PTSD and Trauma

Our Services

PTSD and Trauma Counseling in Lahore

What is PTSD? Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a serious anxiety disorder that can develop after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event (such as assault, accidents, war, natural disasters, etc.). Normally we feel frightened during a crisis that “fight-or-flight” response is natural. PTSD occurs when trauma symptoms persist and interfere with daily life long after the event. People with PTSD may relive the trauma (flashbacks, nightmares), avoid reminders of it, feel constantly on edge, or experience persistent guilt and negative thoughts. Trauma counseling is talk therapy aimed at helping people process and recover from these traumatic experiences. In Dr. Aftab’s Lahore clinic or via online trauma therapy, patients receive support to gradually heal and regain control.

Key PTSD Symptoms

PTSD symptoms usually appear within three months of the trauma (though sometimes later) and last at least a month. They can include:

Re-experiencing: Intrusive memories, vivid flashbacks of the event (feeling it is happening again), recurring nightmares, or distressing thoughts about the trauma.
Avoidance: Going out of the way to avoid places, people, conversations or activities that remind one of the event; also avoiding thinking or talking about the trauma.
Hyperarousal (Arousal/Reactivity): Being easily startled, feeling “on guard,” angry outbursts, irritability, difficulty sleeping or concentrating, or engaging in reckless behavior.
Negative Mood and Cognition: Trouble remembering parts of the event, persistent negative beliefs about oneself or the world (e.g. “I am bad” or “no one can be trusted”), exaggerated guilt or blame, ongoing fear/anger/guilt/shame, loss of interest in activities, feeling detached or isolated, or inability to feel positive emotions.

Comprehensive Assessmen: In your first session, Dr. Aftab will talk with you about the traumatic event(s) and current symptoms. He will ask detailed questions to understand how the trauma affects you (e.g. flashbacks, anxiety, nightmares). He may use questionnaires or scales to assess symptom severity.
Treatment Planning: Together, you will develop a treatment plan. Dr. Aftab may recommend evidence-based psychotherapy techniques, medication if needed, or a combination. For example, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy are commonly used for PTSD.
Psychotherapy Sessions: Most PTSD counseling involves weekly therapy sessions (in-person or via video). A common method is Exposure Therapy, where, under Dr. Aftab’s guidance, you gradually and safely “face” reminders of the trauma (talking or writing about it, or visiting safe versions of triggering places). Another key method is Cognitive Restructuring/Therapy, which helps you challenge and change unhelpful beliefs from the trauma (like guilt or exaggerated threat perceptions).
Medication Management: While psychotherapy is primary, Dr. Aftab may prescribe medication when appropriate. For instance, certain antidepressants (SSRIs) can ease PTSD symptoms like anxiety and depression. Medications are always tailored to the individual, and he will monitor effects closely.

Symptom Relief: Effective treatment can significantly reduce or eliminate PTSD symptoms (fewer flashbacks, better sleep, less anxiety).
Improved Functioning: You’ll regain the ability to work, socialize, and enjoy life again without trauma dominating your thoughts. Therapy helps restore confidence and motivation.
Coping Skills: You learn healthy ways to manage stress and anxiety (relaxation exercises, breathing, mindfulness), which can benefit you even outside of therapy.
Addressing Related Issues: Counseling also tackles problems often linked to trauma, such as depression, anger issues or substance misuse. Treating PTSD can therefore improve overall mental health.
Support and Validation: Working with an empathetic expert provides support and understanding. As one patient noted of Dr. Aftab: “He listens carefully and gives the very best advice”. Feeling heard can reduce the isolation that PTSD often brings.
Reduced Stigma & Access (Telehealth): Dr. Aftab offers online trauma therapy for patients across Pakistan. This makes therapy more accessible and private. Research in Pakistan shows that tele-mental health significantly reduces travel time and can lessen the stigma of seeking help. You can attend sessions from home, saving time and avoiding public exposure if you prefer confidentiality.

About US

Dr. Aftab’s Qualifications and Approach

Dr. Aftab is a Pakistan Medical Commission (PMC) registered psychiatrist with over three decades of experience. He holds an MBBS (1985) and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry & Neurology (ABPN, 2014), reflecting his high level of specialized training. Between 2017–2021 he served as Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at Lahore Medical & Dental College. His extensive experience includes treating anxiety disorders, depression, and trauma-related conditions.

In practice, Dr. Aftab is known for a compassionate, patient-centered approach. He emphasizes listening carefully to each person’s unique story. His therapy style is collaborative: he explains the reasons behind each step and works with you to develop coping strategies suited to your culture and needs. Dr. Aftab frequently uses evidence-based methods like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and exposure techniques for PTSD. He also manages medications if needed, carefully explaining how they help. Whether in the clinic on MM Alam Road, Lahore or through an online video session, he creates a safe, supportive environment where you can speak openly. His goal is to help you feel understood and to empower you to heal from trauma.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I have PTSD?

If you’ve experienced or witnessed a traumatic event and for more than a month you have had things like reliving the event (through distressing memories or nightmares), avoiding reminders of it, severe anxiety, angry outbursts, guilt, or detachment from others, you may meet the criteria for PTSD.

What causes PTSD?

PTSD is caused by trauma. Common triggers include serious accidents, combat, physical or sexual assault, natural disasters, or witnessing violence. Even hearing that a loved one was harmed can sometimes cause PTSD. It is NOT caused by weakness; after trauma, everyone reacts differently.

Can PTSD be cured?

There is no “quick cure,” but PTSD is highly treatable. Many people recover significantly with therapy and/or medication. Psychotherapy (talk therapy) is the main treatment and can help you regain control of your life. Most patients see gradual improvement in weeks to months.

What happens in a trauma therapy session?

Early sessions usually involve talking about your trauma and current struggles, setting goals, and learning coping skills. As you go on, sessions may include carefully revisiting the trauma in a controlled way (for example, talking through parts of the memory) and identifying negative thoughts to change.

Do I need medication for PTSD?

Not always, but sometimes it helps. If symptoms are severe (like intense anxiety or depression), Dr. Aftab may prescribe an antidepressant (SSRI) or other medication to stabilize mood, making therapy more effective. About two SSRIs are FDA-approved for PTSD. Some patients do fine with therapy alone.

Get Started

Appointment & Contact

Scheduling an appointment with Dr. Naeem Aftab is easy and confidential. Use the contact information below or our online portal (calendar integration coming soon) to secure a session.