About the Center A specialized continuum of behavioral health services for the treatment of posttraumatic and dissociative conditions. The Center offers short-term, directed treatment for adults who exhibit acute symptoms associated with posttraumatic and dissociative disorders and other trauma-based conditions. A national model in the treatment of adult posttraumatic syndromes, The Center’s innovative program provides rapid stabilization and essential training in self-management skills through the use of stage-oriented, cognitive and behavioral strategies. Designed to meet the individual needs of patients at different stages of treatment and respond to the challenges posed by a rapidly changing healthcare environment, our problem- and skill-focused continuum of care includes inpatient and partial hospitalization. The professional team at The Center includes psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, social workers, and expressive therapists who provide multidisciplinary treatment. Expertise gained from years of working with people diagnosed with posttraumatic and dissociative disorders enables the staff to provide the effective, focused treatment necessary for these clients. Our focus on stabilization through self-management of symptoms is a cost-effective strategy designed to respond to acute crises and yield long-term benefits.

As part of our Women's Health Initiative, we are a SMOKE FREE UNIT.

Our Founders

Joan A. Turkus, M.D.,
	Dr. Turkus has extensive clinical experience in the diagnosis and treatment of posttraumatic conditions and dissociative disorders in inpatient and outpatient settings, in both the private and public sectors. Dr. Turkus frequently provides supervision, consultation, and teaching for therapists locally and nationally. She maintains a private practice in general and forensic psychiatry in Falls Church, Virginia. Dr. Turkus has authored or co-authored several articles and book chapters on posttraumatic and dissociative disorders and has developed expertise in the psychopharmacological management of complex posttraumatic conditions.
Christine A. Courtois, Ph.D.,
	Dr. Courtois is also a psychologist in private practice in Washington, DC. Dr. Courtois has received numerous professional awards including the 1996 American Psychological Association Award for Distinguished Contributions to Psychology as a Professional Practice. She has authored three books, Recollections of Sexual Abuse: Treatment Principles and Guidelines (1999), Adult Survivors of Child Sexual Abuse: A Workshop Model (1993), and Healing the Incest Wound: Adult Survivors in Therapy (1988), in addition to numerous articles and chapters on related topics. Dr. Courtois conducts professional training locally, nationally, and internationally and is a member of the Board of Directors of the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies.