PTSD Treatment in Istanbul
Flashbacks, nightmares and constant alertness after a traumatic event? Post-traumatic stress disorder is treatable. Psychiatrist in Istanbul, in English.
Psychiatrist · Psychotherapist · Ataşehir, Istanbul
Evidence-based, personal and confidential support for your mental health.
More than 20 years of clinical experience with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, trauma and relationship difficulties — psychiatric assessment and psychotherapy in English, in person or online.

Ataşehir · Istanbul · Online
BOF Plaza, Neşeli Sk. No:1, Floor 6, Yenişehir, 34644 Ataşehir, Istanbul
With more than 20 years of clinical experience, we offer science-based adult psychiatry and advanced psychotherapy at our practice in Ataşehir, one of the most central locations on Istanbul’s Asian side. If you are looking for an English-speaking psychiatrist in Istanbul, we combine the standards of modern medicine with ethical values to create personalised, results-focused treatment plans for ADHD, anxiety, depression, panic attacks and many other mental health difficulties.
Many of our clients are expats, international professionals, students and families who have made Istanbul their home. Living in a new country – a different language, a different healthcare system, distance from friends and family – can put real strain on mental health. Consultations are held in fluent English, in a calm and confidential setting, without the need for an interpreter.
The right methodology is the key to recovery. As Dr. Ahmet Alper Ayduman, I lead dynamic, solution-focused psychotherapy shaped around each client’s needs. At the practice we carefully apply EMDR, which is effective for post-traumatic stress; cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), which restructures thought and behaviour patterns; and psychodynamic approaches that build deeper insight.
Our aim is not only to relieve symptoms but to help you continue your social and working life as a more balanced, settled and functional person. Whether you see us face to face in Ataşehir or through online therapy from anywhere in Turkey or abroad, you receive the same standard of care.
Areas of expertise

Anxiety disorder is characterised by intense worry, unease and fear that negatively affect daily life. It shows itself not only psychologically but also through physical symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath and muscle tension. With early diagnosis and the right treatment, anxiety can be brought under control and quality of life improves markedly. Psychotherapy and, when needed, medication are the main approaches with proven effectiveness. Seeking specialist support is the most important step both in understanding the symptoms and in achieving lasting recovery.

A panic attack is a sudden episode of intense fear and anxiety that can make you feel as if you are losing control. Palpitations, shortness of breath, sweating, trembling, dizziness or the thought “I’m dying” can build up within minutes and create a strong sense of threat. Attacks often come at unexpected moments, and the fear of another one can restrict daily life. Professional support helps you understand the causes, learn to manage the symptoms and regain your quality of life.

Depression is not just a passing low mood; it is a treatable illness that affects thinking, emotions, energy, sleep and appetite. Loss of interest, persistent sadness, fatigue and feelings of worthlessness lasting more than two weeks are signs that a specialist assessment is needed. With an individual plan combining psychotherapy and, when needed, medication, most people recover and return to a fulfilling life.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder involves intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviours or mental rituals performed to relieve the anxiety they cause. Checking, cleaning, counting or seeking reassurance can take up hours of the day. Cognitive behavioural therapy with exposure and response prevention, combined with medication when needed, has the strongest evidence and brings marked improvement for most people.

Adult ADHD often looks like chronic procrastination, a racing mind, losing track of time and difficulty finishing what you start, rather than the “hyperactive child” image. Many adults go undiagnosed for years and blame themselves. A thorough assessment followed by a personalised plan of medication, CBT and practical strategies can make a rapid difference at work, in study and in relationships.

Bipolar disorder is a chronic condition with episodes of depression and of mania or hypomania, affecting mood, energy, sleep and judgement. Because people often seek help only during depressive phases, it can be mistaken for depression. Accurate diagnosis, mood-stabilising treatment, psychoeducation and regular follow-up make a balanced, productive life possible.

Post-traumatic stress disorder can follow events such as accidents, violence, disasters or sudden loss. Flashbacks, nightmares, avoidance and feeling constantly on guard keep the brain in alarm mode long after the danger has passed. Trauma-focused psychotherapy such as EMDR, with medication when needed, can considerably reduce symptoms and restore a sense of safety.

Adjustment disorder is a stronger-than-expected emotional and behavioural reaction to major life changes or stressful events. Moving to a new country, a new job, loss, separation or living far from family and friends can trigger it. Sadness, anxiety, restlessness, difficulty concentrating and withdrawal are common. Getting psychological support early prevents symptoms from becoming chronic and helps you rebuild balance in your new life in Istanbul.

About
Dr. A. Alper Ayduman is an experienced psychiatrist whose professional path has been shaped by both clinical practice and academic training. After medical school he specialised in psychiatry, strengthening his scientific foundation during residency with an international neuroscience programme at Maastricht University in the Netherlands.
In the public hospitals where he worked after specialising, he played an active role in setting up wards, organising clinical services and multidisciplinary treatment, gaining extensive experience in psychotic disorders, mood disorders and addiction psychiatry.
Over many years of inpatient and outpatient work he has built broad experience in diagnosing and treating a wide range of psychiatric conditions.
Not limiting his development to clinical practice, Dr. Ayduman has trained to international standards in cognitive behavioural therapy, EMDR, schema therapy, interpersonal therapy and sex therapy, and integrates these approaches into his work.
After many years in public hospitals, he now works at his own practice in Ataşehir, serving clients with a scientific, ethical and personalised approach to treatment. Dr. Ayduman speaks fluent English.
Appointments
Mental health difficulties can get worse the longer they are put off. Seeking support early both speeds up recovery and improves quality of life. You can book an appointment for science-based psychiatric support in English. All consultations are strictly confidential.
Appointment request
Your details are used only to arrange your appointment.
Why this practice
Mental health is a highly sensitive matter that calls for working with the right specialist. The choice should rest not only on academic qualifications but also on experience, approach, ethics and the trust built with the patient – and, when you live abroad, on being understood in your own language. Dr. A. Alper Ayduman is known for his holistic approach, science-based methods and patient-centred communication.
Over more than 20 years he has worked with clients of different ages and with very different psychiatric needs, building wide case experience that allows fast and accurate clinical assessment.
Sessions are held directly in English – no interpreter, no lost nuance. Reports and previous records in English are welcome, and online sessions are planned around your time zone.
He follows current scientific developments closely and builds treatment plans on internationally recognised methods. Every client receives a personalised plan; there is no one-size-fits-all approach.
Feeling comfortable is one of the most important elements of psychiatric treatment. Sessions are built on non-judgemental, understanding and supportive communication.
All consultations follow medical ethics and patient confidentiality. Your information is never shared with third parties – including employers or insurers – without your consent.
Working with the right specialist can change your quality of life.
Book an appointment for scientific, reliable and personalised psychiatric support.
Conditions
Detailed guides to symptoms, diagnosis and treatment, written by Dr. Ayduman.
Flashbacks, nightmares and constant alertness after a traumatic event? Post-traumatic stress disorder is treatable. Psychiatrist in Istanbul, in English.
Mood swings between depression and mania or hypomania? Long-term, science-based bipolar disorder treatment in English in Istanbul and online.
Chronic procrastination, a racing mind and trouble focusing? Adult ADHD assessment and treatment in English, in Istanbul or online.
Intrusive thoughts and rituals that take over your day? OCD responds well to ERP-based therapy and medication. English-speaking psychiatrist in Istanbul.
Low mood, loss of interest and exhaustion lasting weeks? Major depression is treatable. English-speaking psychiatrist in Ataşehir, Istanbul and online.
Sudden, intense fear, a racing heart and fear of the next attack? Panic disorder is highly treatable. English-speaking psychiatrist in Ataşehir, Istanbul.
Frequently asked questions
Psychologists and psychiatrists are two different professionals working in mental health, with different training and treatment approaches.
Psychologists complete a 4-year psychology degree and may go on to master’s and doctoral programmes. They do not receive medical training, focus on cognitive and behavioural change through methods such as psychotherapy, and cannot prescribe medication.
Psychiatrists complete 6 years of medical school followed by 4 years of specialist psychiatric training. They are medical doctors, can combine psychotherapy with medication, and can prescribe medication to treat psychiatric conditions such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and eating disorders.
Psychiatrists are doctors specialising in the diagnosis and treatment of mental and behavioural disorders, including:
Psychiatrists use psychotherapy, medication and psychosocial rehabilitation, building a treatment plan around each patient’s individual needs and preferences.
A session usually lasts 45 minutes to 1 hour. First sessions can be longer, because the psychiatrist wants to learn your history and symptoms in detail.
To prepare for your session:
Psychiatrists are bound by legal and ethical obligations to protect their patients’ privacy.
Confidentiality: no information is shared with third parties without your consent – including family members, insurance companies or employers.
Security: medical records are kept confidential and protected against unauthorised access.
Limits: information may only be shared without consent where required by law – for example, if there is a serious risk of harm to yourself or others.
You have the right to ask for your consultations to remain confidential, to request a copy of your medical records and to ask for them to be corrected. If you have any questions about confidentiality, please don’t hesitate to ask.
Yes. Dr. Ayduman speaks fluent English and holds consultations directly in English, in person in Ataşehir or online. Online sessions are available to clients elsewhere in Turkey and abroad, with appointment times planned around time differences. Please contact us with any practical questions before booking.
Client experiences
Translated from Turkish. Names are withheld for patient confidentiality.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I came for anxiety problems I had been living with for a long time. Throughout the process his approach was very calming and clear. I felt safe because he explained the treatment plan in detail, and thanks to regular follow-up I made clear progress.” S.K.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I had doubts about getting psychiatric support for the first time, but after the consultation all my worries disappeared. His listening, non-judgemental and solution-focused approach was truly valuable. Thank you for your professionalism and communication.” H.K.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“As someone who has had support at other centres before, I can say that his management of the process and his clarity are excellent. Sessions are planned, and after each one I know exactly what I need to do.” B.U.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Everything from booking to the sessions themselves was very well organised. Thanks to his clear explanations and professional approach, I feel stronger after the sessions. I would recommend him to anyone looking for support.” Z.U.
Appointments & contact
Consultations are by appointment and are held under doctor–patient confidentiality. Fill in the form or call us directly.