INTEGRATIVE PTSD Treatment in Jacksonville | Vijapura Psychiatry
COMPREHENSIVE CARE for POST-TRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER (PTSD)
At Vijapura Psychiatry, we specialize in providing compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals living with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Our practice is rooted in trauma-informed care, ensuring every aspect of treatment is tailored to promote healing, resilience, and empowerment.
Guided by Dr. Sagar Vijapura, who brings extensive experience working with Veterans at one of the largest VA Medical Centers in the country, our approach offers deep expertise in treating PTSD across diverse populations and traumas.
Understanding PTSD
PTSD is a common mental health condition, affecting approximately 6% of the U.S. population at some point in their lives—this translates to nearly 12 million adults annually. It often develops after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event, such as combat, assault, natural disasters, or accidents. However, trauma is a universal human experience, and PTSD is not limited to those who have survived extreme events like war or assault. Chronic childhood trauma, including emotional neglect, instability, or repeated adversity, can significantly increase the risk of developing PTSD by shaping the brain’s stress response and emotional regulation over time.
Without treatment, PTSD can profoundly affect emotional, cognitive, and physical health, disrupting daily life and relationships.
Symptoms of PTSD
Intrusion Symptoms:
Recurrent, intrusive memories or flashbacks of the trauma.
Distressing dreams or nightmares.
Intense emotional or physical reactions to reminders of the event.
Avoidance Symptoms:
Avoiding thoughts, feelings, or conversations about the trauma.
Steering clear of places, people, or activities that trigger memories.
Negative Changes in Mood and Cognition:
Persistent negative thoughts or beliefs about oneself or the world.
Feelings of detachment or isolation.
Difficulty experiencing positive emotions.
Hyperarousal Symptoms:
Heightened startle response or hypervigilance.
Irritability, anger, or difficulty concentrating.
Sleep disturbances.
Recognizing that trauma exists on a spectrum allows for a more inclusive understanding of PTSD. Even seemingly “minor” or prolonged stressors—such as childhood emotional neglect, ongoing interpersonal conflict, or workplace trauma—can have lasting effects. By acknowledging and treating these experiences, healing becomes possible, regardless of the source of trauma.
THE IMPACT of PTSD
How Common Is It?
Veterans: PTSD affects approximately 11-20% of Veterans who served in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.
Women: Women are twice as likely as men to develop PTSD, with rates of up to 10-12%.
Trauma Survivors: Nearly 1 in 3 people exposed to trauma will develop PTSD.
Ripple Effects:
Emotional: Chronic anxiety, depression, and difficulties in relationships are common.
Physical: Increased risk of hypertension, chronic pain, and immune system dysregulation.
Economic: Untreated PTSD contributes to lost productivity, healthcare costs, and strain on support systems.
Timely and effective treatment can help mitigate these effects and foster a path to healing.
Our HOLISTIC APPROACH TREATMENT PHILOSOPHY
At Vijapura Psychiatry, we approach PTSD treatment with compassion and a focus on the whole person. Each treatment plan is customized to address your unique experiences, symptoms, and goals, prioritizing both immediate relief and long-term recovery.
Trauma-Informed Care
Dr. Sagar Vijapura’s extensive experience working with Veterans provides him with a unique perspective on treating PTSD. His team emphasizes respect, empathy, and understanding, creating a safe, supportive environment for healing. Whether you’re a Veteran or have experienced other types of trauma, we ensure care is tailored to your needs.
Expertise in Medication Management
We specialize in the precise selection and titration of medications, such as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) or other evidence-based treatments.
Medications are used to stabilize symptoms, such as anxiety or intrusive thoughts, enabling meaningful engagement in therapy.
Evidence-Based Psychotherapy
While we incorporate many principles of trauma therapy in our care, we also refer patients to trauma therapists specializing in the following proven modalities:
Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT): Helps reframe negative thoughts related to trauma.
Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE): Gradually reduces fear and avoidance through safe exposure to trauma-related memories or triggers.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Assists in processing traumatic memories to reduce emotional distress.
Mind-Body Interventions
To complement traditional treatments, we offer mind-body techniques that promote physical and emotional well-being:
Yoga and Gentle Movement: Supports physical and emotional balance.
Mindfulness Meditation: Enhances awareness, emotional regulation, and stress reduction.
Breathwork: Helps calm the nervous system and reduce anxiety.
Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Alleviates physical tension associated with trauma.
Nutritional Psychiatry and Nutriceuticals
The connection between diet and mental health is significant, particularly for individuals recovering from trauma. When appropriate, we recommend:
Supplements: Options that support stress management, such as magnesium or omega-3 fatty acids.
Nutrition Plans: Diets rich in nutrients that promote resilience and mental well-being.
Lifestyle Modifications
Healing from PTSD often requires holistic lifestyle changes, including:
Exercise: Proven to reduce stress and improve mood through endorphin release.
Mindfulness Practices: Meditation, yoga, and other relaxation techniques to enhance emotional regulation.
Sleep Hygiene: Developing healthy sleep habits to address common sleep disturbances in PTSD.
COLLABORATIVE and COORDINATED CARE
Effective PTSD treatment requires collaboration. At Vijapura Psychiatry, we:
Work closely with your primary care physician, therapist, and other healthcare providers.
Regularly evaluate your progress to refine your treatment plan.
Ensure that you are empowered and supported every step of the way.
Steps in Our Process:
Comprehensive Evaluation: Understanding your trauma history, symptoms, and goals.
Personalized Treatment Plan: Developing a plan that includes medication, therapy, nutraceuticals, and lifestyle changes.
Ongoing Collaboration: Regular follow-ups to adjust your treatment as needed.
Care Coordination: Partnering with your broader healthcare team for seamless support.
Why Choose VIJAPURA PSYCHIATRY
Extensive Expertise
Decades of experience in treating PTSD, particularly in Veterans and trauma survivors.
Holistic Approach
Integration of medication, therapy, nutraceuticals, and lifestyle changes.
Trauma-Informed Philosophy
Ensuring care is respectful, safe, and empowering.
Collaborative Care
Personalized plans developed in partnership with you and your care team.
Take the First Step Toward Healing
PTSD does not have to define your life. At Vijapura Psychiatry, we are here to support you on your journey to recovery with expert, compassionate care.
Ready to begin your journey?
Complete our New Patient Form, and our office will contact you within 24-48 hours to schedule your first appointment.
Together, we’ll create a path toward hope, healing, and a brighter future.
