Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (C-PTSD) results from long-term, repeated trauma, often beginning in childhood or occurring in settings where escape is difficult — such as abusive relationships, neglect, institutional abuse, or systemic oppression. Unlike classic PTSD, complex PTSD affects not just fear-based responses but also a person’s identity, relationships, and ability to regulate emotions. Dr. Joe Gallego, MD offers trauma-informed psychiatric treatment for complex PTSD from his Boston-based practice.
With board certification in psychiatry and extensive experience treating trauma-related disorders, Dr. Joe Gallego brings empathy, professionalism, and deep expertise to the care of patients with complex PTSD. His approach is relational, respectful, and paced to avoid retraumatization. Whether you're navigating recovery from early-life abuse, prolonged domestic trauma, or compounded marginalization, Dr. Gallego provides a space for deep healing.
Complex PTSD is often misunderstood or mistaken for personality disorders, depression, or generalized anxiety. Dr. Gallego conducts an in-depth psychiatric evaluation to understand your trauma history, current symptoms, relational patterns, and treatment goals. For teens, the evaluation also includes parental input to provide context while maintaining the adolescent’s privacy and autonomy.
Each person’s trauma story is different, and so is their healing process. Dr. Gallego works collaboratively to develop an individualized treatment plan based on your symptoms, values, and preferences. Plans may include psychotherapy, medication, or both, always at a pace that supports nervous system regulation and emotional safety.
Dr. Gallego integrates several therapeutic approaches when treating complex PTSD, including:
Therapy is always collaborative, validating, and designed to empower you with tools for healing and self-compassion.
While medication is not a cure for trauma, it can be a helpful tool to reduce symptoms like anxiety, sleep disturbance, or mood instability. Dr. Gallego uses medication conservatively and always in coordination with therapeutic support. Any prescriptions are discussed thoroughly with consideration for long-term wellbeing.
Adolescents living with complex PTSD often experience academic challenges, social isolation, and identity struggles. Dr. Gallego offers specialized support for teens, balancing their privacy with appropriate family involvement. Sessions provide a structured space for growth, safety, and expression.
Complex trauma often intersects with race, gender, sexuality, and other aspects of identity. Dr. Gallego offers culturally responsive, LGBTQ+ affirming care that validates and uplifts each patient’s lived experience. Treatment is adapted to support healing from personal and systemic trauma alike.
Because complex PTSD rarely exists in isolation, Dr. Gallego also addresses co-occurring concerns such as depression, anxiety, dissociation, substance use, and eating disturbances. His integrative model ensures that all parts of a patient’s experience are respected and treated holistically.
Patients in the Boston area can access in-person psychiatric evaluations and therapy sessions with Dr. Gallego. Many individuals with complex trauma benefit from the stability and relational depth that face-to-face care offers. Contact the office directly for current location information and appointment availability.
Living with complex PTSD can feel isolating — but recovery is possible. Dr. Joe Gallego offers trauma-informed, inclusive care in Boston for those ready to begin their healing journey. Reach out today to schedule an evaluation and begin reclaiming your life.
