Photo of Patti Dainton, Counsellor in Creswick, VIC
Patti Dainton
Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Creswick, VIC 3363
I bring to my clients a well developed understanding of the impacts of trauma and a strong belief in the capacity of people to experience positive change with knowledge and support which focuses on their personal strengths.
I am passionate about journeying with people at all ages and stages of their lives, to increase their capacity and create change in themselves and to find joy and growth in their lives. I work from a trauma informed viewpoint, that incorporates family, to ensure person-centred, relationship-focussed therapy. I have also undergone additional training in Havening. I am comfortable working with personal spirituality and understand the significance and role of spirituality within lives.
I bring to my clients a well developed understanding of the impacts of trauma and a strong belief in the capacity of people to experience positive change with knowledge and support which focuses on their personal strengths.
I am passionate about journeying with people at all ages and stages of their lives, to increase their capacity and create change in themselves and to find joy and growth in their lives. I work from a trauma informed viewpoint, that incorporates family, to ensure person-centred, relationship-focussed therapy. I have also undergone additional training in Havening. I am comfortable working with personal spirituality and understand the significance and role of spirituality within lives.
(03) 4328 0288 View (03) 4328 0288
Photo of Stacey O'Neil, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Creswick, VIC
Stacey O'Neil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Creswick, VIC 3363
I have spent many years providing trauma informed counselling to a diverse range of clients.
Hi, I'm Stacey and I am passionate about supporting people to work through challenges, whether these are current or historical. If you are experiencing difficulties and want to manage these in a different way, or maybe you would like to try and understand yourself better in order to make change, then please reach out to discuss your needs. You may just want someone to see and hear you - I passionately believe in creating a safe space for people. Therapy can provide the opportunity for exploration and change.
I have spent many years providing trauma informed counselling to a diverse range of clients.
Hi, I'm Stacey and I am passionate about supporting people to work through challenges, whether these are current or historical. If you are experiencing difficulties and want to manage these in a different way, or maybe you would like to try and understand yourself better in order to make change, then please reach out to discuss your needs. You may just want someone to see and hear you - I passionately believe in creating a safe space for people. Therapy can provide the opportunity for exploration and change.
(03) 4328 3466 View (03) 4328 3466
Photo of Bloom Well-being, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Creswick, VIC
Bloom Well-being
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Creswick, VIC 3363
We specialise in supporting those who have experienced difficult childhoods or been exposed to trauma, abuse or neglect (physical or emotional).
Do you struggle with relationships, with yourself and others? Maybe you find it hard to connect with your emotions or even your body? We value our clients as the expert of their lives, and acknowledge that reaching our for extra support isn't always easy. But our team have spent their entire careers dedicated to ongoing learning to ensure the people who enter our space feel seen, heard and believed. We specialise in supporting those who have experienced difficult childhoods or been exposed to abuse or neglect (physical or emotional).
We specialise in supporting those who have experienced difficult childhoods or been exposed to trauma, abuse or neglect (physical or emotional).
Do you struggle with relationships, with yourself and others? Maybe you find it hard to connect with your emotions or even your body? We value our clients as the expert of their lives, and acknowledge that reaching our for extra support isn't always easy. But our team have spent their entire careers dedicated to ongoing learning to ensure the people who enter our space feel seen, heard and believed. We specialise in supporting those who have experienced difficult childhoods or been exposed to abuse or neglect (physical or emotional).
(03) 5316 7205 x61 View (03) 5316 7205 x61
Photo of Freya's Farm: Animal Assisted Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Creswick, VIC
Freya's Farm: Animal Assisted Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Creswick, VIC 3363
My specialities are trauma recovery (including from sexual assault & family violence), neurodiversity and couples counselling.
Hi, I'm Freya. I've been counselling for over 25 years, and 2 years ago started incorporating my animals (horses, dogs, cats) into my therapeutic practice. I work with all ages, and the people I work with are as unique as the issues they want to address. My clients are individuals, couples, and children. I have lived experience of neurodiversity (ASD, ADHD, Dyslexia, HSP) and consequently work with a lot of people who are neurodiverse themselves. My work focusses on understanding why we are the way we are, combined with techniques that foster change and growth, with the end goal of increased well being and resilience.
My specialities are trauma recovery (including from sexual assault & family violence), neurodiversity and couples counselling.
Hi, I'm Freya. I've been counselling for over 25 years, and 2 years ago started incorporating my animals (horses, dogs, cats) into my therapeutic practice. I work with all ages, and the people I work with are as unique as the issues they want to address. My clients are individuals, couples, and children. I have lived experience of neurodiversity (ASD, ADHD, Dyslexia, HSP) and consequently work with a lot of people who are neurodiverse themselves. My work focusses on understanding why we are the way we are, combined with techniques that foster change and growth, with the end goal of increased well being and resilience.
(03) 4320 5775 View (03) 4320 5775
Photo of Liam Gleeson, Counsellor in Creswick, VIC
Liam Gleeson
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
Creswick, VIC 3363
I have experience grounded in holistic approaches that provide therapeutic support to those impacted by Depression, Anxiety, Stress, ADHD and Trauma.
I am a person centred therapist who values assisting people to empower themselves to reach their full potential by knowing themselves and their strengths and limitations better, by nurturing a better relationship with themselves, identifying their values, and setting meaningful goals that give them clarity, direction, and purpose in life. My therapeutic approach provides psycho-education and skills that build resilience in the face of life's inevitable challenges, and live the most fulfilling and meaningful lives possible.
I have experience grounded in holistic approaches that provide therapeutic support to those impacted by Depression, Anxiety, Stress, ADHD and Trauma.
I am a person centred therapist who values assisting people to empower themselves to reach their full potential by knowing themselves and their strengths and limitations better, by nurturing a better relationship with themselves, identifying their values, and setting meaningful goals that give them clarity, direction, and purpose in life. My therapeutic approach provides psycho-education and skills that build resilience in the face of life's inevitable challenges, and live the most fulfilling and meaningful lives possible.
(03) 5323 0278 View (03) 5323 0278
Photo of Zubia Jawed, Counsellor in Creswick, VIC
Zubia Jawed
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Creswick, VIC 3363
I am a registered Mental Health Counsellor. I have helped many clients feel validated and normalised in what they experience in life. I specialise in providing culturally sensitive therapy, addressing variety of topics including identity, belonging, gender roles, women’s issues, managing societal, community and family expectations, discrimination, racism, and issues around migrants and refugees. I feel utmost contentment when I know I have made an individual feel worthy, validated, understood, and hopeful. Through incorporating our cultural roots in sessions, we can truly feel empowered and seen.
I am a registered Mental Health Counsellor. I have helped many clients feel validated and normalised in what they experience in life. I specialise in providing culturally sensitive therapy, addressing variety of topics including identity, belonging, gender roles, women’s issues, managing societal, community and family expectations, discrimination, racism, and issues around migrants and refugees. I feel utmost contentment when I know I have made an individual feel worthy, validated, understood, and hopeful. Through incorporating our cultural roots in sessions, we can truly feel empowered and seen.
(03) 4328 3495 View (03) 4328 3495
Photo of KIT Psychology - Michelle Maya, Counsellor in Creswick, VIC
KIT Psychology - Michelle Maya
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Creswick, VIC 3363
Hello I'm Michelle. I am an ACA registered counsellor and ICF registered life coach. In my practice, I work alongside young people & adults to support them in navigating life’s challenges, achieving desired improvements in their mental health, wellbeing, relationships and life circumstances. I have a gentle, compassionate nature and provide a comfortable, discreet space where my clients feel safe and supported to share, grow and connect with inner wisdom. My approach is intuitive, flexible and strengths-based, often solution-focussed and always person centred around an individual’s unique interests, values and hopes for the future.
Hello I'm Michelle. I am an ACA registered counsellor and ICF registered life coach. In my practice, I work alongside young people & adults to support them in navigating life’s challenges, achieving desired improvements in their mental health, wellbeing, relationships and life circumstances. I have a gentle, compassionate nature and provide a comfortable, discreet space where my clients feel safe and supported to share, grow and connect with inner wisdom. My approach is intuitive, flexible and strengths-based, often solution-focussed and always person centred around an individual’s unique interests, values and hopes for the future.
(03) 4320 5400 View (03) 4320 5400
Photo of Marie Mirbach (The Present Place), Psychotherapist in Creswick, VIC
Marie Mirbach (The Present Place)
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Creswick, VIC 3363
Hi there, I’m Marie and I love creating spaces for people to realise the patterns of their own minds and work towards feeling more alive and connected. As an integrative psychotherapist I work with couples and individuals in a way that honours your uniqueness as well as recognises the circumstances shaping your life. My approach is warm, inquisitive and creative and above all else I value collaborating with you to ensure we are creating processes that let you feel safe, inspired and closer to your most authentic and empowered self. I specialise in eating disorders, ASD, gender/identity and relationship problems.
Hi there, I’m Marie and I love creating spaces for people to realise the patterns of their own minds and work towards feeling more alive and connected. As an integrative psychotherapist I work with couples and individuals in a way that honours your uniqueness as well as recognises the circumstances shaping your life. My approach is warm, inquisitive and creative and above all else I value collaborating with you to ensure we are creating processes that let you feel safe, inspired and closer to your most authentic and empowered self. I specialise in eating disorders, ASD, gender/identity and relationship problems.
(03) 4420 9044 View (03) 4420 9044

Online Therapists

Photo of Sonder Counselling Services, Counsellor in Creswick, VIC
Sonder Counselling Services
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
Newport, VIC 3015
My areas of interest revolve around the impacts of early trauma, various grief, and loss experiences and life transitions. Which may impact the everyday functioning of an individual. Having the opportunity to discuss these experiences, the complexities of life transitions and/or unresolved grief and loss and how you have been impacted. At times, we all experience stress, and, anxiety, which can create depressive symptoms. This is extremely relevant at this time due to COVID-19. It is scary, it is unknown territory and we are all going through the same fears. Counsellors can support you through this.
My areas of interest revolve around the impacts of early trauma, various grief, and loss experiences and life transitions. Which may impact the everyday functioning of an individual. Having the opportunity to discuss these experiences, the complexities of life transitions and/or unresolved grief and loss and how you have been impacted. At times, we all experience stress, and, anxiety, which can create depressive symptoms. This is extremely relevant at this time due to COVID-19. It is scary, it is unknown territory and we are all going through the same fears. Counsellors can support you through this.
(08) 9126 9072 View (08) 9126 9072
Photo of Cody Tonkin, Psychologist in Creswick, VIC
Cody Tonkin
Psychologist, MPsych, Assoc MAPS
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000  (Online Only)
Cody works with a range of presentations including stress, life adjustments, grief & loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, coping skills, life coaching, interpersonal or relationship difficulties and childhood trauma.
Cody is a registered psychologist who likes to work towards long lasting change by understanding how your past can influence your present and by looking at the roots of a problem. In doing so, she hopes to help you develop a deeper sense of self-awareness whilst also uncovering patterns that have developed over time that can be transformed into healthier ways of being. Cody welcomes you to a safe, warm and non-judgemental space where you can feel comfortable to share what has come up for you.
Cody works with a range of presentations including stress, life adjustments, grief & loss, depression, anxiety, trauma, coping skills, life coaching, interpersonal or relationship difficulties and childhood trauma.
Cody is a registered psychologist who likes to work towards long lasting change by understanding how your past can influence your present and by looking at the roots of a problem. In doing so, she hopes to help you develop a deeper sense of self-awareness whilst also uncovering patterns that have developed over time that can be transformed into healthier ways of being. Cody welcomes you to a safe, warm and non-judgemental space where you can feel comfortable to share what has come up for you.
(03) 9118 9048 View (03) 9118 9048
Photo of Francesca Palazzolo, Psychotherapist in Creswick, VIC
Francesca Palazzolo
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalkallo, VIC 3064  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you are struggling with any addiction, or concerned about anxiety, depression, or are impacted by trauma, I can help.
I am a counsellor & psychotherapist working in the existential humanist tradition. I work with all sorts of issues including mental health, addictive behaviours and relationship issues to name a few. I am registered with PACFA (Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation Australia) which is the national peak body for counsellors and psychotherapists in Australia and have experience in youth mental health, alcohol and other drugs counselling and general counselling. If you are experiencing issues with any emotional concerns, anxiety, substance use, addiction, including behavioural addictions, please do not hesitate to reach out.
If you are struggling with any addiction, or concerned about anxiety, depression, or are impacted by trauma, I can help.
I am a counsellor & psychotherapist working in the existential humanist tradition. I work with all sorts of issues including mental health, addictive behaviours and relationship issues to name a few. I am registered with PACFA (Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation Australia) which is the national peak body for counsellors and psychotherapists in Australia and have experience in youth mental health, alcohol and other drugs counselling and general counselling. If you are experiencing issues with any emotional concerns, anxiety, substance use, addiction, including behavioural addictions, please do not hesitate to reach out.
(03) 6118 7251 View (03) 6118 7251
Photo of Emily Bickerton, Psychologist in Creswick, VIC
Emily Bickerton
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Balwyn North, VIC 3104  (Online Only)
Emily uses a range of treatment modalities, including EMDR, schema therapy, cognitive-behaviour therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy and motivational interviewing. These treatments are used to address common concerns, such as PTSD and trauma-based difficulties, anxiety and depression, relationship problems, personality disorders, adjustment disorders and struggles associated with grief and loss. She has also developed an understanding of the unique challenges faced by people who have had contact with the Criminal Justice System. She offers support to those who are currently on Community Corrections Orders and their families.
Emily uses a range of treatment modalities, including EMDR, schema therapy, cognitive-behaviour therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy and motivational interviewing. These treatments are used to address common concerns, such as PTSD and trauma-based difficulties, anxiety and depression, relationship problems, personality disorders, adjustment disorders and struggles associated with grief and loss. She has also developed an understanding of the unique challenges faced by people who have had contact with the Criminal Justice System. She offers support to those who are currently on Community Corrections Orders and their families.
(03) 7003 2713 View (03) 7003 2713
Photo of Viviane Golan, Psychotherapist in Creswick, VIC
Viviane Golan
Psychotherapist, PhD, AASW
Verified Verified
Mooroolbark, VIC 3138
Areas of expertise include grief and trauma, relationships and family dynamics, mental health, life transitions, therapist supervision, spirituality and meditative practices.
Viviane has over twenty five years experience working with individuals, couples and families in ways that support growth, clarity, transformation and wholeness. Using a wide range of therapeutic modalities, Viviane provides a safe and compassionate environment where clients have the opportunity to explore themselves and their lives in ever deepening and enriching ways.
Areas of expertise include grief and trauma, relationships and family dynamics, mental health, life transitions, therapist supervision, spirituality and meditative practices.
Viviane has over twenty five years experience working with individuals, couples and families in ways that support growth, clarity, transformation and wholeness. Using a wide range of therapeutic modalities, Viviane provides a safe and compassionate environment where clients have the opportunity to explore themselves and their lives in ever deepening and enriching ways.
(08) 9126 9057 View (08) 9126 9057
Photo of Cody Fisher Therapies, Psychotherapist in Creswick, VIC
Cody Fisher Therapies
Psychotherapist, ACA-L2
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wollert, VIC 3750
I have experience working with people across the lifespan supporting Depression and anxiety, physical & psychosocial disability, trauma, grief and loss, LGBTQIA+ issues and neurodivergent wellbeing.
Hi there! I am a creative arts therapist and psychotherapist. I am passionate about supporting people from all walks of life to thrive. I invite and implement creative arts-based processes to facilitate self-expression, self-awareness and personal development in authentic, imaginative ways. My mission is to provide a safe, inclusive supportive space that nurtures creative self-expression, connection and empowerment, thereby leading to greater insight, agency, growth and wholeness.
I have experience working with people across the lifespan supporting Depression and anxiety, physical & psychosocial disability, trauma, grief and loss, LGBTQIA+ issues and neurodivergent wellbeing.
Hi there! I am a creative arts therapist and psychotherapist. I am passionate about supporting people from all walks of life to thrive. I invite and implement creative arts-based processes to facilitate self-expression, self-awareness and personal development in authentic, imaginative ways. My mission is to provide a safe, inclusive supportive space that nurtures creative self-expression, connection and empowerment, thereby leading to greater insight, agency, growth and wholeness.
(03) 8338 4398 View (03) 8338 4398
Photo of Dee Kumbukage, Counsellor in Creswick, VIC
Dee Kumbukage
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Verified Verified
Highton, VIC 3216
Bo Tree Counselling is a place of healing and personal transformation fir anyone facing a range of challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship struggles. They may be seeking support to navigate life transitions, personal growth, or coping with major life events like grief or health crises. They want to improve their mental well-being, gain clarity, and find the tools to lead a more fulfilling life.
Bo Tree Counselling is a place of healing and personal transformation fir anyone facing a range of challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship struggles. They may be seeking support to navigate life transitions, personal growth, or coping with major life events like grief or health crises. They want to improve their mental well-being, gain clarity, and find the tools to lead a more fulfilling life.
(03) 4237 7773 View (03) 4237 7773
Photo of Ronnie Adamowicz, Psychotherapist in Creswick, VIC
Ronnie Adamowicz
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
Saint Kilda, VIC 3182
Are you feeling stuck, like something important is missing from your life, but you can't quite put your finger on it? Do you find it challenging to have your emotional needs met in relationships? Are you trapped in repetitive patterns, struggling to define healthy boundaries? There is a reason behind these struggles, and together, we will uncover what is holding you back, providing you with the clarity and confidence needed to turn things around. I specialize in somatic therapy, an approach that dives deep into the core of unresolved trauma within the body, facilitating rapid healing.
Are you feeling stuck, like something important is missing from your life, but you can't quite put your finger on it? Do you find it challenging to have your emotional needs met in relationships? Are you trapped in repetitive patterns, struggling to define healthy boundaries? There is a reason behind these struggles, and together, we will uncover what is holding you back, providing you with the clarity and confidence needed to turn things around. I specialize in somatic therapy, an approach that dives deep into the core of unresolved trauma within the body, facilitating rapid healing.
(03) 7037 6993 View (03) 7037 6993
Photo of A Life Simply Lived Psychology, Psychologist in Creswick, VIC
A Life Simply Lived Psychology
Psychologist, PsychD, MAPS
Verified Verified
Boort, VIC 3537
Dr Naomi Malone is an experienced counselling psychologist with a strong interest in working with perinatal, elderly, couples, and trauma populations.
Our mission is to assist our clients to build vibrant, authentic and meaningful lives, based on what they value as important. Our practice model is holistic and considers emotional health and wellbeing in the greater context of movement, nutrition, social connection, sleep and spirituality. We are committed to providing a multidisciplinary approach to client care, maintaining (with client consent) excellent communication with GPs and other allied health professionals in order to maximise the mental health and wellbeing outcomes for our clients.
Dr Naomi Malone is an experienced counselling psychologist with a strong interest in working with perinatal, elderly, couples, and trauma populations.
Our mission is to assist our clients to build vibrant, authentic and meaningful lives, based on what they value as important. Our practice model is holistic and considers emotional health and wellbeing in the greater context of movement, nutrition, social connection, sleep and spirituality. We are committed to providing a multidisciplinary approach to client care, maintaining (with client consent) excellent communication with GPs and other allied health professionals in order to maximise the mental health and wellbeing outcomes for our clients.
(03) 9068 5040 View (03) 9068 5040
Photo of Kristine Lutter, Counsellor in Creswick, VIC
Kristine Lutter
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L3
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Doreen, VIC 3754
I specialise in anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, trauma, self esteem/self worth, guilt, shame, family of origin issues, bullying and people struggling with infertility. My approach is holistic looking at the physical, social, spiritual and emotional aspects. I attempt to ensure clients feel safe and comfortable before they are able to share what has happened to them. With my experience in this industry, I have trained and supervise counsellors. This has helped me to deepen my understanding of what clients need.
I specialise in anxiety, depression, stress, grief and loss, trauma, self esteem/self worth, guilt, shame, family of origin issues, bullying and people struggling with infertility. My approach is holistic looking at the physical, social, spiritual and emotional aspects. I attempt to ensure clients feel safe and comfortable before they are able to share what has happened to them. With my experience in this industry, I have trained and supervise counsellors. This has helped me to deepen my understanding of what clients need.
(03) 8104 9918 View (03) 8104 9918
Photo of Dimitri Hawa, Psychologist in Creswick, VIC
Dimitri Hawa
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Spotswood, VIC 3015
Dimitri has significant experience providing psychotherapy with adults. Areas of expertise include relationship issues, grief, depression, anxiety, anger management, neurodiverse challenges (ADHD/ASD), and, facilitating the process of psychological recovery from trauma and complex trauma (i., e childhood/adult abuse issues, domestic violence, family dysfunction, childhood neglect). Dimitri has worked as a private practice over several years, school psychologist, Victims of Crime, Transport Accident Commission (TAC), NDIS disability work, along with previous experience in the provision of psychological support in prison settings.
Dimitri has significant experience providing psychotherapy with adults. Areas of expertise include relationship issues, grief, depression, anxiety, anger management, neurodiverse challenges (ADHD/ASD), and, facilitating the process of psychological recovery from trauma and complex trauma (i., e childhood/adult abuse issues, domestic violence, family dysfunction, childhood neglect). Dimitri has worked as a private practice over several years, school psychologist, Victims of Crime, Transport Accident Commission (TAC), NDIS disability work, along with previous experience in the provision of psychological support in prison settings.
(03) 9007 2339 View (03) 9007 2339
Photo of Rachel McGregor, Psychologist in Creswick, VIC
Rachel McGregor
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Melbourne, VIC 3000
I am an experienced and warm psychologist and behaviour analyst providing effective and supportive therapy for adults and young people experiencing a range of concerns such as anxiety, stress, burnout, trauma, relationship challenges, work-related stress and mood. I believe individuals should not have to walk through life issues alone and therapy is a way to process, reflect and activate positive coping and wellbeing. You can be completely yourself in sessions. I have lots of experience working with individuals with ASD and ADHD. I also provide coaching, assertiveness training and personality assessment for professionals.
I am an experienced and warm psychologist and behaviour analyst providing effective and supportive therapy for adults and young people experiencing a range of concerns such as anxiety, stress, burnout, trauma, relationship challenges, work-related stress and mood. I believe individuals should not have to walk through life issues alone and therapy is a way to process, reflect and activate positive coping and wellbeing. You can be completely yourself in sessions. I have lots of experience working with individuals with ASD and ADHD. I also provide coaching, assertiveness training and personality assessment for professionals.
(03) 7003 2499 View (03) 7003 2499

See more therapy options for Creswick

Trauma and PTSD Counsellors

When should I seek treatment for trauma?

Not everyone who undergoes trauma needs therapy to heal, but many do. If, after experiencing a traumatic event, you find yourself struggling with symptoms such as nightmares, dissociation, irritability, or emotional numbness—especially if these symptoms last more than a month and are severe enough to interfere with your daily functioning—you may benefit from seeking out therapy with a trauma-informed provider.

How long does trauma therapy take?

Different types of therapy for trauma unfold on different timelines. Prolonged exposure therapy and cognitive processing therapy, for example, each take about three months, while trauma-informed CBT may last anywhere from 8 to 25 sessions. Other approaches, especially those that are less structured or that incorporate elements from multiple modalities, may be more open-ended, though many patients report feeling better within the first few months of treatment.

What happens if trauma is left untreated?

Unaddressed trauma can have serious—even devastating—effects on relationships, career, and day-to-day functioning. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) can lead people to distrust or lash out at others, making it difficult to maintain intimate relationships; it can also trigger symptoms such as flashbacks or hyperreactivity that can interfere with a person’s ability to function effectively, personally and/or professionally. Some sufferers turn to drugs to find relief. Symptoms may lessen on their own with time, but there is no guarantee that PTSD will resolve on its own.

Can PTSD come back after treatment?

It is possible for PTSD symptoms to recur months or years after successful treatment. This is because, like most mental health disorders, it is not possible to “cure” PTSD, and stressful life events may cause symptoms to recur in even the most resilient individuals. There is no shame in re-experiencing PTSD symptoms nor in returning to therapy when such relapses occur; indeed, many forms of trauma therapy explicitly encourage periodic “maintenance sessions” to reinforce coping skills and ensure that symptoms stay manageable.