Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Wildwood, MO

Photo of Katie Thompson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wildwood, MO
Katie Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CEDS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63040
My name is Katie Thompson and I have been practicing for over a decade as a therapist. I am trained to treat eating disorders, PTSD/complex trauma, attachment disorders, mood disorders, self-injury, addictions and family conflict. I also have a special interest in treating eating disorders within blended families. I utilize a direct and honest approach coupled with compassion to help guide clients into the journey of recovery and healing. My mission is to help you peel back the layers of protection that have kept you from living the life you want and guide you in the process of living a balanced life.
My name is Katie Thompson and I have been practicing for over a decade as a therapist. I am trained to treat eating disorders, PTSD/complex trauma, attachment disorders, mood disorders, self-injury, addictions and family conflict. I also have a special interest in treating eating disorders within blended families. I utilize a direct and honest approach coupled with compassion to help guide clients into the journey of recovery and healing. My mission is to help you peel back the layers of protection that have kept you from living the life you want and guide you in the process of living a balanced life.
(314) 720-3012 View (314) 720-3012
Photo of Mary Downey-Jones, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wildwood, MO
Mary Downey-Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63038
Welcome to your new beginning! I am here to walk beside you through the healing process and to guide you towards a healthier version of yourself. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship. I genuinely value the importance of building rapport with clients and to support clients finding a therapist they feel is a good fit for them based on their individual treatment needs and goals. I believe in the inherent resilience of the human spirit and embrace a strength-based lens when working with individuals who have experienced trauma as well as other challenges and stressors.
Welcome to your new beginning! I am here to walk beside you through the healing process and to guide you towards a healthier version of yourself. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship. I genuinely value the importance of building rapport with clients and to support clients finding a therapist they feel is a good fit for them based on their individual treatment needs and goals. I believe in the inherent resilience of the human spirit and embrace a strength-based lens when working with individuals who have experienced trauma as well as other challenges and stressors.
(636) 942-6970 View (636) 942-6970
Photo of Alicia Polk, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wildwood, MO
Alicia Polk
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63038  (Online Only)
I provide trauma-informed and attachment-informed therapy.
You might want to tell someone your story but you are afraid you won't be believed, and that would be devastating. Dissociative disorders are commonly overlooked by mental health professionals, so it’s likely you’ve been disbelieved before or told you were imagining things. Or maybe, like some of my clients, your symptoms were incorrectly labeled as panic attacks, hallucinations, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, or schizophrenia. I’m here to tell you that I believe you. You might feel crazy, but you aren't crazy. DID is not an illness (it's a wound and coping strategy) and healing IS possible.
I provide trauma-informed and attachment-informed therapy.
You might want to tell someone your story but you are afraid you won't be believed, and that would be devastating. Dissociative disorders are commonly overlooked by mental health professionals, so it’s likely you’ve been disbelieved before or told you were imagining things. Or maybe, like some of my clients, your symptoms were incorrectly labeled as panic attacks, hallucinations, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, PTSD, or schizophrenia. I’m here to tell you that I believe you. You might feel crazy, but you aren't crazy. DID is not an illness (it's a wound and coping strategy) and healing IS possible.
(816) 656-3274 View (816) 656-3274
Photo of Aisha Lubinski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wildwood, MO
Aisha Lubinski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RD, LD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63005
Aisha is a trained trauma and Eating Disorder therapist.
Sometimes we move into a season of life where we realize something needs to change. We don’t always know what that change is, but we sense that without it, we may not be able to move forward. Therapy is the exploration and healing of that season of life. We have a tendency to repeat old patterns that don’t get us to our goal, but struggle to come up with a different path. This doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with you. In fact, it means that a part of you believes deeply that the way you’re doing things is helpful, even though the end result doesn’t seem so wonderful! Let’s try to create a path to freedom together!
Aisha is a trained trauma and Eating Disorder therapist.
Sometimes we move into a season of life where we realize something needs to change. We don’t always know what that change is, but we sense that without it, we may not be able to move forward. Therapy is the exploration and healing of that season of life. We have a tendency to repeat old patterns that don’t get us to our goal, but struggle to come up with a different path. This doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with you. In fact, it means that a part of you believes deeply that the way you’re doing things is helpful, even though the end result doesn’t seem so wonderful! Let’s try to create a path to freedom together!
(314) 287-5867 View (314) 287-5867
Photo of Madeline M. Senay, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wildwood, MO
Madeline M. Senay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63038
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), both evidence based treatments for survivors of trauma.
When I was serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Ukraine, the comfort of someone speaking my language was immeasurable. Speaking your language is important to me. Whether it’s through humor, warmth, empathy, or directness, I strive to make therapy relieving rather than another foreign experience. When therapists discuss what type of therapy they do, is it just another set of abbreviations with absolutely no meaning? Let me be your translator. I deeply value education, so if you are unfamiliar with any of the therapies I list below, I will explain extensively as to how they work within session. If you like learning, I'm your person.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), both evidence based treatments for survivors of trauma.
When I was serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Ukraine, the comfort of someone speaking my language was immeasurable. Speaking your language is important to me. Whether it’s through humor, warmth, empathy, or directness, I strive to make therapy relieving rather than another foreign experience. When therapists discuss what type of therapy they do, is it just another set of abbreviations with absolutely no meaning? Let me be your translator. I deeply value education, so if you are unfamiliar with any of the therapies I list below, I will explain extensively as to how they work within session. If you like learning, I'm your person.
(314) 254-9841 View (314) 254-9841
Photo of Harmony Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wildwood, MO
Harmony Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Wildwood, MO 63040
Waitlist for new clients
My areas of clinical focus are providing emotional, behavioral, and parenting support for young children and teens, as well as trauma-informed and evidence-based assessment and intervention.
Children, youth, and young adults sometimes have difficulty coping with stress, school, or family changes. Sometimes children and teens experience adversity that impacts their everyday functioning. In addition, emotional or behavioral difficulties in children can impact the parent-child relationship and place strain on the family. Navigating parenthood can be a challenge during these times. Compassionate, collaborative, and culturally aware counseling services with Harmony Counseling, can help children and families strengthen relationships and heal from difficult experiences.
My areas of clinical focus are providing emotional, behavioral, and parenting support for young children and teens, as well as trauma-informed and evidence-based assessment and intervention.
Children, youth, and young adults sometimes have difficulty coping with stress, school, or family changes. Sometimes children and teens experience adversity that impacts their everyday functioning. In addition, emotional or behavioral difficulties in children can impact the parent-child relationship and place strain on the family. Navigating parenthood can be a challenge during these times. Compassionate, collaborative, and culturally aware counseling services with Harmony Counseling, can help children and families strengthen relationships and heal from difficult experiences.
(314) 582-5786 View (314) 582-5786
Photo of Denise Frisella, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wildwood, MO
Denise Frisella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Wildwood, MO 63011  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma therapy, navigating the complexities of grief and loss, managing depression and fostering general mental health wellness. My practice is anchored in offering a compassionate space that promotes healing. Together we'll work toward releasing blockages and nurturing your path to recovery as you evolve and deepen your self connection. ​
I specialize in trauma therapy, navigating the complexities of grief and loss, managing depression and fostering general mental health wellness. My practice is anchored in offering a compassionate space that promotes healing. Together we'll work toward releasing blockages and nurturing your path to recovery as you evolve and deepen your self connection. ​
(636) 422-5684 View (636) 422-5684
Photo of J Meyer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wildwood, MO
J J Meyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PhD, MBA, NCC
Verified Verified
Wildwood, MO 63005
I'm an EMDR certified practitioner specialize in grief and trauma.
Life is hard and unpredictable, and we all have struggles within ourselves, with relationships, and with directions in life. As a result, we may experience anxiety, depression, lack of motivation, or simply feeling lost. The recognition of our shared human condition is what motivated me to become a counselor. I bring a wealth of life and professional experiences to the counseling practice with a 20-year career in biotech and business. I believe my life experiences as a parent and professional afford me the broad perspectives to connect with clients and to facilitate personal growth.
I'm an EMDR certified practitioner specialize in grief and trauma.
Life is hard and unpredictable, and we all have struggles within ourselves, with relationships, and with directions in life. As a result, we may experience anxiety, depression, lack of motivation, or simply feeling lost. The recognition of our shared human condition is what motivated me to become a counselor. I bring a wealth of life and professional experiences to the counseling practice with a 20-year career in biotech and business. I believe my life experiences as a parent and professional afford me the broad perspectives to connect with clients and to facilitate personal growth.
(636) 733-6245 View (636) 733-6245
Photo of Laura Cook Counseling, Counselor in Wildwood, MO
Laura Cook Counseling
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63040
Mental health therapy is able to help you in many aspects of your life. Some of those aspects might be life transitions, anxiety, depression, past trauma, and relationship issues. In the presence of a trusted therapist, you are able to discuss what might be keeping you from leading a more contented, peaceful life while working to form a deeper understanding of yourself. In therapy, we will discuss self-talk, mind-body connections, and patterns that are prevalent in your life. We will also explore past trauma that might be manifesting itself in symptoms such as anxiety and depression.
Mental health therapy is able to help you in many aspects of your life. Some of those aspects might be life transitions, anxiety, depression, past trauma, and relationship issues. In the presence of a trusted therapist, you are able to discuss what might be keeping you from leading a more contented, peaceful life while working to form a deeper understanding of yourself. In therapy, we will discuss self-talk, mind-body connections, and patterns that are prevalent in your life. We will also explore past trauma that might be manifesting itself in symptoms such as anxiety and depression.
(636) 228-6460 View (636) 228-6460
Photo of Afshan Malik, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wildwood, MO
Afshan Malik
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EMDR, Coach, MP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63011  (Online Only)
Life transitions are the new beginning; unfortunately, past experiences, insecurities, trauma, and grief can influence the present behavior & actions. Making life transitions emotionally exhausting while getting the same results exacerbating feelings of stuck-ness in the rut. If you are tired of starting over and want to learn Why, When, & How you self-sabotage your success & relationships, If you want to gain mastery over your emotions, have clarity, focus, and commitment to your life goals. Grow personally/professionally, feel more in control, and less stressed than I am the therapeutic coach you need. Online and self-pay only.
Life transitions are the new beginning; unfortunately, past experiences, insecurities, trauma, and grief can influence the present behavior & actions. Making life transitions emotionally exhausting while getting the same results exacerbating feelings of stuck-ness in the rut. If you are tired of starting over and want to learn Why, When, & How you self-sabotage your success & relationships, If you want to gain mastery over your emotions, have clarity, focus, and commitment to your life goals. Grow personally/professionally, feel more in control, and less stressed than I am the therapeutic coach you need. Online and self-pay only.
(314) 310-7916 View (314) 310-7916
Photo of Responding First Counseling EMDR Brainspotting, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wildwood, MO
Responding First Counseling EMDR Brainspotting
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CTP, BCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63025
I’m glad you’re here! I work in trauma and understand narcissist abuse. Let's begin there, one step at a time. Leave the uncertainty behind and go forward with confidence! It's time to INVEST in yourself! I believe in a collaborative approach to therapy, so you're never alone in your process. You're looking for someone who will say it like it is and encourage you to get curious. Join me for an EMDR or Brainspotting Intensive. Get so much more done in a shorter amount of time! It's time for you to feel better!
I’m glad you’re here! I work in trauma and understand narcissist abuse. Let's begin there, one step at a time. Leave the uncertainty behind and go forward with confidence! It's time to INVEST in yourself! I believe in a collaborative approach to therapy, so you're never alone in your process. You're looking for someone who will say it like it is and encourage you to get curious. Join me for an EMDR or Brainspotting Intensive. Get so much more done in a shorter amount of time! It's time for you to feel better!
(314) 207-4172 View (314) 207-4172
Photo of Pagina Brown, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wildwood, MO
Pagina Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC , ASDCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63040
Pagina Brown is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Nationally Certified Counselor, an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider, and certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist. Pagina sees a wide variety of adults and has specialties in treating attention deficit disorders, autism spectrum disorder/Asperger's, anxiety disorders, trauma concerns, stress related to life with food allergies, and depression.
Pagina Brown is a Licensed Professional Counselor, Nationally Certified Counselor, an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider, and certified Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist. Pagina sees a wide variety of adults and has specialties in treating attention deficit disorders, autism spectrum disorder/Asperger's, anxiety disorders, trauma concerns, stress related to life with food allergies, and depression.
(636) 649-4002 View (636) 649-4002
Photo of Michelle Fienup, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wildwood, MO
Michelle Fienup
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, ASDCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63040
Michelle Fienup is a Licensed Professional Counselor, National Board-Certified Counselor, an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider, an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist and a Certified Employee Assistance Provider. Michelle works with a wide variety of adults and has experience working with individuals who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, anger, grief and loss, PTSD, sexual assault or abuse, gender or sexual identity issues, relationship issues, and communication issues.
Michelle Fienup is a Licensed Professional Counselor, National Board-Certified Counselor, an ADHD Certified Clinical Services Provider, an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist and a Certified Employee Assistance Provider. Michelle works with a wide variety of adults and has experience working with individuals who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, anger, grief and loss, PTSD, sexual assault or abuse, gender or sexual identity issues, relationship issues, and communication issues.
(636) 228-6584 View (636) 228-6584
Photo of Sandy Young, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wildwood, MO
Sandy Young
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, LPC
Verified Verified
Wildwood, MO 63021
I am experienced in working with clients of various ages, genders, and backgrounds and provide individual counseling for several issues including anxiety, depression, various forms of trauma, relational conflict, spiritual struggles, and life transitions.
What is keeping you from living the life that you long-for? What are the roadblocks that you just can't seem to navigate through on your own? I have a passion for helping individuals and families find their inner source of hope and gain the skills to work through life's obstacles. With patience and perseverance I provide a safe, personal, and realistic approach to counseling. You don't have to be weighed down by your emotions, I believe in earning your trust and look forward to walking along side you. Healing can be the start of your new beginning!
I am experienced in working with clients of various ages, genders, and backgrounds and provide individual counseling for several issues including anxiety, depression, various forms of trauma, relational conflict, spiritual struggles, and life transitions.
What is keeping you from living the life that you long-for? What are the roadblocks that you just can't seem to navigate through on your own? I have a passion for helping individuals and families find their inner source of hope and gain the skills to work through life's obstacles. With patience and perseverance I provide a safe, personal, and realistic approach to counseling. You don't have to be weighed down by your emotions, I believe in earning your trust and look forward to walking along side you. Healing can be the start of your new beginning!
(636) 821-8238 View (636) 821-8238
Photo of Hannah Carroll, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wildwood, MO
Hannah Carroll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63011  (Online Only)
I have experience working with adolescents, college students, and adults with anxiety, stress, trauma, and experiencing life transitions (because aren't we all going through the transition of the last few years?).
Are you feeling disconnected or stuck? Trying to "figure it out" when nothing seems to be working? Maybe you've even recognized you want change, but somehow fall back into the same unhelpful thoughts and patterns. Whether you need a space to be heard or are looking for a welcoming space to learn new skills and ways to move forward, I am here to help you navigate this next step.
I have experience working with adolescents, college students, and adults with anxiety, stress, trauma, and experiencing life transitions (because aren't we all going through the transition of the last few years?).
Are you feeling disconnected or stuck? Trying to "figure it out" when nothing seems to be working? Maybe you've even recognized you want change, but somehow fall back into the same unhelpful thoughts and patterns. Whether you need a space to be heard or are looking for a welcoming space to learn new skills and ways to move forward, I am here to help you navigate this next step.
(314) 470-8894 View (314) 470-8894
Photo of Britt Lindon, Psychologist in Wildwood, MO
Britt Lindon
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wildwood, MO 63038
Are you struggling to connect with others because of past, unresolved trauma or maladaptive patterns you absorbed as a child?.
Modern relationships are HARD. Maybe you have found it hard to find the right person or have started to question whether the person you are with now could possibly be the wrong person. It’s tough when you feel burned by or totally confused about your current marriage or dating situation. You’ve probably made choices or overlooked things that you now regret, yet, here you are. Or, maybe you have a relationship at work with a boss and coworkers who undervalue you or play favorites with others. Your work ethic and good ideas have long taken a backseat to putting out fires. Or, maybe you are even so far gone that you are more checked-
Are you struggling to connect with others because of past, unresolved trauma or maladaptive patterns you absorbed as a child?.
Modern relationships are HARD. Maybe you have found it hard to find the right person or have started to question whether the person you are with now could possibly be the wrong person. It’s tough when you feel burned by or totally confused about your current marriage or dating situation. You’ve probably made choices or overlooked things that you now regret, yet, here you are. Or, maybe you have a relationship at work with a boss and coworkers who undervalue you or play favorites with others. Your work ethic and good ideas have long taken a backseat to putting out fires. Or, maybe you are even so far gone that you are more checked-
(404) 383-6624 View (404) 383-6624
Photo of Tim Dalaviras, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wildwood, MO
Tim Dalaviras
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Wildwood, MO 63005
When addictive behaviors are identified, I employ a Stages of Change Model along with Motivational Interviewing to initiate change, improve brain health and address underlying trauma or unresolved MH concerns.
I am accepting new clients. I've provided and supervised Mental Health (MH) and Substance Use counseling services for over 25 years in a variety of settings with all age groups. My experience and training has convinced me of several things - relationships define our sense of self; we look to our relationships for comfort and safety; Mental Wellness encompasses a Mind, Body and Spirit approach. I believe successful counseling is a commitment to create a place that allows each person to communicate their needs at a more genuine level and practice more effective ways of relating to others and taking an active role in one's health.
When addictive behaviors are identified, I employ a Stages of Change Model along with Motivational Interviewing to initiate change, improve brain health and address underlying trauma or unresolved MH concerns.
I am accepting new clients. I've provided and supervised Mental Health (MH) and Substance Use counseling services for over 25 years in a variety of settings with all age groups. My experience and training has convinced me of several things - relationships define our sense of self; we look to our relationships for comfort and safety; Mental Wellness encompasses a Mind, Body and Spirit approach. I believe successful counseling is a commitment to create a place that allows each person to communicate their needs at a more genuine level and practice more effective ways of relating to others and taking an active role in one's health.
(314) 860-8687 View (314) 860-8687
Photo of Amber Kwentus, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wildwood, MO
Amber Kwentus, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Wildwood, MO 63005
I believe in a person-centered and holistic approach. I am passionate about leading clients through their pain to find their purpose and to lead an inspired life! My approach is a blending of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Person Centered, and Trauma Informed Therapies. I am trained in EMDR as well.
I believe in a person-centered and holistic approach. I am passionate about leading clients through their pain to find their purpose and to lead an inspired life! My approach is a blending of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Person Centered, and Trauma Informed Therapies. I am trained in EMDR as well.
(314) 648-8589 View (314) 648-8589
Photo of Jean Ricks-Ayer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wildwood, MO
Jean Ricks-Ayer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63038
If you are interested in deepening and expanding your awareness and understanding of Self, as a means of finding a more confident pathway to your most authentic life, you're in the right place. I have a special interest and knack for working with individuals in leadership and helping positions find grounding, balance, and most importantly, self acceptance. My approach will be tailored just for you, utilizing a blend of holistic, integrative, trauma-informed approaches including Internal Family Systems (or "parts work"), somatic work, and mindfulness. You are way more than your brain-all of you should be acknowledged in therapy!
If you are interested in deepening and expanding your awareness and understanding of Self, as a means of finding a more confident pathway to your most authentic life, you're in the right place. I have a special interest and knack for working with individuals in leadership and helping positions find grounding, balance, and most importantly, self acceptance. My approach will be tailored just for you, utilizing a blend of holistic, integrative, trauma-informed approaches including Internal Family Systems (or "parts work"), somatic work, and mindfulness. You are way more than your brain-all of you should be acknowledged in therapy!
(314) 208-3326 View (314) 208-3326
Photo of Scott Moore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wildwood, MO
Scott Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT, PCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63025  (Online Only)
Sex addiction doesn't have to continue ruining your life. Life may feel hopeless, and your anxiety may be higher than you've ever felt before. Yet, it doesn't have to stay this way. My clients all have two things in common: 1) They want to be here for themselves, even when others are making them, and 2) They work to achieve their goals. They come to me usually in a state of panic or depression, or some even come in when their world is chaotic and out of control. When you're ready to tackle your issues, give me a call.
Sex addiction doesn't have to continue ruining your life. Life may feel hopeless, and your anxiety may be higher than you've ever felt before. Yet, it doesn't have to stay this way. My clients all have two things in common: 1) They want to be here for themselves, even when others are making them, and 2) They work to achieve their goals. They come to me usually in a state of panic or depression, or some even come in when their world is chaotic and out of control. When you're ready to tackle your issues, give me a call.
(636) 205-1686 View (636) 205-1686
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.