PTSD & Trauma Treatment

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. At Ascend Psychiatry & Therapy in Tukwila, Washington, we provide compassionate, culturally sensitive care for individuals living with PTSD and trauma-related conditions.

What is PTSD?

PTSD can develop after exposure to events such as combat, physical or sexual assault, natural disasters, serious accidents, or the sudden death of a loved one. While it is normal to have difficulty coping after a traumatic experience, when symptoms persist for months or years and interfere with your daily functioning, professional treatment is essential. PTSD affects people of all backgrounds, ages, and walks of life.

Symptoms of PTSD

PTSD symptoms generally fall into four categories. Intrusive memories include flashbacks, nightmares, and severe emotional distress when reminded of the trauma. Avoidance involves steering clear of places, people, or activities that remind you of the event, or avoiding thinking or talking about what happened. Negative changes in thinking and mood can include feelings of hopelessness, memory problems, difficulty maintaining relationships, feeling detached from others, and loss of interest in activities. Changes in physical and emotional reactions may include being easily startled, always being on guard, trouble sleeping, irritability, angry outbursts, and self-destructive behavior.

Our Approach to Trauma Treatment

Ethiopia Zerfu, ARNP, PMHNP-BC, understands the deeply personal nature of trauma and approaches each patient with empathy, respect, and cultural sensitivity. Treatment may include a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to assess the full impact of trauma on your mental health, medication management to address symptoms such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, and hyperarousal, collaboration with trauma-focused therapists for comprehensive care, and ongoing support and monitoring as you work through your healing process.

Complex Trauma

We also provide care for individuals who have experienced prolonged or repeated trauma, sometimes referred to as Complex PTSD. This can result from childhood abuse, domestic violence, or other ongoing traumatic situations. Complex trauma often requires a more nuanced treatment approach, and our practice is equipped to provide the specialized care these patients need.

Healing is Possible

Recovery from trauma is a journey, not a destination. With the right support and treatment, it is possible to reduce symptoms, rebuild a sense of safety, and reclaim your life. We offer appointments both in person at our Tukwila office and through secure telepsychiatry across Washington State.