PTSD treatment at Kolmac: Outpatient care for trauma and co-occurring addiction

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a serious condition affecting millions of Americans every year.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 3.6% of U.S. adults experience PTSD in a given year. That is over 9 million people. For many, PTSD is complicated by co-occurring substance use disorders, which makes everyday life and recovery even more challenging.

At Kolmac Integrated Behavioral Health, our experienced team provides specialized outpatient treatment for PTSD and co-occurring addiction.

Our evidence-based approach combines trauma-informed treatment, medication management, and flexible scheduling, helping individuals heal from trauma and substance use without inpatient stays. Compassionate professionals support your recovery journey every step of the way.
Person holding hands over head in despair

What is PTSD?

PTSD, or post-traumatic stress disorder, is a condition that might occur after a person is exposed to a life-threatening or traumatic event. A traumatic event might be a vehicle collision, violence, abuse, military combat, or other emotionally overwhelming situations.

PTSD is not a sign of weakness, and it can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or life circumstance.

People living with PTSD may experience symptoms such as:

  • Flashbacks
  • Nightmares
  • Intrusive thoughts
  • Avoidance of reminders
  • Changes in mood
  • Heightened reactivity

These symptoms can disrupt relationships, work, and a person’s sense of well-being.

At Kolmac, we use person-first, destigmatizing language because we believe you are more than your diagnosis. If you’re struggling, you are not alone, and help is available.

PTSD and substance use: Why they often occur together

If you’re experiencing both PTSD and challenges with substance use, you’re not alone.

Research from the National Institute on Drug Abuse shows that nearly half of adults with a substance use disorder also have a co-occurring mental health disorder, including PTSD. This phenomenon is also known as dual diagnosis.

Trauma can change the way our brains handle stress and emotions, making it harder to cope in healthy ways. Many people turn to alcohol, drugs, or other substances to numb pain, manage anxiety, or escape distressing memories. Unfortunately, substance use can worsen PTSD symptoms and make recovery more complicated.

This cycle, using substances to cope with trauma and then experiencing more distress as a result, can feel impossible to break. Our team at Kolmac validates these experiences and offers evidence-backed therapies to address both challenges together, giving you the tools to heal on all fronts.

How Kolmac treats PTSD

At Kolmac, we believe in treating the whole person. Our integrated outpatient programs are designed for individuals who are struggling with PTSD and substance use, or PTSD alone, and want to heal in a supportive, flexible environment.

We approach care using the following dual diagnosis treatment protocols:

Trauma-informed therapy

Our clinicians are highly trained in the following evidence-based, trauma-focused therapies.

  • Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT): Helps you reframe and process distressing thoughts related to trauma.
  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR): Uses guided eye movements to help you process traumatic memories and reduce their impact.
  • Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Assists in understanding and changing patterns of thinking and behavior linked to trauma.

Mental health IOP for PTSD

Kolmac’s Mental Health Intensive outpatient program (IOP) offers structured, group-based therapy sessions that fit your schedule.
IOP allows you to receive intensive support while maintaining your daily responsibilities at home, work, or school. Our IOPs combine trauma-focused therapies, skills-building, and peer support to foster lasting change.

Medication management and MAT

For some individuals, medication can be a valuable part of PTSD recovery.

Our psychiatric providers work closely with you to determine if medication is appropriate and integrate it into your treatment plan.

For those with co-occurring addiction, we also offer Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) to address cravings and support sobriety, always in conjunction with therapy and counseling.

What makes Kolmac different

Kolmac has helped individuals recover from trauma and addiction for over 50 years. We are pioneers in outpatient addiction treatment and mental health care, combining decades of experience with the latest evidence-based practices.

Our integrated care model means you do not have to choose between treating PTSD or substance use because our team addresses both, together, in one place.

With flexible scheduling, no inpatient stay required, and a warm, experienced team, Kolmac meets you where you are and supports your journey to recovery on your terms.

What to expect when you call

Taking the first step can feel daunting, but at Kolmac, we make it as smooth as possible.

When you call, you will connect with a compassionate admissions specialist who will listen and answer your questions.

If you choose to move forward, we will schedule a confidential clinical evaluation, either in person or virtually, to get to know your story and needs. Based on your assessment, we will work with you to design a treatment plan and schedule your first sessions.

Frequently asked questions

You don’t have to face PTSD alone

Healing from trauma and addiction is possible, and you do not have to do it by yourself. At Kolmac Integrated Behavioral Health, our doors are always open.

Whether you are ready to start treatment or just want to ask questions, we are here to support you every step of the way.

Take the first step toward recovery with us.

Our proven, evidence-based treatment programs are available virtually and in-person across Washington DC, Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. Experience compassionate care tailored to your needs, wherever you are.

Call: (888) 331-5251

Request an appointment today to get started.

A young adult woman speaking to her therapist via video call.