Trauma and PTSD Counselling in Brighton, VIC

Photo of Clarissa Martinez, Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
Clarissa Martinez
Counsellor, MC, ACA-L4
Brighton, VIC 3186
Hello you may have arrived here in search of support and clarity or to understand some issues that may have had a profound impact within your life. If you are looking for support and guidance through a challenging situation or you’re just ready to move into a new direction in your life I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals. I work one on one with adults at my practice located in Brighton. The services I provide is an integrative mixture of Kinesiology, Counselling, Neurofeedback therapy, Reiki and Sound healing.
Hello you may have arrived here in search of support and clarity or to understand some issues that may have had a profound impact within your life. If you are looking for support and guidance through a challenging situation or you’re just ready to move into a new direction in your life I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals. I work one on one with adults at my practice located in Brighton. The services I provide is an integrative mixture of Kinesiology, Counselling, Neurofeedback therapy, Reiki and Sound healing.
(03) 7003 2286 View (03) 7003 2286
Photo of Douglas James Kirk - Douglas Kirk - People Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Douglas Kirk - People Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Brighton, VIC 3186
Get help by seeing Doug, who has extensive experience with: Anger Management Antisocial Personality Anxiety Bi-polar Borderline Personality Disorder Depression, Domestic Violence Gambling Intellectual Disability Life Transitions Relationship Issues Self-esteem Stress Suicidal Ideation Trauma PTSD Douglas Kirk is a registered psychologist with AHPRA.
Doug takes a person-centred approach, ensuring that you are heard, valued, and empowered. By focusing on your needs, strengths, and goals, he cultivates a supportive and collaborative environment. As a trauma-informed practitioner, he acknowledges the profound impact of past experiences on well-being and integrate sensitivity with evidence-based strategies
Get help by seeing Doug, who has extensive experience with: Anger Management Antisocial Personality Anxiety Bi-polar Borderline Personality Disorder Depression, Domestic Violence Gambling Intellectual Disability Life Transitions Relationship Issues Self-esteem Stress Suicidal Ideation Trauma PTSD Douglas Kirk is a registered psychologist with AHPRA.
Doug takes a person-centred approach, ensuring that you are heard, valued, and empowered. By focusing on your needs, strengths, and goals, he cultivates a supportive and collaborative environment. As a trauma-informed practitioner, he acknowledges the profound impact of past experiences on well-being and integrate sensitivity with evidence-based strategies
(03) 9133 0996 View (03) 9133 0996
Photo of Kenneth Love - Kenneth Love - People Psychology, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kenneth Love - People Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Online Only
Get help by seeing Ken, who has extensive experience with: Depression Anxiety Disorders Panic Attacks Anger Management Complex trauma including PTSD ( Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) Stress Adjustment Disorders Early Attachment Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Phobias (fear of specific things/situations) Grief and Loss Domestic Violence and Domestic Abuse Sexual Abuse Sexual Assault Psychological Counselling and Support to First Responders Victims of Crime Coping with Pain and Pain Management Meaning and Purpose Life Transitions Somatic Symptom Disorders Dissociative Identity Disorder Mood Disorders
Kenneth Love is an AHPRA registered psychologist specialising in trauma treatment and recovery and post- trauma growth. He can also help you with a wide range of other emotional and mental health concerns. Ken is a caring, person centred therapist who places honesty, trust, openness and respect at the centre of his relationship with you
Get help by seeing Ken, who has extensive experience with: Depression Anxiety Disorders Panic Attacks Anger Management Complex trauma including PTSD ( Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) Stress Adjustment Disorders Early Attachment Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Phobias (fear of specific things/situations) Grief and Loss Domestic Violence and Domestic Abuse Sexual Abuse Sexual Assault Psychological Counselling and Support to First Responders Victims of Crime Coping with Pain and Pain Management Meaning and Purpose Life Transitions Somatic Symptom Disorders Dissociative Identity Disorder Mood Disorders
Kenneth Love is an AHPRA registered psychologist specialising in trauma treatment and recovery and post- trauma growth. He can also help you with a wide range of other emotional and mental health concerns. Ken is a caring, person centred therapist who places honesty, trust, openness and respect at the centre of his relationship with you
(03) 9133 0996 View (03) 9133 0996
Photo of Jane Lumley - Jane Lumley - People Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Jane Lumley - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Brighton, VIC 3186
She offers evidenced based treatment that is tailored to each client to assist with a wide range of presenting issues including depression, stress, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, trauma, grief and loss.
Jane has experience counselling clients and can help you with: Emotional Dysregulation Counselling for Trauma Anxiety Depression Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Divorce Domestic Abuse Domestic Violence Emotional Disturbance Parenting Peer Relationships Self-Esteem Self-Harming Sexual Abuse Sexual Assault Sleep or Insomnia Stress Trauma and PTSD (Post
She offers evidenced based treatment that is tailored to each client to assist with a wide range of presenting issues including depression, stress, anxiety, adjustment difficulties, trauma, grief and loss.
Jane has experience counselling clients and can help you with: Emotional Dysregulation Counselling for Trauma Anxiety Depression Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD) Divorce Domestic Abuse Domestic Violence Emotional Disturbance Parenting Peer Relationships Self-Esteem Self-Harming Sexual Abuse Sexual Assault Sleep or Insomnia Stress Trauma and PTSD (Post
(03) 7003 2782 View (03) 7003 2782
Photo of Eleasa Pearce - Eleasa Pearce - People Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Eleasa Pearce - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Brighton, VIC 3186
Eleasa Pearce has extensive experience counselling clients and can help you if you’re experiencing: Anxiety Panic Attacks Phobias (Fear of specific things / situations) Trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder ( PTSD) Early childhood trauma Depression Relationship issues / counselling and interpersonal issues Eco anxiety and client grief Values exploration Burnout Workplace stress and career change Communication skills Grief and loss Chronic pain Stress-related conditions Coaching Anger Management Sleep difficulties Medicare, Private Health Insurers, NDIS, TAC and WorkCover Psychologist Reports.
Eleasa is a highly empathetic and compassionate psychologist with a strong focus on client centred care. She creates a safe and supportive space for clients to explore their life challenges. Eleasa uses an integrative approach individually tailored for each client so they can reach their own goals, while also promoting greater wellbeing, growth & resilience.
Eleasa Pearce has extensive experience counselling clients and can help you if you’re experiencing: Anxiety Panic Attacks Phobias (Fear of specific things / situations) Trauma and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder ( PTSD) Early childhood trauma Depression Relationship issues / counselling and interpersonal issues Eco anxiety and client grief Values exploration Burnout Workplace stress and career change Communication skills Grief and loss Chronic pain Stress-related conditions Coaching Anger Management Sleep difficulties Medicare, Private Health Insurers, NDIS, TAC and WorkCover Psychologist Reports.
Eleasa is a highly empathetic and compassionate psychologist with a strong focus on client centred care. She creates a safe and supportive space for clients to explore their life challenges. Eleasa uses an integrative approach individually tailored for each client so they can reach their own goals, while also promoting greater wellbeing, growth & resilience.
(03) 7003 2671 View (03) 7003 2671
Photo of Dr Claudine Martijn - Dr Claudine Martijn - People Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Claudine Martijn - People Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Brighton, VIC 3186
Dr Claudine Martijn (pronounced “Martin”), clinical psychologist, can help you and has extensive experience with multiple psychological, emotional, and mental health needs, including: Stress Anxiety Panic Attacks & Anxiety Phobias (Fear of specific things / situations) Agoraphobia / Social Anxiety Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) & Anxiety Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) Depression Depressive Disorders Perinatal Psychology / Mental Health including Post Natal Depression (PND) Pregnancy Counselling Antenatal Depression Parenting issues Bipoloar Disorder (BD) Grief and Loss and PTSD ( Post Traumatic Stress Disorder)
Doctor Claudine Martijn has worked predominantly in clinical settings (public and private hospitals) alongside private practice. Claudine is driven to help her clients overcome their psychological struggles to enable them to enjoy a contented and fulfilling life. Claudine engenders a safe and warm dynamic in the therapy space, helping you to your best self.
Dr Claudine Martijn (pronounced “Martin”), clinical psychologist, can help you and has extensive experience with multiple psychological, emotional, and mental health needs, including: Stress Anxiety Panic Attacks & Anxiety Phobias (Fear of specific things / situations) Agoraphobia / Social Anxiety Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) & Anxiety Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) Depression Depressive Disorders Perinatal Psychology / Mental Health including Post Natal Depression (PND) Pregnancy Counselling Antenatal Depression Parenting issues Bipoloar Disorder (BD) Grief and Loss and PTSD ( Post Traumatic Stress Disorder)
Doctor Claudine Martijn has worked predominantly in clinical settings (public and private hospitals) alongside private practice. Claudine is driven to help her clients overcome their psychological struggles to enable them to enjoy a contented and fulfilling life. Claudine engenders a safe and warm dynamic in the therapy space, helping you to your best self.
(03) 7003 2516 View (03) 7003 2516
Photo of Dimitra Tsoukalas, Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
Dimitra Tsoukalas
Psychotherapist, MA, ACA-L4
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialise in anxiety, trauma & relationships & I have a variety of tools / modalities to help you become the best version of YOU!
I have extensive experience in working with clients in a variety of settings & with diverse clinical presentations. This includes working with children & teens in both primary /secondary schools. I also work with individuals, couples & families as well as in FV, trauma & behaviour change. I am a staunch believer that change / healing is possible to all.
I specialise in anxiety, trauma & relationships & I have a variety of tools / modalities to help you become the best version of YOU!
I have extensive experience in working with clients in a variety of settings & with diverse clinical presentations. This includes working with children & teens in both primary /secondary schools. I also work with individuals, couples & families as well as in FV, trauma & behaviour change. I am a staunch believer that change / healing is possible to all.
(03) 4110 2003 View (03) 4110 2003
Photo of Jackson Taylor, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Jackson Taylor
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Online Only
Jackson is a Clinical Psychologist committed to supporting individuals dealing with various mental health challenges, as well as problems in work, life and relationships. Jackson works with clients experiencing a wide variety of issues including work stress, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, complex trauma, challenges with parenting and family dynamics, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and eating disorders. Jackson has a strong interest in self-actualisation and helping his clients to reach their fullest potential, both personally and professionally. Visit jspsychologybrighton.com for more information.
Jackson is a Clinical Psychologist committed to supporting individuals dealing with various mental health challenges, as well as problems in work, life and relationships. Jackson works with clients experiencing a wide variety of issues including work stress, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, complex trauma, challenges with parenting and family dynamics, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and eating disorders. Jackson has a strong interest in self-actualisation and helping his clients to reach their fullest potential, both personally and professionally. Visit jspsychologybrighton.com for more information.
(03) 7003 2597 View (03) 7003 2597
Photo of Adam Kreuzer - Adam Kreuzer - Psychotherapist, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Adam Kreuzer - Psychotherapist
Counsellor, ACA-L1
Online Only
My ideal client is someone who is open to exploring the connections between their trauma and life experiences and how this has impacted their lives in positive and negative ways.
I love working with clients who are couples and individuals, those grappling with addictions, adolescents and also those experiencing incarceration. Being trauma-informed, I provide honest and unique insights and advice to break through obstacles and roadblocks for stronger mental health, finding peace, balance and contentment in their lives.
My ideal client is someone who is open to exploring the connections between their trauma and life experiences and how this has impacted their lives in positive and negative ways.
I love working with clients who are couples and individuals, those grappling with addictions, adolescents and also those experiencing incarceration. Being trauma-informed, I provide honest and unique insights and advice to break through obstacles and roadblocks for stronger mental health, finding peace, balance and contentment in their lives.
(03) 7020 2782 View (03) 7020 2782
Photo of Derek Goodlake, Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Derek Goodlake
Counsellor, MA, ACA-L4
Serves Area
anxiety and depression may be work related or from past trauma amongst other causes and need different therapy.
We may feel overwhelmed with negative thoughts and memories from our past and fears about the future. Often no amount of arguing with ourselves seems to help. Maybe you've tried therapy before but the underlying issues are still there. With the right therapies, we can be free from the past's hold on our future. Everyone is different. Our past experiences, personalities, and situations are different. There isn't one therapy that will meet everyone's need. As an experienced Counsellor, EMDR Practitioner and a Clinical Hypnotherapist, I can work with you to resolve your issues. and get your life back on track.
anxiety and depression may be work related or from past trauma amongst other causes and need different therapy.
We may feel overwhelmed with negative thoughts and memories from our past and fears about the future. Often no amount of arguing with ourselves seems to help. Maybe you've tried therapy before but the underlying issues are still there. With the right therapies, we can be free from the past's hold on our future. Everyone is different. Our past experiences, personalities, and situations are different. There isn't one therapy that will meet everyone's need. As an experienced Counsellor, EMDR Practitioner and a Clinical Hypnotherapist, I can work with you to resolve your issues. and get your life back on track.
(03) 7500 5043 View (03) 7500 5043
Photo of Candice Mace, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Candice Mace
Psychologist, PsyBA General
7 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I use a person-centred and trauma-informed cognitive behavioural approach in my work, which also includes EMDR and elements of ACT, DBT, Schema and psychodynamic therapies.
My lived experiences with grief and loss generated interest in pursuing a career in clinical psychology and grief, loss, and trauma. My areas of speciality are prolonged grief disorder, complex and traumatic grief, and disenfranchised grief -this is an area I am currently researching as part of my DPsych (Clinical) thesis.
I use a person-centred and trauma-informed cognitive behavioural approach in my work, which also includes EMDR and elements of ACT, DBT, Schema and psychodynamic therapies.
My lived experiences with grief and loss generated interest in pursuing a career in clinical psychology and grief, loss, and trauma. My areas of speciality are prolonged grief disorder, complex and traumatic grief, and disenfranchised grief -this is an area I am currently researching as part of my DPsych (Clinical) thesis.
(03) 7500 5170 View (03) 7500 5170
Photo of Ali Stevens, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Ali Stevens
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have experience in treating a range of clinical presentations such as; Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder ( PTSD), Eating Disorders: Anorexia Nervosa, Binge Eating, Disordered Eating, Anxiety Disorders (Panic Disorders, Social Anxiety Disorder, OCD, GAD), Mood Disorders (Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, etc
What you can expect working with me: Working as a Clinical Psychologist, my style has been to keep things honest and real. I’ll gently challenge some of the habits or behaviours that might be holding you back. We’ll work together to understand patterns and find ways to change them so you can feel more in control and happier in your day-to-day life. It might feel a bit uncomfortable sometimes, but I’ll be here to support you as you make those important changes. I also strongly believe in the benefit of a holistic approach, so I will often work alongside any other health professionals involved in your care.
I have experience in treating a range of clinical presentations such as; Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder ( PTSD), Eating Disorders: Anorexia Nervosa, Binge Eating, Disordered Eating, Anxiety Disorders (Panic Disorders, Social Anxiety Disorder, OCD, GAD), Mood Disorders (Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, etc
What you can expect working with me: Working as a Clinical Psychologist, my style has been to keep things honest and real. I’ll gently challenge some of the habits or behaviours that might be holding you back. We’ll work together to understand patterns and find ways to change them so you can feel more in control and happier in your day-to-day life. It might feel a bit uncomfortable sometimes, but I’ll be here to support you as you make those important changes. I also strongly believe in the benefit of a holistic approach, so I will often work alongside any other health professionals involved in your care.
(03) 7003 2104 View (03) 7003 2104
Photo of Jessica Lyons, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Jessica Lyons
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
Jessica is a compassionate and approachable psychologist dedicated to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel truly heard and supported. With an empathetic and open-minded approach, she meets each client where they are, tailoring therapy to their unique needs and goals. She gently challenges when appropriate, encouraging growth and deeper self-awareness. Jessica provides evidence-based, client centered care whilst building on your strengths and values to help you navigate life's challenges with confidence and clarity.
Jessica is a compassionate and approachable psychologist dedicated to creating a safe, non-judgmental space where clients feel truly heard and supported. With an empathetic and open-minded approach, she meets each client where they are, tailoring therapy to their unique needs and goals. She gently challenges when appropriate, encouraging growth and deeper self-awareness. Jessica provides evidence-based, client centered care whilst building on your strengths and values to help you navigate life's challenges with confidence and clarity.
(03) 7040 8197 View (03) 7040 8197
Photo of Dr Kate O'Brien, Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Dr Kate O'Brien
Psychologist, PsychD, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Serves Area
As someone who has dedicated over a decade to helping others heal from trauma, I have learnt that the integration of our mind-brain-body system is core to cultivating well-being.
My approach is about self-discovery. With curiosity and compassion, I aim to help clients explore, move through, and integrate challenging experiences, to ultimately discover what they truly value and what is vital for attaining and maintaining psychological well-being.
As someone who has dedicated over a decade to helping others heal from trauma, I have learnt that the integration of our mind-brain-body system is core to cultivating well-being.
My approach is about self-discovery. With curiosity and compassion, I aim to help clients explore, move through, and integrate challenging experiences, to ultimately discover what they truly value and what is vital for attaining and maintaining psychological well-being.
(03) 7003 2086 View (03) 7003 2086
Photo of Amy Somers, Counsellor, ACA-L1
Amy Somers
Counsellor, ACA-L1
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I work primarily with people experiencing the ongoing effects of trauma and addiction.
Therapy with me is a space that is warm, accepting and allowing. And there’s lots of room for humour and silliness too (if that’s your thing). Many clients say they appreciate my engaged, active and supportive approach: I don't sit with a “blank face”, but I also don't impose solutions or advice; I listen deeply and help you find your own inner wisdom.
I work primarily with people experiencing the ongoing effects of trauma and addiction.
Therapy with me is a space that is warm, accepting and allowing. And there’s lots of room for humour and silliness too (if that’s your thing). Many clients say they appreciate my engaged, active and supportive approach: I don't sit with a “blank face”, but I also don't impose solutions or advice; I listen deeply and help you find your own inner wisdom.
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Photo of Emma Love, Social Worker, AASW
Emma Love
Social Worker, AASW
Serves Area
I deeply enjoy working with adults & LGBTQ+ people who are navigating anxiety, depression, burnout, and trauma.
As a queer-identifying psychotherapist, I believe everyone deserves safe & inclusive mental health care that affirms all aspects of their identity. I am committed to offering my clients a non-judgemental space where, together, we can explore tools that help you feel more grounded, supported and connected.
I deeply enjoy working with adults & LGBTQ+ people who are navigating anxiety, depression, burnout, and trauma.
As a queer-identifying psychotherapist, I believe everyone deserves safe & inclusive mental health care that affirms all aspects of their identity. I am committed to offering my clients a non-judgemental space where, together, we can explore tools that help you feel more grounded, supported and connected.
0480 801 257 View 0480 801 257
Photo of Kellie Dundon, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Kellie Dundon
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Serves Area
You might be dealing with anxiety, low mood, trauma, burnout, ADHD, or just feeling stuck.
I offer client-centred, trauma-informed telehealth sessions for adults across Australia. I draw on EMDR, ACT, CBT, and psychodynamic therapy, adapting these to suit your goals and needs. My approach is inclusive, affirming, and tailored—we’ll work together to help things feel more manageable.
You might be dealing with anxiety, low mood, trauma, burnout, ADHD, or just feeling stuck.
I offer client-centred, trauma-informed telehealth sessions for adults across Australia. I draw on EMDR, ACT, CBT, and psychodynamic therapy, adapting these to suit your goals and needs. My approach is inclusive, affirming, and tailored—we’ll work together to help things feel more manageable.
(03) 7003 2431 View (03) 7003 2431
Photo of Dr Fernanda Barros, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Dr Fernanda Barros
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Dr Fernanda Barros has worked as a psychologist for over 16 years across different settings. She is registered with APHRA and holds a doctorate in Existential Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy. As a practitioner her approach is client focused utilising a range of evidence based methods including schema therapy and existential phenomenology.
Dr Fernanda Barros has worked as a psychologist for over 16 years across different settings. She is registered with APHRA and holds a doctorate in Existential Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy. As a practitioner her approach is client focused utilising a range of evidence based methods including schema therapy and existential phenomenology.
(03) 9111 5330 View (03) 9111 5330
Photo of Melanie Strang, Psychologist, MBBS, PsyBA General
Melanie Strang
Psychologist, MBBS, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Hi there ! Thanks for clicking on my profile. I have over 20 years of practitioner experience, initially as a doctor working in mental health, then as a counsellor and presently, a psychologist.
Hi there ! Thanks for clicking on my profile. I have over 20 years of practitioner experience, initially as a doctor working in mental health, then as a counsellor and presently, a psychologist.
(03) 7003 2841 View (03) 7003 2841
Photo of Jasminka Kosanovic - Mind Wellbeing Counselling, Social Worker, AMHSW
Mind Wellbeing Counselling
Social Worker, AMHSW
Serves Area
I’m an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker/Therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience delivering trauma-informed, evidence-based care.
I provide trauma-informed care grounded in safety, trust, and collaboration. With over 30 years’ experience, I integrate EMDR, CBT, ACT, and attachment-based approaches to support healing, resilience, and restoration for those impacted by complex and intergenerational trauma.
I’m an Accredited Mental Health Social Worker/Therapist with over 30 years of clinical experience delivering trauma-informed, evidence-based care.
I provide trauma-informed care grounded in safety, trust, and collaboration. With over 30 years’ experience, I integrate EMDR, CBT, ACT, and attachment-based approaches to support healing, resilience, and restoration for those impacted by complex and intergenerational trauma.
(02) 4504 0216 View (02) 4504 0216

See more therapy options for Brighton

Trauma and PTSD Therapists

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.