PTSD Treatment in Texas - DFW, Houston, Austin and Beyond

What medications are FDA-approved for PTSD?

Sertraline (Zoloft) and paroxetine (Paxil) are the only FDA-approved medications for PTSD. VA and DoD clinical guidelines also support venlafaxine as an effective option. Prazosin is widely used for PTSD nightmares. Benzodiazepines are not recommended for PTSD treatment.

How is PTSD different from normal stress after trauma?

Stress responses after trauma are normal and typically resolve within days to weeks. PTSD is diagnosed when symptoms persist for more than one month and cause significant functional impairment. The key distinction is duration, severity, and the presence of all four symptom clusters: re-experiencing, avoidance, negative mood and cognitions, and hyperarousal. APA's DSM-5 criteria define the diagnostic threshold.

Can PTSD be treated via telehealth in Texas?

Yes. Lyte Psychiatry provides HIPAA-compliant telehealth for PTSD evaluation and medication management to all Texas and New Mexico residents. Telehealth is often preferred by PTSD patients because it can feel safer than traveling to an unfamiliar clinic.

Does Lyte Psychiatry treat sexual trauma and assault survivors?

Yes. We treat survivors of all types of trauma including sexual assault, childhood abuse, and domestic violence. Trauma-informed care is built into how we conduct evaluations and how we communicate. You will never be required to describe your trauma in detail during a medication management visit.

How common is PTSD in women?

NIMH estimates that PTSD is about twice as common in women as in men, affecting approximately 10% of women during their lifetime compared to 4% of men. This is partly because women are at higher risk for sexual trauma, which is one of the most potent predictors of PTSD development.

What is the difference between PTSD and complex PTSD?

Complex PTSD (C-PTSD) describes the impact of prolonged, repeated trauma rather than a single event. It is characterized by the core PTSD symptoms plus significant disturbances in self-perception, difficulty with relationships, and alterations in consciousness. It is most commonly seen in survivors of childhood abuse, domestic violence, and trafficking. C-PTSD requires longer-term treatment but responds to many of the same interventions as classic PTSD.

Can PTSD co-occur with depression or substance use?

SAMHSA data indicate that PTSD frequently co-occurs with major depression (up to 50% of cases) and alcohol or substance use disorders. Treating PTSD without addressing co-occurring conditions leads to poorer outcomes. Lyte Psychiatry screens for all co-occurring conditions at the initial evaluation.

Is insurance coverage available for PTSD treatment?

Yes. PTSD treatment is covered by all major insurance plans under mental health parity laws. Lyte Psychiatry accepts BlueCross BlueShield, UnitedHealthcare, Cigna, Humana, Ambetter, and Magellan Health. Most patients pay $0-$30 per session after insurance. See all insurance plans we accept →