Living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can make it difficult to manage intrusive memories, regulate anxiety, feel safe in daily life, maintain relationships, and stay focused on present-day responsibilities. At Pillars Health Group, we provide compassionate, evidence-based PTSD treatment that helps adults process traumatic experiences, reduce distressing symptoms, and build healthier coping strategies. Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed or have been struggling with PTSD for years, our experienced team is here to support you in working toward lasting relief and improved daily functioning.
Treating PTSD in Tewksbury & South Portland
PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder) is a mental health condition that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Symptoms may include intrusive memories or flashbacks, nightmares, emotional distress, avoidance of reminders of the trauma, negative changes in mood or thinking, and heightened alertness or reactivity. These symptoms can become overwhelming and interfere with daily routines, relationships, work, and overall quality of life.
At Pillars Health Group, we provide comprehensive outpatient treatment for adults experiencing PTSD. Our clinical team creates individualized treatment plans that combine evidence-based therapy, psychiatric care, medication management when appropriate, and practical coping skills to help individuals reduce symptoms and regain a sense of safety and stability.
Our PTSD treatment program is designed for individuals who:
- Experience intrusive memories, flashbacks, or distressing nightmares
- Avoid people, places, or situations that remind them of trauma
- Struggle with anxiety, hypervigilance, or feeling constantly “on edge”
- Experience emotional numbness, detachment, or difficulty feeling positive emotions
- Have difficulty sleeping or concentrating due to trauma-related symptoms
- Need more support than traditional weekly therapy provides
- Are transitioning from a higher level of care or seeking structured outpatient treatment
Do You Need PTSD Treatment?
Many individuals living with PTSD go undiagnosed or untreated for long periods of time. Symptoms are often mistaken for anxiety, depression, or stress, but targeted treatment can provide the structure and tools needed to process trauma and reduce ongoing distress.
You may benefit from PTSD treatment if you experience:
- Intrusive memories or flashbacks of a traumatic event
- Nightmares or disrupted sleep related to trauma
- Strong emotional or physical reactions to trauma reminders
- Avoidance of thoughts, feelings, or situations connected to trauma
- Persistent feelings of fear, guilt, shame, or sadness
- Difficulty concentrating or feeling present in daily life
- Hypervigilance or being easily startled
- Emotional numbness or disconnection from others
- Irritability, anger, or mood changes
- Feeling “stuck” or unable to move forward after trauma
If these symptoms are persistent and interfering with your daily life, it may be time to seek professional evaluation and treatment.
Types of Trauma-Related Conditions We Treat
At Pillars Health Group, we treat a range of trauma-related and co-occurring conditions, recognizing that each requires a personalized approach to care.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
PTSD involves ongoing symptoms following exposure to trauma, including intrusive memories, avoidance behaviors, negative changes in mood and thinking, and heightened arousal. These symptoms can significantly impact emotional well-being, relationships, and daily functioning.
Complex PTSD (C-PTSD)
Complex PTSD may develop after prolonged or repeated trauma. It often includes PTSD symptoms along with difficulties in emotional regulation, self-perception, and relationships.
Acute Stress Disorder
Acute stress disorder involves trauma-related symptoms that occur shortly after a traumatic event. Early treatment can help reduce the risk of symptoms developing into long-term PTSD.
Other Trauma-Related Conditions
Some individuals experience clinically significant trauma symptoms that do not fully meet criteria for a specific diagnosis but still cause distress and impairment. These symptoms benefit from structured, evidence-based treatment.
PTSD with Co-Occurring Conditions
Many individuals experience PTSD alongside anxiety disorders, depression, substance use disorders, or other mental health conditions. These co-occurring challenges can intensify symptoms, which is why we provide integrated, coordinated care that addresses the full clinical picture.
PTSD Symptoms We Treat
PTSD can present in different ways, but commonly includes emotional symptoms such as fear, sadness, or emotional numbness; cognitive symptoms like intrusive memories or negative beliefs; physical symptoms including tension, sleep disturbance, or hyperarousal; and behavioral symptoms such as avoidance or withdrawal. Many individuals feel caught between re-experiencing the trauma and trying to avoid reminders of it, which can make daily life feel overwhelming.
How Our PTSD Program Works
Every individual’s experience with trauma is unique, which is why treatment begins with a comprehensive clinical assessment.
During your assessment, our team will evaluate:
- Your symptoms
- Trauma history
- Mental health history
- Medical history
- Current functioning
- Treatment goals
- Any co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression, or substance use disorders
Based on your assessment, we’ll recommend the outpatient program that best fits your needs.
Some individuals benefit from our Full-Day Outpatient Treatment Program, while others are appropriate for our Half-Day Outpatient Treatment Program. Throughout care, your treatment plan is regularly reviewed and adjusted based on your progress.
Our Treatment Approach for PTSD
Our multidisciplinary team uses evidence-based approaches designed to help individuals process trauma, reduce symptoms, and improve emotional regulation.
Treatment may include:
Evidence-Based Therapies
Our clinicians utilize therapies supported by research, including trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), cognitive processing therapy (CPT), prolonged exposure therapy (PE), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), mindfulness-based interventions, and distress tolerance skills.
Psychiatry
Our psychiatric providers conduct comprehensive evaluations and work closely with therapists to ensure coordinated, individualized care.
Medication Management
Medication may be helpful for some individuals with PTSD, particularly when symptoms are moderate to severe or include significant anxiety, depression, or sleep disturbance. Our psychiatric providers evaluate options carefully and monitor progress throughout treatment.
Group Therapy
Group therapy provides a supportive environment to build coping skills, reduce isolation, and connect with others who understand trauma-related experiences.
Family Support
When appropriate, family members may participate in education and support services designed to improve understanding, communication, and support at home.
Other Clinical Services
Depending on individual needs, treatment may also include psychoeducation, relapse prevention planning, mindfulness training, grounding techniques, and coordination with outside providers.
Our Levels of Care for PTSD Treatment
Pillars Health Group offers flexible outpatient programs that allow individuals to receive structured treatment while continuing to live at home. During your assessment, our admissions team will recommend the level of care that best fits your needs.
Full-Day Outpatient Treatment (PHP)
Our Full-Day Outpatient Treatment Program (Partial Hospitalization Program) provides several hours of structured treatment each day, up to five days per week. This level of care is ideal for individuals who need intensive support without inpatient hospitalization.
Example of Full-Day Schedule for PTSD Treatment
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 09:00 am | Check-In and Goal Setting |
| 09:45 am | Trauma-Focused Group Therapy (CBT/CPT) |
| 10:45 am | Skills Group (Grounding & Emotional Regulation) |
| 12:30 pm | Lunch Break |
| 01:00 pm | Journaling |
| 01:30 pm | Psychoeducation, Clinical Skills Development |
| 02:45 pm | Wrap-Up |
| 03:30 pm | Check-Out |
Half-Day Outpatient Treatment (IOP)
Our Half-Day Outpatient Treatment Program (Intensive Outpatient Program) provides structured care while allowing individuals to maintain work, school, or family responsibilities. Sessions typically occur three to five days per week depending on clinical needs.
Example of Half-Day Schedule for PTSD Treatment
Morning Program
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 09:00 am | Check-In and Goal Setting |
| 09:45 am | Group Trauma Therapy / CBT Skills |
| 10:45 am | Coping Skills Group (Grounding & Regulation) |
| 12:30 pm | Check-Out |
Evening Program
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 05:30 pm | Check-In and Goal Setting |
| 06:30 pm | Group Therapy / Trauma Skills |
| 07:30 pm | Emotional Regulation Group |
| 09:00 pm | Check-Out |
What to Expect During Outpatient PTSD Treatment
Beginning treatment for PTSD can feel overwhelming, but our goal is to make the process structured, supportive, and approachable.
When you arrive:
- You don’t need to bring anything special
- We’ll guide you through the intake and admission process step by step
- You’ll meet members of your treatment team
- Your individualized treatment plan and schedule will be reviewed
Treatment length varies depending on your goals, symptom severity, and clinical needs. Some individuals complete treatment within several weeks, while others benefit from longer-term structured outpatient care before transitioning to traditional weekly therapy.
We also offer free insurance verification before admission so you can better understand your coverage and any potential costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
We treat all forms of post-traumatic stress disorder, including PTSD related to single-event trauma, chronic or repeated trauma, childhood trauma, combat-related trauma, and PTSD that occurs alongside other mental health conditions or co-occurring substance-related challenges.
At Pillars, our outpatient PTSD treatment program begins with a comprehensive assessment of your history, symptoms, and personal goals. From there, we work closely with you to create an individualized treatment plan that fits your current schedule and supports your healing process. Your plan may include individual therapy, group therapy, and evidence-based approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), along with trauma-focused interventions when appropriate. We also provide ongoing case management and structured aftercare planning to help you maintain long-term stability and continued progress.
For some individuals living with PTSD, medication can play an important role in reducing symptoms such as anxiety, hyperarousal, or depression. However, medication isn’t necessary for everyone. Our licensed clinicians offer compassionate, personalized medication management for those who may benefit from it, ensuring that any medication plan is safe, effective, and aligned with your overall treatment goals.
When you complete your treatment, we encourage you to join our Aftercare and Alumni Programs. These programs help you continue applying the grounding skills, coping strategies, and trauma-informed tools you learned throughout treatment as you transition back into your daily life. Both the Aftercare and Alumni Programs offer ongoing peer support, access to community resources, opportunities for continued therapy, and a collaborative environment that supports long-term healing and emotional resilience.
Yes, outpatient treatment for PTSD can be very effective, especially for individuals who do not require 24-hour supervision. Our outpatient model is designed to provide evidence-based, trauma-informed therapies in a flexible and personalized setting that supports your daily responsibilities and pace of healing. If at any point it’s determined that you may benefit from a more intensive level of care, we will work with you to adjust your treatment plan and ensure you receive the appropriate level of support.
If the effects of trauma are persistent and begin interfering with your work, relationships, school, or daily routine, it may be a sign that you could benefit from professional PTSD treatment. Other indicators include recurring intrusive memories, nightmares, flashbacks, avoidance of places or situations that remind you of the trauma, heightened anxiety or hypervigilance, emotional numbness, or feeling overwhelmed even after trying self-help strategies on your own. If any of these experiences sound familiar, reaching out for support can make a meaningful difference. You’re welcome to contact us anytime for a free insurance verification check so we can help you access the PTSD treatment you need as soon as your schedule allows.
We treat adult PTSD in two locations: 890 East Street in Tewksbury, MA 01876, and 707 Sable Oaks Drive #10 in South Portland, Maine 04106.
Most major insurance plans provide coverage for outpatient mental health treatment. Our admissions team offers free insurance verification and can explain your benefits before you begin care.
Many individuals continue working while participating in our half-day outpatient treatment (IOP). Those attending our full-day outpatient treatment (PHP) may temporarily reduce work commitments while focusing on recovery.
No. Most individuals can contact our admissions team directly to schedule an assessment without a physician referral.
Why Choose Pillars Health Group for PTSD Treatment?
Choosing the right treatment provider is an important step toward healing from trauma and improving daily functioning. At Pillars Health Group, we combine clinical expertise with compassionate, individualized care designed to help adults manage PTSD and rebuild stability and quality of life.
Patients choose us because of our:
- Experienced multidisciplinary team of licensed mental health professionals
- Specialized outpatient programs for adults with PTSD and co-occurring conditions
- Individualized treatment plans based on comprehensive assessments
- Integrated approach combining trauma-focused therapy, psychiatry, and medication management when appropriate
- Strong focus on evidence-based trauma treatments such as CPT, PE, and EMDR
- Supportive group environment that reduces isolation and promotes healing
- Practical skill-building focused on daily functioning and emotional resilience
- Accredited programs that meet high standards for quality and care
Our goal isn’t simply to reduce PTSD symptoms—it’s to help individuals process trauma safely, regain a sense of control, reduce avoidance patterns, and rebuild confidence in daily life.
Get PTSD Treatment in Tewksbury, Massachusetts & South Portland, Maine
If PTSD symptoms are interfering with your work, relationships, or daily life, you don’t have to manage them alone. The experienced team at Pillars Health Group is here to help you understand your options and find the level of care that’s right for you.
Take the first step today by calling our team at 855-828-0575 to speak with a caring admissions specialist. We offer free insurance verification to help you understand your coverage before beginning treatment.
Get treatment at either of our outpatient locations:
With the right treatment, individuals living with PTSD can reduce trauma-related symptoms, improve emotional stability, feel safer in daily life, and reconnect with a greater sense of balance and control. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
