Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Brooklyn, NY

Photo of Carolina Franco, Psychologist in Brooklyn, NY
Carolina Franco
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11217
My areas of specialized training and interests include trauma, addictions, gender identity, Sexual orientation, sexuality, parenting, ethnic and racial identity concerns, social justice work, immigration, women's health, and adolescent development.
Starting therapy is a leap of faith at a time when hope is scarce. It is an act of courage. I prioritize symptom relief and stabilization, but I believe that lasting change and growth stem from a deeper understanding of our histories, relationships, internal worlds, and motivations. I work best with people who are willing to take a risk and become curious about their own complexity. I believe social and political environments, genetic predispositions, and intergenerational histories all interact to manifest our challenges and gifts. Ideally, my clients would be open to uncovering the many unconscious forces at play in their lives.
My areas of specialized training and interests include trauma, addictions, gender identity, Sexual orientation, sexuality, parenting, ethnic and racial identity concerns, social justice work, immigration, women's health, and adolescent development.
Starting therapy is a leap of faith at a time when hope is scarce. It is an act of courage. I prioritize symptom relief and stabilization, but I believe that lasting change and growth stem from a deeper understanding of our histories, relationships, internal worlds, and motivations. I work best with people who are willing to take a risk and become curious about their own complexity. I believe social and political environments, genetic predispositions, and intergenerational histories all interact to manifest our challenges and gifts. Ideally, my clients would be open to uncovering the many unconscious forces at play in their lives.
(347) 934-8803 View (347) 934-8803
Photo of Kerstin Hecker in Brooklyn, NY
Kerstin Hecker
PhD (c), SEP, HC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11231  (Online Only)
Most therapy approaches focus on understanding ourselves intellectually, thereby engaging the left side of our brain. Yet, sustainable change happens through whole-mind integration, where the body, brain, as well as relational field are parts of the healing process. Using a blend of Somatic Experiencing®, Trauma and Attachment Therapy, Depth Psychology, and Dream Analysis, Somatic Counseling offers the body and psyche the support needed to discharge, renegotiate and reorganize locked-in fight, flight and freeze responses that are stored in the nervous system. A process that is compassionate and respectful to your needs and rhythm.
Most therapy approaches focus on understanding ourselves intellectually, thereby engaging the left side of our brain. Yet, sustainable change happens through whole-mind integration, where the body, brain, as well as relational field are parts of the healing process. Using a blend of Somatic Experiencing®, Trauma and Attachment Therapy, Depth Psychology, and Dream Analysis, Somatic Counseling offers the body and psyche the support needed to discharge, renegotiate and reorganize locked-in fight, flight and freeze responses that are stored in the nervous system. A process that is compassionate and respectful to your needs and rhythm.
(561) 556-3202 View (561) 556-3202
Photo of Amelia Yankey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Amelia Yankey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11231
I draw from a variety of modalities in my practice, though have a particular grounding focus on EMDR therapy, a somatic therapy for the treatment of trauma in its many manifestations.
I practice therapy because I believe in the human capacity for liberation and healing, and our ability to empower each other and collectively improve our lives. I don't know what living a life that you love and value would look like for you, but I'm excited to find out together. I've primarily worked with people with serious trauma histories. I’m especially experienced in working with LGBTQIA+ folks, and with the kink and poly/ENM communities. I know how important it is to not only be affirmed in your identities, but understood as someone connected to the larger world.
I draw from a variety of modalities in my practice, though have a particular grounding focus on EMDR therapy, a somatic therapy for the treatment of trauma in its many manifestations.
I practice therapy because I believe in the human capacity for liberation and healing, and our ability to empower each other and collectively improve our lives. I don't know what living a life that you love and value would look like for you, but I'm excited to find out together. I've primarily worked with people with serious trauma histories. I’m especially experienced in working with LGBTQIA+ folks, and with the kink and poly/ENM communities. I know how important it is to not only be affirmed in your identities, but understood as someone connected to the larger world.
(347) 694-7765 View (347) 694-7765
Photo of Ernie Cote, Counselor in Brooklyn, NY
Ernie Cote
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11222  (Online Only)
I work with adolescents and adults on a wide range of challenges from general counseling and adjustment issues (feeling "stuck") to more clinical issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma and sexual issues. I focus on LGBT clients, particularly in the area of transgender identity, but have a diverse client base overall. I have experience working with clients that have issues related to polyamory, the kink community, and navigating these issues within relationships. I also have interns and supervisees that can see sliding scale clients from various populations.
I work with adolescents and adults on a wide range of challenges from general counseling and adjustment issues (feeling "stuck") to more clinical issues such as depression, anxiety, trauma and sexual issues. I focus on LGBT clients, particularly in the area of transgender identity, but have a diverse client base overall. I have experience working with clients that have issues related to polyamory, the kink community, and navigating these issues within relationships. I also have interns and supervisees that can see sliding scale clients from various populations.
(646) 798-9419 View (646) 798-9419
Photo of Karen Harber, Art Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Karen Harber
Art Therapist, MPS, LCAT, ATR BC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11221  (Online Only)
I am an experienced therapist trained in a number of modalities. I have had diverse life experiences so am open and attuned to individual issues and crises. My area of expertise is in relational trauma and family issues. I have worked with individuals from age 5 to age 65 across the spectrum of diagnoses and also with individuals without a diagnosis who are struggling either with relationships or in their work lives. My goal is to create a safe space for clients to explore their issues in an interactive process. I am interested in your history and your personal story.
I am an experienced therapist trained in a number of modalities. I have had diverse life experiences so am open and attuned to individual issues and crises. My area of expertise is in relational trauma and family issues. I have worked with individuals from age 5 to age 65 across the spectrum of diagnoses and also with individuals without a diagnosis who are struggling either with relationships or in their work lives. My goal is to create a safe space for clients to explore their issues in an interactive process. I am interested in your history and your personal story.
(347) 970-7025 View (347) 970-7025
Photo of Shea Riester, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Shea Riester
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, SEP, EFT
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11218
I integrate SE trauma healing, EFT and mindfulness, giving you tools you can use on your own from day 1.
Hi there - I'm Shea, a Somatic Experiencing (SE) therapist for individuals and an Emotionally Focused (EFT) couples and family therapist. I love supporting people on their journey toward greater wholeness, aliveness and freedom in themselves, their relationships and their purpose in the world. I am passionate about working with individuals, couples and families who are stuck in habitual, painful cycles born from past trauma, and who deeply long to get unstuck. I help people transform anxiety, depression, PTSD, eating issues, addictions, and relational conflict/mistrust in their lives.
I integrate SE trauma healing, EFT and mindfulness, giving you tools you can use on your own from day 1.
Hi there - I'm Shea, a Somatic Experiencing (SE) therapist for individuals and an Emotionally Focused (EFT) couples and family therapist. I love supporting people on their journey toward greater wholeness, aliveness and freedom in themselves, their relationships and their purpose in the world. I am passionate about working with individuals, couples and families who are stuck in habitual, painful cycles born from past trauma, and who deeply long to get unstuck. I help people transform anxiety, depression, PTSD, eating issues, addictions, and relational conflict/mistrust in their lives.
(718) 650-2713 View (718) 650-2713
Photo of Maria Boncyk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Maria Boncyk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11217  (Online Only)
I'm an integrative psychotherapist primarily practicing EMDR with a focus on trauma/PTSD, severe mental illness and other emotional distress, including experiences related to racial identity and sexual orientation. I'm curious about you; there is no judgment about your past, your perceptions, or your feelings. My foundation is in trauma work & attachment theory, where we look at relationships and experiences and how they may affect you today: the social and cultural settings we're in, how the way we identify ourselves and the way others identify us impacts your sense of safety, how we are perceived, and what opportunities we have.
I'm an integrative psychotherapist primarily practicing EMDR with a focus on trauma/PTSD, severe mental illness and other emotional distress, including experiences related to racial identity and sexual orientation. I'm curious about you; there is no judgment about your past, your perceptions, or your feelings. My foundation is in trauma work & attachment theory, where we look at relationships and experiences and how they may affect you today: the social and cultural settings we're in, how the way we identify ourselves and the way others identify us impacts your sense of safety, how we are perceived, and what opportunities we have.
(929) 207-7356 View (929) 207-7356
Photo of Jack G Bethke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Jack G Bethke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11238
Managing life’s challenges can overwhelm each of us. Whether juggling typical ups and downs or coping with loss, trauma, major upset or crisis, there are times we need compassion, an advocate, a fellow strategist or just someone to listen. Our relationship to ourselves, family, career, or life changes can sometimes seem out of control, leading to depression, anxiety or isolation. Therapy is a tool designed to help manage life’s challenges and bring clarity, perspective and a sense of well-being.
Managing life’s challenges can overwhelm each of us. Whether juggling typical ups and downs or coping with loss, trauma, major upset or crisis, there are times we need compassion, an advocate, a fellow strategist or just someone to listen. Our relationship to ourselves, family, career, or life changes can sometimes seem out of control, leading to depression, anxiety or isolation. Therapy is a tool designed to help manage life’s challenges and bring clarity, perspective and a sense of well-being.
(718) 568-6609 View (718) 568-6609
Photo of Shoshanna Paperny, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Shoshanna Paperny
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11222
While our personal histories may inform our current struggles, it does not define who we are, or who we may become. Using an client-centred approach, I believe strongly in the power of self-efficacy, attachment theory, developmental psychology, family systems and neuroscience. Guiding my practice with trauma informed care, I assist clients in developing their unique resilience story. This begins with relational connection, warmth and radical acceptance co-created in the therapeutic environment.
While our personal histories may inform our current struggles, it does not define who we are, or who we may become. Using an client-centred approach, I believe strongly in the power of self-efficacy, attachment theory, developmental psychology, family systems and neuroscience. Guiding my practice with trauma informed care, I assist clients in developing their unique resilience story. This begins with relational connection, warmth and radical acceptance co-created in the therapeutic environment.
(347) 970-5296 View (347) 970-5296
Photo of Caitlin Steitzer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Caitlin Steitzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11231  (Online Only)
I offer trauma-informed psychotherapy with a strong emphasis on holistic healing of both the mind and body.
If you are here, you are probably looking to affect some positive change in your life. I am here to help, support, and encourage you as we together explore, question, and practice new ways of being.
I offer trauma-informed psychotherapy with a strong emphasis on holistic healing of both the mind and body.
If you are here, you are probably looking to affect some positive change in your life. I am here to help, support, and encourage you as we together explore, question, and practice new ways of being.
(718) 650-2149 View (718) 650-2149
Photo of Fem Erkaya, Mental Health Counselor in Brooklyn, NY
Fem Erkaya
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201
As a multicultural therapist specializing in trauma and major life transitions, I deeply understand how familial and cultural factors influence well-being.
I believe that every person's story is unique and I tailor my approach to meet your specific needs. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, healing from past experiences, or simply seeking to enhance your well-being, I'm here to guide you. Through a blend of psychoanalytic "talk therapy" and insights from other therapeutic approaches, we'll explore the root causes of your difficulties and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Together, we'll uncover your inner strength and resilience, empowering you to overcome obstacles and create lasting change.
As a multicultural therapist specializing in trauma and major life transitions, I deeply understand how familial and cultural factors influence well-being.
I believe that every person's story is unique and I tailor my approach to meet your specific needs. Whether you're struggling with anxiety, healing from past experiences, or simply seeking to enhance your well-being, I'm here to guide you. Through a blend of psychoanalytic "talk therapy" and insights from other therapeutic approaches, we'll explore the root causes of your difficulties and develop healthier coping mechanisms. Together, we'll uncover your inner strength and resilience, empowering you to overcome obstacles and create lasting change.
(646) 832-4158 View (646) 832-4158
Photo of Nikki King, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Nikki King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11222  (Online Only)
As a therapist, my goal is to help you overcome obstacles and achieve your full potential. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, and I work closely with my clients to develop customized treatment plans that meet their unique needs. I have experience working with clients with a wide range of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma, relationship issues, and life transitions.
As a therapist, my goal is to help you overcome obstacles and achieve your full potential. I believe that therapy is a collaborative process, and I work closely with my clients to develop customized treatment plans that meet their unique needs. I have experience working with clients with a wide range of presenting concerns, including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, trauma, relationship issues, and life transitions.
(718) 957-2316 View (718) 957-2316
Photo of Marjorie Bresnick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Marjorie Bresnick, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11242
Grief and trauma in children or adults can result in strong feelings that disrupt daily life and one's experience of safety. Similarly anxiety and depression may deprive one of the ability to live life with a sense of agency, flexibility, and pleasure. In therapy, I seek to engage you in an ongoing dialogue to discover who you are, what shaped you, and what continues to influence you. Our relationship serves as a vehicle for you to discover your narrative and live a more satisfying life with fulfilling relationships, play, and purpose.
Grief and trauma in children or adults can result in strong feelings that disrupt daily life and one's experience of safety. Similarly anxiety and depression may deprive one of the ability to live life with a sense of agency, flexibility, and pleasure. In therapy, I seek to engage you in an ongoing dialogue to discover who you are, what shaped you, and what continues to influence you. Our relationship serves as a vehicle for you to discover your narrative and live a more satisfying life with fulfilling relationships, play, and purpose.
(718) 407-0784 View (718) 407-0784
Photo of Margo M Hanan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Margo M Hanan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11230  (Online Only)
In our first session, expect a personalized approach aimed at helping women heal from trauma, reduce anxiety and depression, enhance relationships, and excel in parenting.
Great to connect with you! I'm Margo, a licensed clinical social worker in the state of New York, bringing 15 years of experience to help you navigate through life's challenges. Specializing in anxiety, depression, and trauma-informed care, I utilize evidence-based practices, particularly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to create a non-judgmental and safe space for clients to heal. My diverse background includes working with various populations, from teenagers in the juvenile justice system to children in foster care. Currently, I focus on supporting parents and addressing mental health issues for both children (0-5) and adults.
In our first session, expect a personalized approach aimed at helping women heal from trauma, reduce anxiety and depression, enhance relationships, and excel in parenting.
Great to connect with you! I'm Margo, a licensed clinical social worker in the state of New York, bringing 15 years of experience to help you navigate through life's challenges. Specializing in anxiety, depression, and trauma-informed care, I utilize evidence-based practices, particularly Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), to create a non-judgmental and safe space for clients to heal. My diverse background includes working with various populations, from teenagers in the juvenile justice system to children in foster care. Currently, I focus on supporting parents and addressing mental health issues for both children (0-5) and adults.
(718) 550-5308 View (718) 550-5308
Photo of Claude Patrice Francois, Psychologist in Brooklyn, NY
Claude Patrice Francois
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201
My areas of specialty include working with issues involving anxiety, depression, cultural identity, relational difficulties, trauma, body image, and over-eating.
I believe that the decision to engage in psychotherapy can be characterized as a committment to an inward journey. I view my work as a collaborative endeavor to help individuals improve their understanding of themselves and to support their ability to effect change in their personal lives. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with several years of experience. I primarily work from an insight-oriented perspective but I am also comfortable utilizing solution-focused strategies. I strive to provide a safe environment where we can work together to establish increased emotional health and life satisfaction.
My areas of specialty include working with issues involving anxiety, depression, cultural identity, relational difficulties, trauma, body image, and over-eating.
I believe that the decision to engage in psychotherapy can be characterized as a committment to an inward journey. I view my work as a collaborative endeavor to help individuals improve their understanding of themselves and to support their ability to effect change in their personal lives. I am a licensed clinical psychologist with several years of experience. I primarily work from an insight-oriented perspective but I am also comfortable utilizing solution-focused strategies. I strive to provide a safe environment where we can work together to establish increased emotional health and life satisfaction.
(347) 474-1792 View (347) 474-1792
Photo of Mi Seon Kang, Art Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Mi Seon Kang
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11242  (Online Only)
As you embark on the courageous path of self-discovery and healing from trauma, connecting with a caring, collaborative, skillful therapist is a crucial first step. With years of experience, I offer a warm, reflective, and compassionate safe space for you to explore your deep inner feelings/emotions, and become aware of thoughts, beliefs, behavior patterns that may no longer serve you. If you have been suffering from anxiety, depression, self-sabotaging thoughts, overwhelming emotions, psychosomatic symptoms, and relationship challenges, I invite you to reach out for support and guidance—and not to struggle or suffer alone.
As you embark on the courageous path of self-discovery and healing from trauma, connecting with a caring, collaborative, skillful therapist is a crucial first step. With years of experience, I offer a warm, reflective, and compassionate safe space for you to explore your deep inner feelings/emotions, and become aware of thoughts, beliefs, behavior patterns that may no longer serve you. If you have been suffering from anxiety, depression, self-sabotaging thoughts, overwhelming emotions, psychosomatic symptoms, and relationship challenges, I invite you to reach out for support and guidance—and not to struggle or suffer alone.
(917) 633-9191 View (917) 633-9191
Photo of Mary McGregor, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Mary McGregor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11231
Many clients I see have great ambition but struggle with self-confidence due to ADHD, relational trauma, or chronic feelings of shame.
Are you asking yourself, what is a sustainable, meaningful, purposeful life? Maybe you worry you can't be a good partner or parent, or fear you have lost yourself in the race for security and success. I'm here to remind you that you can trust yourself, you've been here all along.
Many clients I see have great ambition but struggle with self-confidence due to ADHD, relational trauma, or chronic feelings of shame.
Are you asking yourself, what is a sustainable, meaningful, purposeful life? Maybe you worry you can't be a good partner or parent, or fear you have lost yourself in the race for security and success. I'm here to remind you that you can trust yourself, you've been here all along.
(332) 206-6901 View (332) 206-6901
Photo of Suzann Jacquez-Sanchez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Suzann Jacquez-Sanchez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11209  (Online Only)
I am certified in Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy and treat complex trauma, depression, anxiety, and addictions.
Are you looking to feel better and move through life with more ease? Are you experiencing internal conflicts or have a sense of not knowing where to start or how to heal past hurt or pain? There may be parts of you that feel stuck in the past and other parts that are working so hard to move forward. I will help you get back on track and feel better. I work in a supportive, collaborative manner, welcoming all parts of you to foster healing and growth. I am also a Program Assistant for Internal Family Systems Trainings and offer individual and group consultation to therapists seeking to deepen their understanding of the IFS model.
I am certified in Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy and treat complex trauma, depression, anxiety, and addictions.
Are you looking to feel better and move through life with more ease? Are you experiencing internal conflicts or have a sense of not knowing where to start or how to heal past hurt or pain? There may be parts of you that feel stuck in the past and other parts that are working so hard to move forward. I will help you get back on track and feel better. I work in a supportive, collaborative manner, welcoming all parts of you to foster healing and growth. I am also a Program Assistant for Internal Family Systems Trainings and offer individual and group consultation to therapists seeking to deepen their understanding of the IFS model.
(347) 580-5736 View (347) 580-5736
Photo of Otilia E Rivera, Licensed Master Social Worker in Brooklyn, NY
Otilia E Rivera
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
Brooklyn, NY 11208  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I invite those who need support in areas such as anxiety, depression, trauma including PTSD, family and relationship conflicts, low self-esteem, communication issues, affair recovery, lack of emotional intimacy, high conflict levels, gender identity, sexuality exploration, and pre-marital counseling.
We often feel anxious, down, or lonely in their relationships due to unrealistic expectations and constantly being "on the go". Balancing family, school, career, and life obligations creates challenges in maintaining fulfilling relationships and strong connections with our partners, our families and loved ones. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, understanding, and collaboration where one can learn relationship skills, coping skills and foster growth and healing.
I invite those who need support in areas such as anxiety, depression, trauma including PTSD, family and relationship conflicts, low self-esteem, communication issues, affair recovery, lack of emotional intimacy, high conflict levels, gender identity, sexuality exploration, and pre-marital counseling.
We often feel anxious, down, or lonely in their relationships due to unrealistic expectations and constantly being "on the go". Balancing family, school, career, and life obligations creates challenges in maintaining fulfilling relationships and strong connections with our partners, our families and loved ones. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, understanding, and collaboration where one can learn relationship skills, coping skills and foster growth and healing.
(929) 538-3654 View (929) 538-3654
Photo of Ana Ladino, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brooklyn, NY
Ana Ladino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brooklyn, NY 11201  (Online Only)
I utilize a combination of different therapy approaches including: CBT, Psychodynamic, Mindfulness Skills, Supportive Counseling, Trauma-Informed Care, Crisis Intervention, Family-Systems and Strengths Based approaches.
**Currently Accepting new clients!**** Hello! I am a passionate and warm bilingual (Spanish and English) Licensed Master of Social Worker. I have clinical experience in different settings including outpatient treatment programs, school settings and private practice. I can work with all age groups from teens to adults.
I utilize a combination of different therapy approaches including: CBT, Psychodynamic, Mindfulness Skills, Supportive Counseling, Trauma-Informed Care, Crisis Intervention, Family-Systems and Strengths Based approaches.
**Currently Accepting new clients!**** Hello! I am a passionate and warm bilingual (Spanish and English) Licensed Master of Social Worker. I have clinical experience in different settings including outpatient treatment programs, school settings and private practice. I can work with all age groups from teens to adults.
(347) 751-6963 View (347) 751-6963
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.