Trauma and PTSD Counselling in Portsmouth

Photo of Sadie Were, Psychotherapist in Portsmouth, England
Sadie Were
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Portsmouth PO4  (Online Only)
I specialise in the treatment of PTSD, mood disorders and difficulties associated with hormonal health conditions such as Endometriosis.
Hi! My name is Sadie and it's very important to me that therapy is a collaborative process in which we both work together to ensure you feel heard, safe and have an open space for you to explore your difficulties and meet your goals in a way that feels manageable. My goal as your therapist is to make sense of what has brought you to treatment, to understand where you are stuck and for us together to think about what you need to feel able to move forward. Therapy is an active process where we work together as a team and I want to ensure we find a way to enable you to move closer towards living the life you want for yourself.
I specialise in the treatment of PTSD, mood disorders and difficulties associated with hormonal health conditions such as Endometriosis.
Hi! My name is Sadie and it's very important to me that therapy is a collaborative process in which we both work together to ensure you feel heard, safe and have an open space for you to explore your difficulties and meet your goals in a way that feels manageable. My goal as your therapist is to make sense of what has brought you to treatment, to understand where you are stuck and for us together to think about what you need to feel able to move forward. Therapy is an active process where we work together as a team and I want to ensure we find a way to enable you to move closer towards living the life you want for yourself.
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Photo of Maggie Alice Cole in Portsmouth, England
Maggie Alice Cole
Verified Verified
Portsmouth PO6
I work as a high intensity therapist currently for the military and in private practice . I treat a lot of trauma , anxiety ,depression and phobias as well as panic disorder , generalised anxiety disorder , Post Traumatic Stress Disorder , childhood abuse , chronic fatigue syndrome and OCD. I have experience also in working with Psychosis. I work with people in a compassionate focussed way focussed on their goals for treatment . Therapy is always geared to the clients goals and what they want /need to be different , this is reviewed regularly in therapy to ensure we are still working towards the goals that the client identified.
I work as a high intensity therapist currently for the military and in private practice . I treat a lot of trauma , anxiety ,depression and phobias as well as panic disorder , generalised anxiety disorder , Post Traumatic Stress Disorder , childhood abuse , chronic fatigue syndrome and OCD. I have experience also in working with Psychosis. I work with people in a compassionate focussed way focussed on their goals for treatment . Therapy is always geared to the clients goals and what they want /need to be different , this is reviewed regularly in therapy to ensure we are still working towards the goals that the client identified.
01329 553375 View 01329 553375
Photo of Holly-Jane Thurgood Optimism Psychotherapy Service, Psychotherapist in Portsmouth, England
Holly-Jane Thurgood Optimism Psychotherapy Service
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portsmouth PO1  (Online Only)
Optimism Psychotherapy & Supervision Services LTD (15525207) offer accredited psychotherapy including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing, Narrative Exposure Therapy & Interpersonal Therapy for Depression, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Complex-PTSD, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and addiction.
I offer accredited psychotherapy to teenagers & adults nationwide. I am also the founder and lead therapist of Optimism. My approach is friendly and collaborative and based on the latest evidence of successful therapy approaches. I am an experienced and highly trained mental health professional and accredited CBT & EMDR psychological therapist. I have over 15 years of military healthcare experience delivering care in the UK and whilst deployed on operations in Afghanistan and in maritime environments. I have expert experience in delivering psychotherapy to Veterans, Service Personnel and those working for the Emergency Services.
Optimism Psychotherapy & Supervision Services LTD (15525207) offer accredited psychotherapy including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing, Narrative Exposure Therapy & Interpersonal Therapy for Depression, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Complex-PTSD, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder and addiction.
I offer accredited psychotherapy to teenagers & adults nationwide. I am also the founder and lead therapist of Optimism. My approach is friendly and collaborative and based on the latest evidence of successful therapy approaches. I am an experienced and highly trained mental health professional and accredited CBT & EMDR psychological therapist. I have over 15 years of military healthcare experience delivering care in the UK and whilst deployed on operations in Afghanistan and in maritime environments. I have expert experience in delivering psychotherapy to Veterans, Service Personnel and those working for the Emergency Services.
023 8001 6653 View 023 8001 6653
Photo of Janet Smith Emotional Wellness Coaching, Counsellor in Portsmouth, England
Janet Smith Emotional Wellness Coaching
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Portsmouth PO6
If you are at a crossroads or struggling with your mental health and know that you need to make a change. I can help. Some of the key areas I work in are:- Depression Loss & Bereavement Stress & Anxiety Relationship issues Trauma/PTSD Emotional Eating/Eating Disorders & Weight Loss, Abuse, Addictions, Work/life balance, Senior Executive Coaching. I combine psychodynamic counselling, clinical hypnotherapy, NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming), Senior Executive Coaching & Mentoring, Mindfulness and Relaxation techniques to help clients who are experiencing emotional distress and want to make positive change in their life
If you are at a crossroads or struggling with your mental health and know that you need to make a change. I can help. Some of the key areas I work in are:- Depression Loss & Bereavement Stress & Anxiety Relationship issues Trauma/PTSD Emotional Eating/Eating Disorders & Weight Loss, Abuse, Addictions, Work/life balance, Senior Executive Coaching. I combine psychodynamic counselling, clinical hypnotherapy, NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming), Senior Executive Coaching & Mentoring, Mindfulness and Relaxation techniques to help clients who are experiencing emotional distress and want to make positive change in their life
023 8235 2065 View 023 8235 2065
Photo of Dr Robert Percival, Psychologist in Portsmouth, England
Dr Robert Percival
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth PO3
I have worked in NHS settings for over ten years offering with people who have experienced multiple trauma, often attracting diagnosis of personality disorder, PTSD or CPTSD.
I understand that making the decision to engage in therapy can be a daunting one. I aim to provide a space where you feel safe, heard and valued. I place great emphasis on working collaboratively to understand a person's life experiences and how they have and continue to impact them. Our work together would be defined by your values and goals. The models of therapy that I draw on help to make sense of how patterns of being with yourself and others have developed, understanding these and then empathically challenging them to enable people to make meaningful sustained change in their lives.
I have worked in NHS settings for over ten years offering with people who have experienced multiple trauma, often attracting diagnosis of personality disorder, PTSD or CPTSD.
I understand that making the decision to engage in therapy can be a daunting one. I aim to provide a space where you feel safe, heard and valued. I place great emphasis on working collaboratively to understand a person's life experiences and how they have and continue to impact them. Our work together would be defined by your values and goals. The models of therapy that I draw on help to make sense of how patterns of being with yourself and others have developed, understanding these and then empathically challenging them to enable people to make meaningful sustained change in their lives.
01202 037591 View 01202 037591
Photo of Louisa Tait, Psychotherapist in Portsmouth, England
Louisa Tait
Psychotherapist, MA, HCPC-Art Therap.
Verified Verified
Portsmouth PO1
Waitlist for new clients
I specialise in working with those who have experienced trauma as children, adolescents, and adults and subsequent PTSD and Complex PTSD if present. I can provide a safe space in which thoughts and feelings can be explored confidentially and without judgement. Through talking and creative exercises, difficult feelings can be acknowledged, understood, healing can start, and changes occur. I am a PhD student researching the connection between mind and body, I employ elements of this in my approach. This can help restore your confidence, connection with self, resilience, allow you to develop inner ease, and re-establish relationships.
I specialise in working with those who have experienced trauma as children, adolescents, and adults and subsequent PTSD and Complex PTSD if present. I can provide a safe space in which thoughts and feelings can be explored confidentially and without judgement. Through talking and creative exercises, difficult feelings can be acknowledged, understood, healing can start, and changes occur. I am a PhD student researching the connection between mind and body, I employ elements of this in my approach. This can help restore your confidence, connection with self, resilience, allow you to develop inner ease, and re-establish relationships.
01260 541232 View 01260 541232
Photo of Lana Kelleher Counselling, Psychotherapist in Portsmouth, England
Lana Kelleher Counselling
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Portsmouth PO18
My job is to help you look after your emotional and mental wellbeing in a safe, confidential and non-judgemental environment. We will work together to understand and clarify your concerns, explore your difficulties and identify meaningful and lasting changes you would like to make in order to improve your life. My job will not stop there as I will empower you to achieve your goals, find your own solutions to your problems, develop your own strengths and skills that you can use when dealing with life challenges.
My job is to help you look after your emotional and mental wellbeing in a safe, confidential and non-judgemental environment. We will work together to understand and clarify your concerns, explore your difficulties and identify meaningful and lasting changes you would like to make in order to improve your life. My job will not stop there as I will empower you to achieve your goals, find your own solutions to your problems, develop your own strengths and skills that you can use when dealing with life challenges.
01243 957263 View 01243 957263
Photo of Charlotte Bird, Counsellor in Portsmouth, England
Charlotte Bird
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth PO1
Clients who have experienced depression, anxiety, self-image, self-harm, self-confidence issues, loss, bereavement, identity issues, eating disorders, childhood trauma, PTSD, OCD, stress, & work-related issues.
Hello, I’m Charlotte. Thank you for taking the time to look at my profile. I am a Person-Centred Therapist offering face-to-face, online and telephone counselling for Adults and Children & Young People from my private practice in Whiteley. Alongside my private practice, I am also a counsellor at a charity, supporting adults, children and young people who have experienced sexual abuse and trauma.
Clients who have experienced depression, anxiety, self-image, self-harm, self-confidence issues, loss, bereavement, identity issues, eating disorders, childhood trauma, PTSD, OCD, stress, & work-related issues.
Hello, I’m Charlotte. Thank you for taking the time to look at my profile. I am a Person-Centred Therapist offering face-to-face, online and telephone counselling for Adults and Children & Young People from my private practice in Whiteley. Alongside my private practice, I am also a counsellor at a charity, supporting adults, children and young people who have experienced sexual abuse and trauma.
01329 756784 View 01329 756784
Photo of Amanda Halford, Counsellor in Portsmouth, England
Amanda Halford
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Verified Verified
Portsmouth PO1
I have completed lots of training around the affects of childhood trauma/complex trauma and PTSD.
Hello. I wonder what has led you to seek out a counsellor? Are you or someone you love having a hard time with upsetting or traumatic experiences? This might be something that you are living with now or something from your past. Perhaps you’re experiencing difficult thoughts and feelings and everything feels overwhelming at the moment. If life is making you feel sad, anxious or depressed and you’ve reached the point where having someone to listen would help, then I would like to invite you to come along for some counselling. Having therapy can be the first step in making positive changes to your life, resulting in a happier you.
I have completed lots of training around the affects of childhood trauma/complex trauma and PTSD.
Hello. I wonder what has led you to seek out a counsellor? Are you or someone you love having a hard time with upsetting or traumatic experiences? This might be something that you are living with now or something from your past. Perhaps you’re experiencing difficult thoughts and feelings and everything feels overwhelming at the moment. If life is making you feel sad, anxious or depressed and you’ve reached the point where having someone to listen would help, then I would like to invite you to come along for some counselling. Having therapy can be the first step in making positive changes to your life, resulting in a happier you.
023 9431 1759 View 023 9431 1759
Photo of Elizabeth Sakutukwa, Psychotherapist in Portsmouth, England
Elizabeth Sakutukwa
Psychotherapist, PsychD, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Portsmouth PO1
I am a BABCP registered Psychotherapist. It is my goal to facilitate and communicate with my clients as best as they can to uncover the essence of concerning issues and those that may arise. These issues can be challenging and overwhelming. My experience has shown that using a non-judgmental, open and honest approach enables clients to understand themselves and their lives better after understanding how to communicate. This skill begins on day one of therapy and can be applied to various life situations. I am honored to hear clients speak about what matters to them most, and to help them reach their full potential.
I am a BABCP registered Psychotherapist. It is my goal to facilitate and communicate with my clients as best as they can to uncover the essence of concerning issues and those that may arise. These issues can be challenging and overwhelming. My experience has shown that using a non-judgmental, open and honest approach enables clients to understand themselves and their lives better after understanding how to communicate. This skill begins on day one of therapy and can be applied to various life situations. I am honored to hear clients speak about what matters to them most, and to help them reach their full potential.
01329 759309 View 01329 759309
Photo of Joanna Mead, Counsellor in Portsmouth, England
Joanna Mead
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Portsmouth PO4
The approach I first trained in and like to use the most is an integrative model called the Relational approach. This approach incorporates both humanistic and psychodynamic elememts which means it retains the warmth of the humanistic models which focus on empathy and building trust, and the Freudian concepts of the unconcious mind and transference. I work best with clients who are willing to explore how they relate to people, by examining what is going on in our relationship during therapy. I really enjoy working with clients who have issues around relationships and attachment, and find this work both interesting and rewarding.
The approach I first trained in and like to use the most is an integrative model called the Relational approach. This approach incorporates both humanistic and psychodynamic elememts which means it retains the warmth of the humanistic models which focus on empathy and building trust, and the Freudian concepts of the unconcious mind and transference. I work best with clients who are willing to explore how they relate to people, by examining what is going on in our relationship during therapy. I really enjoy working with clients who have issues around relationships and attachment, and find this work both interesting and rewarding.
07480 784908 View 07480 784908
Photo of Fresh Start Psychological Services Ltd, Psychotherapist in Portsmouth, England
Fresh Start Psychological Services Ltd
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Portsmouth PO3
With previous extensive NHS experience as a therapist, supervisor, and manager, I am a very passionate, compassionate, authentic, and experienced childhood trauma specialist. I specialize in early life trauma and any other forms of PSTD/trauma. I work with both adults & children (from 13 years old), struggling with all forms of anxiety and depression. Therapy can really help alleviate distressing symptoms and find a better way of managing difficult situations. It may be that anxiety has triggered difficult memories and caused depression symptoms. I use an individualized approach delivered with compassion and understanding
With previous extensive NHS experience as a therapist, supervisor, and manager, I am a very passionate, compassionate, authentic, and experienced childhood trauma specialist. I specialize in early life trauma and any other forms of PSTD/trauma. I work with both adults & children (from 13 years old), struggling with all forms of anxiety and depression. Therapy can really help alleviate distressing symptoms and find a better way of managing difficult situations. It may be that anxiety has triggered difficult memories and caused depression symptoms. I use an individualized approach delivered with compassion and understanding
01329 800263 View 01329 800263
Photo of Del Atkins, Counsellor in Portsmouth, England
Del Atkins
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Portsmouth PO6
Waitlist for new clients
Hi my name is Del Atkins and I'm a counsellor, offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing) and supervision, I offer face to face counselling and supervision to young people 16+ and adults in Fareham, Portsmouth and the surrounding area from rooms in Fareham. I have completed over 5300+ hours with clients since completing a BTEC Higher National Diploma in Person Centered Counselling in 2009. I have worked with clients on their journeys who are experiencing bereavement, depression, eating disorders, self confidence worries, sexuality, self image issues, trauma, rape & sexual assault etc....
Hi my name is Del Atkins and I'm a counsellor, offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation & Reprocessing) and supervision, I offer face to face counselling and supervision to young people 16+ and adults in Fareham, Portsmouth and the surrounding area from rooms in Fareham. I have completed over 5300+ hours with clients since completing a BTEC Higher National Diploma in Person Centered Counselling in 2009. I have worked with clients on their journeys who are experiencing bereavement, depression, eating disorders, self confidence worries, sexuality, self image issues, trauma, rape & sexual assault etc....
01329 557308 View 01329 557308
Photo of Catherine Jones, Counsellor in Portsmouth, England
Catherine Jones
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Portsmouth PO1
I believe I know what matters in building a safe and trusting environment to enable personal change and growth. I have chosen to base my counselling ethos on a Humanistic modality which includes the belief each of us has the ability, drive and autonomy within ourselves to resolve emotional issues, conflicts and life changing events. I also recognise we all need a bit of help and support in times of distress.
I believe I know what matters in building a safe and trusting environment to enable personal change and growth. I have chosen to base my counselling ethos on a Humanistic modality which includes the belief each of us has the ability, drive and autonomy within ourselves to resolve emotional issues, conflicts and life changing events. I also recognise we all need a bit of help and support in times of distress.
01489 665864 View 01489 665864
Photo of Gaynor Williams, Counsellor in Portsmouth, England
Gaynor Williams
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Portsmouth PO1
I am a highly experienced counsellor and my aim is to create a positive, trusting environment in which I help you to help yourself. I provide a safe and caring professional counselling and psychotherapy service. I am an empathic and approachable person working in a non-judgemental and confidential way. By exploring your past, the causes of present day problems are often revealed. We can't change the past, but we can gain understanding allowing you to relate differently to yourself, others and problems in order to choose to make changes or find acceptance.
I am a highly experienced counsellor and my aim is to create a positive, trusting environment in which I help you to help yourself. I provide a safe and caring professional counselling and psychotherapy service. I am an empathic and approachable person working in a non-judgemental and confidential way. By exploring your past, the causes of present day problems are often revealed. We can't change the past, but we can gain understanding allowing you to relate differently to yourself, others and problems in order to choose to make changes or find acceptance.
023 8235 6102 View 023 8235 6102
Photo of Greenleaves Psychological Services, Psychotherapist in Portsmouth, England
Greenleaves Psychological Services
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Portsmouth PO1  (Online Only)
Your past is something you desperately want to forget. You have done your utmost to push it all out of your mind and just get on with your life. But no matter how hard you try, those awful thoughts and feelings follow you wherever you go, catching you out when you least expect it. You feel trapped, powerless to change any of this. You feel out of control, unable to manage the stress in your body. And every time those images pop into your mind, you feel ashamed and guilty. There is this voice inside you telling you you should have done something more, something else. Then it would have all been different.
Your past is something you desperately want to forget. You have done your utmost to push it all out of your mind and just get on with your life. But no matter how hard you try, those awful thoughts and feelings follow you wherever you go, catching you out when you least expect it. You feel trapped, powerless to change any of this. You feel out of control, unable to manage the stress in your body. And every time those images pop into your mind, you feel ashamed and guilty. There is this voice inside you telling you you should have done something more, something else. Then it would have all been different.
01329 557272 View 01329 557272
Photo of Louise Mahoney, Counsellor in Portsmouth, England
Louise Mahoney
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Portsmouth PO18
I work with young people and adults. I have extensive experience of working with trauma and sexual and domestic abuse. The basis of my model is person-centred. I integrate other counselling approaches but always maintain a client-led process based on client need. I work relationally with clients to support them in their personal journey towards growth, understanding and hope. I am also a qualified clinical supervisor.
I work with young people and adults. I have extensive experience of working with trauma and sexual and domestic abuse. The basis of my model is person-centred. I integrate other counselling approaches but always maintain a client-led process based on client need. I work relationally with clients to support them in their personal journey towards growth, understanding and hope. I am also a qualified clinical supervisor.
01243 979827 View 01243 979827
Photo of Shelley Bradley-Scholey, Psychotherapist in Portsmouth, England
Shelley Bradley-Scholey
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portsmouth PO1
Accredited CBT, EMDR or Integrated therapy or Counselling. I provide honest, approachable and down to earth therapy. If you have difficulties with a painful past or problems that are getting in the way of your life currently I can help you. You may want to change how you think and feel about yourself or understand difficult emotions. I have 20 years’ experience in helping people recover and reclaim their life. I know sometimes people can find the prospect of therapy unnerving, I try hard to make people feel at ease by delivering therapy in an open and common-sense way, I am friendly and kind. Fully professionally registered.
Accredited CBT, EMDR or Integrated therapy or Counselling. I provide honest, approachable and down to earth therapy. If you have difficulties with a painful past or problems that are getting in the way of your life currently I can help you. You may want to change how you think and feel about yourself or understand difficult emotions. I have 20 years’ experience in helping people recover and reclaim their life. I know sometimes people can find the prospect of therapy unnerving, I try hard to make people feel at ease by delivering therapy in an open and common-sense way, I am friendly and kind. Fully professionally registered.
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Photo of Natalia Hallam, Counsellor in Portsmouth, England
Natalia Hallam
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Portsmouth PO1
Are you struggling with a difficulty in your life and need help to find a way forward? Hello I'm Natalia Hallam, I am committed to making a difference to my clients lives and offer a warm, compassionate and non-judgemental therapy service based in central Fareham. I have successfully worked with clients enabling them to overcome many issues, including; anxiety, bullying, bereavement and loss, depression, disordered eating, family and relationship issues, self-harm and suicidal thoughts, and stress. I am also highly experienced in helping clients to recover from the emotional distress caused by abuse, rape and domestic violence.
Are you struggling with a difficulty in your life and need help to find a way forward? Hello I'm Natalia Hallam, I am committed to making a difference to my clients lives and offer a warm, compassionate and non-judgemental therapy service based in central Fareham. I have successfully worked with clients enabling them to overcome many issues, including; anxiety, bullying, bereavement and loss, depression, disordered eating, family and relationship issues, self-harm and suicidal thoughts, and stress. I am also highly experienced in helping clients to recover from the emotional distress caused by abuse, rape and domestic violence.
07783 058343 View 07783 058343
Photo of Dr Louise Webber, Psychologist in Portsmouth, England
Dr Louise Webber
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Portsmouth PO18
I am a Counselling Psychologist and highly specialist cognitive behavioural (CBT) therapist. CBT is the recommended therapy for Depression and Anxiety by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) and the NHS. I trained at the Institute of Psychiatry in London, a world leader in CBT practice & research. It is a highly skilled active therapy that explores links between thoughts, behaviours & emotions to help you break free from negative cycles that might be holding you back. I also adopt somatic based techniques to provide a holistic whole body approach based on latest research, especially for clients with trauma.
I am a Counselling Psychologist and highly specialist cognitive behavioural (CBT) therapist. CBT is the recommended therapy for Depression and Anxiety by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) and the NHS. I trained at the Institute of Psychiatry in London, a world leader in CBT practice & research. It is a highly skilled active therapy that explores links between thoughts, behaviours & emotions to help you break free from negative cycles that might be holding you back. I also adopt somatic based techniques to provide a holistic whole body approach based on latest research, especially for clients with trauma.
01243 952134 View 01243 952134

See more therapy options for Portsmouth

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.