Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Assessment and Testing in Memphis, TN for Children Teens & Adults

What is Athena Care in Memphis, Tennessee?

Athena Care Memphis provides comprehensive mental health care for children, teenagers and adults. Our multidisciplinary team of experts specializes in assessing and treating PTSD and other mental and behavioral health conditions. Unlike many mental health clinics, we’re in network with most commercial insurance plans.

Living with PTSD and unresolved trauma can be painful and debilitating. Athena Care can help you get back to living life on your terms, with a greater sense of wellbeing and purpose. Our comprehensive mental health services include therapy, medication management, intensive outpatient programs, TMS, and Spravato (esketamine). We also provide services for ADHD and other neurodevelopmental challenges.

What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?

PTSD is a disorder that develops in some people after experiencing or witnessing a scary or shocking event that shatters their sense of safety and security. PTSD rocks the very foundation upon which a person can build a healthy, satisfying life and leaves the person feeling disillusioned, disconnected, wary and stuck.

Events that may result in PTSD symptoms often include combat, sexual assault, violent assault, a natural disaster, a terrible car accident and other incidents that significantly harm a person’s sense of safety and bodily integrity. People with PTSD may experience flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts that interfere with daily functioning and last for months, or even years, following the event. These symptoms may begin soon after the event or take months or years to develop.

Since PTSD can significantly impact a person’s daily life and functioning, it’s crucial for individuals experiencing these symptoms to seek professional help. Treatment may include psychotherapy (such as cognitive processing therapy, exposure therapy, behavioral therapy, EMDR and other modalities), medications, or a combination of both. Early intervention and support can significantly improve the symptoms of PTSD and help people live happier, healthier and more productive lives.

Mental Health Common Causes of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) 

Like other mental health disorders, we don’t fully understand what causes PTSD to develop in some people versus others. However, research indicates that certain biological, genetic, and environmental factors may make a person vulnerable to developing PTSD in response to a traumatic event.

Specifically, factors associated with PTSD include:^{2, 3, 4}

• The amount and severity of trauma. Events that are life-threatening, involve extreme violence, or result in significant emotional distress are more likely to contribute to the development of PTSD.
• Biological differences. The way the brain regulates the chemicals and hormones the body releases in response to stress may influence the risk of developing PTSD.
• Environmental factors. Being exposed to prior traumatic experiences increases risk for developing PTSD, especially if those experiences occurred in childhood.
• Inherited mental health risks. If you have a family history of issues such as anxiety and depression, you may be more likely to develop PTSD in response to trauma.
• Inherited features of personality. Certain personality traits, such as high levels of neuroticism or novelty seeking, may be associated with an increased risk of developing PTSD.
• Social support. Lacking social support after a traumatic event may increase your risk of developing PTSD.

It’s important to note that the experience of trauma is highly subjective, and individuals may react differently to similar events. Additionally, not everyone who experiences trauma will develop PTSD (in fact, most do not).

If you or someone you love has experienced trauma, it’s crucial to seek support from mental health professionals, friends, and family. Early intervention and appropriate treatment can help manage symptoms and improve long-term outcomes.

Identifying Signs & Symptoms of PTSD

Symptoms of PTSD can vary over time and from one person to the next. They may include nightmares, insomnia, flashbacks, severe anxiety, uncontrollable thoughts, and other issues that interfere with daily functioning. PTSD symptoms generally are grouped into four types: intrusive memories, avoidance, negative changes in thinking and mood, and changes in physical and emotional reactions (also known as arousal).

Intrusive memories may include: 

• Recurring, distressing memories of the traumatic event 
• Severe emotional distress or physical reactions to things that remind the person of the event 
• Reliving the event as if it were happening again (flashbacks) 
• Upsetting dreams or nightmares about the event 

Avoidance may include: 

• Avoiding places, activities or people that remind the person of the traumatic event 
• Trying to avoid thinking or talking about the traumatic event 

Negative changes in thinking and mood may include: 

• Negative thoughts about oneself, other people or the world 
• Hopelessness about the future 
• Memory problems, including not remembering important aspects of the traumatic event 
• Feeling emotionally numb
• Lack of interest in activities once enjoyed 
• Difficulty experiencing positive emotions 
• Difficulty maintaining close relationships 
• Feeling detached from family and friends 

Changes in physical and emotional reactions (arousal) may include: 

• Being easily startled or frightened 
• Feeling on-guard for danger most of the time
• Trouble sleeping 
• Trouble concentrating  
• Self-destructive behavior, such as drinking too much or driving too fast 
• Irritability, angry outbursts or aggressive behavior 
• Overwhelming guilt or shame 

For children 6-years-old and younger, signs and symptoms may also include: 

• Re-enacting the traumatic event or aspects of it through play 
• Frightening dreams that may or may not include aspects of the traumatic event 

PTSD Testing & Assessment in Memphis, Tennessee (TN)

Athena Care Memphis offers assessment for PTSD and other mental health disorders. Typically, this involves a thorough evaluation by a mental health professional to establish the presence and severity of PTSD symptoms and determine whether symptoms are part of PTSD or another psychiatric condition.

During the evaluation, a psychologist, therapist or other mental health professional will ask about your background, your current symptoms and the impact that your symptoms have on your daily life. Your clinician may give you standardized self-report questionnaires to further assess the presence and severity of your symptoms. Your clinician will also ask questions to rule-out alternative causes or co-occurring mental health conditions that may contribute to symptoms that mimic PTSD. For example, it’s important to distinguish PTSD from other disorders that share overlapping symptoms with PTSD in order to guide the most effective treatments. Finally, the clinician will summarize their findings and collaborate with you to develop a treatment plan.

How Can I Find a PTSD Testing Center Near Me in Memphis, Tennessee

There are many ways to find PTSD services near you, ranging from soliciting recommendations from people you know to searching online. When you contact a person or center, ask about the specific services they offer, the professionals involved (psychiatrist, psychologist, therapist), any referral processes, and whether they accept insurance. It’s important to find licensed professionals with experience in PTSD assessment.

• Contact your primary care doctor or your child’s pediatrician. They may be able to guide you on next steps or refer you to a specialist or mental health center.
• Mental health centers and clinics may offer diagnostic services for PTSD. Contact local mental health professionals or community clinics to inquire about available assessments.
• Licensed psychologists and neuropsychologists may conduct PTSD assessments. Contact local psychologists or mental health professionals, and inquire about their experience in diagnosing PTSD.
• Use online directories and resources to search for PTSD testing centers in your area. Websites for organizations like the Department of Veteran Affairs may provide directories or links to local services.
• Conduct an internet search. The following are queries you can type into search engines to find PTSD testing near you:
  • “PTSD assessment near me”
  • “PTSD testing near me”
  • “local resources for PTSD assessment”

Does My Health Insurance Cover Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Testing & Treatment in Tennessee (TN)?

PTSD testing and treatment is covered by most health insurance companies when specific criteria are met. In Tennessee, these companies include Aetna, Ambetter, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Tennessee, Cigna, TRICARE and UnitedHealthcare, among others. However, coverage details can vary widely, including types of services your plan covers, the number of sessions allowed, and any required copayments or deductibles.

Since your health insurance plan dictates what your insurance will pay for, it’s important to carefully review your insurance policy, paying attention to any information related to mental and behavioral health services. In addition, it can be helpful to contact the insurance company directly or consult with the mental health provider’s billing office to confirm coverage details.

If you’re seeking PTSD testing or treatment, consider reaching out to the insurance provider to understand your coverage specifics and to find mental health professionals who accept your insurance. Keep in mind that mental health parity laws in many places require insurance plans to provide equal coverage for mental health services compared to physical health services.

For PTSD testing and treatment services in Tennessee, call or text us at (877) 641-1155. One of our care coordinators will answer any questions or concerns you may have, walk you through your insurance coverage, and help you get the care you need.

Which Insurance Providers Cover Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Testing & Treatment Near Me?

Most health insurance companies cover PTSD assessment and treatment when specific requirements are met. This includes companies such as Aetna, Ambetter, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Tennessee, Cigna, TRICARE and UnitedHealthcare. Mental health parity laws in many places require insurance plans to provide equal coverage for mental health services compared to physical health services but coverage often varies.

Since the services your insurance company will cover are largely dictated by your plan, you may want to carefully review your insurance policies and pay particular attention to any information related to mental and behavioral health services. Ultimately, the most reliable method for determining your coverage may be to contact your health insurance company directly.

If you’re seeking mental health testing or treatment in Tennessee and want to speak to someone about your health insurance coverage, one of our care coordinators will happily discuss it with you. Call or text us at (877) 641-1155.

How Much Does Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Testing Cost in Memphis, Tennessee?

The American Psychological Association (APA) estimates that the annual cost per person for PTSD is $18,640, including mental health care costs, general health care and unemployment⁶. The cost of PTSD testing in Memphis, Tennessee, may vary depending on several factors, including the specific type of testing, the provider’s fees, and whether you have health insurance coverage. Here are some specific factors to consider:

1. Type of Assessment: PTSD assessment may involve various forms of evaluation, such as clinical interviews, self-report measures, and possibly psychological testing. The type and complexity of the assessment can influence the overall cost.
2. Health Insurance Concerns: If you have health insurance, it’s helpful to check with your insurance provider to understand the extent of coverage for PTSD assessment and related mental health services. Insurance plans may cover some or all of the costs, but it’s wise to clarify any coverage limitations, copayments, or deductibles. It’s also helpful to find out which providers are in-network with your plan because it may cost less to use their services.
3. Provider Fees: If you’re paying out-of-pocket (instead of using health insurance), the fees charged by mental health providers can vary. Different providers may charge different prices, so it’s best to inquire about costs up front, including PTSD treatment cost.
4. Reduced Fee Options: Some mental health providers offer sliding scale fees or reduced fee options based on income. If you have financial concerns, ask potential providers if they offer reduced rates.

In order to obtain accurate information about PTSD therapy cost and the average cost for PTSD treatment in Memphis, Tennessee, it’s best to contact your health insurance company (if applicable) or contact specific providers in your area to find affordable options for PTSD therapy that keep your expenses low.

How Can I Make an Appointment for a Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Evaluation Near Me?

To make an appointment for a PTSD assessment at Athena Care Memphis, fill out the form below or call or text us at 877-641-1155. One of our care coordinators will answer any questions you may have and help you navigate your insurance coverage.

To make an appointment at another clinic, search for mental health professionals in your area who specialize in PTSD or trauma-related services. These professionals may include psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed therapists, or counselors. You may be able to send them a message through their website or call them directly. When you contact them, it’s helpful to have your insurance information on hand.

What is the Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Screening and Assessment Process at Athena Care?

PTSD assessment often involves a thorough evaluation by a mental health professional to establish the presence and severity of PTSD symptoms and to establish whether your symptoms are part of PTSD or a different condition. During the evaluation, your provider will gather information about your mental health history, experiences, and symptoms.

The components of a PTSD assessment often include a clinical interview and self-report measures. During the clinical interview, a psychologist, therapist or other mental health professional will ask about your mental health history, your background, your current symptoms and the impact that your symptoms have on your daily life. Your clinician may give you standardized self-report questionnaires to further assess the presence and severity of your symptoms.

Your clinician will also ask questions to rule-out alternative causes or co-occurring mental health conditions that may contribute to symptoms that mimic PTSD. For example, it’s important to distinguish PTSD from other disorders that share overlapping symptoms with PTSD in order to guide the most effective treatments. Finally, your clinician will summarize their findings and make recommendations for treatment.

State of Tennessee Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Facts and Statistics

The U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs provides these estimates of the prevalence of PTSD in the general population⁵:

• An estimated 6% of people in the U.S. will have PTSD at some point in their lives.
• In 2020, about 13 million Americans had PTSD, and about 5% of adults has PTSD in any given year.
• Women have a higher risk of developing PTSD than men do—about 8% of women and 4% of men develop PTSD at some point in their lives. This may be associated with the types of trauma that women are more likely to experience, including sexual assault.
• People who serve in the military are more likely to develop PTSD than civilians, especially if they are deployed to a war zone.

The American Psychological Association estimates that PTSD costs the U.S. around $232.2 billion dollars per year⁶.