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PTSD Treatment for Veterans

Post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event.

Its effects may continue long after the event itself, influencing how a person feels, responds to stress, and navigates everyday life.

PTSD can affect people differently. Some veterans experience recurring memories or nightmares, while others find themselves avoiding reminders of past events or feeling constantly on guard.

Common symptoms may include:

  • Intrusive memories: Unwanted recollections, nightmares, or flashbacks.
  • Avoidance: Staying away from people, places, or situations associated with the trauma.
  • Changes in mood and thinking: Persistent guilt, fear, detachment, or reduced interest in activities.
  • Heightened alertness: Feeling easily startled, irritable, or constantly watchful.

For veterans, experiences during military service may be one part of a broader personal history that could trigger PTSD.

Each person's experience is different, and treatment should reflect their individual circumstances rather than assume that everyone responds to trauma in the same way.

How Common Is PTSD Among Veterans?

According to the VA’s National Center for PTSD, PTSD is slightly more common among veterans than civilians, and more common among female veterans (13%) than male veterans (6%).

Therapies and Clinical Support

PTSD and trauma treatment may involve several forms of clinical support, depending on individual needs and the recommended treatment plan.

Individual Therapy

Individual therapy provides a private setting to discuss personal concerns, work through emotional challenges, and develop coping strategies with a mental health professional.

Learn more about individual therapy

Trauma-Focused Therapy

Trauma-focused therapy addresses the emotional and psychological effects of traumatic experiences. It can help veterans understand trauma-related responses, develop coping strategies, and work toward improved daily functioning.

Learn more about trauma-focused therapy

Group Therapy

Group therapy provides a structured therapeutic environment where participants can build coping skills, explore shared concerns, and learn with professional guidance.

Learn more about group therapy

Psychiatric and Medical Services

Psychiatric and medical services may help assess treatment needs and provide appropriate clinical oversight as part of an individualized care plan.

Learn more about Medical Services

PTSD and Substance Use

Some veterans experience substance use concerns alongside PTSD or other mental health conditions.

When these concerns occur together, it is important to consider how they may affect one another during treatment.

NuView provides outpatient treatment for mental health and substance use concerns, with recommendations guided by individual needs and clinical assessment.

Learn more about dual diagnosis treatment

Other Mental Health Conditions

PTSD can occur alongside other mental health concerns, including depression and anxiety. Most common ones are:

Depression

Persistent low mood, loss of interest, or feelings of hopelessness.

Anxiety disorders

Excessive worry, fear, or difficulty managing stress.

Sleep difficulties

Trouble falling or staying asleep, including recurring nightmares.

These conditions may affect motivation, relationships, concentration, and the ability to manage daily responsibilities.

Recognizing related concerns during assessment helps inform a treatment plan that reflects the person's overall needs rather than focusing on a single diagnosis in isolation.

Levels of Care for Veterans With PTSD

NuView offers structured outpatient programs for adults who need mental health or substance use treatment.

Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

Our Partial Hospitalization Program provides a structured, intensive level of outpatient treatment for individuals who need substantial clinical support without 24-hour residential care.

Learn more about Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)

Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

Our Intensive Outpatient Program provides structured treatment with a less intensive schedule than PHP, allowing greater flexibility for daily responsibilities.

Learn more about Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)

Telehealth Treatment

For eligible California residents, virtual sessions are available for added flexibility and accessibility.

Learn more about Telehealth Treatment

Using VA Community Care or TRICARE Benefits

NuView is in network with TriWest for VA Community Care and with TRICARE West Region. The VA decides eligibility and approves VA Community Care referrals, and TRICARE requirements depend on your plan.

Our admissions team can help verify benefits and clarify the requirements that may apply before treatment begins.

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Aftercare and Ongoing Support

Moving forward after a structured treatment program can bring its own challenges. Having a plan for what comes next can help veterans feel more prepared to manage daily responsibilities and continue working toward their goals.

Discharge planning can include identifying ongoing care needs, exploring community resources, and coordinating with VA or other healthcare providers when appropriate and authorized.

The next steps will depend on each person's circumstances, support system, and treatment recommendations.

Continuing care is not something you have to figure out all at once. Having clear follow-up plans and knowing where to turn for support can make the transition feel more manageable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Treatment length varies based on individual needs, clinical recommendations, and progress.

IOP generally involves fewer treatment hours than PHP, which may offer greater flexibility around work and other responsibilities. The actual schedule and suitability depend on the program and individual treatment needs.

Medication may be considered as part of care when clinically appropriate. Recommendations depend on an individual's needs and assessment. Medication is not necessarily part of every treatment plan.

Patient information is handled according to applicable privacy laws and requirements. Information sharing with the VA or other parties depends on the circumstances, applicable authorizations, and legal requirements. Ask admissions how these requirements apply to your situation.

Yes. The VA decides eligibility and approves Community Care referrals, and TRICARE requirements depend on your plan. See VA Community Care at NuView and TRICARE coverage.

Explore PTSD Treatment at NuView

If trauma-related symptoms are affecting your daily life, NuView Treatment Center offers outpatient treatment options for veterans in Los Angeles.

Our admissions team can answer your questions, explain the assessment process, and help you understand what to expect as you consider treatment.

You don't need to have everything figured out before reaching out.

A conversation with our team can help you explore your options and decide on a next step that feels right for you.

This content has been reviewed and edited in accordance with our editorial policy. Read our editorial policy