Photo of Fernando Garcia III - STONE Mental Health Services, Ed D, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
STONE Mental Health Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, Ed D, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93306
I have experience working with various mental disorders and have especially become connected with trauma-based work.
Clients' needs may vary but most share the same theme of wanting to work toward positive change. My experience with working with such a diverse client population and education in sport & performance psychology has provided me with an approach that I am confident can help almost anyone in need. Therapy has the potential to be a space where clients' can explore their concerns and issues with professional guidance with the focus to achieve their individual goals. Getting symptoms under control, exploring mental blockage, and so many more obstacles can be effectively addressed with the right support.
I have experience working with various mental disorders and have especially become connected with trauma-based work.
Clients' needs may vary but most share the same theme of wanting to work toward positive change. My experience with working with such a diverse client population and education in sport & performance psychology has provided me with an approach that I am confident can help almost anyone in need. Therapy has the potential to be a space where clients' can explore their concerns and issues with professional guidance with the focus to achieve their individual goals. Getting symptoms under control, exploring mental blockage, and so many more obstacles can be effectively addressed with the right support.
(661) 459-5209 View (661) 459-5209
Photo of Samuel Moore, Marriage & Family Therapist
Samuel Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93306
I have been practicing as a therapist since 2015. I have worked with individuals who are suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, and attachment difficulties. I have extensive experience working with individuals who have suffered childhood abuse. I specialize in depression, anxiety, and trauma utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic theory. I believe that if there is a leaky pipe in the ceiling, the best approach is to figure out what caused that pipe to leak and repair the traumatic experiences.
I have been practicing as a therapist since 2015. I have worked with individuals who are suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, and attachment difficulties. I have extensive experience working with individuals who have suffered childhood abuse. I specialize in depression, anxiety, and trauma utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic theory. I believe that if there is a leaky pipe in the ceiling, the best approach is to figure out what caused that pipe to leak and repair the traumatic experiences.
(661) 760-2781 View (661) 760-2781
Photo of Daniel S. Rubiaco, PsyD, LCSW, Psychologist
Daniel S. Rubiaco
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93312
Welcome! My practice includes supporting adolescents, young adults, and adult professionals who are stressed, experiencing anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and major conflict. I also have significant experience working with victims of violent crimes of all ages, which includes the challenges of navigating the criminal court process. I work with clients of various racial, ethnic, cultural, sexual, and religious identities both in inpatient and outpatient settings. My commitment is to cultivate an accepting and confidential environment to promote emotional support and safety in difficult times.
Welcome! My practice includes supporting adolescents, young adults, and adult professionals who are stressed, experiencing anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and major conflict. I also have significant experience working with victims of violent crimes of all ages, which includes the challenges of navigating the criminal court process. I work with clients of various racial, ethnic, cultural, sexual, and religious identities both in inpatient and outpatient settings. My commitment is to cultivate an accepting and confidential environment to promote emotional support and safety in difficult times.
(661) 381-1115 View (661) 381-1115
Photo of Corey Gonzales - Dr. Corey Gonzales, PhD, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Corey Gonzales, PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93312
My practice is predominantly adults and adolescents. My areas of emphasis are in anxiety/trauma, relationship issues, interpersonal growth, grief and loss, health issues and depression. I also work closely with Psychiatrists and Primary Treating Physicians which makes coordination of care efficient if medication is necessary. Trust, support, empathy, education and insight are an important emphasis in my work.
My practice is predominantly adults and adolescents. My areas of emphasis are in anxiety/trauma, relationship issues, interpersonal growth, grief and loss, health issues and depression. I also work closely with Psychiatrists and Primary Treating Physicians which makes coordination of care efficient if medication is necessary. Trust, support, empathy, education and insight are an important emphasis in my work.
(661) 247-0218 View (661) 247-0218
Photo of Jesse Marez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jesse Marez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93307
My name is Jesse Marez, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, licensed in the State of California since 2003. Over the years of my practice, I have cultivated an ability to respond to my clients personally and individually while establishing therapeutic rapport by using motivational interviewing, client-centered therapy and Jungian and existential psychology. My clinical orientation is cognitive behavioral (CBT) and client-centered therapy with a specialty in Trauma Focused CBT; I am also well-versed in psychodynamic and humanistic psychology.
My name is Jesse Marez, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, licensed in the State of California since 2003. Over the years of my practice, I have cultivated an ability to respond to my clients personally and individually while establishing therapeutic rapport by using motivational interviewing, client-centered therapy and Jungian and existential psychology. My clinical orientation is cognitive behavioral (CBT) and client-centered therapy with a specialty in Trauma Focused CBT; I am also well-versed in psychodynamic and humanistic psychology.
(661) 463-7903 View (661) 463-7903
Photo of Vester Bradshaw - Hope Empowers Counseling Services , MA , LMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist
Hope Empowers Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA , LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93389
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in Kern County. I have treated both adults, adolescents, and couples who have struggled with depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, bipolar, ODD, and relational stressors. I also enjoy working with transitional youth between the ages of 16-21yrs old assisting with goal setting and developing meaningful living. I further have experience working with clients on spiritual and faith matters.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist practicing in Kern County. I have treated both adults, adolescents, and couples who have struggled with depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, bipolar, ODD, and relational stressors. I also enjoy working with transitional youth between the ages of 16-21yrs old assisting with goal setting and developing meaningful living. I further have experience working with clients on spiritual and faith matters.
(661) 475-8072 View (661) 475-8072
Photo of Drew Wiggins, TLLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Drew Wiggins
Limited Licensed Psychologist, TLLP
Not Verified Not Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93312
Seeking therapy for yourself can be complex and multi-layered. Finding a therapist you connect with is essential. I work interactively and collaboratively to support you at your pace while helping you move toward the fullest expression of the life you wish to lead. I value and utilize a trauma-informed lens wherein I aim to co-create a safe holding environment where the changes you hope for can occur. The therapeutic relationship is the backdrop for investigation, integration, and healing with openness, curiosity, self-compassion, and tenderness. I aim to embody authenticity, humor, and generosity throughout my work with clients.
Seeking therapy for yourself can be complex and multi-layered. Finding a therapist you connect with is essential. I work interactively and collaboratively to support you at your pace while helping you move toward the fullest expression of the life you wish to lead. I value and utilize a trauma-informed lens wherein I aim to co-create a safe holding environment where the changes you hope for can occur. The therapeutic relationship is the backdrop for investigation, integration, and healing with openness, curiosity, self-compassion, and tenderness. I aim to embody authenticity, humor, and generosity throughout my work with clients.
(734) 514-4068 View (734) 514-4068
Photo of Johnny Asencion Cuestas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Johnny Asencion Cuestas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93307  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, over the last 10 years I've enjoyed working together with people as they took on the problems they faced. I've helped people work on range of problems, from challenging behaviors to other internal problem. I've worked with incredible resilient young people and adults who've had relationships with trauma, anxiety, and depression. I've also worked with young people in foster care and members of the LGBTQ community using a narrative approach. Being present and sharing space with someone trying to make a positive change in their life, has always been a great privlidge for me.
Hello, over the last 10 years I've enjoyed working together with people as they took on the problems they faced. I've helped people work on range of problems, from challenging behaviors to other internal problem. I've worked with incredible resilient young people and adults who've had relationships with trauma, anxiety, and depression. I've also worked with young people in foster care and members of the LGBTQ community using a narrative approach. Being present and sharing space with someone trying to make a positive change in their life, has always been a great privlidge for me.
(916) 352-7282 View (916) 352-7282
Photo of Jeffrey Bellissimo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeffrey Bellissimo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93312
I have 7 years of professional experience working with individuals facing a range of issues, including substance use, trauma, anxiety, depression, interpersonal and family relationships, grief and loss, and others. My method is straightforward- I assist my clients with identifying the root cause of their suffering and help them access their inner strengths to create healthy solutions. I believe that people are experts in their own lives, and my goal is to facilitate the healing process by holding space and allowing clients to navigate their journey to wellness.
I have 7 years of professional experience working with individuals facing a range of issues, including substance use, trauma, anxiety, depression, interpersonal and family relationships, grief and loss, and others. My method is straightforward- I assist my clients with identifying the root cause of their suffering and help them access their inner strengths to create healthy solutions. I believe that people are experts in their own lives, and my goal is to facilitate the healing process by holding space and allowing clients to navigate their journey to wellness.
(661) 466-2290 View (661) 466-2290
Photo of Donald Kirk Weintz, MA,  MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Donald Kirk Weintz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
Waitlist for new clients
My expertise is in the areas of complex trauma, addictive behaviors (e.
My work with clients for over 29 years has allowed me to be part of a special journey with each person, couple, and family. My experience in serving as a psychotherapist, with multiple ages, socioeconomic, and culturally diverse clients has allowed me to learn how clients have needs and life goals, which are part of their life journey. I work with clients to identify who is writing their story in positive and adverse ways, which causes them to be 'stuck', wounded, or lost. During the therapy process, we explore skills and/or deep healing to assist them in moving toward healthier experiences, relationships, and living with purpose.
My expertise is in the areas of complex trauma, addictive behaviors (e.
My work with clients for over 29 years has allowed me to be part of a special journey with each person, couple, and family. My experience in serving as a psychotherapist, with multiple ages, socioeconomic, and culturally diverse clients has allowed me to learn how clients have needs and life goals, which are part of their life journey. I work with clients to identify who is writing their story in positive and adverse ways, which causes them to be 'stuck', wounded, or lost. During the therapy process, we explore skills and/or deep healing to assist them in moving toward healthier experiences, relationships, and living with purpose.
(559) 205-9087 View (559) 205-9087
Photo of Rodolfo Jesus Mercado, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rodolfo Jesus Mercado
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Delano, CA 93215
Hi, my name is Rudy Mercado, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) from Southern California. I just started my telehealth journey to see clients throughout the state of California. I work well with adolescents and adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, and trauma using a variety of therapy models such as Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
Hi, my name is Rudy Mercado, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) from Southern California. I just started my telehealth journey to see clients throughout the state of California. I work well with adolescents and adults and specialize in anxiety, depression, and trauma using a variety of therapy models such as Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectal Behavioral Therapy, and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
(661) 402-8506 View (661) 402-8506
Photo of Patrick Middleton - Patrick Middleton Christian Therapist, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patrick Middleton Christian Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Welcome. I work with adults and teens looking for Christ-centered professional therapy. Being Christian doesn't make us immune to suffering and you're not alone in your struggles. We live in a fallen world. Family issues, trauma, suffering, depression, anxiety and extreme anger are very real challenges that any of us can face from time to time. I work with people who are tired of the way things have been going in their life, and are wanting to see change as quickly as possible.
Welcome. I work with adults and teens looking for Christ-centered professional therapy. Being Christian doesn't make us immune to suffering and you're not alone in your struggles. We live in a fallen world. Family issues, trauma, suffering, depression, anxiety and extreme anger are very real challenges that any of us can face from time to time. I work with people who are tired of the way things have been going in their life, and are wanting to see change as quickly as possible.
(661) 205-5325 View (661) 205-5325
Photo of James Earl Holland Jr, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James Earl Holland Jr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I SEE YOU! YES YOU! Great job on taking your first step! Have you ever felt anger, sadness, anxiety, been through trauma, suffered depression, addicted to something, annoyed with people or, just stuck in your everyday life? Well it’s time for you! Life throws us many obstacles and challenges that we overcome. We have all made mistakes, struggled with life and wondered if we made the right decisions. Sometimes we need advice, an ear to listen or just someone to tell us “Great Job”! I am here to work with you on whatever goal/issue that you want to focus on. I am a firm believer that we are the doctors of our own mind, body and soul.
I SEE YOU! YES YOU! Great job on taking your first step! Have you ever felt anger, sadness, anxiety, been through trauma, suffered depression, addicted to something, annoyed with people or, just stuck in your everyday life? Well it’s time for you! Life throws us many obstacles and challenges that we overcome. We have all made mistakes, struggled with life and wondered if we made the right decisions. Sometimes we need advice, an ear to listen or just someone to tell us “Great Job”! I am here to work with you on whatever goal/issue that you want to focus on. I am a firm believer that we are the doctors of our own mind, body and soul.
(661) 459-5828 View (661) 459-5828
Photo of John R Navejas, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
John R Navejas
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
John Navejas is registered as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist providing services in both substance abuse and mental health treatment modalities. John’s career experience began while volunteering with the Homeless Collaborative. John has worked with many populations including adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, substance abuse, anger, relationship issues, and identifying/controlling emotions and thoughts. He has led groups such as Anger Replacement Training, Strengthening Families, CBT interventions for substance abuse and created the first trauma informed yoga group at a juvenile detention facility.
John Navejas is registered as an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist providing services in both substance abuse and mental health treatment modalities. John’s career experience began while volunteering with the Homeless Collaborative. John has worked with many populations including adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, substance abuse, anger, relationship issues, and identifying/controlling emotions and thoughts. He has led groups such as Anger Replacement Training, Strengthening Families, CBT interventions for substance abuse and created the first trauma informed yoga group at a juvenile detention facility.
(661) 233-9744 View (661) 233-9744
Photo of Dr. Jeffrey W Cheney, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Jeffrey W Cheney
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Areas of expertise include: Crisis Management, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Gottman Communication Skills, CBT therapy to reduce anger and address addictive behaviors, Love & Logic Parenting, ADHD testing, and extensive experience working with loss/trauma.
You're hurt and angry and thinking, 'Why do we argue about the same things over and over again I am so tired of fighting! What happened to the way we used to be?' I know you're frustrated. Couples tell me how lonely they feel. You and your partner can be happy again, you can learn to turn towards eachother, reconnect emotionally, and create a more caring and fulfilling relationship. For more than 20 years I've worked with couples and families helping them find a better way to live and love and work together.
Areas of expertise include: Crisis Management, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Gottman Communication Skills, CBT therapy to reduce anger and address addictive behaviors, Love & Logic Parenting, ADHD testing, and extensive experience working with loss/trauma.
You're hurt and angry and thinking, 'Why do we argue about the same things over and over again I am so tired of fighting! What happened to the way we used to be?' I know you're frustrated. Couples tell me how lonely they feel. You and your partner can be happy again, you can learn to turn towards eachother, reconnect emotionally, and create a more caring and fulfilling relationship. For more than 20 years I've worked with couples and families helping them find a better way to live and love and work together.
(661) 731-3925 View (661) 731-3925
Photo of Jeffrey McNamara, LPCC, Counselor
Jeffrey McNamara
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Tehachapi, CA 93561
I am a combat retired veteran that have worked in the military behavioral health community for over 30 years, and I am well versed with treating combat-related trauma and substance use issues.
Life is filled with ups and downs, which can seem overwhelming at times for many of us. I believe that therapy should be tailored to accommodate your needs and measurable treatment goals will be established and take priority for each client I serve. My goal is to work collectively as a team with you to identify current difficulties and assist your efforts to overcome these difficulties in a healthy environment where you feel heard and supported.
I am a combat retired veteran that have worked in the military behavioral health community for over 30 years, and I am well versed with treating combat-related trauma and substance use issues.
Life is filled with ups and downs, which can seem overwhelming at times for many of us. I believe that therapy should be tailored to accommodate your needs and measurable treatment goals will be established and take priority for each client I serve. My goal is to work collectively as a team with you to identify current difficulties and assist your efforts to overcome these difficulties in a healthy environment where you feel heard and supported.
(661) 463-9570 View (661) 463-9570
Photo of Omar De La Cruz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Omar De La Cruz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93306
Hi! My name is Omar de la Cruz, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I have an extensive amount of experiencing working with individuals having difficulties with substance use and mental health. I have worked with children, youth, and adults experiencing difficulties in different areas, such as anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship difficulties, and trauma. My goal is to meet clients where they are at and through my expertise be able to work on the therapeutic goals that individuals have.
Hi! My name is Omar de la Cruz, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I have an extensive amount of experiencing working with individuals having difficulties with substance use and mental health. I have worked with children, youth, and adults experiencing difficulties in different areas, such as anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship difficulties, and trauma. My goal is to meet clients where they are at and through my expertise be able to work on the therapeutic goals that individuals have.
(661) 370-2857 View (661) 370-2857
Photo of Jonathan Fonseca, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jonathan Fonseca
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93312
I provide support and guidance for individuals facing a variety of mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, panic disorders, grief, OCD, ADHD, anger, challenges with social and personal relationships, and work stress/burnout.
Hello, I am Jonathan Fonseca, LCSW CA. License number 115200. As your licensed therapist, I am here to support you on your journey of self-discovery, healing, and personal transformation. Together, we will explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences, and work towards fostering resilience, finding clarity, and cultivating a sense of inner peace. Thank you for choosing me as your therapist.
I provide support and guidance for individuals facing a variety of mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, trauma, panic disorders, grief, OCD, ADHD, anger, challenges with social and personal relationships, and work stress/burnout.
Hello, I am Jonathan Fonseca, LCSW CA. License number 115200. As your licensed therapist, I am here to support you on your journey of self-discovery, healing, and personal transformation. Together, we will explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences, and work towards fostering resilience, finding clarity, and cultivating a sense of inner peace. Thank you for choosing me as your therapist.
(661) 927-0623 View (661) 927-0623
Photo of Eduardo Rivas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Eduardo Rivas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
I have worked with individuals who presented various symptoms or behaviors that include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, mood behaviors, ADHD, life stress, etc.
My name is Eduardo Rivas and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California. I am a therapist that is passionate about helping and supporting all of my clients to work toward life challenges and stressors and making growth in their lives. Taking the step to allow support into your life is significant and courageous and I hope that by working together I can help best meet your needs. I have several years of experience providing therapy to people of diverse backgrounds, ages, and lifestyles, and am passionate about holding a safe and welcoming space for BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ identified people.
I have worked with individuals who presented various symptoms or behaviors that include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, mood behaviors, ADHD, life stress, etc.
My name is Eduardo Rivas and I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California. I am a therapist that is passionate about helping and supporting all of my clients to work toward life challenges and stressors and making growth in their lives. Taking the step to allow support into your life is significant and courageous and I hope that by working together I can help best meet your needs. I have several years of experience providing therapy to people of diverse backgrounds, ages, and lifestyles, and am passionate about holding a safe and welcoming space for BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ identified people.
(747) 281-4723 View (747) 281-4723
Photo of Rodrigo Franco, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rodrigo Franco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
In this regard, I am a certified Surf Trauma Therapist as well.
My name is Rodrigo Franco (LCSW, LAADC) and I have been working as a therapist for the past 11 years. I understand therapy as an opportunity for renewing and empowering ourselves. Thus, an opportunity for personal growth that affects all parties involved. My overall approach is to provide hope and the sense that change (regardless of the magnitude) is possible. I mainly work with adults and older adult clients that might be experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and grief. I also have experience working with mood disorders.
In this regard, I am a certified Surf Trauma Therapist as well.
My name is Rodrigo Franco (LCSW, LAADC) and I have been working as a therapist for the past 11 years. I understand therapy as an opportunity for renewing and empowering ourselves. Thus, an opportunity for personal growth that affects all parties involved. My overall approach is to provide hope and the sense that change (regardless of the magnitude) is possible. I mainly work with adults and older adult clients that might be experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, and grief. I also have experience working with mood disorders.
(669) 666-6083 View (669) 666-6083

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.