Photo of David J Krzysko, Counselor in Chicago, IL
David J Krzysko
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
I believe we have the capability to be resilient when faced with great adversity. We may doubt ourselves at times, but with guidance we can persevere through any situation. My objective is to work collaboratively with clients to discover a clear path, to create healthy goals, and to build a strong foundation that is rooted in practical techniques. My specialty areas include working with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and alcohol use. I am experienced in working with adolescents, young adults, middle age adults, as well as with veterans.
I believe we have the capability to be resilient when faced with great adversity. We may doubt ourselves at times, but with guidance we can persevere through any situation. My objective is to work collaboratively with clients to discover a clear path, to create healthy goals, and to build a strong foundation that is rooted in practical techniques. My specialty areas include working with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, and alcohol use. I am experienced in working with adolescents, young adults, middle age adults, as well as with veterans.
(312) 374-6259 x45 View (312) 374-6259 x45
Photo of Andrew Hazzard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Andrew Hazzard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60615
He adapts his approach to suit the clients goals while often incorporating Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, Multi-cultural Therapy, Experiential Therapy, and Group Therapy.
Andrew is a therapist who uses his clinical experience to support adults, and couples. Andrew uses his intuitive and thoughtful nature to support people in accomplishing their goals, increasing self awareness, and practicing new ways of being. He brings openness, curiosity, and intentionality to the work he does with people. Andrew is a multifaceted clinician with a practice that specializes in supporting individuals living with mental and emotional struggles due to trauma using experiential techniques.
He adapts his approach to suit the clients goals while often incorporating Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, Multi-cultural Therapy, Experiential Therapy, and Group Therapy.
Andrew is a therapist who uses his clinical experience to support adults, and couples. Andrew uses his intuitive and thoughtful nature to support people in accomplishing their goals, increasing self awareness, and practicing new ways of being. He brings openness, curiosity, and intentionality to the work he does with people. Andrew is a multifaceted clinician with a practice that specializes in supporting individuals living with mental and emotional struggles due to trauma using experiential techniques.
(312) 612-0497 View (312) 612-0497
Photo of Kyle Brand Padilla, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Kyle Brand Padilla
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60626  (Online Only)
My approach is trauma-focused, motivational interviewing, solution-focused, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
I value focusing on meeting basic needs, developing and executing goals, and providing a space for therapeutic processing. In my clinical practice, I focus on processing and navigating complex trauma and how it affects behavior and wellness. I also offer support to individuals who have relationship concerns, symptoms of anxiety or depression, and uncertainty about their future. Historically, I have worked with individuals who have been impacted by the legal system and can offer clinical case management and accompaniment to individuals who are dealing with criminal and civil-related legal cases.
My approach is trauma-focused, motivational interviewing, solution-focused, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
I value focusing on meeting basic needs, developing and executing goals, and providing a space for therapeutic processing. In my clinical practice, I focus on processing and navigating complex trauma and how it affects behavior and wellness. I also offer support to individuals who have relationship concerns, symptoms of anxiety or depression, and uncertainty about their future. Historically, I have worked with individuals who have been impacted by the legal system and can offer clinical case management and accompaniment to individuals who are dealing with criminal and civil-related legal cases.
(773) 389-1325 View (773) 389-1325
Photo of Whole Hearted Psychotherapy, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Whole Hearted Psychotherapy
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60646  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Deep seated trauma from violence, childhood abuse,or sexual abuse can be devastating and often stays with you your entire life.
I offer individual, couples counseling and career counseling for people of all ages. As a professional businessman and now a psychotherapist, I bring life experience to therapy that gives me practical and insightful perspective on the challenges people face at home, the workplace and in their relationships. I enjoy working with couples and have extended training in the Gottman Therapy method. Couples issues can rack relationships especially those struggling fidelity and trauma issues. I am keenly aware of each of these and have worked with these tough issues as a therapist and husband.
Deep seated trauma from violence, childhood abuse,or sexual abuse can be devastating and often stays with you your entire life.
I offer individual, couples counseling and career counseling for people of all ages. As a professional businessman and now a psychotherapist, I bring life experience to therapy that gives me practical and insightful perspective on the challenges people face at home, the workplace and in their relationships. I enjoy working with couples and have extended training in the Gottman Therapy method. Couples issues can rack relationships especially those struggling fidelity and trauma issues. I am keenly aware of each of these and have worked with these tough issues as a therapist and husband.
(312) 985-9222 View (312) 985-9222
Photo of Bola Obajimi, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Bola Obajimi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60619  (Online Only)
Bola earned his M.A. in Clinical Professional Psychology from Roosevelt University, Chicago. He is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and has experience working with individual, couple, group, and family of diverse backgrounds and psychological issues. Area of interest include anxiety, depression, substance use, anger management, grief and loss, trauma, marital conflict, family issues, and crisis intervention. Along with CBT, Bola utilizes strength based approach, collaborating with clients in identifying, nurturing, and utilizing the identified innate strengths in attaining clients improved mental/emotional well being.
Bola earned his M.A. in Clinical Professional Psychology from Roosevelt University, Chicago. He is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and has experience working with individual, couple, group, and family of diverse backgrounds and psychological issues. Area of interest include anxiety, depression, substance use, anger management, grief and loss, trauma, marital conflict, family issues, and crisis intervention. Along with CBT, Bola utilizes strength based approach, collaborating with clients in identifying, nurturing, and utilizing the identified innate strengths in attaining clients improved mental/emotional well being.
(708) 398-9273 View (708) 398-9273
Photo of Michael Rangel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Michael Rangel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60647
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is to assist clients experiencing trauma, anxiety, grief and complex emotions in their healing journey using space, materiality, and time.
There is so much in the power of therapy as a process that invites curiosity, creativity and play. I prioritize the innate ability to express vulnerabilities and needs through non-verbal, auditory, kinesthetic, and visual ways which I process with dance/movement therapy, sensorimotor therapy, TF-CBT, and other creative therapies. I strongly believe in the transformative power of art, especially for those who haven't found the language or words to express themselves yet. I honor the creative process and how it can initiate our own journey towards care and healing.
My approach is to assist clients experiencing trauma, anxiety, grief and complex emotions in their healing journey using space, materiality, and time.
There is so much in the power of therapy as a process that invites curiosity, creativity and play. I prioritize the innate ability to express vulnerabilities and needs through non-verbal, auditory, kinesthetic, and visual ways which I process with dance/movement therapy, sensorimotor therapy, TF-CBT, and other creative therapies. I strongly believe in the transformative power of art, especially for those who haven't found the language or words to express themselves yet. I honor the creative process and how it can initiate our own journey towards care and healing.
(773) 993-1762 View (773) 993-1762
Photo of Ryan Higgins, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Ryan Higgins
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604
My experience includes working with those who have symptoms of anxiety and depression, PTSD, experiences of suicidality, difficulty with concentration and motivation and those who are dealing with symptoms of grief and loss.
I enjoy meeting with people who are new to therapy and at the beginning stages of their journey. Understandably you may be unsure about therapy or possibly skeptical of how talking to a professional can be useful. For those who have experience with therapy, I am not a therapist that "just listens". I think it's more beneficial if I am engaged and communicating my assessment of your situation. The initial session typically focuses on current details and relevant back history. If you have experienced trauma or PTSD symptoms, my initial focus is to help you regulate your emotional responses before discussing the details of the trauma.
My experience includes working with those who have symptoms of anxiety and depression, PTSD, experiences of suicidality, difficulty with concentration and motivation and those who are dealing with symptoms of grief and loss.
I enjoy meeting with people who are new to therapy and at the beginning stages of their journey. Understandably you may be unsure about therapy or possibly skeptical of how talking to a professional can be useful. For those who have experience with therapy, I am not a therapist that "just listens". I think it's more beneficial if I am engaged and communicating my assessment of your situation. The initial session typically focuses on current details and relevant back history. If you have experienced trauma or PTSD symptoms, my initial focus is to help you regulate your emotional responses before discussing the details of the trauma.
(312) 360-1983 View (312) 360-1983
Photo of Leon Xue, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Leon Xue
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC, ALMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
You may find yourself grappling with relationship challenges, feeling disconnected, or navigating the impact of generational trauma. Your desire for understanding, healing, and renewed hope is palpable. You seek to overcome barriers, heal from trauma, and cultivate healthier communication patterns, longing to rediscover joy and vitality in your relationships and life.
You may find yourself grappling with relationship challenges, feeling disconnected, or navigating the impact of generational trauma. Your desire for understanding, healing, and renewed hope is palpable. You seek to overcome barriers, heal from trauma, and cultivate healthier communication patterns, longing to rediscover joy and vitality in your relationships and life.
(773) 900-7136 View (773) 900-7136
Photo of Dr. Louis Formica, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Dr. Louis Formica
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Counseling can strengthen your ability to recognize and make choices in your life that align with the person you want to be. I can help you cope with difficult emotions and develop a strong sense of self-compassion and acceptance. I am most passionate about addressing concerns related to anxiety, depression, trauma, and sexual health. A significant portion of my career has been focused on serving LGBTQ+ people and communities, and I pay close attention to cultural factors and the ways in which they impact a person's vantage point in this world.
Counseling can strengthen your ability to recognize and make choices in your life that align with the person you want to be. I can help you cope with difficult emotions and develop a strong sense of self-compassion and acceptance. I am most passionate about addressing concerns related to anxiety, depression, trauma, and sexual health. A significant portion of my career has been focused on serving LGBTQ+ people and communities, and I pay close attention to cultural factors and the ways in which they impact a person's vantage point in this world.
(312) 957-8322 View (312) 957-8322
Photo of Zaraar Zahid, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Zaraar Zahid
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP, CCATP, ASDCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I work with depression; stress; trauma; life transitions; social & generalized anxiety; neurodivergence (e.g., ADHD & Autism); family stressors; grief; relationship & intimacy issues; LGBTQIA+ individuals; and navigating life as an immigrant and/or person of color. I meet you where you are at. If you would like to know more about what this could mean for you, I encourage you to reach out to me for a free 15-minute consultation.
I work with depression; stress; trauma; life transitions; social & generalized anxiety; neurodivergence (e.g., ADHD & Autism); family stressors; grief; relationship & intimacy issues; LGBTQIA+ individuals; and navigating life as an immigrant and/or person of color. I meet you where you are at. If you would like to know more about what this could mean for you, I encourage you to reach out to me for a free 15-minute consultation.
(872) 234-7392 View (872) 234-7392
Photo of Robert Méndez, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Robert Méndez
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602
I specialize in helping people suffering with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and difficulties with self-compassion. Our work together will begin by getting to know one another and building a strong foundation for our work together. I am a warm, compassionate, and patient person and strive to utilize these traits to help others grow and know themselves on a deeper level. I believe the relationship between therapist and patient is the driving force in creating significant and long-lasting change. We will examine the various identities that you hold and the impact they have on you as an individual and your relationships.
I specialize in helping people suffering with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and difficulties with self-compassion. Our work together will begin by getting to know one another and building a strong foundation for our work together. I am a warm, compassionate, and patient person and strive to utilize these traits to help others grow and know themselves on a deeper level. I believe the relationship between therapist and patient is the driving force in creating significant and long-lasting change. We will examine the various identities that you hold and the impact they have on you as an individual and your relationships.
(872) 267-9737 View (872) 267-9737
Photo of Kevin Davis, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Kevin Davis
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I'm Dr. Kevin Davis, a therapist dedicated to supporting individuals with anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, and trauma, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. My approach is empathic and client-centered, while also integrating somatic techniques and third-wave CBT techniques like ACT and DBT. I believe in creating a safe, understanding space, where you can explore at your own pace, fostering personal growth and healing.
I'm Dr. Kevin Davis, a therapist dedicated to supporting individuals with anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, and trauma, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community. My approach is empathic and client-centered, while also integrating somatic techniques and third-wave CBT techniques like ACT and DBT. I believe in creating a safe, understanding space, where you can explore at your own pace, fostering personal growth and healing.
(773) 923-1515 View (773) 923-1515
Photo of Thomas Fransen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Thomas Fransen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
Waitlist for new clients
I identify as a cis gay male and describe my approach as humanistic, trauma informed, curious, collaborative, sex positive, kink affirming, poly affirming.
Every individual and couple who has ever sought my services worked diligently to navigate life as best as they can until they reached an impasse. They feel depleted, frustrated, confused, unfulfilled. Stuck. This is human, and I view those seeking my services as individuals, not diagnoses. Therapy is at its core, conversational. As such, my primary aim is to create a setting in which it is as comfortable as possible to explore the most sensitive areas of your life. Some of the primary issues I treat are depression, work stress, anxiety, substance use, trauma, life transition.
I identify as a cis gay male and describe my approach as humanistic, trauma informed, curious, collaborative, sex positive, kink affirming, poly affirming.
Every individual and couple who has ever sought my services worked diligently to navigate life as best as they can until they reached an impasse. They feel depleted, frustrated, confused, unfulfilled. Stuck. This is human, and I view those seeking my services as individuals, not diagnoses. Therapy is at its core, conversational. As such, my primary aim is to create a setting in which it is as comfortable as possible to explore the most sensitive areas of your life. Some of the primary issues I treat are depression, work stress, anxiety, substance use, trauma, life transition.
(773) 207-5282 View (773) 207-5282
Photo of Dr. John Nofar, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Dr. John Nofar
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
Nofar has extensive training to work with those experiencing a range of disorders, such as depression, anxiety and trauma.
Having space to be supported, challenged, heard, and respected is the key to change. In therapy I aim to work with you as a team to best meet your goals and create growth, internally and externally. I greatly enjoy getting to know those I serve and being part of their ongoing movement though life. It is truly a gift being able to support so many people in their life development. I work under the supervision of Dr. Samantha Soll. Please visit our website for additional information. It should be noted that Dr. Soll will respond to inquiries and provide initial services regarding insurance review, questions and initial scheduling.
Nofar has extensive training to work with those experiencing a range of disorders, such as depression, anxiety and trauma.
Having space to be supported, challenged, heard, and respected is the key to change. In therapy I aim to work with you as a team to best meet your goals and create growth, internally and externally. I greatly enjoy getting to know those I serve and being part of their ongoing movement though life. It is truly a gift being able to support so many people in their life development. I work under the supervision of Dr. Samantha Soll. Please visit our website for additional information. It should be noted that Dr. Soll will respond to inquiries and provide initial services regarding insurance review, questions and initial scheduling.
(773) 537-4158 View (773) 537-4158
Photo of Lawrence D Jennings, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Lawrence D Jennings
Pre-Licensed Professional, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I utilize a strength-based trauma-informed emotion-focused approach to help clients reach their authentic selves.
I believe the meaning we create from our experiences and environment plays a significant role in shaping how we navigate, adapt, and survive the world. My priority is that we cultivate a collaborative non-judgmental therapeutic relationship that centers on safety, positive regard, genuineness, and openness. Within this space, my clients will be able to freely explore their vulnerabilities, express distressful emotions (pain, grief, anger, etc.), make greater meaning out of their experiences, and redefine past experiences.
I utilize a strength-based trauma-informed emotion-focused approach to help clients reach their authentic selves.
I believe the meaning we create from our experiences and environment plays a significant role in shaping how we navigate, adapt, and survive the world. My priority is that we cultivate a collaborative non-judgmental therapeutic relationship that centers on safety, positive regard, genuineness, and openness. Within this space, my clients will be able to freely explore their vulnerabilities, express distressful emotions (pain, grief, anger, etc.), make greater meaning out of their experiences, and redefine past experiences.
(312) 464-7027 View (312) 464-7027
Photo of Jimmy Escobar, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Chicago, IL
Jimmy Escobar
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, ALMFT, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60630
Most clients come into therapy because of their current difficulty resolving a "presenting problem". That problem could be grief. It could be relationship troubles with partners, peers, or parents. It could be tied to substance abuse. Or trauma. Or both. It could be work-related. It could be a million things. Whatever the presenting problem, it tends to give the client physiological and psychological discomfort, which leads to the search for answers and relief, which often leads to counseling.
Most clients come into therapy because of their current difficulty resolving a "presenting problem". That problem could be grief. It could be relationship troubles with partners, peers, or parents. It could be tied to substance abuse. Or trauma. Or both. It could be work-related. It could be a million things. Whatever the presenting problem, it tends to give the client physiological and psychological discomfort, which leads to the search for answers and relief, which often leads to counseling.
(708) 286-5864 View (708) 286-5864
Photo of Chris Tennant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Chris Tennant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, C-EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
Your decision to seek therapy is a sign of strength, courage, and respect for your personal well-being. I welcome people facing a variety of challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use challenges, LBGTQ+ identities, relationship issues, and the general "stuck" feeling. My therapeutic style is caring, encouraging and individualized in order to help each person learn skills to work with their emotions, see situations without judgment and recognize solutions that fit personal values. I also have a strong emphasis on diversity and social justice and incorporate it into my practice.
Your decision to seek therapy is a sign of strength, courage, and respect for your personal well-being. I welcome people facing a variety of challenges including depression, anxiety, trauma, substance use challenges, LBGTQ+ identities, relationship issues, and the general "stuck" feeling. My therapeutic style is caring, encouraging and individualized in order to help each person learn skills to work with their emotions, see situations without judgment and recognize solutions that fit personal values. I also have a strong emphasis on diversity and social justice and incorporate it into my practice.
(872) 239-3953 View (872) 239-3953
Photo of LaVoris Lee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
LaVoris Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
With me by your side, using client-centered and trauma-informed approaches to help you map out an affordable plan for success, you will meet not only your mental health goals but also the goals that you have for your life.
As males, too often we are taught mental toughness instead of learning to seek help when we need it. Everyone deserves a safe, nonjudgmental space in which they can learn how to acknowledge and process emotions. Avoiding our issues, traumas, and problems won't cause them to disappear. You may have tried to cope by smoking, drinking, playing video games, or engaging in other activities that only serve as a bandage for the real healing that needs to happen.
With me by your side, using client-centered and trauma-informed approaches to help you map out an affordable plan for success, you will meet not only your mental health goals but also the goals that you have for your life.
As males, too often we are taught mental toughness instead of learning to seek help when we need it. Everyone deserves a safe, nonjudgmental space in which they can learn how to acknowledge and process emotions. Avoiding our issues, traumas, and problems won't cause them to disappear. You may have tried to cope by smoking, drinking, playing video games, or engaging in other activities that only serve as a bandage for the real healing that needs to happen.
(630) 626-8901 View (630) 626-8901
Photo of David L. O'Keeffe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
David L. O'Keeffe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60603  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy, drawn from psychodynamic principles, is integrative, holistic, and trauma-informed.
I am a therapist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Chicago, Illinois. In my therapy practice, I work with individuals (adolescents, emerging adults and older adults) as well as couples and families. Therapy can be a unique experience for deepening understandings of self, our relationships, and our life story. In navigating the therapeutic process in service of this aim, we’ll co-create the foundation necessary for our work: a genuine, trusting, relationship. My role is to help you clarify your inner struggles and challenges in the greater world with the hope of living a better, more fulfilling life.
My approach to therapy, drawn from psychodynamic principles, is integrative, holistic, and trauma-informed.
I am a therapist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Chicago, Illinois. In my therapy practice, I work with individuals (adolescents, emerging adults and older adults) as well as couples and families. Therapy can be a unique experience for deepening understandings of self, our relationships, and our life story. In navigating the therapeutic process in service of this aim, we’ll co-create the foundation necessary for our work: a genuine, trusting, relationship. My role is to help you clarify your inner struggles and challenges in the greater world with the hope of living a better, more fulfilling life.
(217) 574-4991 View (217) 574-4991
Photo of Josiah Miller, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Josiah Miller
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
) and those with trauma.
Along the journey of life, some challenges and suffering are inevitable and there often are not always clear or easy answers. We want our lives to have value, meaning and purpose. Knowing these things for ourselves can be a tremendously liberating and empowering experience that gives us the hope, courage, and tenacity we need to face life's challenges. However, the process of discovering or defining these "truths" can be confusing, frustrating or even scary. We all require support and solidarity from trusted comrades during our journey. Knowing when to stop and ask for help along the way does not make us weak, it makes us strong!
) and those with trauma.
Along the journey of life, some challenges and suffering are inevitable and there often are not always clear or easy answers. We want our lives to have value, meaning and purpose. Knowing these things for ourselves can be a tremendously liberating and empowering experience that gives us the hope, courage, and tenacity we need to face life's challenges. However, the process of discovering or defining these "truths" can be confusing, frustrating or even scary. We all require support and solidarity from trusted comrades during our journey. Knowing when to stop and ask for help along the way does not make us weak, it makes us strong!
(872) 219-1124 View (872) 219-1124
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.