Photo of Christopher David Harris, Psychologist in London, England
Christopher David Harris
Psychologist, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
London SW2  (Online Only)
I specialise working with trauma (PTSD & C-PTSD), anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, gender and sexuality issues, addiction, relationship issues, neurodiversity (autism, ADHD, learning difficulties), personality disorder, sleep and stress management.
I have a friendly and down to earth approach, focused on developing a positive and trusting relationship with you. Our therapeutic relationship is paramount to working effectively and I strive to provide compassionate and holistic care.
I specialise working with trauma (PTSD & C-PTSD), anxiety, depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, gender and sexuality issues, addiction, relationship issues, neurodiversity (autism, ADHD, learning difficulties), personality disorder, sleep and stress management.
I have a friendly and down to earth approach, focused on developing a positive and trusting relationship with you. Our therapeutic relationship is paramount to working effectively and I strive to provide compassionate and holistic care.
020 3376 8023 View 020 3376 8023
Photo of Dr Charlie Cole, Psychologist in London, England
Dr Charlie Cole
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London N1C
Charlie specialises in treating Depression, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Anxiety Disorders, for example, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD).
Dr Charlie Cole is a registered Clinical Psychologist (DClinPsy) and an accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist with the BABCP. Charlie combines extensive clinical experience and world-class training from University College London (UCL) to provide high-quality, evidence-based psychological therapy for a range of mental health difficulties. At the core of his practice is a commitment to developing personalised treatment plans that meet the unique needs of his clients, whilst creating a safe space for them to feel heard, understood, and empowered. Charlie also offers workplace wellbeing consultancy to well-known organisations.
Charlie specialises in treating Depression, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Anxiety Disorders, for example, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD).
Dr Charlie Cole is a registered Clinical Psychologist (DClinPsy) and an accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist with the BABCP. Charlie combines extensive clinical experience and world-class training from University College London (UCL) to provide high-quality, evidence-based psychological therapy for a range of mental health difficulties. At the core of his practice is a commitment to developing personalised treatment plans that meet the unique needs of his clients, whilst creating a safe space for them to feel heard, understood, and empowered. Charlie also offers workplace wellbeing consultancy to well-known organisations.
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Photo of Shane Mackay, Psychotherapist in London, England
Shane Mackay
Psychotherapist, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
London SE1
I have worked with a diverse variety of people that have experienced C-PTSD, depression, grief, anxiety, bipolar disorder, various personality disorders, identity-related issues (race, gender and sexuality), obsessive & intrusive states, hearing voices, paranoia, suicidality and many other attachment-based wounding and relational issues.
After qualifying thirteen years ago I worked for City & Hackney Mind (Mental Health Charity) for seven years as the Clinical Services Manager of the Psychological Therapies Team as well as the Clinical Supervisor for a large team of trainee/qualified counsellors/psychotherapists. My approach mainly draws on Psychoanalysis, Somatic & Neurobiological approaches along with Philosophy & Critical Theory. My approach is GSRD (Gender, Sexuality, Relationship Diversity) affirmative meaning i have a passion for and extensive experience supporting Queer & LGBTQI+ as well as other non-heteronormative ways of living/being.
I have worked with a diverse variety of people that have experienced C-PTSD, depression, grief, anxiety, bipolar disorder, various personality disorders, identity-related issues (race, gender and sexuality), obsessive & intrusive states, hearing voices, paranoia, suicidality and many other attachment-based wounding and relational issues.
After qualifying thirteen years ago I worked for City & Hackney Mind (Mental Health Charity) for seven years as the Clinical Services Manager of the Psychological Therapies Team as well as the Clinical Supervisor for a large team of trainee/qualified counsellors/psychotherapists. My approach mainly draws on Psychoanalysis, Somatic & Neurobiological approaches along with Philosophy & Critical Theory. My approach is GSRD (Gender, Sexuality, Relationship Diversity) affirmative meaning i have a passion for and extensive experience supporting Queer & LGBTQI+ as well as other non-heteronormative ways of living/being.
020 3870 4138 View 020 3870 4138
Photo of Claudio Parretti, Psychologist in London, England
Claudio Parretti
Psychologist, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London N10
I provide psychological treatment to clients suffering from a wide range of difficulties and conditions, including Borderline Personality Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Interpersonal problems, PTSD, Complex trauma and Anger management. Some of my clients may suffer from longterm difficulties, such as struggling to manage strong emotions and struggle to maintain close and significant relationships with others. Other clients may present with specific difficulties, such as career changes, family tensions or facing periods of particular stress. I also work with parents, who are struggling to bond with their children.
I provide psychological treatment to clients suffering from a wide range of difficulties and conditions, including Borderline Personality Disorder, Depression, Anxiety, Interpersonal problems, PTSD, Complex trauma and Anger management. Some of my clients may suffer from longterm difficulties, such as struggling to manage strong emotions and struggle to maintain close and significant relationships with others. Other clients may present with specific difficulties, such as career changes, family tensions or facing periods of particular stress. I also work with parents, who are struggling to bond with their children.
023 8214 8054 View 023 8214 8054
Photo of Dr Michael Woodcock, Psychologist in London, England
Dr Michael Woodcock
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London SE26
I am a Clinical Psychologist based in South East London and have worked across both inpatient and community NHS services for over 12 years, including specialist trauma services and forensic mental health settings. I work with adolescents and adults with a variety of presenting difficulties, including PTSD, depression, anxiety, personality disorder, anger difficulties, bipolar affective disorder, and psychosis. I have a special interest in working with those who have encountered traumatic experiences in their lifetime, and to help them recover from the psychological impact this has had on them, their life, and their relationships
I am a Clinical Psychologist based in South East London and have worked across both inpatient and community NHS services for over 12 years, including specialist trauma services and forensic mental health settings. I work with adolescents and adults with a variety of presenting difficulties, including PTSD, depression, anxiety, personality disorder, anger difficulties, bipolar affective disorder, and psychosis. I have a special interest in working with those who have encountered traumatic experiences in their lifetime, and to help them recover from the psychological impact this has had on them, their life, and their relationships
020 3828 7629 View 020 3828 7629
Photo of Ryan B Holmes, Psychologist in London, England
Ryan B Holmes
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London SW10  (Online Only)
Welcome! My name is Ryan and I am a fully-qualified clinical psychologist registered with the HCPC. I offer a supportive, non-judgemental space where we can think together about the challenges you are currently facing. The approach we will take depends on what brings you to therapy and how therapy works best for you and we will navigate this together. I have extensive experience supporting individuals faced with a spectrum of challenges including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, addiction, psychosis, and relationship issues. I also have experience supporting LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent individuals.
Welcome! My name is Ryan and I am a fully-qualified clinical psychologist registered with the HCPC. I offer a supportive, non-judgemental space where we can think together about the challenges you are currently facing. The approach we will take depends on what brings you to therapy and how therapy works best for you and we will navigate this together. I have extensive experience supporting individuals faced with a spectrum of challenges including, but not limited to, depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, addiction, psychosis, and relationship issues. I also have experience supporting LGBTQ+ and neurodivergent individuals.
020 3917 4349 View 020 3917 4349
Photo of Dr Joseph Kavanagh, Psychologist in London, England
Dr Joseph Kavanagh
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Forensic Psych.
Verified Verified
London SE15
I am a HCPC registered Forensic Psychologist with over 8 years experience working in specialist mental health settings within the NHS. Much of my work within the NHS has involved working with complex trauma and relationship difficulties. My areas of expertise include trauma/PTSD and associated coping behaviours including addictions, self-harm and other behavioural issues. I will provide a non-judgmental, thoughtful and reflective space in which we can explore current problems and identify patterns of relating.
I am a HCPC registered Forensic Psychologist with over 8 years experience working in specialist mental health settings within the NHS. Much of my work within the NHS has involved working with complex trauma and relationship difficulties. My areas of expertise include trauma/PTSD and associated coping behaviours including addictions, self-harm and other behavioural issues. I will provide a non-judgmental, thoughtful and reflective space in which we can explore current problems and identify patterns of relating.
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Photo of Dr Jose Lopez, Psychologist in London, England
Dr Jose Lopez
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London SE25  (Online Only)
I offer therapy following evidence-based approaches and techniques for individual and couple difficulties, including complex trauma/PTSD, anxiety, addictive/compulsive behaviours, low mood and anything that drains your life.
You may be struggling with a clearly defined issue or general 'stuckness in life'. Maybe you need to understand what it is. You may have experienced it for long or a new difficulty intruding in your life. Possibly something you are keeping from others or maybe someone has suggested you seek help for it. It may affect only you or your relationship with loved ones. Maybe you are seeking help with a couple issue you've tried to work on with your partner. You may feel hopeless, having tried everything to solve it. In any case, therapy can be used to make sense of the situation and think of a strategy to move forward towards your goals.
I offer therapy following evidence-based approaches and techniques for individual and couple difficulties, including complex trauma/PTSD, anxiety, addictive/compulsive behaviours, low mood and anything that drains your life.
You may be struggling with a clearly defined issue or general 'stuckness in life'. Maybe you need to understand what it is. You may have experienced it for long or a new difficulty intruding in your life. Possibly something you are keeping from others or maybe someone has suggested you seek help for it. It may affect only you or your relationship with loved ones. Maybe you are seeking help with a couple issue you've tried to work on with your partner. You may feel hopeless, having tried everything to solve it. In any case, therapy can be used to make sense of the situation and think of a strategy to move forward towards your goals.
020 3870 2508 View 020 3870 2508
Photo of Marin Yeats Psychotherapy, Counsellor in London, England
Marin Yeats Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
London N1
I specialise and have most interest and experience in working with trauma ( including relational trauma), abuse, PTSD, childhood emotional neglect, anxiety, sexual and porn addiction and attachment and relationship issues .
I believe that we tend to access therapy when it’s no longer possible for us to travel alone on our journey, hidden from ourselves and others, stuck in familiar and/or unfamiliar patterns that can no longer contain us, and when the way in which we are relating (or not relating) to ourselves, others and the world around us, is no longer making us feel fully alive. Something tells us it's time to look inwards. Looking inwards can feel daunting but it is necessary in order to instigate meaningful and lasting changes ( both external and internal ).
I specialise and have most interest and experience in working with trauma ( including relational trauma), abuse, PTSD, childhood emotional neglect, anxiety, sexual and porn addiction and attachment and relationship issues .
I believe that we tend to access therapy when it’s no longer possible for us to travel alone on our journey, hidden from ourselves and others, stuck in familiar and/or unfamiliar patterns that can no longer contain us, and when the way in which we are relating (or not relating) to ourselves, others and the world around us, is no longer making us feel fully alive. Something tells us it's time to look inwards. Looking inwards can feel daunting but it is necessary in order to instigate meaningful and lasting changes ( both external and internal ).
020 3962 0980 View 020 3962 0980
Photo of Apostolos Polymerou, Psychotherapist in London, England
Apostolos Polymerou
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London SE1
Reaching out for help is a courageous thing to do. I aim always to make the initial and ongoing conversations welcoming and hopeful. I’m a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) and EMDR therapist. EMDR can be highly effective for addressing traumas, anxiety and negative thinking patterns. I offer evidence-based treatment for a range of mental health problems such as Depression, PTSD, OCD, GAD, Social Anxiety and non-underweight Eating Disorders. I work with CBT and EMDR to address health problems such as chronic pain. I’m very experienced with more than fifteen years working in the NHS, addiction and eating disorders services.
Reaching out for help is a courageous thing to do. I aim always to make the initial and ongoing conversations welcoming and hopeful. I’m a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) and EMDR therapist. EMDR can be highly effective for addressing traumas, anxiety and negative thinking patterns. I offer evidence-based treatment for a range of mental health problems such as Depression, PTSD, OCD, GAD, Social Anxiety and non-underweight Eating Disorders. I work with CBT and EMDR to address health problems such as chronic pain. I’m very experienced with more than fifteen years working in the NHS, addiction and eating disorders services.
020 3988 4304 View 020 3988 4304
Photo of Jake Freedman, Psychotherapist in London, England
Jake Freedman
Psychotherapist, MSc, BPC
Verified Verified
London W1W
I am a psychodynamic counsellor and psychotherapist registered with the British Psychoanalytic Council (BPC). I worked for five years providing long-term psychotherapy to individuals with histories of addiction and childhood trauma. This gave me an understanding of the extent to which adverse early experiences can impact on behaviour and psychic functioning in adulthood. Since then, I have undertaken post-qualifying training in the treatment of PTSD, C-PTSD and trauma-related dissociative disorders. I have a particular interest in states of depersonalisation and derealisation and keep up to date with relevant research in this area.
I am a psychodynamic counsellor and psychotherapist registered with the British Psychoanalytic Council (BPC). I worked for five years providing long-term psychotherapy to individuals with histories of addiction and childhood trauma. This gave me an understanding of the extent to which adverse early experiences can impact on behaviour and psychic functioning in adulthood. Since then, I have undertaken post-qualifying training in the treatment of PTSD, C-PTSD and trauma-related dissociative disorders. I have a particular interest in states of depersonalisation and derealisation and keep up to date with relevant research in this area.
020 3597 6659 View 020 3597 6659
Photo of Milo Brandon - Accredited EMDR Therapist., Psychotherapist in London, England
Milo Brandon - Accredited EMDR Therapist.
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBACP
Verified Verified
London WC1H
I use EMDR to help people process trauma (PTSD and C-PTSD). My clients are typically living with a range of issues - flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, night terrors, palpitations, catastrophising, insomnia, feelings of isolation, irritability and guilt. They also very often experience 'triggering' - making everyday life, work and relationships difficult. Additionally, they may not remember aspects of what has happened to them and others ('dissociation'.) My clients come to me for EMDR to enable them to reduce the disturbance levels in their nervous systems and hence, get on with their lives.
I use EMDR to help people process trauma (PTSD and C-PTSD). My clients are typically living with a range of issues - flashbacks, intrusive thoughts, night terrors, palpitations, catastrophising, insomnia, feelings of isolation, irritability and guilt. They also very often experience 'triggering' - making everyday life, work and relationships difficult. Additionally, they may not remember aspects of what has happened to them and others ('dissociation'.) My clients come to me for EMDR to enable them to reduce the disturbance levels in their nervous systems and hence, get on with their lives.
01727 638162 View 01727 638162
Photo of Andrew Stockhausen, Psychotherapist in London, England
Andrew Stockhausen
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
London W1W
I specialise in trauma, PTSD, relational difficulties and those who experience internalised oppression, lack of self-acceptance and feelings of shame.
Hello, my name is Andrew. I'm an experienced psychotherapist working with individuals and couples with a broad range of difficulties. I understand that for many people these difficulties may appear as a feeling of being stuck. Whilst for others they may feel overwhelmed, lost, or experience a lack of purpose. I work with emotional and behavioural problems across the lifespan, addressing the way your difficulties are affecting you in the present, and helping you to identify the root causes from your past.
I specialise in trauma, PTSD, relational difficulties and those who experience internalised oppression, lack of self-acceptance and feelings of shame.
Hello, my name is Andrew. I'm an experienced psychotherapist working with individuals and couples with a broad range of difficulties. I understand that for many people these difficulties may appear as a feeling of being stuck. Whilst for others they may feel overwhelmed, lost, or experience a lack of purpose. I work with emotional and behavioural problems across the lifespan, addressing the way your difficulties are affecting you in the present, and helping you to identify the root causes from your past.
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Photo of Ray Khan, Counsellor in London, England
Ray Khan
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London N8
I provide a confidential, safe space online, or in north London. Primarily using EMDR therapy (an evidence-based therapy initially developed for PTSD but now used for many other difficulties) in 75-minute sessions, I'll work with you to help work through past adverse or traumatic experiences, in order to improve how you feel in the present. This approach also helps with changing negative patterns of behaviour, improving your self-esteem, enhance self-acceptance and having more fruitful relationships with other people.
I provide a confidential, safe space online, or in north London. Primarily using EMDR therapy (an evidence-based therapy initially developed for PTSD but now used for many other difficulties) in 75-minute sessions, I'll work with you to help work through past adverse or traumatic experiences, in order to improve how you feel in the present. This approach also helps with changing negative patterns of behaviour, improving your self-esteem, enhance self-acceptance and having more fruitful relationships with other people.
07723 440942 View 07723 440942
Photo of NuVista Counselling, Counsellor in London, England
NuVista Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
London SE1
Specialising in LGBTQ+ issues Addictions, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Anger Issues.
I gave my Counselling business the name NuVista (new view/Horizon because it was born from my vision and indeed my own personal journey that counselling or talking therapy can give people a new view of life once they; with the therapists help have explored and untangled the issues that make them anxious, stressed, depressed, bereaved, feeling suicidal or simply struggling with day to day life, or their jobs, their relationships their family life, their sexuality or even historical events that have been rendered unconscious or hidden and never spoken about. For me the goal or vision was to have a new outlook on life - a New View.
Specialising in LGBTQ+ issues Addictions, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Anger Issues.
I gave my Counselling business the name NuVista (new view/Horizon because it was born from my vision and indeed my own personal journey that counselling or talking therapy can give people a new view of life once they; with the therapists help have explored and untangled the issues that make them anxious, stressed, depressed, bereaved, feeling suicidal or simply struggling with day to day life, or their jobs, their relationships their family life, their sexuality or even historical events that have been rendered unconscious or hidden and never spoken about. For me the goal or vision was to have a new outlook on life - a New View.
020 8051 4918 View 020 8051 4918
Photo of Simon Alexander Lyne, Psychotherapist in London, England
Simon Alexander Lyne
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
London W1W
CBT is the treatment of choice for anxiety, depression, panic, OCD, PTSD and a vast range of other issues.
I am a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist with full accreditation from the BABCP and a qualified Psychosexual Psychotherapist and a qualified EMDR therapist. I have extensive experience working with various problems in terms of complexity and severity. I am respectful, warm, open and flexible. I like therapy to be collaborative, creative and evolving. I love to help people find ways to improve their experience and quality of life.
CBT is the treatment of choice for anxiety, depression, panic, OCD, PTSD and a vast range of other issues.
I am a Cognitive Behavioural Therapist with full accreditation from the BABCP and a qualified Psychosexual Psychotherapist and a qualified EMDR therapist. I have extensive experience working with various problems in terms of complexity and severity. I am respectful, warm, open and flexible. I like therapy to be collaborative, creative and evolving. I love to help people find ways to improve their experience and quality of life.
020 3823 6364 View 020 3823 6364
Photo of Dr Rob - Clinical Psychologist - Online Therapy, Psychologist in London, England
Dr Rob - Clinical Psychologist - Online Therapy
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London SW3  (Online Only)
Specialising in men’s issues, including sex problems (erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, sex addiction / sexual compulsions, and problematic pornography use / porn addiction); sexual abuse; trauma and PTSD; intrusive sexual thoughts; anger issues; anxiety; depression; adjusting to a physical health condition; relationship issues; stress; sexuality and more. I am a chartered clinical psychologist and EMDR therapist with over 15 years NHS experience of working in mental health and now work full time in private practice online.
Specialising in men’s issues, including sex problems (erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, sex addiction / sexual compulsions, and problematic pornography use / porn addiction); sexual abuse; trauma and PTSD; intrusive sexual thoughts; anger issues; anxiety; depression; adjusting to a physical health condition; relationship issues; stress; sexuality and more. I am a chartered clinical psychologist and EMDR therapist with over 15 years NHS experience of working in mental health and now work full time in private practice online.
01525 659965 View 01525 659965
Photo of Benet Catty, Counsellor in London, England
Benet Catty
Counsellor, MA, MUKCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
London N4
I am particularly experienced with anxiety, trauma, sexual difficulties and PTSD.
Across over 4,700 sessions of therapy I have helped my clients explore a huge range of emotional, relational, sexual or traumatic material to try and make sense of what those experiences have meant for them, how they have impacted them, and what they want to do about them going forward. No subject is off limits, no feelings unwelcome, and no challenge too big or small to be worth exploring safely and gently.
I am particularly experienced with anxiety, trauma, sexual difficulties and PTSD.
Across over 4,700 sessions of therapy I have helped my clients explore a huge range of emotional, relational, sexual or traumatic material to try and make sense of what those experiences have meant for them, how they have impacted them, and what they want to do about them going forward. No subject is off limits, no feelings unwelcome, and no challenge too big or small to be worth exploring safely and gently.
020 8106 0676 View 020 8106 0676
Photo of Master Counselling Centre (MCC), Psychologist in London, England
Master Counselling Centre (MCC)
Psychologist, MA, CPsychol
Verified Verified
London NW4
My name is Saboor, effective therapy requires a good professional relationship between therapist and client. It can also be a difficult process to start therapy. I, therefore, offer a FREE initial telephone consultation to help us both diagnose if I am the right therapist for you. I am flexible in my treatment, I try to create a space of openness and safety to allow my clients to explore. I work within the humanistic models as well as using techniques from CBT, DBT, PTSD, ADHD, and PHOBIA.
My name is Saboor, effective therapy requires a good professional relationship between therapist and client. It can also be a difficult process to start therapy. I, therefore, offer a FREE initial telephone consultation to help us both diagnose if I am the right therapist for you. I am flexible in my treatment, I try to create a space of openness and safety to allow my clients to explore. I work within the humanistic models as well as using techniques from CBT, DBT, PTSD, ADHD, and PHOBIA.
020 3826 8947 View 020 3826 8947
Photo of Daniel Glazer, Psychologist in London, England
Daniel Glazer
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
London N3
I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist and for the last 10+ years I have worked at University College London Hospital specialising in working with young people, parents and families affected by a range of psychological difficulties within the context of medical conditions such as cancer, diabetes & functional difficulties. I am trained in EMDR and have worked extensively with people impacted by trauma and PTSD. Find out more on springpsychology.co.uk
I am a Consultant Clinical Psychologist and for the last 10+ years I have worked at University College London Hospital specialising in working with young people, parents and families affected by a range of psychological difficulties within the context of medical conditions such as cancer, diabetes & functional difficulties. I am trained in EMDR and have worked extensively with people impacted by trauma and PTSD. Find out more on springpsychology.co.uk
020 3835 3194 View 020 3835 3194

See more therapy options for London

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.