Trauma and PTSD Therapists in El Cerrito, CA

Photo of Barbara Large, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Large
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
El Cerrito, CA 94530
I am an experienced therapist who is described as compassionate, interactive and comfortable to work with. As a trauma informed therapist, I specialize in working with people who have had challenging and traumatic life experiences. I work with individuals who experience a wide range of distress, including anxiety, panic, depression, relationship issues, hopelessness and self doubt. Building a relationship with a therapist with whom you feel comfortable and validated is the first step and I will be thoughtful about your needs.
I am an experienced therapist who is described as compassionate, interactive and comfortable to work with. As a trauma informed therapist, I specialize in working with people who have had challenging and traumatic life experiences. I work with individuals who experience a wide range of distress, including anxiety, panic, depression, relationship issues, hopelessness and self doubt. Building a relationship with a therapist with whom you feel comfortable and validated is the first step and I will be thoughtful about your needs.
(510) 662-6544 View (510) 662-6544
Photo of Moushumi Sen, Moushumi Sen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Moushumi Sen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Moushumi Sen, LCSW
Verified Verified
El Cerrito, CA 94530
Are you hoping to find some clarity around resolving a conflict? Having a hard time making a choice in which direction to go? Is it hard to figure out why you are feeling the way you do? If sounds right to, then please read on. As a South Asian, I recall growing up in the San Francisco Bay Area as an immigrant. The experience channeled how I deliver compassion and guidance around navigating situations where we learn about self acceptance no matter where you are from and no matter what phase of life you are in. I am especially passionate about racial identity issues (both ethic and cultural), women's issues, grief/loss, and trauma.
Are you hoping to find some clarity around resolving a conflict? Having a hard time making a choice in which direction to go? Is it hard to figure out why you are feeling the way you do? If sounds right to, then please read on. As a South Asian, I recall growing up in the San Francisco Bay Area as an immigrant. The experience channeled how I deliver compassion and guidance around navigating situations where we learn about self acceptance no matter where you are from and no matter what phase of life you are in. I am especially passionate about racial identity issues (both ethic and cultural), women's issues, grief/loss, and trauma.
(510) 983-8247 View (510) 983-8247
Photo of Tasha B Pera, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tasha B Pera
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
El Cerrito, CA 94530
I am currently providing telehealth Hippaa-compliant videoconferencing! We each have the tools within ourselves to make it possible to improve our lives. At times, however, we may be so overwhelmed with difficult circumstances, relationships, or transitions, that we want help from a professional. I have worked with individuals, couples and families who struggle with a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, marital and family conflicts, food and substance use. I tend to see many adults, as well as adolescents who mainly suffer with anxiety-related problems. I have a positive and respectful attitude.
I am currently providing telehealth Hippaa-compliant videoconferencing! We each have the tools within ourselves to make it possible to improve our lives. At times, however, we may be so overwhelmed with difficult circumstances, relationships, or transitions, that we want help from a professional. I have worked with individuals, couples and families who struggle with a variety of issues, including anxiety, depression, trauma, marital and family conflicts, food and substance use. I tend to see many adults, as well as adolescents who mainly suffer with anxiety-related problems. I have a positive and respectful attitude.
(510) 400-8075 View (510) 400-8075
Photo of Lynn Winsten, PhD, Psychologist
Lynn Winsten
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
El Cerrito, CA 94530  (Online Only)
The problems you might be facing may have to do with love and loss, difficulty with friendships and/or work relations, career decisions, trauma or abuse, physical illness or disabilities. You may be dealing with loneliness, anxiety or depression. I am a down to earth, no nonsense kind of person I am also kind, respectful, compassionate, and at times funny. I listen well and am very devoted to my work.
The problems you might be facing may have to do with love and loss, difficulty with friendships and/or work relations, career decisions, trauma or abuse, physical illness or disabilities. You may be dealing with loneliness, anxiety or depression. I am a down to earth, no nonsense kind of person I am also kind, respectful, compassionate, and at times funny. I listen well and am very devoted to my work.
(510) 901-4568 View (510) 901-4568
Photo of Cori Pansarasa, PsyD, Psychologist
Cori Pansarasa
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
El Cerrito, CA 94530  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with trauma, anxiety and mood disorders, childhood physical/sexual abuse and neglect, and aging issues.
Would you like to feel more present in life and more secure in relationships? I have helped many to move past difficult experiences to reconnect with the beauty of life. My treatment focus is helping people to effect change through making different life choices, and on therapy as a working partnership. Trained in both traditional and holistic understandings of mind-body-spirit, my experience includes private practice; crisis work; directorships at mental health agencies; supervision of student therapists; and consultation for providers and organizations. I also integrate spiritual and energy healing perspectives when appropriate.
I have extensive experience working with trauma, anxiety and mood disorders, childhood physical/sexual abuse and neglect, and aging issues.
Would you like to feel more present in life and more secure in relationships? I have helped many to move past difficult experiences to reconnect with the beauty of life. My treatment focus is helping people to effect change through making different life choices, and on therapy as a working partnership. Trained in both traditional and holistic understandings of mind-body-spirit, my experience includes private practice; crisis work; directorships at mental health agencies; supervision of student therapists; and consultation for providers and organizations. I also integrate spiritual and energy healing perspectives when appropriate.
(510) 817-0685 View (510) 817-0685
Photo of Christopher Patrick White, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Patrick White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Cerrito, CA 94530
My clients are often sensitive, intelligent, and creative people who face life transitions, self-doubt, anxiety, depression, and the challenges of liberating passion and creating meaning in life. Many struggle with the legacy of significant trauma. Through acceptance, loving encouragement, and providing a container for self-exploration, I help clients to find a more encompassing love for self and other, develop strength and firmness of character, and tap into the well of their vitality, creativity, and joy.
My clients are often sensitive, intelligent, and creative people who face life transitions, self-doubt, anxiety, depression, and the challenges of liberating passion and creating meaning in life. Many struggle with the legacy of significant trauma. Through acceptance, loving encouragement, and providing a container for self-exploration, I help clients to find a more encompassing love for self and other, develop strength and firmness of character, and tap into the well of their vitality, creativity, and joy.
(510) 878-4334 View (510) 878-4334
Photo of Carlos Disdier, PsyD, Psychologist
Carlos Disdier
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
El Cerrito, CA 94530
I have a background in evidence-based practices like Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT for PTSD), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Relational, EFT for Couples, and Family.
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) psychologist with experience working with issues ranging from anxiety and depression to trauma, family problems, and relationship issues. I approach treatment in a direct, dynamic, culturally sensitive, and client focused way. I am particularly interested in issues of diversity, couples, families, work stress, and helping you overcome patterns and obstacles that hinder your personal transformation.
I have a background in evidence-based practices like Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT for PTSD), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Relational, EFT for Couples, and Family.
I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) psychologist with experience working with issues ranging from anxiety and depression to trauma, family problems, and relationship issues. I approach treatment in a direct, dynamic, culturally sensitive, and client focused way. I am particularly interested in issues of diversity, couples, families, work stress, and helping you overcome patterns and obstacles that hinder your personal transformation.
(415) 413-3165 View (415) 413-3165
Photo of Cynthia Liuska, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cynthia Liuska
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Cerrito, CA 94530
I work with depression, bipolar, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, life transitions and substance abuse.
What would it be like to feel at home in your body, in your mind, and in your heart? How would it feel to truly inhabit your life, with a greater sense of aliveness, ease, and connection? From my experience working with hundreds of clients from all walks of life, I know that difficult times can become a doorway to healing, change and greater connection with one's true self. I have a warm, collaborative approach and will support you in healing the wounds of the past and making inner and outer changes needed for a more fulfilling life.
I work with depression, bipolar, anxiety, relationship issues, trauma, life transitions and substance abuse.
What would it be like to feel at home in your body, in your mind, and in your heart? How would it feel to truly inhabit your life, with a greater sense of aliveness, ease, and connection? From my experience working with hundreds of clients from all walks of life, I know that difficult times can become a doorway to healing, change and greater connection with one's true self. I have a warm, collaborative approach and will support you in healing the wounds of the past and making inner and outer changes needed for a more fulfilling life.
(628) 333-2192 View (628) 333-2192
Photo of Jill Pettegrew, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jill Pettegrew
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Cerrito, CA 94530
Providing Somatic Psychotherapy, Somatic Experiencing, Ketamine-Assisted Therapy, and Psychedelic Integration. I specialize in supporting people with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mood-related issues. I am dedicated to helping you find balance, clarity and meaning in your livfe through evidence-based mind-body psychotherapy. My goal is to create a safe and comfortable space to explore and grow, going at a pace that does not overwhelm the nervous system, and allows for integration.
Providing Somatic Psychotherapy, Somatic Experiencing, Ketamine-Assisted Therapy, and Psychedelic Integration. I specialize in supporting people with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other mood-related issues. I am dedicated to helping you find balance, clarity and meaning in your livfe through evidence-based mind-body psychotherapy. My goal is to create a safe and comfortable space to explore and grow, going at a pace that does not overwhelm the nervous system, and allows for integration.
(925) 308-6168 View (925) 308-6168
Photo of Celeste Monnette, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Celeste Monnette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
El Cerrito, CA 94530
I have specialization in trauma-informed which one use interventions including EMDR, DBt, somatic support, & parts work.
Are you struggling with worry, sadness, the effects of trauma, and/or managing life transitions and losses? Are you a couple in crisis or needing support to navigate your relationship? If so, I maybe able to help. I am a licensed therapist with over 25 years experience working with adults and couples. With advanced training, compassion, and kindness, I work with clients to help them identify the areas they are struggling and then provide structure, support, and intervention to make changes and find relief from discomfort, frustration, and suffering. I work with clients from a warm and empathic, non-judgmental approach.
I have specialization in trauma-informed which one use interventions including EMDR, DBt, somatic support, & parts work.
Are you struggling with worry, sadness, the effects of trauma, and/or managing life transitions and losses? Are you a couple in crisis or needing support to navigate your relationship? If so, I maybe able to help. I am a licensed therapist with over 25 years experience working with adults and couples. With advanced training, compassion, and kindness, I work with clients to help them identify the areas they are struggling and then provide structure, support, and intervention to make changes and find relief from discomfort, frustration, and suffering. I work with clients from a warm and empathic, non-judgmental approach.
(707) 629-5318 View (707) 629-5318
Photo of Diana L Jones - A Step Forward Inc., Psychologist
A Step Forward Inc.
Psychologist
Verified Verified
El Cerrito, CA 94530
We are an incorporated psychotherapy group practice established in 1985. We specialize in working with children, adults, families who are dealing with issues of sexual abuse and/or other forms of trauma. We also provide co-parenting, custody evaluation, forensic evaluation, family reunification, and general psychotherapy services, including couples counseling.
We are an incorporated psychotherapy group practice established in 1985. We specialize in working with children, adults, families who are dealing with issues of sexual abuse and/or other forms of trauma. We also provide co-parenting, custody evaluation, forensic evaluation, family reunification, and general psychotherapy services, including couples counseling.
(925) 278-6160 x1 View (925) 278-6160 x1
Photo of Parisa Julia Farrohi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Parisa Julia Farrohi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
El Cerrito, CA 94530
I specialize in culturally sensitive therapy, working together to increase your skills and capacity to deal effectively with loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
I am a bicultural psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience working with children, adults, and families. In addition to private practice, I have clinical experience in community based settings such as schools, mental health centers, foster/adoption care, and psychiatric hospitals. My therapeutic approach is relational trauma informed, rooted in Psycho Dynamic Theory, Dialectal Behavior therapy, Mindful Self-compassion (MSC), and Family Systems.
I specialize in culturally sensitive therapy, working together to increase your skills and capacity to deal effectively with loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
I am a bicultural psychotherapist with over 25 years of experience working with children, adults, and families. In addition to private practice, I have clinical experience in community based settings such as schools, mental health centers, foster/adoption care, and psychiatric hospitals. My therapeutic approach is relational trauma informed, rooted in Psycho Dynamic Theory, Dialectal Behavior therapy, Mindful Self-compassion (MSC), and Family Systems.
(510) 945-3953 View (510) 945-3953
Photo of Liz Abrams, PhD, Psychologist
Liz Abrams
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
El Cerrito, CA 94530
My specialty areas include working with survivors of trauma/neglect/abuse; relationships and relating with self/others; oppression/ discrimination/ intersections of identities; LGBTQ+ folks; poly/kink folks; self-care for activists and helping professionals, immigrants, asylum seekers; imposter syndrome; and use of mindfulness, emotion, body awareness.
Stress and trauma can take many forms. Sometimes we survive an event such as a car accident, wildfire, assault, or military-related event. Or we may notice chronic struggles with trusting others and ourselves, and feeling stressed and unsatisfied in our relationships. The experience of trauma can significantly impact how we change or grow in each present moment, how we connect and separate from others, and how we experiment, take risks, and resource our creativity. Let's co-create a therapy relationship that works to support the development of loving relationships with self and others.
My specialty areas include working with survivors of trauma/neglect/abuse; relationships and relating with self/others; oppression/ discrimination/ intersections of identities; LGBTQ+ folks; poly/kink folks; self-care for activists and helping professionals, immigrants, asylum seekers; imposter syndrome; and use of mindfulness, emotion, body awareness.
Stress and trauma can take many forms. Sometimes we survive an event such as a car accident, wildfire, assault, or military-related event. Or we may notice chronic struggles with trusting others and ourselves, and feeling stressed and unsatisfied in our relationships. The experience of trauma can significantly impact how we change or grow in each present moment, how we connect and separate from others, and how we experiment, take risks, and resource our creativity. Let's co-create a therapy relationship that works to support the development of loving relationships with self and others.
(510) 851-8667 View (510) 851-8667
Photo of Evgenia Feldhstern, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Evgenia Feldhstern
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
El Cerrito, CA 94530
My specialties include adult, children and family relationship difficulties,children behavioral issues, parenting difficulties, family conflict issues, psychological trauma, and mood disorders.
Welcome! If you are a parent, or an adult struggling with depression, anxiety or memories of painful events, I can help you. I can help you with difficult child behaviors. If your child is angry, if they are fighting in school, or has learning difficulties, I can help you. For many years, I have been investing all my professional skills and my heart into helping wonderful children and families to heal. Please, tell me about your relationship with yourself, and with the world. Please, tell me how I can support and nurture you.
My specialties include adult, children and family relationship difficulties,children behavioral issues, parenting difficulties, family conflict issues, psychological trauma, and mood disorders.
Welcome! If you are a parent, or an adult struggling with depression, anxiety or memories of painful events, I can help you. I can help you with difficult child behaviors. If your child is angry, if they are fighting in school, or has learning difficulties, I can help you. For many years, I have been investing all my professional skills and my heart into helping wonderful children and families to heal. Please, tell me about your relationship with yourself, and with the world. Please, tell me how I can support and nurture you.
(510) 757-1853 View (510) 757-1853
Photo of Lori Goldman, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lori Goldman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
El Cerrito, CA 94530
In my work with adults, I specialize in the following areas: heightened sensitivity, difficulties with trust, anxiety and panic, depression, ambivalence, interpersonal trauma, relationship problems and with those who want to experience more meaning, intimacy and authenticity in their lives.
I am direct, genuine and collaborative, and bring a natural curiosity and empathy to my work with clients. I use a relational depth-oriented therapeutic approach with a focus on present moment bodily and emotional experience to help my clients work through hard places, release emotional blocks and feel more creative and free in their lives.
In my work with adults, I specialize in the following areas: heightened sensitivity, difficulties with trust, anxiety and panic, depression, ambivalence, interpersonal trauma, relationship problems and with those who want to experience more meaning, intimacy and authenticity in their lives.
I am direct, genuine and collaborative, and bring a natural curiosity and empathy to my work with clients. I use a relational depth-oriented therapeutic approach with a focus on present moment bodily and emotional experience to help my clients work through hard places, release emotional blocks and feel more creative and free in their lives.
(510) 901-4487 View (510) 901-4487
Photo of Joy Wong Liu, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joy Wong Liu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
El Cerrito, CA 94530
I have special training in drama therapy and other tools for healing trauma and restoring relationships.
Do you often feel ashamed and not good enough, even though others think you have it all together? Do you find yourself caring for those around you, all the while wondering when it will be your turn to get what you need? Does the intensity of your negative feelings sometimes scare you?
I have special training in drama therapy and other tools for healing trauma and restoring relationships.
Do you often feel ashamed and not good enough, even though others think you have it all together? Do you find yourself caring for those around you, all the while wondering when it will be your turn to get what you need? Does the intensity of your negative feelings sometimes scare you?
(510) 296-6511 View (510) 296-6511
Photo of Caroline Mok, PhD, Psychologist
Caroline Mok
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
El Cerrito, CA 94530
I provide individual, couples, and group psychotherapy to children and adults. I have experience in treating numerous psychological disorders and supporting patients through difficult times, grieving, pandemic related stress, conflictual relationships, and troubling emotions. Along with the general areas of psychology, I specialize in the treatment of trauma. I have worked as a trauma researcher for ten years at the Palo Alto VA and Palo Alto University, publishing a book chapter on personality disorders and paper in the Journal of Threat Assessment and Management. I also provide assessment and expert witness services.
I provide individual, couples, and group psychotherapy to children and adults. I have experience in treating numerous psychological disorders and supporting patients through difficult times, grieving, pandemic related stress, conflictual relationships, and troubling emotions. Along with the general areas of psychology, I specialize in the treatment of trauma. I have worked as a trauma researcher for ten years at the Palo Alto VA and Palo Alto University, publishing a book chapter on personality disorders and paper in the Journal of Threat Assessment and Management. I also provide assessment and expert witness services.
(510) 827-1036 View (510) 827-1036
Photo of Rosalie Stillford, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Rosalie Stillford
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
El Cerrito, CA 94530
I am a trauma-informed, somatic therapist, passionate about supporting and empowering adults and children through therapy. I have a special interest in working with adults on: complex & acute trauma, emotion regulation, anxiety, relationships, self-esteem, grief, and life transitions. With children, I treat: anger, traumatic events, adjusting to change, general/social/separation anxiety, friendship skills, bullying, frequent arguing, self-esteem, school-based issues, OCD, and PANS/PANDAS. I welcome clients who are queer, gender-nonconforming, and in poly/kink/non-traditional relationship structures.
I am a trauma-informed, somatic therapist, passionate about supporting and empowering adults and children through therapy. I have a special interest in working with adults on: complex & acute trauma, emotion regulation, anxiety, relationships, self-esteem, grief, and life transitions. With children, I treat: anger, traumatic events, adjusting to change, general/social/separation anxiety, friendship skills, bullying, frequent arguing, self-esteem, school-based issues, OCD, and PANS/PANDAS. I welcome clients who are queer, gender-nonconforming, and in poly/kink/non-traditional relationship structures.
(510) 279-4533 View (510) 279-4533
Photo of Vicki Young, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vicki Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
El Cerrito, CA 94530  (Online Only)
I work successfully with relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, childhood trauma & PTSD.
Welcome! I specialize in relationships, work and parenting. I’m warm, creative, supportive & smart. I like to help people in life transitions. These are hard times. If you’re feeling alone, overwhelmed, upset or worried about the future, let me help. We collaborate to address the hard things in your life, discover your unique abilities & strengths & create a path toward your dreams and goals. I am a licensed psychotherapist with 30 + years’ experience working with people from age 2 to 100. I create space where you can feel comfortable expressing feelings & exploring difficult issues. We transform you’re goals into do-able steps.
I work successfully with relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, childhood trauma & PTSD.
Welcome! I specialize in relationships, work and parenting. I’m warm, creative, supportive & smart. I like to help people in life transitions. These are hard times. If you’re feeling alone, overwhelmed, upset or worried about the future, let me help. We collaborate to address the hard things in your life, discover your unique abilities & strengths & create a path toward your dreams and goals. I am a licensed psychotherapist with 30 + years’ experience working with people from age 2 to 100. I create space where you can feel comfortable expressing feelings & exploring difficult issues. We transform you’re goals into do-able steps.
(510) 380-7909 View (510) 380-7909
Photo of Melissa Murphy, MA, JD, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Melissa Murphy
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, JD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
El Cerrito, CA 94530
Whether you or your child struggle with depression, anxiety, phobias, trauma, grief, life transitions, addiction or other conditions, I would be honored to accompany you or your loved ones on your healing journey. Our work will focus on creating the safety and acceptance that allows for change. Because our lives are shaped by the culture in which we live, we can also consider the social forces that may have shaped you, including racial, gender, and class biases.
Whether you or your child struggle with depression, anxiety, phobias, trauma, grief, life transitions, addiction or other conditions, I would be honored to accompany you or your loved ones on your healing journey. Our work will focus on creating the safety and acceptance that allows for change. Because our lives are shaped by the culture in which we live, we can also consider the social forces that may have shaped you, including racial, gender, and class biases.
(415) 792-0372 View (415) 792-0372
1
Trauma and PTSD Therapists

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.