PTSD & Trauma Therapy: Choosing the Right Approach
PTSD and trauma-related conditions respond to specific, evidence-based trauma therapies — with medication playing a supporting rather than primary role for most patients. Our team, led by Dr. Pavan Sonar — MBBS, DPM, DNB Psychiatry, helps patients across Mumbai and Maharashtra access trauma-focused care, with 22+ years of experience and 50,000+ patients treated.
EMDR, TF-CBT, or Medication? A Decision Guide
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing)
EMDR is a well-researched, WHO-recommended trauma therapy that helps the brain reprocess traumatic memories so they lose their intensity, without requiring the patient to describe the trauma in detail repeatedly. Many patients find this an easier entry point than talk-based trauma therapy, particularly for single-incident trauma.
Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT)
TF-CBT combines cognitive techniques with gradual, structured exposure to trauma-related memories and triggers. It has strong evidence for both single-incident and complex/repeated trauma (C-PTSD from prolonged abuse or domestic violence), and is often the preferred approach for children and adolescents.
Where Medication Fits In
SSRIs such as sertraline and paroxetine reduce hyperarousal and depressive symptoms; prazosin specifically targets trauma-related nightmares. Medication is typically added when PTSD co-occurs with significant depression or anxiety, or when symptoms are severe enough to interfere with a patient’s ability to engage in trauma therapy — it is rarely used as a standalone treatment.
Recognising PTSD
Intrusive memories or flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance of trauma reminders, hypervigilance, emotional numbness, and heightened startle response persisting more than a month after a traumatic event. Delayed-onset PTSD, where symptoms begin 6+ months later, is also recognised and treatable.
Access Across Maharashtra
All treatment uses a trauma-informed approach — safety, trust, choice, and collaboration, with patients never forced to recount trauma details before they’re ready. Available in-person at our Mumbai clinic locations (Borivali West, Malad West, Malad East, Andheri West) or via online video consultation for patients across Maharashtra; both EMDR and TF-CBT can be delivered effectively via video call for many patients.
For a broader look at trauma-informed care, see our dedicated Trauma Therapy page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to talk about the trauma in detail to get better?
Not necessarily. EMDR in particular doesn’t require detailed verbal recounting of the trauma. TF-CBT does involve some structured processing, but at a pace the patient controls with therapist support.
How long does trauma therapy typically take?
Single-incident trauma often responds within 12–20 sessions of TF-CBT or EMDR. Complex or repeated trauma (childhood trauma, prolonged abuse) generally requires longer-term therapy.
Is medication necessary for PTSD?
Not always — many patients recover with trauma therapy alone. Medication is added when co-occurring depression or anxiety is significant, or symptoms are too severe to engage with therapy initially.
Can EMDR or TF-CBT be done online?
Yes, both have research support for video-delivered formats, making trauma-focused care accessible for patients across Maharashtra who cannot travel to Mumbai regularly.
Book Your Trauma Consultation
Compassionate, evidence-based trauma care matched to your specific history and needs.
📞 Call / WhatsApp: +91 85918 40141
📧 Email: drpavansonar@gmail.com
Clinic Locations: Borivali West | Malad West | Andheri West | Malad East — and online across Maharashtra