Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Alabama

Photo of Loren Nason, Counselor in Alabama
Loren Nason
Counselor, MA, CRC, ALC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36607
Do you think you should be able to handle anything that comes your way because the highs and lows are a normal part of life? Yet, you still feel stuck, or on the verge of a breakdown? Let’s face it; sometimes life and emotions suck, but it can be more difficult to work through challenges or trauma without support, proper emotion regulation skills, or healthy behaviors and communication being modeled for us. I can be the support you need, by listening and helping you learn skills to manage emotional response, work through trauma, and live a better life.
Do you think you should be able to handle anything that comes your way because the highs and lows are a normal part of life? Yet, you still feel stuck, or on the verge of a breakdown? Let’s face it; sometimes life and emotions suck, but it can be more difficult to work through challenges or trauma without support, proper emotion regulation skills, or healthy behaviors and communication being modeled for us. I can be the support you need, by listening and helping you learn skills to manage emotional response, work through trauma, and live a better life.
(251) 572-7718 View (251) 572-7718
Photo of Lois G Lambert, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Lois G Lambert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Hoover, AL 35216
Informed by brain science, art, knowledge, and extensive experience, using didactic and dynamic, solution-oriented techniques in therapy sessions - I will help you optimize your Mental and Emotional functioning! Expertise in the Treatment of Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, and a wide scope of child-related problems.
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed, depressed or anxious? Have you endured traumatic experience(s)? Issues with ADHD and/or behavior disorders? Problems in relationships? Are you looking for answers, guidance, direction, and know-how from an experienced professional who has successfully treated these issues? If so, I've got you covered - please reach out. Maybe you are in a good mental space and are seeking personal growth and development, and a desire to make your dreams reality. Outside your "Comfort Zone" is where Growth begins! Is it Challenging - Yes! Is it Worth It - YES!
Informed by brain science, art, knowledge, and extensive experience, using didactic and dynamic, solution-oriented techniques in therapy sessions - I will help you optimize your Mental and Emotional functioning! Expertise in the Treatment of Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, and a wide scope of child-related problems.
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed, depressed or anxious? Have you endured traumatic experience(s)? Issues with ADHD and/or behavior disorders? Problems in relationships? Are you looking for answers, guidance, direction, and know-how from an experienced professional who has successfully treated these issues? If so, I've got you covered - please reach out. Maybe you are in a good mental space and are seeking personal growth and development, and a desire to make your dreams reality. Outside your "Comfort Zone" is where Growth begins! Is it Challenging - Yes! Is it Worth It - YES!
(205) 255-9450 View (205) 255-9450
Photo of Leslie H Cude, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Leslie H Cude
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP, CCTP II
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35242  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or the lingering impact of past trauma? Do you yearn for a deeper connection with your partner, but find yourselves caught in a frustrating cycle of negative interactions? Are conflicts, infidelity, or poor communication plaguing your relationships? If any of these statements resonate with you, I would be honored to join you on a collaborative journey towards healing and growth. I offer support to individuals and couples seeking freedom from emotional, mental, or relational distress. You don’t have to remain stuck in an endless negative cycle. I will walk with you; you are not alone.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, or the lingering impact of past trauma? Do you yearn for a deeper connection with your partner, but find yourselves caught in a frustrating cycle of negative interactions? Are conflicts, infidelity, or poor communication plaguing your relationships? If any of these statements resonate with you, I would be honored to join you on a collaborative journey towards healing and growth. I offer support to individuals and couples seeking freedom from emotional, mental, or relational distress. You don’t have to remain stuck in an endless negative cycle. I will walk with you; you are not alone.
(205) 931-5913 View (205) 931-5913
Photo of Meredith Ann Showacre, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Meredith Ann Showacre
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Vestavia Hills, AL 35216  (Online Only)
In addition, I have a passion and experience working with clients age 14 and up with a wide range of needs including: ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Behavioral Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Eating Disorders and Trauma Related Issues.
We all possess the tools needed for personal healing. Therapy can help you to develop the awareness needed to utilize these tools and put them into practice in daily life. Seeking therapy is brave and I consider the therapeutic relationship a truly meaningful privilege. We will walk through the process of personal discovery learning how to identify old patterns and self soothe through healthy coping. My work is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral interventions but I believe healing also happens in the telling of your personal narrative. My goal for this relationship is to help you foster the skills to become your own therapist.
In addition, I have a passion and experience working with clients age 14 and up with a wide range of needs including: ADHD, Anxiety Disorders, Behavioral Disorders, Depressive Disorders, Eating Disorders and Trauma Related Issues.
We all possess the tools needed for personal healing. Therapy can help you to develop the awareness needed to utilize these tools and put them into practice in daily life. Seeking therapy is brave and I consider the therapeutic relationship a truly meaningful privilege. We will walk through the process of personal discovery learning how to identify old patterns and self soothe through healthy coping. My work is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral interventions but I believe healing also happens in the telling of your personal narrative. My goal for this relationship is to help you foster the skills to become your own therapist.
(205) 293-2352 View (205) 293-2352
Photo of Erica Smith, Counselor in Alabama
Erica Smith
Counselor, MDiv, MA, ALC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35213
I believe that as individuals make sense of their story they begin creating the life they were designed for. I work with adults and couples who want to heal from issues related to trauma, depression, anxiety, domestic/ interpersonal violence, relational issues, grief, childhood neglect/ abuse, religious trauma, spiritual abuse, feeling stuck or sensing that something is just “not right."
I believe that as individuals make sense of their story they begin creating the life they were designed for. I work with adults and couples who want to heal from issues related to trauma, depression, anxiety, domestic/ interpersonal violence, relational issues, grief, childhood neglect/ abuse, religious trauma, spiritual abuse, feeling stuck or sensing that something is just “not right."
(205) 839-9341 View (205) 839-9341
Photo of Rachel Neubacher, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Rachel Neubacher
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35404
Many life events and choices have led me to where I am today. What has defined who you are and who you plan to be? Difficulties and hardships have inspired many to become better or stronger versions of themselves. I am passionate about helping others find and work towards healing despite trauma or other difficulties. I know each of us are impacted by both our own and other's stressors.
Many life events and choices have led me to where I am today. What has defined who you are and who you plan to be? Difficulties and hardships have inspired many to become better or stronger versions of themselves. I am passionate about helping others find and work towards healing despite trauma or other difficulties. I know each of us are impacted by both our own and other's stressors.
(205) 890-3041 View (205) 890-3041
Photo of Wendy Lipham, Counselor in Alabama
Wendy Lipham
Counselor, MS, ALC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36609
As a trauma-informed therapist, I address trauma, PTSD, and Complex PTSD using Narrative Focused trauma intervention, EMDR, ART, and MESE.
“When we have the courage to walk into our story and own it, we get to write the ending"- Brené Brown. When past memories and daily life are overwhelming, throwing us off balance, we are often left feeling powerless to effect change. Our efforts to protect ourselves from feeling painful emotions can leave us with anxiety, depression, anger, and relational issues, as well as keep us from experiencing the positive emotions we so desperately desire. Our stories are meant to be told, and as an empathetic witness, I look forward to holding space with my clients so they no longer have to navigate those hard places alone.
As a trauma-informed therapist, I address trauma, PTSD, and Complex PTSD using Narrative Focused trauma intervention, EMDR, ART, and MESE.
“When we have the courage to walk into our story and own it, we get to write the ending"- Brené Brown. When past memories and daily life are overwhelming, throwing us off balance, we are often left feeling powerless to effect change. Our efforts to protect ourselves from feeling painful emotions can leave us with anxiety, depression, anger, and relational issues, as well as keep us from experiencing the positive emotions we so desperately desire. Our stories are meant to be told, and as an empathetic witness, I look forward to holding space with my clients so they no longer have to navigate those hard places alone.
(251) 237-8382 View (251) 237-8382
Photo of Adam Corley Elliott, Pre-Licensed Professional in Alabama
Adam Corley Elliott
Pre-Licensed Professional, ALC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35223
I am trained in and have experience working with clients struggling with addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma.
One of the first things I tell clients who struggle with mental health disorders or overwhelming stress is that in today's society, with all the turmoil and uncertainty we face, it is a natural and normal reaction to be struggling mentally. While there is still a large stigma towards mental health and therapy I believe a great way to combat this is by understanding that it is not weakness to seek help, it in fact takes great strength to reach out to someone and admit that we cannot do this on our own.
I am trained in and have experience working with clients struggling with addiction, anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma.
One of the first things I tell clients who struggle with mental health disorders or overwhelming stress is that in today's society, with all the turmoil and uncertainty we face, it is a natural and normal reaction to be struggling mentally. While there is still a large stigma towards mental health and therapy I believe a great way to combat this is by understanding that it is not weakness to seek help, it in fact takes great strength to reach out to someone and admit that we cannot do this on our own.
(205) 236-3257 View (205) 236-3257
Photo of Kathryn M Cox, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Kathryn M Cox
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Decatur, AL 35601
After many years in practice, I discovered a very prominent commonality in the existence of trauma in the lives of many individuals.
Counseling can be an unsettling idea, but what it should be is a collaborative process in which client and therapist set goals and make plans to achieve those goals. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor working with adolescents and adults to achieve a myriad of goals and resolve personal or interpersonal issues. I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques so that whatever we are doing fits the needs of the client and helps them along their path to wholeness and mental health.
After many years in practice, I discovered a very prominent commonality in the existence of trauma in the lives of many individuals.
Counseling can be an unsettling idea, but what it should be is a collaborative process in which client and therapist set goals and make plans to achieve those goals. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor working with adolescents and adults to achieve a myriad of goals and resolve personal or interpersonal issues. I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques so that whatever we are doing fits the needs of the client and helps them along their path to wholeness and mental health.
(256) 384-4027 View (256) 384-4027
Photo of Brandi Hendley Rhodes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Brandi Hendley Rhodes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Prattville, AL 36067
I encourage you to take the brave step of reaching out if you are experiencing stress, depression, anxiety, anger, grief, self-esteem issues, existential questions, trauma, problems in your relationships, or if you desire to increase your coping skills to meet the many difficulties that come our way in life.
Life brings about many issues that we often want help working through. Irvin Yalom wrote “it’s the relationship that heals," and I aim to build a strong therapeutic alliance with each of my clients in a safe, warm, and empathic environment where we will work together to determine your specific goals for therapy, identify strategies to make your desired changes, heal wounds, increase your coping skills, and improve your overall health.
I encourage you to take the brave step of reaching out if you are experiencing stress, depression, anxiety, anger, grief, self-esteem issues, existential questions, trauma, problems in your relationships, or if you desire to increase your coping skills to meet the many difficulties that come our way in life.
Life brings about many issues that we often want help working through. Irvin Yalom wrote “it’s the relationship that heals," and I aim to build a strong therapeutic alliance with each of my clients in a safe, warm, and empathic environment where we will work together to determine your specific goals for therapy, identify strategies to make your desired changes, heal wounds, increase your coping skills, and improve your overall health.
(334) 518-6046 View (334) 518-6046
Photo of TAG Counseling And Consulting Services , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
TAG Counseling And Consulting Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Auburn, AL 36830
Here at TAG, we understand that you want and need a therapist who is experienced in assisting clients with dealing with trauma, depression, grief and loss, maintaining relationships, or just dealing with the stressors of life. You are not alone and we want to work with you to build healthy coping skills to improve your quality of life. Reach out to our team at TAG Counseling & Consulting and we will help you decide which team member is best for you and your needs.
Here at TAG, we understand that you want and need a therapist who is experienced in assisting clients with dealing with trauma, depression, grief and loss, maintaining relationships, or just dealing with the stressors of life. You are not alone and we want to work with you to build healthy coping skills to improve your quality of life. Reach out to our team at TAG Counseling & Consulting and we will help you decide which team member is best for you and your needs.
(334) 986-3097 View (334) 986-3097
Photo of Jan Owen, Counselor in Alabama
Jan Owen
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntsville, AL 35806
Waitlist for new clients
Do you feel overwhelmed by the losses, trauma, and challenges you have experienced? Has your life changed beyond recognition? Do you feel alone, anxious, and heartbroken? If your life has changed in difficult ways, you may feel isolated in your sadness, unable to find someone who understands and is able to help. If you are wondering how long these feelings will last and need some encouragement and support, counseling may be helpful for you.
Do you feel overwhelmed by the losses, trauma, and challenges you have experienced? Has your life changed beyond recognition? Do you feel alone, anxious, and heartbroken? If your life has changed in difficult ways, you may feel isolated in your sadness, unable to find someone who understands and is able to help. If you are wondering how long these feelings will last and need some encouragement and support, counseling may be helpful for you.
(931) 236-2395 View (931) 236-2395
Photo of Cindy Sharp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Cindy Sharp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pelham, AL 35124
Do you find yourself constantly being triggered by past trauma? Are you experiencing feelings of worry and self-doubt that cause you to feel stuck and not able to live the life you dreamed of? Do you find yourself struggling to find normalcy again after a divorce, bad break-up, unexpected loss or this Covid-19 pandemic? Are you a parent with a preteen or teen that’s dealing with anxiety or depression?
Do you find yourself constantly being triggered by past trauma? Are you experiencing feelings of worry and self-doubt that cause you to feel stuck and not able to live the life you dreamed of? Do you find yourself struggling to find normalcy again after a divorce, bad break-up, unexpected loss or this Covid-19 pandemic? Are you a parent with a preteen or teen that’s dealing with anxiety or depression?
(205) 737-4385 View (205) 737-4385
Photo of Patricia Ford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Patricia Ford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36117
I work with my clients to identify and address the root causes of their symptoms, such as unresolved trauma.
I am a licensed mental health therapist that specializes in providing individual therapy for a variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, grief/bereavement, and loss. My approach to therapy is grounded in evidence-based practices, such as culturally responsive cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and mindfulness-based therapies. I work with my clients to identify the underlying cause of their symptoms and develop an individualized treatment plan that is tailored to their specific needs and goals.
I work with my clients to identify and address the root causes of their symptoms, such as unresolved trauma.
I am a licensed mental health therapist that specializes in providing individual therapy for a variety of mental health issues including depression, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, grief/bereavement, and loss. My approach to therapy is grounded in evidence-based practices, such as culturally responsive cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, and mindfulness-based therapies. I work with my clients to identify the underlying cause of their symptoms and develop an individualized treatment plan that is tailored to their specific needs and goals.
(334) 432-8752 View (334) 432-8752
Photo of Gina A Thompson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Gina A Thompson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Hoover, AL 35216  (Online Only)
I believe individuals are worthy of experiencing their best quality of life. Sometimes to achieve this, it requires a partnership with another person to help bring change. Together we can set goals and work to address your current stressors that get in the way of you experiencing the life you want to have. Whether you or your loved one have a substance use disorder, a history of trauma, or experience high levels of anger or anxiety, there is relief, and I am here to help you. I also enjoy working with couples to navigate the many stressors relationships encounter and work toward a healthier and more fulfilling connection.
I believe individuals are worthy of experiencing their best quality of life. Sometimes to achieve this, it requires a partnership with another person to help bring change. Together we can set goals and work to address your current stressors that get in the way of you experiencing the life you want to have. Whether you or your loved one have a substance use disorder, a history of trauma, or experience high levels of anger or anxiety, there is relief, and I am here to help you. I also enjoy working with couples to navigate the many stressors relationships encounter and work toward a healthier and more fulfilling connection.
(205) 941-6220 View (205) 941-6220
Photo of Morgan Granberry Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Morgan Granberry Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35816
This is the perfect place for anyone seeking non-judgmental support and understanding. I specialize in mood disorders, trauma, adoption, foster care, attachment, and behavioral issues. I am committed to creating a comfortable, empathetic environment where you can take the first step toward change.
This is the perfect place for anyone seeking non-judgmental support and understanding. I specialize in mood disorders, trauma, adoption, foster care, attachment, and behavioral issues. I am committed to creating a comfortable, empathetic environment where you can take the first step toward change.
(256) 617-6617 View (256) 617-6617
Rose Blakey Phillips
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Dothan, AL 36301
I have over 30 years of experience of working with both individuals and couples with with addictions, childhood trauma, depression, suicidal thoughts, and attempts. In addition, I have worked with LGBT clients for over 12 years. My practice is affirming for both straight and gay persons. I like to focus on providing support for identifying one's strengths and finding solutions that help to create inner peace. In addition, I have provided trainings on various topics such as suicide prevention, trauma and counseling clients who live with HIV. I provide training and consultation in these areas.
I have over 30 years of experience of working with both individuals and couples with with addictions, childhood trauma, depression, suicidal thoughts, and attempts. In addition, I have worked with LGBT clients for over 12 years. My practice is affirming for both straight and gay persons. I like to focus on providing support for identifying one's strengths and finding solutions that help to create inner peace. In addition, I have provided trainings on various topics such as suicide prevention, trauma and counseling clients who live with HIV. I provide training and consultation in these areas.
(334) 258-1755 View (334) 258-1755
Photo of Melva W Turner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Melva W Turner
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Montgomery, AL 36106
I specialize in Depression, Trauma and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, and Substance Use Disorders.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Board Certified-Telemental Health Provider with over fourteen years experience in mental health and substance use disorders. The initial session will consist of a detailed interview and assessment. My approach to therapy is to meet you, the client, where you are at the time. Together we will collaborate to devise a treatment plan based on your primary presenting problem and any secondary problems. All treatment plans are individualized to fit your particular goals for a more fulfilling life. Assessment is ongoing and goals of treatment may change.
I specialize in Depression, Trauma and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, and Substance Use Disorders.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Board Certified-Telemental Health Provider with over fourteen years experience in mental health and substance use disorders. The initial session will consist of a detailed interview and assessment. My approach to therapy is to meet you, the client, where you are at the time. Together we will collaborate to devise a treatment plan based on your primary presenting problem and any secondary problems. All treatment plans are individualized to fit your particular goals for a more fulfilling life. Assessment is ongoing and goals of treatment may change.
(334) 523-8734 View (334) 523-8734
Photo of Sara Nielsen - Online Intuitive Eating And Dbt Groups, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Sara Nielsen - Online Intuitive Eating And Dbt Groups
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RYT-200
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
I can aid in a variety of issues, such as depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma.
I am a Licensed Practicing Counselor (LPC) with over 17 years of experience. I am licensed in Missouri, Kansas and Alabama. I am passionate about helping others who are facing hardships, emotional health issues, former trauma and in reaching their goals. I utilize an eclectic knowledge base and experiential understanding of several evidence based treatment modalities to help you improve your emotional health. I am able to treat a variety of presenting issues such as anxiety, depression, OCD but do specialize in eating disorders. I am able to offer a variety of approaches but specialize in CBT, DBT and Intuitive Eating. Thank you.
I can aid in a variety of issues, such as depression, anxiety, OCD, trauma.
I am a Licensed Practicing Counselor (LPC) with over 17 years of experience. I am licensed in Missouri, Kansas and Alabama. I am passionate about helping others who are facing hardships, emotional health issues, former trauma and in reaching their goals. I utilize an eclectic knowledge base and experiential understanding of several evidence based treatment modalities to help you improve your emotional health. I am able to treat a variety of presenting issues such as anxiety, depression, OCD but do specialize in eating disorders. I am able to offer a variety of approaches but specialize in CBT, DBT and Intuitive Eating. Thank you.
(205) 964-8154 View (205) 964-8154
Photo of Sam Murtadi, Counselor in Alabama
Sam Murtadi
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Daleville, AL 36322
I believe that my approach and personality create a safe environment for my clients to create lasting change. I been practicing counseling since 2016, I have over 7 years experience in substance abuse, and I have worked with clients of all ages. I also specialize in trauma and working with teens. Other areas of experience include anxiety, self-esteem, and grief, to name a few. I am currently taking new clients and providing in home therapy via video therapy, as well as in person sessions. You are also welcome to visit our website at www.AcceptanceCounselingGroup.org to learn more about me, teletherapy, and the services we offer.
I believe that my approach and personality create a safe environment for my clients to create lasting change. I been practicing counseling since 2016, I have over 7 years experience in substance abuse, and I have worked with clients of all ages. I also specialize in trauma and working with teens. Other areas of experience include anxiety, self-esteem, and grief, to name a few. I am currently taking new clients and providing in home therapy via video therapy, as well as in person sessions. You are also welcome to visit our website at www.AcceptanceCounselingGroup.org to learn more about me, teletherapy, and the services we offer.
(334) 458-9192 View (334) 458-9192
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.