepam (Valium) lorazepam (Ativan)
Buspirone
Buspirone is used to treat both short-term anxiety and chronic (long-lasting) anxiety disorders. It’s not fully understood how buspirone works, but it’s thought to affect chemicals in the brain that regulate mood. Buspirone can take up to several weeks to become fully effective. It’s available as a generic drug as well as the brand-name drug BuSpar.
Learn More About PTSD
What is PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder)?
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.
Ready to find relief from PTSD?
Want help understanding your symptoms?
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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
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.
Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs)
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
Prazosin (for Nightmares and Sleep Disturbances)
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
Get More Help
Free Anxiety Quiz
Take a fast and simple 10-question depression screen to find out if the symptoms you’re experiencing may be related to anxiety.
Talk to One of Our Experts
Confused about your symptoms or unsure whether or not our services are right for you? Speak with one of our experts and get the answers you need.
Mental Health Articles & Resources
Explore educational articles designed to provide valuable insights into challenges you or a loved one may be facing, along with practical solutions to help you find relief.
More Help & Resources
Take a fast and simple nine-question depression screen to find out if the symptoms you’re experiencing may be clinical depression.
Confused about your symptoms or unsure whether or not our services are right for you? Speak with one of our experts and get the answers you need.
Explore educational articles designed to provide valuable insights into challenges you or a loved one may be facing, along with practical solutions to help you find relief.