Photo of Paul Parks, Psychotherapist in Isle of Man
Paul Parks
Psychotherapist, MA
Verified Verified
I offer therapy and counselling services for Trauma, PTSD & CPTSD (Military and Civilian), Adverse Childhood Experiences, Depression, Stress, Anxiety, Addiction/Substance abuse and self-harm.
My name is Paul and I am a Level 6 Psychotraumatologist & Psychotherapist and Member of the National Council of Integrative Psychotherapists. More importantly, I am a survivor! I was diagnosed with C-PTSD (Complex PTSD) due to adverse childhood experiences and PTSD from my career in the military. Having undergone trauma therapy myself and experienced first-hand the immense benefits that it can bring, I decided to study to become a qualified therapist and Retreat to Advance was born. Why the name 'Retreat to Advance'? Often, we need to go back over past traumas, issues and difficulties in order then to go forward and thrive.
I offer therapy and counselling services for Trauma, PTSD & CPTSD (Military and Civilian), Adverse Childhood Experiences, Depression, Stress, Anxiety, Addiction/Substance abuse and self-harm.
My name is Paul and I am a Level 6 Psychotraumatologist & Psychotherapist and Member of the National Council of Integrative Psychotherapists. More importantly, I am a survivor! I was diagnosed with C-PTSD (Complex PTSD) due to adverse childhood experiences and PTSD from my career in the military. Having undergone trauma therapy myself and experienced first-hand the immense benefits that it can bring, I decided to study to become a qualified therapist and Retreat to Advance was born. Why the name 'Retreat to Advance'? Often, we need to go back over past traumas, issues and difficulties in order then to go forward and thrive.
01255 448836 View 01255 448836
Photo of Danielle Harris, Psychotherapist in Isle of Man
Danielle Harris
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Castletown IM9  (Online Only)
I work with people from all walks of life. I provide an online counselling service that meets you where you’re at, both physically and emotionally. I have experience working with a wide range of issues including, abuse, anxiety, stress, depression, eating difficulties, loneliness, relationship problems, health concerns, bereavement, self-esteem, sexual orientation, sexual abuse, discrimination, and many more difficulties that are faced in life. Working online, I often meet expats and digital nomads, however, online counselling can also be suitable to everyone, including people living and working in their home country.
I work with people from all walks of life. I provide an online counselling service that meets you where you’re at, both physically and emotionally. I have experience working with a wide range of issues including, abuse, anxiety, stress, depression, eating difficulties, loneliness, relationship problems, health concerns, bereavement, self-esteem, sexual orientation, sexual abuse, discrimination, and many more difficulties that are faced in life. Working online, I often meet expats and digital nomads, however, online counselling can also be suitable to everyone, including people living and working in their home country.
01793 540771 View 01793 540771
Photo of Livia Tedaldi, Psychologist in Isle of Man
Livia Tedaldi
Psychologist, PhD, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
You as a human being, you have a choice. And you can choose. You can choose to gain victory over yourself—or you can choose to try to pursue, for the rest of your life, trying to gain victory over your problems. In one, you will never win—in one you’ve got a fair shot. Prem Rawat
You as a human being, you have a choice. And you can choose. You can choose to gain victory over yourself—or you can choose to try to pursue, for the rest of your life, trying to gain victory over your problems. In one, you will never win—in one you’ve got a fair shot. Prem Rawat
07723 010645 View 07723 010645
Photo of Helen Morrisson Psychotherapy, Counsellor in Isle of Man
Helen Morrisson Psychotherapy
Counsellor, MSc, BACP
Verified Verified
Searching for support can feel very overwhelming and can evoke a lot of difficult emotions. However, the willingness to face yourself is one of the bravest challenges you can undertake. As a counsellor, I believe it is fundamental to create a compassionate, warm, and safe space for you to explore yourself and your problems. My aim is to help you leave sessions feeling heard, understood, accepted, and with greater clarity. I endeavour to create an honest, individual, and meaningful therapeutic relationship with you. Our sessions will always be centred around your needs, interests, and preferences.
Searching for support can feel very overwhelming and can evoke a lot of difficult emotions. However, the willingness to face yourself is one of the bravest challenges you can undertake. As a counsellor, I believe it is fundamental to create a compassionate, warm, and safe space for you to explore yourself and your problems. My aim is to help you leave sessions feeling heard, understood, accepted, and with greater clarity. I endeavour to create an honest, individual, and meaningful therapeutic relationship with you. Our sessions will always be centred around your needs, interests, and preferences.
01255 444231 View 01255 444231
Photo of Emmanuelle Caballero, Psychologist in Isle of Man
Emmanuelle Caballero
Psychologist, CPsychol
Verified Verified
Hey there! Welcome, and congratulations on taking the first step towards your journey of healing and self-discovery. I'm here to provide you with a safe and supportive space where you can freely explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. In our sessions, my goal is to cultivate an empowering and nurturing confidential environment. Here, you can explore your inner world, gain a deeper understanding of yourself, and develop tools to overcome challenges with resilience and confidence. Your journey towards healing and growth is unique, and I would be honored to support you on this path.
Hey there! Welcome, and congratulations on taking the first step towards your journey of healing and self-discovery. I'm here to provide you with a safe and supportive space where you can freely explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. In our sessions, my goal is to cultivate an empowering and nurturing confidential environment. Here, you can explore your inner world, gain a deeper understanding of yourself, and develop tools to overcome challenges with resilience and confidence. Your journey towards healing and growth is unique, and I would be honored to support you on this path.
01255 449300 View 01255 449300

Online Therapists

Photo of Linda Thorden, Psychologist in Isle of Man
Linda Thorden
Psychologist, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Ashtead KT21
I offer NICE guidelines interventions such as EMDR and CBT for PTSD and childhood trauma, anxiety and stress.
I’m accredited as a Clinical Psychologist and registered with the HCPC. I provide EMDR therapy for traumatic incidents and CBT and ACT for anxiety and depression. I have extensive experience from the NHS and in private practise in supporting those who experience symptoms affecting their emotional wellbeing and I have 18 years of experience in providing relief in privately practise and for the NHS. My training and experience also include supervising professionals and working with groups and families during a crisis and supporting them to manage and overcome their difficulties.
I offer NICE guidelines interventions such as EMDR and CBT for PTSD and childhood trauma, anxiety and stress.
I’m accredited as a Clinical Psychologist and registered with the HCPC. I provide EMDR therapy for traumatic incidents and CBT and ACT for anxiety and depression. I have extensive experience from the NHS and in private practise in supporting those who experience symptoms affecting their emotional wellbeing and I have 18 years of experience in providing relief in privately practise and for the NHS. My training and experience also include supervising professionals and working with groups and families during a crisis and supporting them to manage and overcome their difficulties.
01372 235307 View 01372 235307
Photo of SPACE, Counsellor in Isle of Man
SPACE
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Belfast BT14
I work with a wide range of issues including abuse, addiction, adolescence, anxiety, self confidence, bereavement, bullying, depression, divorce, ptsd, self harm, sexual identity to name just a few.
I am an accredited member of BACP and NCS. I have substantial experience working with both children and adults. I work in primary schools and also in the local community to provide quality counselling to help people be the best they can be. I am also CEO of a mental health charity and offer consultancy work as well as supervision. My approach is integrative so that I can tailor the service specifically for individual clients and longer term work. I also offer personal therapy for students training to be counsellors.
I work with a wide range of issues including abuse, addiction, adolescence, anxiety, self confidence, bereavement, bullying, depression, divorce, ptsd, self harm, sexual identity to name just a few.
I am an accredited member of BACP and NCS. I have substantial experience working with both children and adults. I work in primary schools and also in the local community to provide quality counselling to help people be the best they can be. I am also CEO of a mental health charity and offer consultancy work as well as supervision. My approach is integrative so that I can tailor the service specifically for individual clients and longer term work. I also offer personal therapy for students training to be counsellors.
028 9433 1973 View 028 9433 1973
Photo of Janine Lee Norris, Psychotherapist in Isle of Man
Janine Lee Norris
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hello, I'm Janine, a dedicated and compassionate trauma-informed therapist. I am a BABCP Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist with over 9 years of experience helping teenagers, and adults overcome a wide range of psychological challenges. I can successfully treat; anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, phobias, and other mental health problems so that you can enjoy life again as you once did.
Hello, I'm Janine, a dedicated and compassionate trauma-informed therapist. I am a BABCP Accredited Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist with over 9 years of experience helping teenagers, and adults overcome a wide range of psychological challenges. I can successfully treat; anxiety, depression, OCD, PTSD, phobias, and other mental health problems so that you can enjoy life again as you once did.
01925 598713 View 01925 598713
Photo of Darren Neal, Counsellor in Isle of Man
Darren Neal
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
London SE10  (Online Only)
Being understood and accepted, without judgement and with compassion, is the most important experience we can receive from another person. I have a extensive experience working with trauma(PTSD&CPTSD), bereavement, anxiety (fear), abuse, mental health issues, depression as well as general feelings of hopelessness and sadness and I will offer my experience and knowledge to help empower you to experience yourself, understand yourself and feel more confidant and emotionally connected. I am a registered member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and I can be found on their website.
Being understood and accepted, without judgement and with compassion, is the most important experience we can receive from another person. I have a extensive experience working with trauma(PTSD&CPTSD), bereavement, anxiety (fear), abuse, mental health issues, depression as well as general feelings of hopelessness and sadness and I will offer my experience and knowledge to help empower you to experience yourself, understand yourself and feel more confidant and emotionally connected. I am a registered member of the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) and I can be found on their website.
020 3917 4037 View 020 3917 4037
Photo of Tracey Boothby, Counsellor in Isle of Man
Tracey Boothby
Counsellor, MA, MBACP
Verified Verified
My expertise is within trauma and anxiety including OCD, PTSD, CPTSD.
If you’re reading this you must have determined you would like help to heal and resolve difficulties in your life. I have a wealth of experience working with adults and children who have endured severe trauma, mental ill health (anxiety, depression etc) and have guided them through the healing process. Trauma affects both brain and body, causing somatic pain and toxic stress. Abusive relationships leave there damage behind long after they have ended . I’m not a fixer and I don’t have a magic wand, however, I can help you untangle the confusion and find some much needed hope to help you reach your goal.
My expertise is within trauma and anxiety including OCD, PTSD, CPTSD.
If you’re reading this you must have determined you would like help to heal and resolve difficulties in your life. I have a wealth of experience working with adults and children who have endured severe trauma, mental ill health (anxiety, depression etc) and have guided them through the healing process. Trauma affects both brain and body, causing somatic pain and toxic stress. Abusive relationships leave there damage behind long after they have ended . I’m not a fixer and I don’t have a magic wand, however, I can help you untangle the confusion and find some much needed hope to help you reach your goal.
01492 554482 View 01492 554482
Photo of Hayley Tyson-Adams, Psychotherapist in Isle of Man
Hayley Tyson-Adams
Psychotherapist, MBABCP
Verified Verified
My main areas of expertise are depression, trauma/PTSD and anxiety disorders (including worry, OCD, panic attacks, phobias, illness anxiety and social anxiety).
Hi, I'm Hayley. I'm passionate about helping my clients to lead happier, more fulfilled lives. I am an experienced, BABCP accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) and EMDR (trauma/PTSD) practitioner offering treatment for depression, trauma and anxiety disorders. Alongside private practice, I work in the NHS and have over 10 years experience helping others work towards their personal and life goals. Recent client feedback: "Therapist was excellent, approachable and had a caring manner, and helped me to have a better understanding of my issues. I feel I have come a long way since starting this process."
My main areas of expertise are depression, trauma/PTSD and anxiety disorders (including worry, OCD, panic attacks, phobias, illness anxiety and social anxiety).
Hi, I'm Hayley. I'm passionate about helping my clients to lead happier, more fulfilled lives. I am an experienced, BABCP accredited Cognitive Behavioural Therapist (CBT) and EMDR (trauma/PTSD) practitioner offering treatment for depression, trauma and anxiety disorders. Alongside private practice, I work in the NHS and have over 10 years experience helping others work towards their personal and life goals. Recent client feedback: "Therapist was excellent, approachable and had a caring manner, and helped me to have a better understanding of my issues. I feel I have come a long way since starting this process."
0191 607 1188 View 0191 607 1188
Photo of Amanda Halford, Counsellor in Isle of Man
Amanda Halford
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, BACP
Verified Verified
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 Counselling in Gatley, Cheadle, Counsellor in Isle of Man
Counselling in Gatley, Cheadle
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
I have over 15 years experience working as a counsellor and have experience of working with clients with eating disorders, couples/relationships,OCD, anxiety, grief, abuse, loss, post-traumatic stress, trauma, depression, stress, addictions, gambling, aspergers, sexuality, self-esteem, sexual identity, parenting issues, self-harm, anger issues, co-dependency.
Hi, I'm Sarah. We all have times when we find it hard to cope. Counselling can help you understand why you think, feel and act like you do. It can help you develop positive strategies to get what you want out of life. How we think, feel and behave is part of being human. Problems can arise when we get 'stuck' in negative thought patterns; when our feelings become overwhelming; when our behaviour is self-destructive and doesn't result in us getting what we need; when we worry about the future, dwell on the past and find it hard to live in the present. I believe the most important relationship we have is the relationship with ourself.
I have over 15 years experience working as a counsellor and have experience of working with clients with eating disorders, couples/relationships,OCD, anxiety, grief, abuse, loss, post-traumatic stress, trauma, depression, stress, addictions, gambling, aspergers, sexuality, self-esteem, sexual identity, parenting issues, self-harm, anger issues, co-dependency.
Hi, I'm Sarah. We all have times when we find it hard to cope. Counselling can help you understand why you think, feel and act like you do. It can help you develop positive strategies to get what you want out of life. How we think, feel and behave is part of being human. Problems can arise when we get 'stuck' in negative thought patterns; when our feelings become overwhelming; when our behaviour is self-destructive and doesn't result in us getting what we need; when we worry about the future, dwell on the past and find it hard to live in the present. I believe the most important relationship we have is the relationship with ourself.
0161 524 2126 View 0161 524 2126
Photo of Kate Butler Counselling, Counsellor in Isle of Man
Kate Butler Counselling
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Are you a teenager or a young person who is struggling with emotions and thoughts that are making life difficult? Or maybe you're finding it difficult to deal with something traumatic that has happened to you? Perhaps you're a parent, worried about your teenager or young adult? I'm a qualified integrative counsellor and psychotherapist helping teenagers, young people and parents to overcome trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. I provide a safe, calm and supportive space to allow you or your child to work through what is causing difficulties and find a way forward.
Are you a teenager or a young person who is struggling with emotions and thoughts that are making life difficult? Or maybe you're finding it difficult to deal with something traumatic that has happened to you? Perhaps you're a parent, worried about your teenager or young adult? I'm a qualified integrative counsellor and psychotherapist helping teenagers, young people and parents to overcome trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. I provide a safe, calm and supportive space to allow you or your child to work through what is causing difficulties and find a way forward.
0118 230 5940 View 0118 230 5940
Photo of Sarah Williams, Counsellor in Isle of Man
Sarah Williams
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
I have experience of working with PTSD and CPTSD, anxiety, social anxiety, depression, low confidence and low self esteem.
I’m Sarah and I work in a person centred way, this means that I listen with empathy, and I will always regard you and your experiences with compassion and understanding. In this environment, which is warm and supportive, I am committed to helping clients confront and challenge any blocks they may have in their emotional life. This may be around difficult life events. Perhaps you are lacking confidence in the ability to achieve desired goals. Counselling is a confidential space to explore complex emotions and can help to find a way out of depression, low motivation or low self esteem. You just need to take the first step.
I have experience of working with PTSD and CPTSD, anxiety, social anxiety, depression, low confidence and low self esteem.
I’m Sarah and I work in a person centred way, this means that I listen with empathy, and I will always regard you and your experiences with compassion and understanding. In this environment, which is warm and supportive, I am committed to helping clients confront and challenge any blocks they may have in their emotional life. This may be around difficult life events. Perhaps you are lacking confidence in the ability to achieve desired goals. Counselling is a confidential space to explore complex emotions and can help to find a way out of depression, low motivation or low self esteem. You just need to take the first step.
01903 924249 View 01903 924249
Photo of Richard John Mann, Counsellor in Isle of Man
Richard John Mann
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
www.richardmanncounselling.com. As a therapist working in the NHS I am looking to develop my private practice. I believe that therapy should be tailored specially for your individual needs -whether anxiety, depression, self esteem or PTSD - and I provide a relaxed, safe space where you can feel free to share your issues confidentially and without judgement. I like to work in a collaborative way, helping you learn more about yourself, your issues and developing strategies to manage them. My life experience is working with alcohol addiction, neuropathy, cancer and in high profile, high pressure environments with work-related stress.
www.richardmanncounselling.com. As a therapist working in the NHS I am looking to develop my private practice. I believe that therapy should be tailored specially for your individual needs -whether anxiety, depression, self esteem or PTSD - and I provide a relaxed, safe space where you can feel free to share your issues confidentially and without judgement. I like to work in a collaborative way, helping you learn more about yourself, your issues and developing strategies to manage them. My life experience is working with alcohol addiction, neuropathy, cancer and in high profile, high pressure environments with work-related stress.
020 3912 7479 View 020 3912 7479
Photo of George Maxwell, Psychotherapist in Isle of Man
George Maxwell
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
I offer evidence-based CBT, EMDR and Positive Psychology to support clients across the full range of the wellbeing spectrum. As an accredited CBT Therapist, I will help you to overcome your anxiety and depression problems using active, effective treatments that will change your life. I specialise in OCD (and its many subtypes), PTSD and Social Anxiety. As a Positive Psychologist, I can teach you how to flourish, feel happier and live a life full of meaning and value. I work with clients internationally via Zoom and offer in-person therapy at my office in Rodney Street in Liverpool.
I offer evidence-based CBT, EMDR and Positive Psychology to support clients across the full range of the wellbeing spectrum. As an accredited CBT Therapist, I will help you to overcome your anxiety and depression problems using active, effective treatments that will change your life. I specialise in OCD (and its many subtypes), PTSD and Social Anxiety. As a Positive Psychologist, I can teach you how to flourish, feel happier and live a life full of meaning and value. I work with clients internationally via Zoom and offer in-person therapy at my office in Rodney Street in Liverpool.
0151 318 0866 View 0151 318 0866
Photo of Mark Prestney CBT, Psychotherapist in Isle of Man
Mark Prestney CBT
Psychotherapist, MSc, MBABCP
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
Mark is enthusiastic in working with the wide range of issues with CBT such as Anxiety – generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, health anxiety, death anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, hoarding, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, body dysmorphic disorder and phobias. Mark worked in the NHS for 15 years, working in a range of settings including mental health secure units, prisons, and various community mental health teams including early intervention and specialist work and later in management. Mark has also worked in an IAPT service, social care and the corporate sector.
Mark is enthusiastic in working with the wide range of issues with CBT such as Anxiety – generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety, health anxiety, death anxiety, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, hoarding, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, body dysmorphic disorder and phobias. Mark worked in the NHS for 15 years, working in a range of settings including mental health secure units, prisons, and various community mental health teams including early intervention and specialist work and later in management. Mark has also worked in an IAPT service, social care and the corporate sector.
01245 945251 View 01245 945251
Photo of Saskia Bennette, Psychotherapist in Isle of Man
Saskia Bennette
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
People at times regard seeking counselling as a weakness, however in my view it actually shows great strength to seek support when you are facing issues in your life. Having the courage to look 'inside yourself' is the first step. Working together, I will be there to provide a safe and confidential environment in which we can explore a way forward together. It is a privilege to have acquired the skills to support people who are facing challenges such as: Relationship issues; Stress; Psychological Trauma and PTSD; Anxiety/Depression; Anger issues; Bereavement & Loss; & Phobias
People at times regard seeking counselling as a weakness, however in my view it actually shows great strength to seek support when you are facing issues in your life. Having the courage to look 'inside yourself' is the first step. Working together, I will be there to provide a safe and confidential environment in which we can explore a way forward together. It is a privilege to have acquired the skills to support people who are facing challenges such as: Relationship issues; Stress; Psychological Trauma and PTSD; Anxiety/Depression; Anger issues; Bereavement & Loss; & Phobias
0118 207 2716 View 0118 207 2716
Photo of Helen Louise Brown, Counsellor in Isle of Man
Helen Louise Brown
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
I am experienced in supporting those affected by: Trauma & PTSD, Addiction, Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Depression, Self-Harming and Relationship Issues.
Welcome to Blue Orchid Psychotherapy. My name is Helen. I'm a warm, empathic, fully qualified and experienced integrative adult & child psychotherapist. I'm passionate about supporting people through periods of 'stuckness', distress and overwhelm. I am skilled in trauma work and a wide range of mental health conditions. I have previously worked in mental health hospitals practising on both addiction and general psychiatry units. If you're struggling and need a safe space to address your distress, then I'm here for you. From me, you will receive genuine empathy, non-judgmental warmth and a safe environment in which to explore.
I am experienced in supporting those affected by: Trauma & PTSD, Addiction, Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Depression, Self-Harming and Relationship Issues.
Welcome to Blue Orchid Psychotherapy. My name is Helen. I'm a warm, empathic, fully qualified and experienced integrative adult & child psychotherapist. I'm passionate about supporting people through periods of 'stuckness', distress and overwhelm. I am skilled in trauma work and a wide range of mental health conditions. I have previously worked in mental health hospitals practising on both addiction and general psychiatry units. If you're struggling and need a safe space to address your distress, then I'm here for you. From me, you will receive genuine empathy, non-judgmental warmth and a safe environment in which to explore.
01223 658789 View 01223 658789

See more therapy options for Isle of Man

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.