Trauma and PTSD Counselling in Hartlepool

Photo of Hayley Harle - BU Therapy , Counsellor in Hartlepool, England
Hayley Harle - BU Therapy
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Hartlepool TS24
Hello and welcome to my page! After being a part of the military community for over 10 years, I was in close contact with individuals suffering with post-traumatic stress; Flashbacks and nightmares; triggers such as smells, social situations and physical sensations. These symptoms can then cause anxiety, depression, overwhelming feelings of anger and frustration, numbness, lack of sleep, relationship difficulties, substance use, isolation and sadly in some cases suicidal thoughts and attempts.. does any of these sound familiar? Then keep reading see if you think I could be the right fit for you
Hello and welcome to my page! After being a part of the military community for over 10 years, I was in close contact with individuals suffering with post-traumatic stress; Flashbacks and nightmares; triggers such as smells, social situations and physical sensations. These symptoms can then cause anxiety, depression, overwhelming feelings of anger and frustration, numbness, lack of sleep, relationship difficulties, substance use, isolation and sadly in some cases suicidal thoughts and attempts.. does any of these sound familiar? Then keep reading see if you think I could be the right fit for you
01287 550548 View 01287 550548
Photo of Talking Spaces - Counselling For Men, Counsellor in Hartlepool, England
Talking Spaces - Counselling For Men
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Hartlepool TS25
Empowering men to navigate life's challenges with confidence and clarity. Talking Spaces is an accessible counselling specialist service for men’s mental health, available in person or via Zoom. Generally men by nature are more action focused, so when it comes to managing difficult life events and emotions I use action and solution based therapeutic approaches and interventions when working with men’s mental health issues. Men need a service with the knowledge understand that social and cultural norms and ingrained beliefs about masculinity are one of the main barriers to seeking counselling in the first place.
Empowering men to navigate life's challenges with confidence and clarity. Talking Spaces is an accessible counselling specialist service for men’s mental health, available in person or via Zoom. Generally men by nature are more action focused, so when it comes to managing difficult life events and emotions I use action and solution based therapeutic approaches and interventions when working with men’s mental health issues. Men need a service with the knowledge understand that social and cultural norms and ingrained beliefs about masculinity are one of the main barriers to seeking counselling in the first place.
01429 806967 View 01429 806967
Photo of Karena Serdecka, Psychotherapist in Hartlepool, England
Karena Serdecka
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Hartlepool TS24
Whether you are working through a significant change or are finding it difficult to manage or resolve longer term issues which are preventing you from thriving and reaching your fullest potential in life, relationships, family or work – I can help you by working with you in a fully supportive, non-judgemental, empathic way. I am a warm, relational and person-centred integrative psychotherapist also with DPC (child and adol), also clinical hypnotherapist (Adult). Additionally -Dip CBT, EFT, Mindfulness, Art and Couples Therapies. I lecture in psychotherapy, psychology and counselling and have worked with clients 5 yrs old to 80yrs+
Whether you are working through a significant change or are finding it difficult to manage or resolve longer term issues which are preventing you from thriving and reaching your fullest potential in life, relationships, family or work – I can help you by working with you in a fully supportive, non-judgemental, empathic way. I am a warm, relational and person-centred integrative psychotherapist also with DPC (child and adol), also clinical hypnotherapist (Adult). Additionally -Dip CBT, EFT, Mindfulness, Art and Couples Therapies. I lecture in psychotherapy, psychology and counselling and have worked with clients 5 yrs old to 80yrs+
07445 540791 View 07445 540791
Photo of Deborah Cowell, Counsellor in Hartlepool, England
Deborah Cowell
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Hartlepool TS24
Are you experiencing life changes that are causing you stress, low moods and anxiety? Are you struggling with your mental health? Are you struggling with past trauma? Perhaps your using substances or alcohol to cope with life’s pressures that are spiralling out of control? Do you feel ready to talk, explore and work through your issues in a safe and confidential space? I can help you address your concerns without any judgement and at your own pace while building a trusting authentic therapeutic relationship.
Are you experiencing life changes that are causing you stress, low moods and anxiety? Are you struggling with your mental health? Are you struggling with past trauma? Perhaps your using substances or alcohol to cope with life’s pressures that are spiralling out of control? Do you feel ready to talk, explore and work through your issues in a safe and confidential space? I can help you address your concerns without any judgement and at your own pace while building a trusting authentic therapeutic relationship.
0191 743 6562 View 0191 743 6562
Photo of Kathryn Fox, Psychotherapist in Hartlepool, England
Kathryn Fox
Psychotherapist, MSc, BACP
Verified Verified
Hartlepool TS24
It can be exceptionally tough to start looking for therapy, and I'm proud of you for doing so today. As both a practicing therapist and as someone who has healed and grown in therapy myself, I know how it feels to be in both chairs in the therapy office. If you are looking for somewhere to create meaning in your life, you are feeling lost or hopeless, or you are seeking emotional support, please get in touch. I’m offering therapy exclusively through Skype, Zoom, and by phone, depending on your preference. While I plan to be back in the office to see people face-to-face when it is safe to do so, I am also excited to see you online!
It can be exceptionally tough to start looking for therapy, and I'm proud of you for doing so today. As both a practicing therapist and as someone who has healed and grown in therapy myself, I know how it feels to be in both chairs in the therapy office. If you are looking for somewhere to create meaning in your life, you are feeling lost or hopeless, or you are seeking emotional support, please get in touch. I’m offering therapy exclusively through Skype, Zoom, and by phone, depending on your preference. While I plan to be back in the office to see people face-to-face when it is safe to do so, I am also excited to see you online!
01429 807933 View 01429 807933
Photo of F&B Digital Therapy - Typed CBT, Psychotherapist in Hartlepool, England
F&B Digital Therapy - Typed CBT
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Hartlepool TS24  (Online Only)
Hi, we’re Faye and Becki! Here at F&B Therapy, we provide evidence-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy via typed messaging. We provide treatments for a number of psychological difficulties, drawing on up-to-date methods and approaches, whilst catering to the person as an individual. We have worked in NHS-funded services for many years and know that waiting lists can be long and sessions limited. How and when you speak to your therapist can also be limited to traditional offers of daytime working hours or via an office, which isn't the preferred method for everyone.
Hi, we’re Faye and Becki! Here at F&B Therapy, we provide evidence-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy via typed messaging. We provide treatments for a number of psychological difficulties, drawing on up-to-date methods and approaches, whilst catering to the person as an individual. We have worked in NHS-funded services for many years and know that waiting lists can be long and sessions limited. How and when you speak to your therapist can also be limited to traditional offers of daytime working hours or via an office, which isn't the preferred method for everyone.
View
Photo of Stephanie Powell, Counsellor in Hartlepool, England
Stephanie Powell
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Hartlepool TS25
I am a Psychological Therapist specialising in solution focused therapy. If you are seeking change and positive growth such as developing confidence or healthy self-esteem, we will work strategically to move you towards your goals. Creating a stronger sense of who you are and what you want, will help you to move forward with your life. Many life experiences, however simple or traumatic, can keep us stuck; we will explore and address what needs to be released, healed and developed in order to align you with your most authentic self and best life. My work is a complete integrated approach to mind/body/spirit wellness.
I am a Psychological Therapist specialising in solution focused therapy. If you are seeking change and positive growth such as developing confidence or healthy self-esteem, we will work strategically to move you towards your goals. Creating a stronger sense of who you are and what you want, will help you to move forward with your life. Many life experiences, however simple or traumatic, can keep us stuck; we will explore and address what needs to be released, healed and developed in order to align you with your most authentic self and best life. My work is a complete integrated approach to mind/body/spirit wellness.
01642 061095 View 01642 061095
Photo of Claire McPhail, Counsellor in Hartlepool, England
Claire McPhail
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Hartlepool TS24
I'm an integrative, trauma-informed counsellor, based County Durham. I work 1-1 with adults in person and remotely. I have a relational and collaborative approach, meeting clients with understanding and warmth, providing a safe space where feelings, thoughts and behaviours can be explored. My practice is inclusive and respectful. I am an LGBTQ+ allied and neurodiversity affirming therapist. I have a particular interest in sexual violence, domestic abuse and loss. I am also a qualified breathwork facilitator and EFT practitioner.
I'm an integrative, trauma-informed counsellor, based County Durham. I work 1-1 with adults in person and remotely. I have a relational and collaborative approach, meeting clients with understanding and warmth, providing a safe space where feelings, thoughts and behaviours can be explored. My practice is inclusive and respectful. I am an LGBTQ+ allied and neurodiversity affirming therapist. I have a particular interest in sexual violence, domestic abuse and loss. I am also a qualified breathwork facilitator and EFT practitioner.
0191 743 9541 View 0191 743 9541
Photo of Simon Neville Richardson, Psychotherapist in Hartlepool, England
Simon Neville Richardson
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hartlepool TS24
People come to therapy for many reasons. It may be that they are feeling stressed, anxious or depressed and they are having difficulty coping. Sometimes people just want to explore how their past continues to influence their present. Therapy can help us understand ourselves more, engage with ourselves and others more positively and move on in our lives. I believe in the core principles of Transactional Analysis that: People are OK; Everyone has the capacity to think; and People decide their own destiny and these decisions can be changed.
People come to therapy for many reasons. It may be that they are feeling stressed, anxious or depressed and they are having difficulty coping. Sometimes people just want to explore how their past continues to influence their present. Therapy can help us understand ourselves more, engage with ourselves and others more positively and move on in our lives. I believe in the core principles of Transactional Analysis that: People are OK; Everyone has the capacity to think; and People decide their own destiny and these decisions can be changed.
01287 555437 View 01287 555437
Photo of Jennifer Brown, Counsellor in Hartlepool, England
Jennifer Brown
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Hartlepool TS25  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Jen. Thank you for looking at my profile. I understand how hard it can be to take the first step in seeking support and choosing the right therapist; I offer a free 30 minute initial session to enable you to get an understanding of how I work. I provide a warm, down-to-earth and friendly approach to my work, using humour where appropriate, to help put you at ease and feel comfortable. As well as providing a healing experience, therapy can provide you with the space to better understand and manage your emotions, help build resilience, boost confidence and promote a happier, healthier life.
Hi, I’m Jen. Thank you for looking at my profile. I understand how hard it can be to take the first step in seeking support and choosing the right therapist; I offer a free 30 minute initial session to enable you to get an understanding of how I work. I provide a warm, down-to-earth and friendly approach to my work, using humour where appropriate, to help put you at ease and feel comfortable. As well as providing a healing experience, therapy can provide you with the space to better understand and manage your emotions, help build resilience, boost confidence and promote a happier, healthier life.
01287 550649 View 01287 550649
Photo of Shirley Wilks, Psychotherapist in Hartlepool, England
Shirley Wilks
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Hartlepool TS25
I am a Person Centred/Gestalt Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor who has worked in the area of mental health since 2001 working with adult individuals, couples and groups. The therapeutic relationship is key and I am here to explore with you and support you in working through what might be troubling you at this time with a common goal, which is to improve your psychological mood and wellbeing. I provide clinical supervision to clinicians from trainees in placements to experienced therapists. I also work as an affiliate for EAP organisations.
I am a Person Centred/Gestalt Psychotherapist and Clinical Supervisor who has worked in the area of mental health since 2001 working with adult individuals, couples and groups. The therapeutic relationship is key and I am here to explore with you and support you in working through what might be troubling you at this time with a common goal, which is to improve your psychological mood and wellbeing. I provide clinical supervision to clinicians from trainees in placements to experienced therapists. I also work as an affiliate for EAP organisations.
01642 680017 View 01642 680017
Photo of Kat Wysoczanska, Counsellor in Hartlepool, England
Kat Wysoczanska
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Hartlepool TS27
My name is Kat and I know from both personal and professional experience that sometimes things may just get too much and life may seem to be complicated and talking to a friend or a family member may not feel like a solution. Either you are experiencing stress, relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, loss or any other emotional issue counselling may help. By providing you with a safe and confidential space I can assist you on a journey of self exploration and change.
My name is Kat and I know from both personal and professional experience that sometimes things may just get too much and life may seem to be complicated and talking to a friend or a family member may not feel like a solution. Either you are experiencing stress, relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, loss or any other emotional issue counselling may help. By providing you with a safe and confidential space I can assist you on a journey of self exploration and change.
01429 801289 View 01429 801289
Photo of STEP a DAY Counselling Services Ltd, Counsellor in Hartlepool, England
STEP a DAY Counselling Services Ltd
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Hartlepool TS25
Are you going through bereavement, loss, bullying, stress at work or at home? Maybe life hasn't panned out the way you thought it would or maybe you are feeling anxious, flat or angry and however hard you try, it just will not shift. Talking it all through in a safe and confidential space can help you with life challenges and difficulties you are facing. You are not alone and you don’t have to remain silent anymore, I am here to listen and to help you cope.
Are you going through bereavement, loss, bullying, stress at work or at home? Maybe life hasn't panned out the way you thought it would or maybe you are feeling anxious, flat or angry and however hard you try, it just will not shift. Talking it all through in a safe and confidential space can help you with life challenges and difficulties you are facing. You are not alone and you don’t have to remain silent anymore, I am here to listen and to help you cope.
01642 030934 View 01642 030934

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nicola Jones Counselling and CBT, Psychotherapist in Hartlepool, England
Nicola Jones Counselling and CBT
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Middlesbrough TS1
I use evidence based therapy with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, panic, worry, low mood, low self esteem, relationship concerns, phobias, bereavements, stress, PTSD, Health Anxiety, Social Anxiety or OCD to name just a few.
I am a fully qualified and experienced Counsellor, Psychological Therapist and High Intensity Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) and Supervisor. Often individuals will seek therapy because they feel unable to cope with the stresses of life or adjusting to a big change, not like 'their old self', isolated from others, worried or lost or just needing someone to listen. My role is to work together with individuals to make sense of what is happening for them and provide opportunities for change in away that they feel is appropriate and achievable at their own pace, within a private and confidential setting.
I use evidence based therapy with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, panic, worry, low mood, low self esteem, relationship concerns, phobias, bereavements, stress, PTSD, Health Anxiety, Social Anxiety or OCD to name just a few.
I am a fully qualified and experienced Counsellor, Psychological Therapist and High Intensity Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) and Supervisor. Often individuals will seek therapy because they feel unable to cope with the stresses of life or adjusting to a big change, not like 'their old self', isolated from others, worried or lost or just needing someone to listen. My role is to work together with individuals to make sense of what is happening for them and provide opportunities for change in away that they feel is appropriate and achievable at their own pace, within a private and confidential setting.
01325 809788 View 01325 809788
Photo of TraumaWise, Psychotherapist in Hartlepool, England
TraumaWise
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
Middlesbrough TS5  (Online Only)
I have further specialist training in Attachment Focused-EMDR, Attachment Informed EMDR, EMDR with Parts (DID), Advanced Flash Technique (potential to rapidly reduce high distress events to me processed more easily) and Dream Completion training for PTSD based nightmares.
I can provide assessment, formulation, reports and evidence based therapy for; Post Traumatic Stress difficulties, Complex-Post Traumatic Stress difficulties and dissociative difficulties which range in complexity from flashbacks to Dissociative Identity Disorder. I work with people who have experienced single incident traumas (inc' witnessing), childhood developmental relationship traumas, physical, emotional, financial and sexual abuse. I can help those experiencing depression, anxiety, panic, obsessive compulsive difficulties, body dysmorphia, bi-polar, various diagnoses of personality disorder and complex grief due to loss.
I have further specialist training in Attachment Focused-EMDR, Attachment Informed EMDR, EMDR with Parts (DID), Advanced Flash Technique (potential to rapidly reduce high distress events to me processed more easily) and Dream Completion training for PTSD based nightmares.
I can provide assessment, formulation, reports and evidence based therapy for; Post Traumatic Stress difficulties, Complex-Post Traumatic Stress difficulties and dissociative difficulties which range in complexity from flashbacks to Dissociative Identity Disorder. I work with people who have experienced single incident traumas (inc' witnessing), childhood developmental relationship traumas, physical, emotional, financial and sexual abuse. I can help those experiencing depression, anxiety, panic, obsessive compulsive difficulties, body dysmorphia, bi-polar, various diagnoses of personality disorder and complex grief due to loss.
01642 061104 View 01642 061104
Photo of Natalie Holmes, Counsellor in Hartlepool, England
Natalie Holmes
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peterlee SR8
Waitlist for new clients
Hi, I’m Natalie, the therapist at East Durham Counselling. I work with adults and young people in private practice. I’m trained in integrative counselling, which means I have lots of techniques to choose from when deciding what will help my clients the most; I draw from person-centred, psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioural therapies depending on the presenting issues and client's needs. I have experience of working with autism, ADHD, abuse, anxiety, bereavement, depression, domestic violence, eating disorders, OCD, PTSD, relationship issues, self-harm, stress, trauma and dissociation.
Hi, I’m Natalie, the therapist at East Durham Counselling. I work with adults and young people in private practice. I’m trained in integrative counselling, which means I have lots of techniques to choose from when deciding what will help my clients the most; I draw from person-centred, psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioural therapies depending on the presenting issues and client's needs. I have experience of working with autism, ADHD, abuse, anxiety, bereavement, depression, domestic violence, eating disorders, OCD, PTSD, relationship issues, self-harm, stress, trauma and dissociation.
0191 743 9237 View 0191 743 9237
Photo of Kerrie McCabe, Counsellor in Hartlepool, England
Kerrie McCabe
Counsellor, BACP
Verified Verified
Stockton-on-Tees TS20
I have experience of working with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, anger, bereavement, post-traumatic stress disorder, adoption, family dynamics, attachment issues and relationship difficulties.
Hello, and a very warm welcome. My name is Kerrie, and I am a qualified Counsellor. I am a member of The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, and adhere to their code of ethics. Counselling allows you to discuss any problems and difficult feelings you are experiencing in a relaxed, safe, and confidential environment. The Counselling process gives you the opportunity to talk about your problems enabling you to develop an understanding and insight into your thoughts, feelings, behaviors and issues. A plan of action may be looked at to either help you resolve your issues or help you to find ways of coping.
I have experience of working with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, anger, bereavement, post-traumatic stress disorder, adoption, family dynamics, attachment issues and relationship difficulties.
Hello, and a very warm welcome. My name is Kerrie, and I am a qualified Counsellor. I am a member of The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, and adhere to their code of ethics. Counselling allows you to discuss any problems and difficult feelings you are experiencing in a relaxed, safe, and confidential environment. The Counselling process gives you the opportunity to talk about your problems enabling you to develop an understanding and insight into your thoughts, feelings, behaviors and issues. A plan of action may be looked at to either help you resolve your issues or help you to find ways of coping.
01642 988107 View 01642 988107
Photo of Inukshuk Therapy & Publishing, Psychotherapist in Hartlepool, England
Inukshuk Therapy & Publishing
Psychotherapist, MA, SNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wingate TS28
Areas of counselling I work with: • Abuse • Critical Incident and Professional Service • Depression • Disabilities • Family issues • Couples -relationships • Grief • IVF- Fertility • Low self-confidence • Low self-esteem • Pet loss/grief • Redundancy • Relationship issues -couples and individuals • PTSD • Self-Harm and Injury • Identity/Sexuality • Stress.
Welcome my name is Kathleen, I am an integrative MA-qualified psychotherapist, author, and supervisor working with young people, adults, and couples. I realise that enquiries into therapy can be a daunting experience for most. I have a specialism in bereavement, yet have worked with a variety of themes; I am here to help. I offer video consultations for 15 minutes to make sure that I can assist you whilst working on the nature of what you wish to bring. I can offer face-to-face sessions also yet this needs to be organised in advance.. I look forward to hearing from you.
Areas of counselling I work with: • Abuse • Critical Incident and Professional Service • Depression • Disabilities • Family issues • Couples -relationships • Grief • IVF- Fertility • Low self-confidence • Low self-esteem • Pet loss/grief • Redundancy • Relationship issues -couples and individuals • PTSD • Self-Harm and Injury • Identity/Sexuality • Stress.
Welcome my name is Kathleen, I am an integrative MA-qualified psychotherapist, author, and supervisor working with young people, adults, and couples. I realise that enquiries into therapy can be a daunting experience for most. I have a specialism in bereavement, yet have worked with a variety of themes; I am here to help. I offer video consultations for 15 minutes to make sure that I can assist you whilst working on the nature of what you wish to bring. I can offer face-to-face sessions also yet this needs to be organised in advance.. I look forward to hearing from you.
01429 801370 View 01429 801370
Photo of Julie Barfoot Talking Therapies, Psychotherapist in Hartlepool, England
Julie Barfoot Talking Therapies
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Middlesbrough TS6
Hi, I am a BABCP accredited cognitive behavioural therapist and a previously registered Occupational Therapist. I provide personalised CBT (£65 per session) for people with anxiety disorders e.g. OCD, health anxiety, Generalised anxiety disorder (worry about everything), panic disorder, phobias, social anxiety, PTSD, low self esteem and depression. I also look at wellbeing issues e.g. sleep. I also offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing £65 per session) for trauma and anxiety. I am available Tuesday to Thursday throughout the day until 6pm only.
Hi, I am a BABCP accredited cognitive behavioural therapist and a previously registered Occupational Therapist. I provide personalised CBT (£65 per session) for people with anxiety disorders e.g. OCD, health anxiety, Generalised anxiety disorder (worry about everything), panic disorder, phobias, social anxiety, PTSD, low self esteem and depression. I also look at wellbeing issues e.g. sleep. I also offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing £65 per session) for trauma and anxiety. I am available Tuesday to Thursday throughout the day until 6pm only.
01642 130407 View 01642 130407
Photo of Jo Weir, Counsellor in Hartlepool, England
Jo Weir
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Stockton-on-Tees TS18
I consider myself to be an integrative therapist drawing from different modalities to provide a bespoke pathway to the clients needs as each journey is completely individual. I provide a trusted, supportive and safe space for the client (s) to heard and explored. When working with couples I acknowledge every relationship is unique, as are the individuals in the partnership. I work with issues such as ineffective communication, escalating arguments, infidelity, loss of intimacy, the impact of a loss of a child has on a relationship, coping with a separation or divorce and co dependency.
I consider myself to be an integrative therapist drawing from different modalities to provide a bespoke pathway to the clients needs as each journey is completely individual. I provide a trusted, supportive and safe space for the client (s) to heard and explored. When working with couples I acknowledge every relationship is unique, as are the individuals in the partnership. I work with issues such as ineffective communication, escalating arguments, infidelity, loss of intimacy, the impact of a loss of a child has on a relationship, coping with a separation or divorce and co dependency.
01287 550644 View 01287 550644

See more therapy options for Hartlepool

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.