Virtual Psychotherapy for Trauma & PTSD in New York

Moving Forward: Beyond the Past and Its Memories

Trauma and PTSD can leave you feeling stuck in the past, overwhelmed by memories, or constantly on edge. These reactions are your mind’s way of trying to protect you, but they don’t have to define your future. At Phronetic Psychotherapy New York, we’re here to help you process your experiences and reclaim your sense of safety and control.

Through our compassionate and personalized approach, we’ll work together to heal from trauma and build resilience. You don’t have to navigate this alone—let’s move forward, together.

We accept most major commercial insurance plans, including Aetna, Wellfleet, Cigna, United Healthcare, Oxford, Oscar Health, Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Carelon Behavioral Health, for residents of New York.

Now Open: Low-Fee Clinic!

Now Open: Low-Fee Clinic!

Understanding Trauma and PTSD: An Evidence-based Approach

Definitions, Differences, and How to Recognize the Signs

What is Trauma in Clinical Psychotherapy?

In clinical psychotherapy, trauma is defined as an emotional and psychological response to an extremely distressing or disturbing event. Trauma can result from a single incident, such as an accident or assault, or from prolonged exposure to stressful situations, like childhood neglect or domestic abuse. The American Psychological Association (APA) describes trauma as an experience that overwhelms an individual’s ability to cope, leaving them feeling helpless and emotionally distressed.

Types of Trauma:

  1. Acute Trauma – Results from a single event, such as a car accident, natural disaster, or violent assault.

  2. Chronic Trauma – Develops from repeated exposure to distressing events, such as ongoing abuse or long-term illness.

  3. Complex Trauma – Stems from exposure to multiple traumatic events, often in childhood, which affects overall emotional development.

  4. Secondary or Vicarious Trauma – Occurs when individuals, such as caregivers or first responders, absorb the trauma of others through prolonged exposure to their stories and experiences.

How Trauma Affects the Mind and Body

Trauma can lead to immediate shock and emotional dysregulation, but long-term effects may manifest in various ways, including:

  • Hypervigilance (constant alertness to danger)

  • Emotional numbness or detachment

  • Avoidance of reminders of the event

  • Difficulty trusting others

  • Chronic stress and anxiety

  • Flashbacks or intrusive thoughts

While trauma itself is a distressing experience, not everyone who experiences trauma develops PTSD. The difference between trauma and PTSD lies in the persistence and severity of symptoms.

What is PTSD?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that develops when an individual fails to recover from trauma, leading to prolonged distress and impairment in daily life. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), PTSD is characterized by four main symptom clusters:

  1. Intrusive Thoughts – Recurring distressing memories, nightmares, or flashbacks of the traumatic event.

  2. Avoidance – Efforts to avoid thoughts, feelings, people, or places associated with the trauma.

  3. Negative Changes in Thinking and Mood – Persistent negative emotions, distorted thoughts about oneself or others, and feelings of detachment or alienation.

  4. Hyperarousal – Increased irritability, difficulty sleeping, heightened startle response, and difficulty concentrating.

To be diagnosed with PTSD, these symptoms must persist for more than one month and significantly disrupt daily life, including work, relationships, and personal well-being.

Trauma vs. PTSD: What’s the Difference and Connection?

While trauma refers to the distressing experience itself, PTSD is a clinical diagnosis that arises when the effects of trauma persist and cause significant psychological impairment.

Trauma is an immediate and natural response to a distressing event, whereas PTSD develops when symptoms persist beyond the initial shock and interfere with daily life. Trauma may cause temporary emotional distress, including sadness, fear, or numbness, but these reactions often fade over time with support and coping mechanisms. PTSD, on the other hand, involves a prolonged struggle with intrusive thoughts, avoidance behaviors, and heightened emotional responses that can make daily functioning difficult. Essentially, all PTSD originates from trauma, but not all trauma results in PTSD. The connection between the two depends on factors such as the severity and duration of the traumatic event, individual resilience, and available support systems.

The Connection Between Trauma and PTSD

Not everyone who experiences trauma develops PTSD, but certain factors increase the risk, including:

  • Severity and duration of trauma – More intense or prolonged exposure increases the likelihood.

  • Preexisting mental health conditions – Anxiety, depression, or past trauma history may contribute.

  • Lack of social support – A strong support system can be a protective factor.

  • Neurobiological factors – Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to PTSD.

How Do I Know If I Am Struggling With Trauma or PTSD?

If you have experienced trauma and are wondering whether you have PTSD, consider the following questions:

  1. Do you frequently relive distressing memories through flashbacks or nightmares?

  2. Do you avoid places, people, or situations that remind you of the trauma?

  3. Do you feel emotionally numb or disconnected from others?

  4. Do you experience constant anxiety, irritability, or difficulty sleeping?

  5. Has your ability to function in daily life significantly declined since the traumatic event?

If you answered “yes” to several of these questions, it may be beneficial to seek a mental health professional for assessment and support.

Do these experiences resonate with you?

Depression takes many forms—observe with your eyes, connect with your heart, and trust your intuition.

  • You have tried your best to move forward. You blocked them. You moved. You changed your job. Hell, you even changed your name and left town. However, your memory is not something you can simply erase—it comes back at the worst moments. You were just trying to relax on a Friday night, watching a movie, when suddenly, your memory hit you like a scene from a horror film.

  • You are not the same person since the car accident. Unfortunately, you have to drive to and from work every day, but this 20-minute trip now feels like torture. Being on the road makes your hands cold, your heart race, and your muscles freeze. You know there’s no way out except to keep pushing through—but you feel like you just can’t.

  • Congratulations, they say—you survived cancer! Five years after chemo, you feel like you should be living the dreamy life they talk about on TV—cherishing every moment, understanding the preciousness of life, and making the most of every day.

    But that’s not how you feel.

    Instead, you’re terrified—terrified of the cancer coming back, of the weakness, the nausea, the "I’d rather be dead" pain. The fear grips you so tightly that you can’t move past it to enjoy your life. You should be happy, but you’re not.

    You’re angry. So incredibly angry.

  • You are not the domestic violence victim yourself—you are her psychotherapist. You are in a safe place, with a loving and supportive partner. But listening to her story is becoming unbearable day after day. You feel that this constant exposure is starting to affect you deeply, leaving an emotional impact that is hard to shake.

  • You went to your doctor, and they cleared you, saying your bloodwork is perfect. But you still have chronic low energy—you’re so exhausted that you could sleep for 20 hours a day. You have stomach pain, and you can’t eat more than one banana—and even that feels like a huge battle. What’s going on!?

  • You might be a new mom or a professional in your first year in the field. You're struggling deeply, and nothing seems to be working anymore. You constantly search online for "When does it get easier?" but never find anything substantial. It feels like nothing—and no one—can help you.

What Can Happen if Trauma & PTSD Goes Untreated?

Trauma is an emotional and psychological response to deeply distressing events, such as accidents, abuse, or natural disasters. While some individuals recover over time with support, others develop Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), a chronic mental health condition that disrupts daily life.

When trauma and PTSD go untreated, they can lead to severe and long-lasting consequences that impact both mental and physical well-being. Here’s what research and clinical evidence reveal about the potential risks of leaving trauma and PTSD unaddressed.

Increased Risk of Mental Health Disorders

1. Chronic Anxiety and Depression

Untreated trauma and PTSD often lead to generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and major depressive disorder (MDD). Individuals may experience persistent worry, emotional numbness, or feelings of hopelessness. Studies show that PTSD significantly increases the risk of co-occurring depression, further impairing emotional well-being.

(Source: National Institute of Mental Health, American Psychological Association)

2. Substance Abuse and Addiction

Many people with untreated PTSD turn to alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications to cope with overwhelming emotions. Self-medicating may provide temporary relief but ultimately worsens symptoms, leading to dependency and addiction.

(Source: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Journal of Traumatic Stress)

3. Increased Risk of Suicide

PTSD is strongly linked to suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Research indicates that individuals with untreated PTSD have a higher risk of attempting suicide, especially veterans and survivors of sexual assault.

(Source: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, World Health Organization)

Physical Health Consequences

4. Heart Disease and High Blood Pressure

PTSD and trauma can put the body in a prolonged state of stress, increasing levels of cortisol (the stress hormone). Chronic stress contributes to high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke due to increased inflammation and poor lifestyle habits such as smoking or inactivity.

(Source: American Heart Association, Harvard Medical School)

5. Chronic Pain and Autoimmune Disorders

People with untreated PTSD often report chronic pain conditions, including migraines, fibromyalgia, and joint pain. PTSD alters the nervous system’s response to pain, making individuals more sensitive to discomfort. Additionally, prolonged stress can weaken the immune system, making individuals more prone to autoimmune disorders.

(Source: National Institute of Neurological Disorders, Mayo Clinic)

6. Gastrointestinal Problems

Stress and trauma have a direct impact on gut health, leading to issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), acid reflux, and ulcers. Many individuals with PTSD experience frequent nausea, stomach pain, or digestive disturbances.

(Source: American Gastroenterological Association, Johns Hopkins Medicine)

Social and Interpersonal Effects

7. Relationship Struggles and Isolation

Untreated PTSD often results in difficulty maintaining healthy relationships. Individuals may struggle with emotional intimacy, experience trust issues, or withdraw from loved ones. This can lead to social isolation and loneliness, further exacerbating mental health problems.

(Source: Journal of Anxiety Disorders, National Alliance on Mental Illness)

8. Work and Financial Instability

PTSD symptoms, such as difficulty concentrating, emotional dysregulation, and chronic fatigue, can affect job performance. Many individuals with untreated trauma face employment instability, which can lead to financial hardship and increased stress.

(Source: Occupational Health Psychology Journal, American Psychiatric Association)

Why Seeking Treatment is Crucial

The long-term effects of untreated trauma and PTSD can be devastating, but professional treatment can help individuals regain control over their lives. Evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and medication management have been proven to significantly reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.

If you or someone you know is struggling with unresolved trauma or PTSD, seeking therapy is a vital step toward healing. Recovery is possible with the right support, and at Phronetic Psychotherapy NY, we provide compassionate, evidence-based care to help individuals regain stability and well-being.

The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now.

Whether you’re seeking a therapist in NYC, guidance through life transitions, culturally informed therapy for Asians, or a way to boost your overall well-being by harnessing your strengths and potential, Phronetic Psychotherapy NY is ready to assist you.

We’ve made starting your journey with us easy, straightforward, and hassle-free.

Schedule a 15-minute Free Consultation

Easily Schedule Your Free 15-Minute Consultation, Here.

Attend Your Free 15-minute Initial Consultation

Our intake specialist will contact you via text and email to assist with verifying your insurance or exploring self-pay and low-fee therapy options. You’ll also speak with your potential psychotherapist over the phone to determine if it’s a good fit.

Start Sessions With Your Therapist

You’ll meet with the therapist of your choice through our secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform to begin the transformative and empowering journey of self-discovery and meaningful change.

How Our Therapists at Phronetic Psychotherapy NY Can Help with Trauma & PTSD: An Evidence-Based Guide

Trauma and PTSD can have a profound impact on mental health, affecting millions of people worldwide. Unlike temporary stress or emotional distress, trauma-related symptoms can persist and interfere with daily life, relationships, and overall well-being. If you’re struggling with trauma or PTSD, therapy is a highly effective treatment that can provide long-term relief.

At Phronetic Psychotherapy NY, our experienced therapists use evidence-based approaches to help you process, manage, and heal from trauma. Here’s how therapy can support your journey toward recovery.

Understanding Trauma and PTSD

What is Trauma?

Trauma is an emotional and psychological response to distressing events that exceed an individual’s ability to cope. It can result from a single incident, such as a car accident or assault, or chronic exposure to adverse experiences like childhood neglect or domestic violence. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), trauma can cause emotional numbness, heightened anxiety, difficulty trusting others, and flashbacks.

Common Causes of Trauma:

  • Physical or emotional abuse

  • Accidents or natural disasters

  • Loss of a loved one

  • Medical emergencies or serious illness

  • Military combat

What is PTSD?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a clinical condition that develops when an individual struggles to recover from trauma. The DSM-5 identifies PTSD as characterized by four key symptoms:

  1. Intrusive thoughts – Nightmares, flashbacks, or distressing memories.

  2. Avoidance behaviors – Steering clear of reminders of the trauma.

  3. Negative mood changes – Persistent sadness, guilt, or emotional numbness.

  4. Hyperarousal – Heightened anxiety, difficulty sleeping, and irritability.

Not everyone who experiences trauma develops PTSD. However, for those who do, professional therapy is crucial to recovery.

How Trauma and PTSD Are Treated at Phronetic Psychotherapy NY

Our experienced therapists use scientifically supported therapies to help clients process trauma, reduce distress, and regain control over their lives.

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Changing Negative Thought Patterns

CBT is one of the most research-backed treatments for PTSD and trauma-related disorders. Studies show that CBT reduces PTSD symptoms significantly (National Institute of Mental Health, 2022). Our therapists help clients:

  • Identify and challenge negative beliefs stemming from trauma.

  • Develop healthy coping mechanisms.

  • Regain a sense of personal control.

2. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR is a highly effective therapy that helps the brain reprocess traumatic memories, making them less distressing. Research from the Journal of Anxiety Disorders suggests EMDR is as effective as CBT in treating PTSD. This technique involves:

  • Guided eye movements while recalling traumatic memories.

  • Gradual desensitization to distressing thoughts.

  • Reframing traumatic experiences in a healthier way.

3. Trauma-Focused Therapy: Safe and Supportive Healing

Our therapists specialize in Trauma-Informed Care, ensuring that treatment is:

  • Empowering – Helping clients feel safe and in control.

  • Compassionate – Acknowledging trauma’s impact without judgment.

  • Personalized – Tailored to individual experiences and needs.

4. Mindfulness and Grounding Techniques

For those struggling with hyperarousal and emotional dysregulation, mindfulness-based interventions help by:

  • Encouraging present-moment awareness.

  • Teaching relaxation techniques to reduce anxiety.

  • Preventing emotional overwhelm by focusing on bodily sensations.

5. Medication-Assisted Treatment (if needed)

For some individuals, medications like SSRIs (e.g., sertraline or paroxetine) can help manage PTSD symptoms. We work closely with clients and psychiatrists to determine if medication is an appropriate part of their treatment plan.

**We do not have in-house psychiatrists however we provide referrals to psychiatric medication providers.

Signs You May Need Professional Help

If you experience persistent distress related to trauma, professional therapy may be beneficial. Ask yourself:

  • Do I have recurring nightmares or flashbacks?

  • Do I feel detached from my emotions or others?

  • Am I constantly anxious or hyper-alert?

  • Do I avoid places or conversations that remind me of my trauma?

If you answered “yes” to several of these questions, therapy can provide the tools and support to help you heal.

Why Choose Phronetic Psychotherapy NY?

At Phronetic Psychotherapy NY, we provide:

  • Licensed therapists with specialized training in trauma treatment.

  • A compassionate and evidence-based approach.

  • Flexible therapy options, including same-day and telehealth sessions.

Healing from trauma and PTSD is possible. If you're ready to take the next step, contact us today to begin your recovery journey.

Our Therapists

We’re proud to offer not only high-quality therapy, but also a simple, stress-free process to get started with us.

We understand that taking the first step toward change can feel overwhelming, and that's okay. We're here to support you every step of the way.

While you focus on the important work of personal growth and transformation, let us take care of the rest—whether it’s scheduling your appointments or handling insurance details. You’re not alone in this journey, and we’re here to make the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Start Trauma & PTSD Therapy in NY Today,

with a Caring Therapist Who Understands You and Accepts Your Insurance

Immediately Accessible

You can start your first session with Phronetic Psychotherapy in as little as 24 hours—we're here when you need us!

Flexible Scheduling

You can attend therapy from the comfort of your home, at a time that works best for you, any day of the week, Monday through Sunday, 9 AM to 9 PM. Morning, afternoon, evening—your call.

Insurance Friendly

We accept most major commercial insurance plans, including Aetna, Wellfleet, Cigna, United Healthcare, Oxford, Oscar Health, Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Carelon Behavioral Health, for residents of New York.

You are bright and full of potential, but perhaps you’re unsure about what you truly want from life. You may feel sad, lonely, angry at times, and often without love. You’re not alone. We understand your desire to thrive—in your career, school, or professional life—and we also understand the fear that things might never change. But change is possible, and we are here to help.

At Phronetic Psychotherapy New York NY, we’ll explore both your past and your present to help you better understand yourself and create meaningful change. Our approach is warm, open-minded, and collaborative, with growth rooted in both our work together and the courage you already hold within yourself.

Attachment

Anxiety & Stress

Depression

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Trauma

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Eating & Body Image

Anger Management

Emotional Wellbeing

Bipolar Disorder

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Same-Day Psychotherapy Appointments Available. We are Ready When You Are.

Receive Therapy At Home

Immediately available, private virtual therapy for New Yorkers—grow and change from the comfort of your own home.

New To Therapy

We guide you through the entire process. Your intake coordinator will assist you in verifying your insurance, explaining your copay and deductible (or breaking down these intimidating terms if they’re unfamiliar), and helping you register. We’ll provide support every step of the way until you feel as comfortable and confident as our other established clients.

Connect With Your Therapist

We will ensure that you work with someone you feel comfortable with and connected to! All of our therapists offer a 15-minute consultation to get to know you, and we make sure it’s a good match before moving forward.

Book a free 15-minute phone consultation.

We’re excited to hear from you! To get started, our intake specialist will schedule a quick 15-minute phone consultation to verify your insurance and match you with the therapist who’s the best fit for your needs.

We’ll respond to all messages within 48 business hours.

If this is an emergency, please call 911 or reach out to a crisis counselor at 1-888-NYC-WELL. We’re here for you!

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To verify your insurance coverage, please email us using the form below. For all other inquiries, we respond within 48 business hours.

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