Trauma & PTSD Treatment in Maryland and Washington, D.C
At Unique Minds Behavioral Health Services, we deeply understand the lasting emotional and psychological impacts that significant traumatic events can have. These trauma-related disorders can alter thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, affecting everyday life.
Our team provides empathetic support and expert care, helping you navigate through these tough experiences towards a path of recovery. If you or someone you know is struggling after a traumatic event, reaching out to our specialists can be a transformative step.


Trauma-related disorders arise from highly stressful or life-threatening events. These include:
-
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Often triggered by severe incidents such as accidents, assaults, or natural disasters, PTSD can disrupt sleep, concentration, and daily functioning. It affects approximately 8 million American adults each year and is not limited to military personnel.
-
Acute Stress Disorder (ASD): This condition appears shortly after a traumatic event and lasts from three days up to one month. If symptoms persist, it may develop into PTSD.
-
Adjustment Disorders: Triggered by major life stressors like divorce, job loss, or the death of a loved one, symptoms of adjustment disorders include sadness, withdrawal, sleep disturbances, and difficulty concentrating, which can significantly impair daily functioning.
Understanding Trauma-Related Disorders
Symptoms of Trauma & PTSD in Maryland and Washington, D.C
Re-Experiencing Symptoms
Flashbacks, nightmares, and unwanted memories that vividly recall the trauma.
Hyperarousal Symptoms
Increased startle response, irritability, difficulty sleeping, and anger outbursts.
Avoidance Symptoms
Avoiding reminders of the trauma, including places, people, and related activities.
Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood
Feelings of detachment, persistent negative thoughts about oneself or the world, and diminished interest in previously enjoyed activities.
Symptoms of PTSD and other trauma-related disorders can manifest in several ways:
What Causes PTSD
PTSD can result from various traumatic experiences:
-
Violent personal assaults, such as physical or sexual abuse.
-
Serious accidents or natural disasters.
-
Experiences of war, terrorism, or other mass violence.
-
Significant life changes such as a difficult childbirth or unexpected death of a loved one.
-
Chronic exposure to stressful conditions or violence, often related to certain professions.
Trauma Treatment in Maryland and Washington, D.C
Managing trauma-related disorders involves a combination of therapies and possibly medication:
-
Therapeutic Approaches:
-
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps modify the negative thought patterns and behaviors resulting from trauma.
-
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Aids in diminishing the distress associated with traumatic memories through specific eye movements.
-
-
Medication: Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can be prescribed to manage symptoms, under careful medical supervision.