Founder
Dr. Roland Segal is a leading psychiatrist with extensive experience and is the Managing Partner and MD Psychiatrist at Legacy Recovery Center. After earning his medical degree from the University of Arizona, College of Medicine, he completed general psychiatry training at Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center in Phoenix, Arizona, and advanced his expertise through a forensic psychiatry fellowship at USC’s Keck School of Medicine.
With over a decade of diverse experience in clinical, administrative, and forensic psychiatry, Dr. Segal is double board-certified in General and Forensic Psychiatry. His previous roles include Chief Medical Officer at Valley Hospital in Phoenix, Arizona, and president of the Arizona Psychiatric Society. He has also served as the legislative committee chair and contributed to numerous state and national boards, committees, and organizations. Additionally, Dr. Segal teaches as a clinical assistant professor of psychiatry at the University of Arizona, College of Medicine, mentoring medical students and residents.
Dr. Segal acts as an expert psychiatry consultant for multiple superior and regional courts, including those in Maricopa and Yuma counties, Salt River, as well as city governments like Phoenix, Lake Havasu, and Mesa. He also consults for prominent organizations such as the United States Postal Service, Social Security Administration, Immigration Health Services, and the U.S. Departments of Justice and Homeland Security.
Guided by principles of objectivity, ethics, mindfulness, and cultural awareness, Dr. Segal remains dedicated to providing compassionate, inclusive psychiatric care, impacting lives across Arizona and beyond.
Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, is a serious mental health condition that can develop after someone experiences or witnesses a traumatic event. Understanding how to treat PTSD is the first step toward healing, whether the trauma stems from combat, abuse, an accident, or another life-altering experience. While the symptoms can feel overwhelming, the good news is that effective treatments are available. With the right support, therapy, and coping tools, people living with PTSD can recover and rebuild a more peaceful life.
What PTSD Looks Like
PTSD symptoms can appear days, weeks, or even years after a traumatic event. These symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, and intrusive thoughts that make it hard to focus or feel safe. Many people avoid anything that reminds them of the trauma. Others may become easily startled, irritable, or emotionally distant.
If you are unsure whether you or someone you care about may be experiencing PTSD, this guide on the signs of PTSD offers a helpful breakdown of what to look for. For a more in-depth overview of how PTSD symptoms affect daily life, you can also review the article on PTSD symptoms and how to find relief.
The Best Ways to Treat PTSD
Treating PTSD typically involves a combination of professional therapy, medication, and supportive care. No single approach works for everyone, but most people respond well to a structured and personalized treatment plan.
Talk Therapy
Psychotherapy is often the first step in treating PTSD. Cognitive Processing Therapy, or CPT, helps people change unhelpful thoughts linked to their trauma. Prolonged Exposure Therapy encourages individuals to gradually face their memories in a controlled, safe environment so they can reduce their emotional reaction over time.
At Legacy Recovery Center, PTSD treatment is guided by licensed professionals who personalize each plan to the client’s needs. Therapy sessions take place in a calming, residential setting that allows clients to focus fully on recovery.
EMDR Therapy
Another highly effective form of therapy is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, or EMDR. This approach helps the brain process traumatic memories through guided eye movements. EMDR is especially helpful for people who find it difficult to talk about their trauma in detail but still want to reduce their emotional pain.
Medication
In some cases, medication can be an important part of treatment. Doctors may prescribe antidepressants or sleep aids to help manage symptoms like anxiety, depression, or nightmares. Below is a summary of common options:
| Medication Type | Purpose | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| SSRIs | Reduce anxiety and depression | Sertraline, Paroxetine |
| SNRIs | Regulate mood | Venlafaxine |
| Prazosin | Lessen trauma-related nightmares | Used off-label |
Medication is not always necessary, but for some people it can make therapy more effective by stabilizing mood and improving focus.
Please note: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a licensed medical professional before starting or changing any medication.
Lifestyle Choices That Support Recovery
Alongside professional treatment, healthy habits can support recovery. Regular exercise helps the body release stress and regulate emotions. Many people with PTSD benefit from walking, swimming, or yoga.
Getting enough rest is also important. Sleep can be difficult when dealing with PTSD, but following a bedtime routine and avoiding caffeine late in the day can improve sleep quality.
Mindfulness techniques, such as breathing exercises and meditation, help ground the mind in the present moment. Apps like Calm and Headspace offer guided sessions specifically designed to reduce anxiety and support emotional healing.
Complementary and Creative Therapies
Many people explore creative or holistic approaches to complement their primary treatment. Art and music therapy allow individuals to express emotions that may be hard to put into words. Animal-assisted therapy, including equine programs, has also shown positive effects in emotional regulation and stress relief.
While these therapies are not replacements for evidence-based treatment, they can be powerful tools for self-discovery and emotional expression.
PTSD and Substance Use
It is common for individuals with PTSD to use drugs or alcohol as a way to cope. Unfortunately, substance use often makes symptoms worse and can lead to addiction. When this happens, both conditions must be treated together to be effective.
Our article on PTSD and substance abuse explores how trauma and addiction are connected and why integrated treatment is so essential.
How to Help Someone Living with PTSD
If someone you care about has PTSD, you may feel unsure about how to support them. Listening without judgment, being patient, and encouraging them to seek help are some of the best things you can do.
Avoid pushing them to talk if they are not ready. Instead, let them know that you are there for them whenever they need support. Learn more about how to support a loved one in our article on helping someone with PTSD.
Breaking Down PTSD Myths
Many people hold misconceptions about PTSD. One common myth is that only military veterans experience it. In reality, anyone who goes through trauma can develop PTSD, including survivors of abuse, accidents, or natural disasters.
Another myth is that PTSD cannot be treated. This is false. Many people recover fully or find long-term symptom relief with the right care. To explore more myths and facts, visit our article on PTSD misconceptions and realities.
When to Seek Help
If symptoms have lasted more than a month or are affecting your ability to work, sleep, or maintain relationships, it is time to reach out. You do not need to wait until things get worse. Early treatment makes a big difference in recovery outcomes.
Legacy Recovery Center offers compassionate and comprehensive PTSD treatment in a peaceful residential setting. If you are ready to begin your healing journey, our PTSD program can help.
If you are in crisis, call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline or visit their website for immediate help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can PTSD go away without treatment?
For some people, symptoms may improve with time, but most benefit from professional care. Treatment helps individuals process trauma safely and build long-term coping skills.
How long does PTSD treatment take?
It depends on the person and the severity of their symptoms. Some people feel better in a few months, while others may need longer-term care.
Is therapy or medication better for PTSD?
Both can be effective. Some people do well with therapy alone, while others find a combination of medication and therapy works best.
Can PTSD be treated at home?
Self-care and support from loved ones can help, but professional treatment is recommended for the best results.
What happens if PTSD is not treated?
Without treatment, PTSD symptoms may worsen over time. This can lead to depression, substance use, and problems with work or relationships.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to treat PTSD begins with understanding and compassion. Whether you are seeking help for yourself or someone else, know that healing is possible. With the right support, therapy, and lifestyle changes, many people find relief and regain control of their lives.
At Legacy Recovery Center, we are here to guide you every step of the way. Explore our PTSD treatment options or reach out to speak with a member of our team today.
External Resources
- National Institute of Mental Health – PTSD
- Department of Veterans Affairs – PTSD Treatment
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
- 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
