Trauma and PTSD Counselling in Perth, WA

Photo of Cheryl Tan-Bell - Couples - Emdr, PACFA, Counsellor
Cheryl Tan-Bell - Couples - Emdr
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midland, WA 6056
Relationships are tough! Add in each other's trauma and you are bouncing off everyone like you're in a jumping castle. The old adage of 'individual stuff' and 'couple/s stuff' is true. Conversations can feel like they are going around in circles or rehashing old stuff. You feel stuck. Your partner/s feels stuck. No one is moving forward. This wasn't the life you imagined when you got together. It was meant to be rainbows and fairytales, not discussions around housework, money and sex - or friends and inlaws! What if I told you that 'your stuff' is affecting the relationship? It's a big possibility. It does not have to be that way!
Relationships are tough! Add in each other's trauma and you are bouncing off everyone like you're in a jumping castle. The old adage of 'individual stuff' and 'couple/s stuff' is true. Conversations can feel like they are going around in circles or rehashing old stuff. You feel stuck. Your partner/s feels stuck. No one is moving forward. This wasn't the life you imagined when you got together. It was meant to be rainbows and fairytales, not discussions around housework, money and sex - or friends and inlaws! What if I told you that 'your stuff' is affecting the relationship? It's a big possibility. It does not have to be that way!
(08) 6171 2914 View (08) 6171 2914
Photo of Oliver Aguilar, MA, PACFA, Psychotherapist
Oliver Aguilar
Psychotherapist, MA, PACFA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Perth, WA 6005
I specialise in trauma, alcohol and other drugs (AOD) but this is not exclusive of other mental health issues I can work with.
The way I work is interactive, collaborative, intuitive, and respectful. I work analytically with my clients by investigating how early childhood experiences have shaped current thinking and behaviours. We explore the links between unconscious and conscious thoughts, symbolism, beliefs, emotions, desires, and how they impact daily life. The work lies within the unconscious to conscious links, how one relates to their world, allowing unspoken languages of the body to express deeply felt emotions and thought patterns. As your ‘story’ unfolds, together we work to find meanings, diverse perspectives, and solutions to your concerns.
I specialise in trauma, alcohol and other drugs (AOD) but this is not exclusive of other mental health issues I can work with.
The way I work is interactive, collaborative, intuitive, and respectful. I work analytically with my clients by investigating how early childhood experiences have shaped current thinking and behaviours. We explore the links between unconscious and conscious thoughts, symbolism, beliefs, emotions, desires, and how they impact daily life. The work lies within the unconscious to conscious links, how one relates to their world, allowing unspoken languages of the body to express deeply felt emotions and thought patterns. As your ‘story’ unfolds, together we work to find meanings, diverse perspectives, and solutions to your concerns.
(08) 7701 9507 View (08) 7701 9507
Photo of Cheryl Dawn Pratt - Traumawise, PACFA, Counsellor
Traumawise
Counsellor, PACFA
Verified Verified
Fremantle, WA 6160
It's endorsed by the World Health Organisation and Phoenix Australia as one of two preferred treatments for PTSD.
I am Cheryl Pratt, an experienced clinical counsellor based in Fremantle. If you are struggling with phobias, fears, addiction, anxiety, trauma or PTSD I can offer you support and tangible solutions to alleviate discomfort and suffering. I use a range of modalities but prefer the evidence based therapy EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) because it produces such positive outcomes for my clients. I have more than 25 years' experience working in schools, TAFE, addiction treatment centres, mental health settings and private practice. I will collaborate with you to achieve the results you desire.
It's endorsed by the World Health Organisation and Phoenix Australia as one of two preferred treatments for PTSD.
I am Cheryl Pratt, an experienced clinical counsellor based in Fremantle. If you are struggling with phobias, fears, addiction, anxiety, trauma or PTSD I can offer you support and tangible solutions to alleviate discomfort and suffering. I use a range of modalities but prefer the evidence based therapy EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) because it produces such positive outcomes for my clients. I have more than 25 years' experience working in schools, TAFE, addiction treatment centres, mental health settings and private practice. I will collaborate with you to achieve the results you desire.
0478 748 942 View 0478 748 942
Photo of Dr Sam Wai Hoong, PhD, Psychologist
Dr Sam Wai Hoong
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
I specialise in the management and treatment of complex trauma, chronic pain, anxiety disorders, depression, relationship/behavioural and academic difficulties .
Prior to becoming a clinical psychologist , I was working as a school psychologist/school teacher and an acupuncturist . I specialise in supporting individuals with behavioural and relationship issues and assist these individuals to reach their full potential. I am also interested in working with individuals suffering from chronic pain and complex trauma especially childhood unresolved issues . I have experienced completing Court reports and assist with Worker or MVA Compensation.
I specialise in the management and treatment of complex trauma, chronic pain, anxiety disorders, depression, relationship/behavioural and academic difficulties .
Prior to becoming a clinical psychologist , I was working as a school psychologist/school teacher and an acupuncturist . I specialise in supporting individuals with behavioural and relationship issues and assist these individuals to reach their full potential. I am also interested in working with individuals suffering from chronic pain and complex trauma especially childhood unresolved issues . I have experienced completing Court reports and assist with Worker or MVA Compensation.
(08) 7079 5680 View (08) 7079 5680
Photo of Janeen Cameron, AThR, Psychotherapist
Janeen Cameron
Psychotherapist, AThR
Verified Verified
Supporting Individuals transitioning trauma, and related major life events.
Become aware of, your bodies response to traumas and other life events. Explore & develop your awareness & to find solutions that are right for you. Using a trauma informed holistic approach to self-care. Using Neuroscience research, evidence based art therapy and creative psychotherapy you will tap into sensorimotor stress held within the body. Issues such as trauma, PTSD, reproductive mental health, adoption and identity, reducing chaos, managing control, stress, self-care, transitions, decision making and relationships which are impacted by wellbeing. Registered NDIS provider, EMDR, art therapy, dreamwork.
Supporting Individuals transitioning trauma, and related major life events.
Become aware of, your bodies response to traumas and other life events. Explore & develop your awareness & to find solutions that are right for you. Using a trauma informed holistic approach to self-care. Using Neuroscience research, evidence based art therapy and creative psychotherapy you will tap into sensorimotor stress held within the body. Issues such as trauma, PTSD, reproductive mental health, adoption and identity, reducing chaos, managing control, stress, self-care, transitions, decision making and relationships which are impacted by wellbeing. Registered NDIS provider, EMDR, art therapy, dreamwork.
(08) 7079 4332 View (08) 7079 4332
Photo of Thomas Cobb, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Thomas Cobb
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Booragoon, WA 6154
I have experience supporting individuals and couples with Depression, Anxiety, Behavioural Issues, Trauma, Attachment, Grief and Loss, Relationship Issues and more.
I am dedicated to creating a safe space for clients free from judgement. I believe it is important that each person feels heard, understood and supported during their therapeutic journey, and I endeavour to make this a reality. I also take time in the first session to establish goals and discuss expectations of therapy. Working from a client-centred approach means it is important to me that clients can select the focus of sessions at a pace that is right for them. This often involves collaboration in order to work through issues, discerning underlying difficulties for sustained change, finding meaning, or enhancing strengths.
I have experience supporting individuals and couples with Depression, Anxiety, Behavioural Issues, Trauma, Attachment, Grief and Loss, Relationship Issues and more.
I am dedicated to creating a safe space for clients free from judgement. I believe it is important that each person feels heard, understood and supported during their therapeutic journey, and I endeavour to make this a reality. I also take time in the first session to establish goals and discuss expectations of therapy. Working from a client-centred approach means it is important to me that clients can select the focus of sessions at a pace that is right for them. This often involves collaboration in order to work through issues, discerning underlying difficulties for sustained change, finding meaning, or enhancing strengths.
(08) 6118 7203 View (08) 6118 7203
Photo of Samantha Crosby, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Crosby
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fremantle, WA 6160
We can work together to reduce the impacts of trauma and rediscover joy.
Welcome. My name is Samantha, but most people call me Sami. I'm a social worker, certified clinical trauma professional and somatic therapist specialising in counselling for adults who have experienced trauma, abuse or grief. I've dedicated the last few years to working with people with complex trauma, walking alongside them in their journey to return to wholeness. If you would like to work with me, we take a collaborative approach; a blend of talking therapy, mindful awareness and somatic inquiry to reduce any trauma symptoms you might be experiencing that are holding you back from living a full, joyful life.
We can work together to reduce the impacts of trauma and rediscover joy.
Welcome. My name is Samantha, but most people call me Sami. I'm a social worker, certified clinical trauma professional and somatic therapist specialising in counselling for adults who have experienced trauma, abuse or grief. I've dedicated the last few years to working with people with complex trauma, walking alongside them in their journey to return to wholeness. If you would like to work with me, we take a collaborative approach; a blend of talking therapy, mindful awareness and somatic inquiry to reduce any trauma symptoms you might be experiencing that are holding you back from living a full, joyful life.
0458 200 356 View 0458 200 356
Photo of Laurie Scarborough, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Laurie Scarborough
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
I am a Registered Psychologist, working in private practice in Mount Lawley, Perth. I work with adults and young adults from diverse cultural backgrounds experiencing a variety of mental health concerns. I have a special interest in working with people affected by trauma as well as those with dual or complex diagnoses. I am also interested in how physical health affects mental health, including the effects of medication, nutrition, sleep, pain, and chronic illness on our mental health, and reciprocally, how the brain and mental illness affects our bodies.
I am a Registered Psychologist, working in private practice in Mount Lawley, Perth. I work with adults and young adults from diverse cultural backgrounds experiencing a variety of mental health concerns. I have a special interest in working with people affected by trauma as well as those with dual or complex diagnoses. I am also interested in how physical health affects mental health, including the effects of medication, nutrition, sleep, pain, and chronic illness on our mental health, and reciprocally, how the brain and mental illness affects our bodies.
0432 853 987 View 0432 853 987
Photo of Heather Lilley, AMHSW, Counsellor
Heather Lilley
Counsellor, AMHSW
Verified Verified
Armadale, WA 6112
I’m particularly interested in working with people who have experienced trauma or distressing events.
I am passionate about helping people live mentally and emotionally healthy lives. Having worked as a Mental Health Social Worker and Psychotherapist for 30 years, I believe in the potential of every person to heal, grow and develop a sense of ownership over the decisions in their lives. People often find themselves in my counselling room after they’ve been struggling for a while and can walk in feeling overwhelmed, anxious, uncertain what to do and feeling like life has just become too hard. The wonderful thing is that we can learn how to cope, we can learn how to manage and how to be more resilient.
I’m particularly interested in working with people who have experienced trauma or distressing events.
I am passionate about helping people live mentally and emotionally healthy lives. Having worked as a Mental Health Social Worker and Psychotherapist for 30 years, I believe in the potential of every person to heal, grow and develop a sense of ownership over the decisions in their lives. People often find themselves in my counselling room after they’ve been struggling for a while and can walk in feeling overwhelmed, anxious, uncertain what to do and feeling like life has just become too hard. The wonderful thing is that we can learn how to cope, we can learn how to manage and how to be more resilient.
(08) 6118 7305 View (08) 6118 7305
Photo of Anunda C Merz, AASW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anunda C Merz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hilton, WA 6163
I am trauma informed, trained in & utilize various modalities though specialize in Internal Family Systems therapy.
Are you looking for a safe space to process life challenges and the emotional impact it has? Do you want to make sense of overwhelming feelings, find your calm and have more choice in your response? Together in a compassionate gentle way, we can explore your struggles / concerns, gain some clarity about whats going on, with an aim for you to feel more empowered and have greater peace in your life. Developing a relaxed, supportive connection with you is my priority. Feeling at ease, respected and appreciated is essential for therapy to be effective. I go at your pace.
I am trauma informed, trained in & utilize various modalities though specialize in Internal Family Systems therapy.
Are you looking for a safe space to process life challenges and the emotional impact it has? Do you want to make sense of overwhelming feelings, find your calm and have more choice in your response? Together in a compassionate gentle way, we can explore your struggles / concerns, gain some clarity about whats going on, with an aim for you to feel more empowered and have greater peace in your life. Developing a relaxed, supportive connection with you is my priority. Feeling at ease, respected and appreciated is essential for therapy to be effective. I go at your pace.
(08) 6219 3504 View (08) 6219 3504
Photo of Meg Waters, MPsych, MAPS, Psychologist
Meg Waters
Psychologist, MPsych, MAPS
Verified Verified
While I am happy to work with a broad range of presentations, my specialities include anxiety management, parenting support and trauma processing.
I am an experienced, compassionate, and genuine Clinical Psychologist who offers a wide range of assessment, report writing and counselling services for those over 16 years. I have worked in private practice, forensic settings and as a school psychologist over the years. My approach is warm and friendly and I endeavour to make you feel safe and at ease from the initial session.
While I am happy to work with a broad range of presentations, my specialities include anxiety management, parenting support and trauma processing.
I am an experienced, compassionate, and genuine Clinical Psychologist who offers a wide range of assessment, report writing and counselling services for those over 16 years. I have worked in private practice, forensic settings and as a school psychologist over the years. My approach is warm and friendly and I endeavour to make you feel safe and at ease from the initial session.
(08) 9470 5597 View (08) 9470 5597
Photo of Alexandra ‘Alex’ Forner, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Alexandra ‘Alex’ Forner
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Online Only
Abnormal reactions to abnormal experiences, like trauma, are normal.
Hi there! I'm a country girl at heart, living most of my life in Far West NSW and regional Victoria, and now WA. These foundational years have been valuable to my own psychological development and eventual career in the field. I've had exposure to diverse populations, presentations and contexts. My clientele ranges from police, FIFO folk in the mining industry, healthcare professionals and defense personnel across the ADF. I've provided outreach to Aboriginal communities, mine sites and farmers. I work primarily with adults (18+) however will accept younger clients if specifically referred for eating disorder treatment by their GP.
Abnormal reactions to abnormal experiences, like trauma, are normal.
Hi there! I'm a country girl at heart, living most of my life in Far West NSW and regional Victoria, and now WA. These foundational years have been valuable to my own psychological development and eventual career in the field. I've had exposure to diverse populations, presentations and contexts. My clientele ranges from police, FIFO folk in the mining industry, healthcare professionals and defense personnel across the ADF. I've provided outreach to Aboriginal communities, mine sites and farmers. I work primarily with adults (18+) however will accept younger clients if specifically referred for eating disorder treatment by their GP.
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Photo of Lina Cala, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Lina Cala
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Highgate, WA 6003
Lina is a Clinical Psychologist, and is experienced in working with children, adolescents, adults and couples. Lina offers therapy for a broad range of psychological, emotional and life change issues, including depression, anxiety, worry & stress, difficulties with emotion regulation, trauma, interpersonal and relationship difficulties. Using a non-judgmental approach, Lina works with clients to diminish distressing symptoms, shift unhelpful life patterns, and develop understanding. Lina’s therapeutic style is client centred, holistic and compassionate. Lina believes that a strong therapeutic relationship is key to therapy.
Lina is a Clinical Psychologist, and is experienced in working with children, adolescents, adults and couples. Lina offers therapy for a broad range of psychological, emotional and life change issues, including depression, anxiety, worry & stress, difficulties with emotion regulation, trauma, interpersonal and relationship difficulties. Using a non-judgmental approach, Lina works with clients to diminish distressing symptoms, shift unhelpful life patterns, and develop understanding. Lina’s therapeutic style is client centred, holistic and compassionate. Lina believes that a strong therapeutic relationship is key to therapy.
0431 461 566 View 0431 461 566
Photo of Nathan Barton - Kinship Psychology Services, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Kinship Psychology Services
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
At Kinship, our central focus is to cultivate a safe and trustworthy environment. So that those seeking help feel emotionally comfortable and are able to connect with our dedicated, compassionate and skilled professionals. Here, we collaborate with our clients, emphasising a strengths-based approach to achieve lasting therapeutic outcomes. We work with people who have experienced trauma in their life, those feeling emotional distress, suicidal thoughts or relationship difficulties and those who are experiencing mental illnesses such as PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, complex grief, stress or adjustment difficulties.
At Kinship, our central focus is to cultivate a safe and trustworthy environment. So that those seeking help feel emotionally comfortable and are able to connect with our dedicated, compassionate and skilled professionals. Here, we collaborate with our clients, emphasising a strengths-based approach to achieve lasting therapeutic outcomes. We work with people who have experienced trauma in their life, those feeling emotional distress, suicidal thoughts or relationship difficulties and those who are experiencing mental illnesses such as PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, complex grief, stress or adjustment difficulties.
(08) 6490 9050 View (08) 6490 9050
Photo of Sarah Ramunno, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych, Psychologist
Sarah Ramunno
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Verified Verified
Subiaco, WA 6008
I am a clinical psychologist with a special interest in working with adults experiencing difficulties with anxiety, perfectionism, self-esteem, assertiveness, PTSD, perinatal mental health, interpersonal and relationship difficulties. I am passionate about delivering best practice care to my clients and provide evidence-based treatments for a range of difficulties. I enjoy working with clients in developing skills and strategies to begin to change problematic patterns.
I am a clinical psychologist with a special interest in working with adults experiencing difficulties with anxiety, perfectionism, self-esteem, assertiveness, PTSD, perinatal mental health, interpersonal and relationship difficulties. I am passionate about delivering best practice care to my clients and provide evidence-based treatments for a range of difficulties. I enjoy working with clients in developing skills and strategies to begin to change problematic patterns.
(08) 6490 9815 View (08) 6490 9815
Photo of Tanya Michelle Pidgeon - Tanya Pidgeon - Equinnect; ACA Couns. L2 & RN, MC, PACFA, Counsellor
Tanya Pidgeon - Equinnect; ACA Couns. L2 & RN
Counsellor, MC, PACFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tanya specialises in trauma, grief & loss, anxiety, depression, stress management, suicidal ideation, and general mental health challenges. She integrates evidence-based practices, including mindfulness, compassion-focused therapy, nature-based therapy (including horses), play therapy, art therapy, and strength-based strategies, adapting these to meet each client's individual needs. Choose nature-based counselling: walk/talk, in comfy chairs, or talk/walk with a horse. Plus, I also offer an online counselling option via Zoom vc - if you would prefer to remain in your comfy home environment and after working hours.
Tanya specialises in trauma, grief & loss, anxiety, depression, stress management, suicidal ideation, and general mental health challenges. She integrates evidence-based practices, including mindfulness, compassion-focused therapy, nature-based therapy (including horses), play therapy, art therapy, and strength-based strategies, adapting these to meet each client's individual needs. Choose nature-based counselling: walk/talk, in comfy chairs, or talk/walk with a horse. Plus, I also offer an online counselling option via Zoom vc - if you would prefer to remain in your comfy home environment and after working hours.
(08) 9560 5465 View (08) 9560 5465
Photo of Jessica Bell, MPsych, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Jessica Bell
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Perth, WA 6000
Hi! I'm really glad you stopped by! Welcome to Jessica Bell Psychology. As an endorsed counselling psychologists my strength is in helping clients who experience mood difficulties, specifically bipolar disorder and depression, as well as people struggling with anxiety and those who have experienced trauma. If you are feeling stuck or in a never ending cycle and are longing to feel more connected, more in control and more at ease in your life, then support is available.
Hi! I'm really glad you stopped by! Welcome to Jessica Bell Psychology. As an endorsed counselling psychologists my strength is in helping clients who experience mood difficulties, specifically bipolar disorder and depression, as well as people struggling with anxiety and those who have experienced trauma. If you are feeling stuck or in a never ending cycle and are longing to feel more connected, more in control and more at ease in your life, then support is available.
0401 900 059 View 0401 900 059
Vanessa Castlemain
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Baldivis, WA 6171
Waitlist for new clients
Vanessa is a Registered Psychologist with over 34 years experience. She is trained in a wide variety of therapeutic interventions, in particular DBT and CBT. Vanessa has specialist interest in complex trauma, PTSD, autism, ADHD, BPD, bipolar disorder, NSSI, depression and anxiety. Every patient is welcome however and will receive an individually tailored plan.
Vanessa is a Registered Psychologist with over 34 years experience. She is trained in a wide variety of therapeutic interventions, in particular DBT and CBT. Vanessa has specialist interest in complex trauma, PTSD, autism, ADHD, BPD, bipolar disorder, NSSI, depression and anxiety. Every patient is welcome however and will receive an individually tailored plan.
(08) 9520 6125 View (08) 9520 6125
Photo of Natanya Bradley, MSc, PsyBA General, Psychologist
Natanya Bradley
Psychologist, MSc, PsyBA General
Verified Verified
Subiaco, WA 6008
My approach is developmentally and trauma informed, and draws on a range of evidence based psychological interventions.
I am a Clinical Psychology Registrar with 10+ years experience providing therapy across the lifespan and specialist interest and experience in working with clients who have experienced trauma, and families navigating pregnancy through to parenting. Life can be bumpy and unpredictable sometimes, especially during times of transitions and changes. Therapy can be a confidential and non-judgemental space for you to be deeply heard and understood, helping you come to know yourself and make sense of your experiences and relationships to find paths forward that are meaningful to you.
My approach is developmentally and trauma informed, and draws on a range of evidence based psychological interventions.
I am a Clinical Psychology Registrar with 10+ years experience providing therapy across the lifespan and specialist interest and experience in working with clients who have experienced trauma, and families navigating pregnancy through to parenting. Life can be bumpy and unpredictable sometimes, especially during times of transitions and changes. Therapy can be a confidential and non-judgemental space for you to be deeply heard and understood, helping you come to know yourself and make sense of your experiences and relationships to find paths forward that are meaningful to you.
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Photo of Jo Berryman - Jo Berryman Beam Psychology, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Jo Berryman Beam Psychology
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Jo is a registered psychologist with a Masters of Psychology degree in Counselling Psychology. She has a background and a passion with working with adolescents as well as experience with adults, couples and families across the lifespan. Jo is experienced in assessment and treatment of a range of psychological issues including depression, anxiety, personality disorders, self-injury and addiction with particular experience and research interests in 'at risk' behaviour, psychological trauma, abuse, panic disorder and perfectionism.
Jo is a registered psychologist with a Masters of Psychology degree in Counselling Psychology. She has a background and a passion with working with adolescents as well as experience with adults, couples and families across the lifespan. Jo is experienced in assessment and treatment of a range of psychological issues including depression, anxiety, personality disorders, self-injury and addiction with particular experience and research interests in 'at risk' behaviour, psychological trauma, abuse, panic disorder and perfectionism.
(08) 6206 8788 View (08) 6206 8788
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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.