Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Woodlyn, PA

Photo of Terri Miles, MHS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Terri Miles
Pre-Licensed Professional, MHS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodlyn, PA 19094  (Online Only)
You may be fed up with the ways that trauma, depression or anxiety, feeling that they rule your life. It can be a challenge to have hope when getting out of bed can be a task, or when family and friends don’t seem to understand. You might not even remember a time when things felt normal. And you’re ready for a change. You want to feel relief & start to enjoy life again. More than anything, you want to fall in love with yourself and to build better relationships with others. My goal is to help children, adults, couples & families to do just that.
You may be fed up with the ways that trauma, depression or anxiety, feeling that they rule your life. It can be a challenge to have hope when getting out of bed can be a task, or when family and friends don’t seem to understand. You might not even remember a time when things felt normal. And you’re ready for a change. You want to feel relief & start to enjoy life again. More than anything, you want to fall in love with yourself and to build better relationships with others. My goal is to help children, adults, couples & families to do just that.
(484) 559-6239 View (484) 559-6239
Photo of Dalesa Martinez - Inspired and Free, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Inspired and Free
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodlyn, PA 19094
Our skilled therapists specialize in a broad range of areas including adolescents ages 12+, individuals & couples, relationships, trauma, anxiety, depression, self-love, adhd, LGBTQ+, grief, infidelity,& finding purpose.
At Inspired & Free, the goal is to help clients to become to the best versions of themselves. We help you to uncover the mental and emotional blocks that prevent you from manifesting the life that you truly deserve, in all areas of your life. We help you "take off the mask", uncovering your authentic self. A diverse & inclusive therapy practice dedicated to supporting you on your journey to well-being, our team consists entirely of therapists of color, bringing a wealth of personal & professional experience to address your unique needs. Our therapists are experienced professionals who understand your unique challenges.
Our skilled therapists specialize in a broad range of areas including adolescents ages 12+, individuals & couples, relationships, trauma, anxiety, depression, self-love, adhd, LGBTQ+, grief, infidelity,& finding purpose.
At Inspired & Free, the goal is to help clients to become to the best versions of themselves. We help you to uncover the mental and emotional blocks that prevent you from manifesting the life that you truly deserve, in all areas of your life. We help you "take off the mask", uncovering your authentic self. A diverse & inclusive therapy practice dedicated to supporting you on your journey to well-being, our team consists entirely of therapists of color, bringing a wealth of personal & professional experience to address your unique needs. Our therapists are experienced professionals who understand your unique challenges.
(484) 513-2083 View (484) 513-2083
Photo of Jill Schott, PhD, LPC, LPCMH, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jill Schott
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LPCMH, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodlyn, PA 19094
Life is hard. It doesn't come with instructions. Sometimes it feels like you're on a roller coaster ride. If you are feeling the need to stop the ride and get off, let's work together to help you get back on solid ground. I believe that building trust and being comfortable are essential to the therapeutic relationship and will work to ensure that a safe space is created to allow you to do the work you need to do.
Life is hard. It doesn't come with instructions. Sometimes it feels like you're on a roller coaster ride. If you are feeling the need to stop the ride and get off, let's work together to help you get back on solid ground. I believe that building trust and being comfortable are essential to the therapeutic relationship and will work to ensure that a safe space is created to allow you to do the work you need to do.
(484) 382-3195 View (484) 382-3195
Photo of Mary L Deitch, JD, PsyD, Psychologist
Mary L Deitch
Psychologist, JD, PsyD
Verified Verified
Woodlyn, PA 19094
I have worked with problematic sexual behaviors and physician boundary issues for over a decade and have a passion for helping clients find answers. Often the behavior is not the issue but the client's reaction to the behavior or there are underlying reasons for why they are engaging in maladaptive behaviors. Each client is unique and the issue is often about unmet needs for nurturing, control, power, love and connection. Helping clients find the answers, their resiliency, and improve their healthy sexuality is an amazing part of the work that we do together.
I have worked with problematic sexual behaviors and physician boundary issues for over a decade and have a passion for helping clients find answers. Often the behavior is not the issue but the client's reaction to the behavior or there are underlying reasons for why they are engaging in maladaptive behaviors. Each client is unique and the issue is often about unmet needs for nurturing, control, power, love and connection. Helping clients find the answers, their resiliency, and improve their healthy sexuality is an amazing part of the work that we do together.
(484) 514-1665 View (484) 514-1665
Photo of Eric Griffin-Shelley - The Growth and Recovery Center, PhD, Psychologist
The Growth and Recovery Center
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodlyn, PA 19094
At The Growth and Recovery Center, we believe that everyone can improve their lives. We assist this process through support, insight, and direction. We offer telehealth and in person counseling for a wide variety of problems and situations. Our growing staff of psychologists, social workers, and professional counselors provide caring, compassionate, and insightful guidance through emotional and personal difficulties.
At The Growth and Recovery Center, we believe that everyone can improve their lives. We assist this process through support, insight, and direction. We offer telehealth and in person counseling for a wide variety of problems and situations. Our growing staff of psychologists, social workers, and professional counselors provide caring, compassionate, and insightful guidance through emotional and personal difficulties.
(610) 945-8021 View (610) 945-8021

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. André Vinnie Haley - AVH Group, PhD, LSW, LBC, CAADC, LCDP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
AVH Group
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PhD, LSW, LBC, CAADC, LCDP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chester, PA 19013
I specialize in Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered Therapy, and an array of Co-Occurring Disorders Treatment Modalities.
Through his consulting firm, the AVH Group (S-Corp), Dr. Haley lends his experience to organizations in Washington, DC, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. As a consultant, Dr. Haley assists companies with start-up, capacity building, and unique-robust programming to meet the needs of disproportionate negatively impacted groups. Dr. Haley provides Substance Abuse and Mental Health Counseling (i.e., Co-Occurring Disorders) in Wilmington, DE, at his private practice.
I specialize in Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Person-Centered Therapy, and an array of Co-Occurring Disorders Treatment Modalities.
Through his consulting firm, the AVH Group (S-Corp), Dr. Haley lends his experience to organizations in Washington, DC, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. As a consultant, Dr. Haley assists companies with start-up, capacity building, and unique-robust programming to meet the needs of disproportionate negatively impacted groups. Dr. Haley provides Substance Abuse and Mental Health Counseling (i.e., Co-Occurring Disorders) in Wilmington, DE, at his private practice.
(302) 246-7366 View (302) 246-7366
Photo of Fritz Haas, MA, IATP, NCC, AAPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Fritz Haas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, IATP, NCC, AAPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Swarthmore, PA 19081
As a counselor, I have developed a specialty in working with clients who have experienced trauma in their lives. I am a certified Trauma Therapist and I use a variety of techniques including EMDR, CBT and various Mindfulness skills and practices. Professionally, I work hard to continue to develop my skills as a counselor through my work with clients, regularly attending professional development classes and through interactions with colleagues.
As a counselor, I have developed a specialty in working with clients who have experienced trauma in their lives. I am a certified Trauma Therapist and I use a variety of techniques including EMDR, CBT and various Mindfulness skills and practices. Professionally, I work hard to continue to develop my skills as a counselor through my work with clients, regularly attending professional development classes and through interactions with colleagues.
(610) 490-8139 View (610) 490-8139
Photo of Thanh Nguyen, LCSW-PA, LCSW-NJ, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thanh Nguyen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-PA, LCSW-NJ
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Swarthmore, PA 19081  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR and love supporting my clients in healing from their trauma(s).
Hi, my name is Thanh Nguyen. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the Greater Philadelphia Area. I specialize in perinatal mental health and have a passion in supporting women through their journeys. I provide individual therapy for those struggling with trauma/ PTSD, postpartum depression/anxiety, and general depression and anxiety due to life stressors and transitions.
I am trained in EMDR and love supporting my clients in healing from their trauma(s).
Hi, my name is Thanh Nguyen. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the Greater Philadelphia Area. I specialize in perinatal mental health and have a passion in supporting women through their journeys. I provide individual therapy for those struggling with trauma/ PTSD, postpartum depression/anxiety, and general depression and anxiety due to life stressors and transitions.
(610) 549-1076 View (610) 549-1076
Photo of Lydia Debiase, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lydia Debiase
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Swarthmore, PA 19081
I also enjoy working with adults who are struggling with relationship issues, life transitions, early childhood trauma and struggles with substance use.
Life is a journey and on our journey we will experience love, joy, and happiness. We will also encounter pain, loss, suffering and hardship. As a licensed clinical social worker I offer a safe space where you can safely talk about your experiences and feelings. I want to help you trust your own intuition as you talk about your life and make decisions about the direction of it. I am accepting, caring, and supportive. I believe in cultural humility which allows the individual to teach me about their self identity to include their ethnicity, spirituality, sexual identity, and other aspects of their cultural.
I also enjoy working with adults who are struggling with relationship issues, life transitions, early childhood trauma and struggles with substance use.
Life is a journey and on our journey we will experience love, joy, and happiness. We will also encounter pain, loss, suffering and hardship. As a licensed clinical social worker I offer a safe space where you can safely talk about your experiences and feelings. I want to help you trust your own intuition as you talk about your life and make decisions about the direction of it. I am accepting, caring, and supportive. I believe in cultural humility which allows the individual to teach me about their self identity to include their ethnicity, spirituality, sexual identity, and other aspects of their cultural.
(610) 365-4436 View (610) 365-4436
Photo of Elizabeth Simmons, LCSW , DBT-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Simmons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , DBT-C
Verified Verified
Springfield, PA 19064
I specialize in trauma, personality disorders, addiction disorders, LGBTQIA+ issues, body positivity, HIV/AIDS, forensic issues, immigrant/refugee issues, women's issues, and civil rights/social justice.
I will teach you how to live fully in each moment, be unapologetically and authentically you, cope with stress more effectively, regulate your emotions, and improve your relationships with others. My ideal client is ready to work with me, as i support and guide them. I will work with you if you feel like you're doing mostly ok, and I will work with you if you feel like you are a mess and don't even know where to start. Healing is hard work, but it's so worthwhile and I'd love to help you get to the other side and be able to live your best life as your best, most authentic self.
I specialize in trauma, personality disorders, addiction disorders, LGBTQIA+ issues, body positivity, HIV/AIDS, forensic issues, immigrant/refugee issues, women's issues, and civil rights/social justice.
I will teach you how to live fully in each moment, be unapologetically and authentically you, cope with stress more effectively, regulate your emotions, and improve your relationships with others. My ideal client is ready to work with me, as i support and guide them. I will work with you if you feel like you're doing mostly ok, and I will work with you if you feel like you are a mess and don't even know where to start. Healing is hard work, but it's so worthwhile and I'd love to help you get to the other side and be able to live your best life as your best, most authentic self.
(484) 669-7160 View (484) 669-7160
Photo of Angela Pote, LPC, NCC , ADHD-CS, PhD (s), Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela Pote
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC , ADHD-CS, PhD (s)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwood, PA 19074
Whether you are struggling from trauma, anxiety, depression, or interpersonal relationships, it is easy at times to lose sight of who you are and not have the ability to find yourself.
Whether you are struggling from trauma, anxiety, depression, seeking an ADHD diagnosis, or interpersonal relationships, it is easy at times to lose sight of who you are and not have the ability to find yourself. Angela’s approach to therapy is trauma-informed where she always prioritizes your emotional safety during therapy. Offering gentle guidance to aid you while working within the therapeutic relationship that will help you reach your goals. Angela focuses on helping her clients develop a life that is balanced concentrating on mental, physical, spiritual, social, and emotional wellness.
Whether you are struggling from trauma, anxiety, depression, or interpersonal relationships, it is easy at times to lose sight of who you are and not have the ability to find yourself.
Whether you are struggling from trauma, anxiety, depression, seeking an ADHD diagnosis, or interpersonal relationships, it is easy at times to lose sight of who you are and not have the ability to find yourself. Angela’s approach to therapy is trauma-informed where she always prioritizes your emotional safety during therapy. Offering gentle guidance to aid you while working within the therapeutic relationship that will help you reach your goals. Angela focuses on helping her clients develop a life that is balanced concentrating on mental, physical, spiritual, social, and emotional wellness.
(484) 296-0596 View (484) 296-0596
Photo of Christina Belknap, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Belknap
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springfield, PA 19064
My ideal client aims to engage in an active partnership to build self-awareness and take action to make a change. I will give you feedback and challenge you, which is not everyone’s cup of tea! I work best with those suffering from anxiety, panic attacks, overwhelm, trauma, or emotional flooding. Many of my clients report that our work helped them shift from survival mode to a sense of thriving. I suggest homework; your progress is based on your willingness to practice. The ideal client for my strengths is someone who wants to learn and shift by discovering tangible skills and techniques they can use in their own lives.
My ideal client aims to engage in an active partnership to build self-awareness and take action to make a change. I will give you feedback and challenge you, which is not everyone’s cup of tea! I work best with those suffering from anxiety, panic attacks, overwhelm, trauma, or emotional flooding. Many of my clients report that our work helped them shift from survival mode to a sense of thriving. I suggest homework; your progress is based on your willingness to practice. The ideal client for my strengths is someone who wants to learn and shift by discovering tangible skills and techniques they can use in their own lives.
(267) 309-2636 View (267) 309-2636
Photo of Matt Coffman, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matt Coffman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Springfield, PA 19064  (Online Only)
With extensive knowledge of relationships and significant training in trauma, I have a burning desire to see you improve and do better than your first session.
We all have moments in life when we don't know what to do, or simply can't figure out the next step. Often when something is too difficult for us to handle we talk to someone else. Whether its, stress, lack of motivation, anger, sadness, grief, or relationship issues, I am here to help. My goal is to help you move towards growth and connection. Developing skills that you will take with you out of a session and into your everyday life. Don't let this area of difficulty stop you in your tracks.
With extensive knowledge of relationships and significant training in trauma, I have a burning desire to see you improve and do better than your first session.
We all have moments in life when we don't know what to do, or simply can't figure out the next step. Often when something is too difficult for us to handle we talk to someone else. Whether its, stress, lack of motivation, anger, sadness, grief, or relationship issues, I am here to help. My goal is to help you move towards growth and connection. Developing skills that you will take with you out of a session and into your everyday life. Don't let this area of difficulty stop you in your tracks.
(215) 608-5647 View (215) 608-5647
Photo of Kelly Ace, LPCMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly Ace
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMH
Verified Verified
Chester, PA 19013  (Online Only)
Hello! I get that life is complicated and traumatic experiences make it more so. I have experience helping clients heal and grow as they navigate challenges related to sexual trauma, disability, and mental health.
Hello! I get that life is complicated and traumatic experiences make it more so. I have experience helping clients heal and grow as they navigate challenges related to sexual trauma, disability, and mental health.
(484) 613-2923 View (484) 613-2923
Photo of Josie Albrecht, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Josie Albrecht
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Springfield, PA 19064
As a trauma therapist and embodied human, I recognize the importance of bottom-up therapies, working from our visceral responses to facilitate healing and change.
I enjoy working with clients who want to get to the root of their struggles. These clients would like to gain insight into their symptoms, something difficult that has happened to them or to explore cycles and patterns that aren’t serving them. The clients I see often have attended therapy in the past. The clients I see also often present with attachment-based traumas, symptoms of post-traumatic stress, and difficulties in their personal and work relationships.
As a trauma therapist and embodied human, I recognize the importance of bottom-up therapies, working from our visceral responses to facilitate healing and change.
I enjoy working with clients who want to get to the root of their struggles. These clients would like to gain insight into their symptoms, something difficult that has happened to them or to explore cycles and patterns that aren’t serving them. The clients I see often have attended therapy in the past. The clients I see also often present with attachment-based traumas, symptoms of post-traumatic stress, and difficulties in their personal and work relationships.
(484) 789-8952 View (484) 789-8952
Photo of Rachel A. Longer, MSS, LCSW, CET II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel A. Longer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, CET II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Swarthmore, PA 19081  (Online Only)
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist specializing in working with millennial and gen z adults, highly sensitive people, ocd, anxiety, trauma, and depression.
Have you been told you are “too sensitive”? Do you feel overwhelmed by anxiety? Do you experience intrusive thoughts and wonder, “Why did I just think that?” Perhaps you are on the path of healing from sexual trauma and wish to feel more empowered. Maybe you’re going through a challenging transition and need a safe place to process your thoughts and emotions.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist specializing in working with millennial and gen z adults, highly sensitive people, ocd, anxiety, trauma, and depression.
Have you been told you are “too sensitive”? Do you feel overwhelmed by anxiety? Do you experience intrusive thoughts and wonder, “Why did I just think that?” Perhaps you are on the path of healing from sexual trauma and wish to feel more empowered. Maybe you’re going through a challenging transition and need a safe place to process your thoughts and emotions.
(484) 303-0215 View (484) 303-0215
Photo of Patrick J. McHugh, PhD1, PhD2, Psychologist
Patrick J. McHugh
Psychologist, PhD1, PhD2
Verified Verified
Swarthmore, PA 19081
I help with a variety of problems including but not limited to depression, anxiety, traumas and PTSD, behavioral and personality problems, low self esteem and mindfulness.
More adults, adolescents and children are experiencing depression and anxiety than ever before. Family, work, academics, social stress and isolation can affect us emotionally and physically. There has been a significant increase in drug and alcohol use, behavioral problems, medical complications, broken relationships, lost jobs and academic failure. Social media and the internet provide tremendous opportunities but also problems. In person and cyber bullying cause depression and sometimes death. Some of us experience severe trauma and develop PTSD. At some time we are need support. It is never weak to ask for help.
I help with a variety of problems including but not limited to depression, anxiety, traumas and PTSD, behavioral and personality problems, low self esteem and mindfulness.
More adults, adolescents and children are experiencing depression and anxiety than ever before. Family, work, academics, social stress and isolation can affect us emotionally and physically. There has been a significant increase in drug and alcohol use, behavioral problems, medical complications, broken relationships, lost jobs and academic failure. Social media and the internet provide tremendous opportunities but also problems. In person and cyber bullying cause depression and sometimes death. Some of us experience severe trauma and develop PTSD. At some time we are need support. It is never weak to ask for help.
(610) 565-1399 View (610) 565-1399
Photo of Gregory Mairs, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gregory Mairs
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Springfield, PA 19064
 With some trauma-focused techniques & a positive strength-based approach, I will help clients explore positive paths forward with their goals.
I have an extensive professional history of working with families and couples in crisis. Many of us struggle in our relationships & find that clear communication is challenging for many reasons. The barriers may include issues with past trauma or failed attempts to find the right words during a conflict. I bring the structural therapy tools to help a family, couple, or individual recognize the triggers of their conflicts, explore past trauma & the impact it may have on the current relationship/situation, help the individual challenge automatic negative assumptions, & find a response which leads to clear communication.
 With some trauma-focused techniques & a positive strength-based approach, I will help clients explore positive paths forward with their goals.
I have an extensive professional history of working with families and couples in crisis. Many of us struggle in our relationships & find that clear communication is challenging for many reasons. The barriers may include issues with past trauma or failed attempts to find the right words during a conflict. I bring the structural therapy tools to help a family, couple, or individual recognize the triggers of their conflicts, explore past trauma & the impact it may have on the current relationship/situation, help the individual challenge automatic negative assumptions, & find a response which leads to clear communication.
(484) 257-7472 View (484) 257-7472
Photo of Erica C Conklin, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erica C Conklin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Brookhaven, PA 19015
Since working in acute care my specialty is crisis and trauma.
Hi, Welcome. I am so glad you are here. I know how hard it is to take this first step. You may have recent or past trauma, symptoms of irritability or just not feeling yourself lately. That’s okay. I am hoping you and I can create small achievable goals to help get you relief. I have been working with children, adolescents, young adults and adults for over ten years. I have a strong knowledge base of resources in the Delaware county and Philadelphia area. My orientation for treatment is trauma based, focusing on rapport and safety, then gently exploring how our past experiences shape our reactions and relationships today.
Since working in acute care my specialty is crisis and trauma.
Hi, Welcome. I am so glad you are here. I know how hard it is to take this first step. You may have recent or past trauma, symptoms of irritability or just not feeling yourself lately. That’s okay. I am hoping you and I can create small achievable goals to help get you relief. I have been working with children, adolescents, young adults and adults for over ten years. I have a strong knowledge base of resources in the Delaware county and Philadelphia area. My orientation for treatment is trauma based, focusing on rapport and safety, then gently exploring how our past experiences shape our reactions and relationships today.
(610) 572-2233 View (610) 572-2233
Photo of Scott Strubinger, LCSW, CAADC, CCTPll, RD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Scott Strubinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAADC, CCTPll, RD
Verified Verified
Ridley Park, PA 19078
I use an integrated approach informed by my extensive training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and trauma-focused therapy (EMDR).
Accepting new clients. Adults struggling with anxiety, family relationship problems, and depression. Are you questioning your use of alcohol or a behavior like gambling, sex, or food? Do you continue to struggle with PTSD or other trauma symptoms? Getting good structured support from a therapist who will take the time to fully and compassionately embrace your story is key to rebuilding your life! I am in-network with most major insurance providers.
I use an integrated approach informed by my extensive training in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and trauma-focused therapy (EMDR).
Accepting new clients. Adults struggling with anxiety, family relationship problems, and depression. Are you questioning your use of alcohol or a behavior like gambling, sex, or food? Do you continue to struggle with PTSD or other trauma symptoms? Getting good structured support from a therapist who will take the time to fully and compassionately embrace your story is key to rebuilding your life! I am in-network with most major insurance providers.
(610) 632-6385 View (610) 632-6385

See more therapy options for Woodlyn

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.