Trauma and PTSD Therapists in South Carolina

Photo of Danielle Osborne - Danielle Osborne//Mind Body Soul Therapy, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Osborne//Mind Body Soul Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Goose Creek, SC 29445  (Online Only)
As a therapist, my top priorities are making sure that clients feel safe and advocated for during sessions, and that we take a collaborative approach towards treatment goals. I practice with an abolitionist and integrative approach, depending on the needs of the client. I have four main areas of focus in my counseling practice: Trauma/Complex- PTSD, Deconstruction/Liberation, Neurodivergence, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
As a therapist, my top priorities are making sure that clients feel safe and advocated for during sessions, and that we take a collaborative approach towards treatment goals. I practice with an abolitionist and integrative approach, depending on the needs of the client. I have four main areas of focus in my counseling practice: Trauma/Complex- PTSD, Deconstruction/Liberation, Neurodivergence, and LGBTQIA+ issues.
(843) 438-7817 View (843) 438-7817
Photo of Yamilette Diaz, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Yamilette Diaz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29607  (Online Only)
I believe that taking care of your mental health can look different depending on your life circumstances. I help people with diverse backgrounds who are dealing with life transitions, experienced trauma, or are dealing with other issues, and want to be their best selves and live fulfilling lives. When working with me, I will take into consideration how your overall well-being is affected by your emotional, social, physical, and spiritual condition.
I believe that taking care of your mental health can look different depending on your life circumstances. I help people with diverse backgrounds who are dealing with life transitions, experienced trauma, or are dealing with other issues, and want to be their best selves and live fulfilling lives. When working with me, I will take into consideration how your overall well-being is affected by your emotional, social, physical, and spiritual condition.
(864) 514-5858 View (864) 514-5858
Photo of Trent Peeler, MA, LPCA
Trent Peeler
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPCA
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29203  (Online Only)
What brings you to counseling? I love hearing clients' stories, and it is a privilege to come alongside my clients to look at the issues they're facing and collaborate towards a solution. I tend to think a lot of the issues we face come from the things we experience and the lessons we learn from important relationships in our lives, and so I approach therapy from a trauma-informed perspective to unpack those lessons and create an opportunity for growth and change.
What brings you to counseling? I love hearing clients' stories, and it is a privilege to come alongside my clients to look at the issues they're facing and collaborate towards a solution. I tend to think a lot of the issues we face come from the things we experience and the lessons we learn from important relationships in our lives, and so I approach therapy from a trauma-informed perspective to unpack those lessons and create an opportunity for growth and change.
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Photo of Lynn E Geiger, PhD, Psychologist
Lynn E Geiger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928  (Online Only)
As a young girl, I wanted to be a teacher. I got my teaching certificate and then a degree in counseling and guidance. Increasingly, the field of psychology captured my attention. My training focused on children and families which led to working with couples. In my work with children, I developed expertise in the areas of trauma and pediatric illnesses and led to trauma with adults and to work in end-of-life issues. The field of psychology has changed so much! 40 years ago people attended therapy for years. Now people can utilize the tools and strategies the therapy can provide in fewer than five sessions.
As a young girl, I wanted to be a teacher. I got my teaching certificate and then a degree in counseling and guidance. Increasingly, the field of psychology captured my attention. My training focused on children and families which led to working with couples. In my work with children, I developed expertise in the areas of trauma and pediatric illnesses and led to trauma with adults and to work in end-of-life issues. The field of psychology has changed so much! 40 years ago people attended therapy for years. Now people can utilize the tools and strategies the therapy can provide in fewer than five sessions.
(833) 924-0880 View (833) 924-0880
Photo of Charles E Frangos, LPC-MHS, CSAT, EMDR, RRT, CDWF, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charles E Frangos
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-MHS, CSAT, EMDR, RRT, CDWF
Verified Verified
My ideal client is an adult who is stuck in a negative pattern in their life and needs some help getting "unstuck." These negative patterns can show up as addictions, PTSD, unhappy relationships, depression, insomnia, abusive relationships and work problems, among others. I have a passion for working with addiction, especially sex addiction in all aspects. This includes helping clients find sobriety, making new and healthy connections, and dealing with the root causes of addiction.
My ideal client is an adult who is stuck in a negative pattern in their life and needs some help getting "unstuck." These negative patterns can show up as addictions, PTSD, unhappy relationships, depression, insomnia, abusive relationships and work problems, among others. I have a passion for working with addiction, especially sex addiction in all aspects. This includes helping clients find sobriety, making new and healthy connections, and dealing with the root causes of addiction.
(843) 595-4044 View (843) 595-4044
Photo of Lauren Markley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Markley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Summerville, SC 29485  (Online Only)
I can help you live with your anxiety or trauma as you become comfortable in therapy, prioritizing your mental health and addressing patterns that have held you back from the life you want to live.
Have others told you you "need to relax" or you "need to stop worrying"? Have you avoided therapy because you were taught to not believe in it? Anxiety and trauma can rob you of life's greatest joys and keep you stuck in the "what ifs". You don't have to suffer alone. You are not broken and you are capable of change. Family systems, culture and stigma prevent people who need help from getting help. You would never walk around on a broken leg but you have been avoiding seeking help for your difficulty relaxing, feeling on edge, worrying too much about the future or the past. I can help!
I can help you live with your anxiety or trauma as you become comfortable in therapy, prioritizing your mental health and addressing patterns that have held you back from the life you want to live.
Have others told you you "need to relax" or you "need to stop worrying"? Have you avoided therapy because you were taught to not believe in it? Anxiety and trauma can rob you of life's greatest joys and keep you stuck in the "what ifs". You don't have to suffer alone. You are not broken and you are capable of change. Family systems, culture and stigma prevent people who need help from getting help. You would never walk around on a broken leg but you have been avoiding seeking help for your difficulty relaxing, feeling on edge, worrying too much about the future or the past. I can help!
(843) 808-3551 View (843) 808-3551
Photo of Emma Shepardson, LISW-CP, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emma Shepardson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fort Mill, SC 29715  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you find yourself struggling to move past the weight of trauma, know that you're not alone.
You feel disconnected from your life. Perhaps it’s a sense of numbness that makes connecting with others difficult. Or maybe it’s the constant feeling of being on edge, wondering what others think of you. You feel like no matter what, you’re just not good enough. Living through abuse can deteriorate our sense of self-worth. It’s important to know that it is never too late to heal from childhood sexual abuse. I recognize the profound impact that childhood trauma can have on our adult lives, often showing up in ways we may not fully understand.
If you find yourself struggling to move past the weight of trauma, know that you're not alone.
You feel disconnected from your life. Perhaps it’s a sense of numbness that makes connecting with others difficult. Or maybe it’s the constant feeling of being on edge, wondering what others think of you. You feel like no matter what, you’re just not good enough. Living through abuse can deteriorate our sense of self-worth. It’s important to know that it is never too late to heal from childhood sexual abuse. I recognize the profound impact that childhood trauma can have on our adult lives, often showing up in ways we may not fully understand.
(803) 941-5851 View (803) 941-5851
Photo of Alicia Pace - Alicia Pace Psychotherapy LISW-CP, LCSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alicia Pace Psychotherapy LISW-CP, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29615
Accepting new clients and offering IFS as a Level 1 trained clinician and Brainspotting. In this space, I hope you will feel understood by someone who is an HSP (highly sensitive person) & has been through various adversities and come out on the other side. I strive to help my clients flourish and navigate through their individual life challenges. I have expertise in the areas of highly sensitive persons, anxiety, depression, relational and developmental trauma, addiction, codependence and LGBTQ+.
Accepting new clients and offering IFS as a Level 1 trained clinician and Brainspotting. In this space, I hope you will feel understood by someone who is an HSP (highly sensitive person) & has been through various adversities and come out on the other side. I strive to help my clients flourish and navigate through their individual life challenges. I have expertise in the areas of highly sensitive persons, anxiety, depression, relational and developmental trauma, addiction, codependence and LGBTQ+.
(979) 493-5076 View (979) 493-5076
Photo of Dylan L Redd, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dylan L Redd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29615
We will target shame and trauma in order to redefine and reimagine your presenting issue in positive and constructive ways.
If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, and unable to move forward, I encourage you to reach out and see what I can do to help. Trauma, ADHD, Anxiety, or Depression can have a lasting effect on your life. Negative thought and behavior patterns can hinder you from following through with your goals, and erratic emotions can hurt relationships. If you have ever thought, "I know what to do. I just struggle to do it," then that is a good sign you need external help. Reach out to me, and let's chat! Find hope and motivation again. Take control of your life!
We will target shame and trauma in order to redefine and reimagine your presenting issue in positive and constructive ways.
If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, and unable to move forward, I encourage you to reach out and see what I can do to help. Trauma, ADHD, Anxiety, or Depression can have a lasting effect on your life. Negative thought and behavior patterns can hinder you from following through with your goals, and erratic emotions can hurt relationships. If you have ever thought, "I know what to do. I just struggle to do it," then that is a good sign you need external help. Reach out to me, and let's chat! Find hope and motivation again. Take control of your life!
(864) 523-6254 View (864) 523-6254
Photo of C. Melinda Fuller, MS, LPC, LPC/S, Licensed Professional Counselor
C. Melinda Fuller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LPC/S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Florence, SC 29501
I have primarily worked with children, adolescents, and their families for the past 20 years in mental health, residential and school settings. Prior to that, I worked for a domestic violence, rape crisis, and child abuse center where I worked with survivors and their families in various capacities, including group and individual counseling, crisis intervention, and victim advocacy. This has provided a great deal of experience working with trauma and related issues, such as depression and anxiety in adults and children. It also has given me the opportunity to see families grow and make positive changes in their lives after adversity
I have primarily worked with children, adolescents, and their families for the past 20 years in mental health, residential and school settings. Prior to that, I worked for a domestic violence, rape crisis, and child abuse center where I worked with survivors and their families in various capacities, including group and individual counseling, crisis intervention, and victim advocacy. This has provided a great deal of experience working with trauma and related issues, such as depression and anxiety in adults and children. It also has given me the opportunity to see families grow and make positive changes in their lives after adversity
(843) 256-2216 View (843) 256-2216
Photo of Robyn Durk, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robyn Durk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greer, SC 29651
I have years of experience helping clients with coping, trauma, depression, anxiety, relationships, and more.
Acknowledging life struggles and making the decision to improve your mental health and wellbeing is often the hardest first step. Every person has their own individual reason for taking that first step. Some are struggling with major life transitions, some are finding they no longer feel excited about life and lack motivation to engage in activities that make them feel good. Others feel anxious doing everyday activities and some find that their past experiences hold them back from living their best life. Whatever your reason is for taking that first step, I am so glad you did!
I have years of experience helping clients with coping, trauma, depression, anxiety, relationships, and more.
Acknowledging life struggles and making the decision to improve your mental health and wellbeing is often the hardest first step. Every person has their own individual reason for taking that first step. Some are struggling with major life transitions, some are finding they no longer feel excited about life and lack motivation to engage in activities that make them feel good. Others feel anxious doing everyday activities and some find that their past experiences hold them back from living their best life. Whatever your reason is for taking that first step, I am so glad you did!
(864) 571-2383 View (864) 571-2383
Photo of Stacey Dawn Sutherland, LPC-A, CIC-CSp, BCC
Stacey Dawn Sutherland
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A, CIC-CSp, BCC
Verified Verified
Fort Mill, SC 29708  (Online Only)
My focus is providing trauma-sensitive support to those impacted by conflict, trauma, seasons of change, or other life crisis.
I am a single Mom of five young adult children (one adopted, two neurodiverse, and one a member of the LGBTQ+ community). I've spent years living and working abroad and in the US. I have experience in the military and first responder communities as well as faith and expat communities. But my ideal client doesn't have to be like me! As a matter of fact, my clients come from all over the world and all walks of life. One thing they often have in common is abuse and trauma in their background, and/or they are going through a season of crisis or transition. All are welcome!
My focus is providing trauma-sensitive support to those impacted by conflict, trauma, seasons of change, or other life crisis.
I am a single Mom of five young adult children (one adopted, two neurodiverse, and one a member of the LGBTQ+ community). I've spent years living and working abroad and in the US. I have experience in the military and first responder communities as well as faith and expat communities. But my ideal client doesn't have to be like me! As a matter of fact, my clients come from all over the world and all walks of life. One thing they often have in common is abuse and trauma in their background, and/or they are going through a season of crisis or transition. All are welcome!
(803) 471-6678 View (803) 471-6678
Photo of Pat Benzien, MSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pat Benzien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Charleston, SC 29401
EMDR is a powerful psychotherapy which has been very successful in helping people who suffer from trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, disturbing memories of past abuse and neglect and other PTSD situations.
I am a licensed therapist in the Charleston area. I have been practicing for over 30 years. In my work with you we can explore how to grow by transforming difficult patterns from the past that may be effecting the present and grow strengths , skills and positive abilities into a more effective you.
EMDR is a powerful psychotherapy which has been very successful in helping people who suffer from trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, disturbing memories of past abuse and neglect and other PTSD situations.
I am a licensed therapist in the Charleston area. I have been practicing for over 30 years. In my work with you we can explore how to grow by transforming difficult patterns from the past that may be effecting the present and grow strengths , skills and positive abilities into a more effective you.
(843) 206-0066 View (843) 206-0066
Photo of Erica Adams, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erica Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Easley, SC 29640
Do you love someone that’s controlling, someone that exhibits narcissistic behaviors? It’s not easy being in a relationship that causes constant anxiety and depression, at times trauma and even PTSD. Quite simply, the sacrifices we’re willing to make can be substantial. And mostly, those sacrifices are worth it. But at times, the demands of our relationships can go too far. Our sense of purpose can be destroyed and the passion we once felt for things disappears. If that's you, take a deep breath; I know what you’re going through. I also know there’s a path for you to find your well-being and happiness again.
Do you love someone that’s controlling, someone that exhibits narcissistic behaviors? It’s not easy being in a relationship that causes constant anxiety and depression, at times trauma and even PTSD. Quite simply, the sacrifices we’re willing to make can be substantial. And mostly, those sacrifices are worth it. But at times, the demands of our relationships can go too far. Our sense of purpose can be destroyed and the passion we once felt for things disappears. If that's you, take a deep breath; I know what you’re going through. I also know there’s a path for you to find your well-being and happiness again.
(864) 301-8625 View (864) 301-8625
Photo of Lili Allen, LPC, MA, JD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lili Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, JD
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
I specialize in helping clients heal from trauma & difficult life experiences related to childhood attachment wounds, body image, sexuality, gender identity and more.
My primary goal as a trauma therapist is to hold space for you to heal, grieve and grow at your own pace. I prioritize fostering a refuge of emotional safety, both in the therapy room and virtually, where you can get to know, understand and appreciate the younger parts of yourself that have helped you survive up to this very moment. My hope is to guide you in clearing out the pain of past experiences in order to make room for joy, love and self-acceptance. My approach to therapy is inclusive, intersectional and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
I specialize in helping clients heal from trauma & difficult life experiences related to childhood attachment wounds, body image, sexuality, gender identity and more.
My primary goal as a trauma therapist is to hold space for you to heal, grieve and grow at your own pace. I prioritize fostering a refuge of emotional safety, both in the therapy room and virtually, where you can get to know, understand and appreciate the younger parts of yourself that have helped you survive up to this very moment. My hope is to guide you in clearing out the pain of past experiences in order to make room for joy, love and self-acceptance. My approach to therapy is inclusive, intersectional and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
(843) 905-2382 View (843) 905-2382
Photo of Ana Kelley, MA, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ana Kelley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29615
I work with both individuals and couples using an attachment based, trauma informed approach.
Our childhood wounds don’t just go away. They shape the way our nervous system responds to stress, the way we seek connection, & the meaning we make of our experiences. Many people don’t even realize how much their past affects them, especially if they never suffered any horrific trauma. But let me tell you what you may notice instead. Your heart and mind races for no reason at all. You react defensively rather than responding calmly. You keep thinking about what you “should” do rather than what you NEED. You work so hard but still feel empty. It’s never enough.
I work with both individuals and couples using an attachment based, trauma informed approach.
Our childhood wounds don’t just go away. They shape the way our nervous system responds to stress, the way we seek connection, & the meaning we make of our experiences. Many people don’t even realize how much their past affects them, especially if they never suffered any horrific trauma. But let me tell you what you may notice instead. Your heart and mind races for no reason at all. You react defensively rather than responding calmly. You keep thinking about what you “should” do rather than what you NEED. You work so hard but still feel empty. It’s never enough.
(864) 334-1721 View (864) 334-1721
Photo of Denise Levereaux, MSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise Levereaux
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Spartanburg, SC 29301
I maintain a private psychotherapy practice dedicated to helping teens and adults work through issues related to trauma, grief and loss, work stress, divorce, depression, anxiety, family conflicts, social stressors, and more.
I specialize in supporting individuals navigating the complex terrains of trauma, chronic illness, and stress. As a therapist deeply committed to your well-being, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise to our sessions. I draw from a blend of EMDR, somatic psychotherapy, and dialectical behavior therapy in my work. I understand the profound impact that trauma, chronic illness, and stress can have on every facet of your life. That's why I've dedicated myself to crafting a therapeutic approach that honors your unique journey and empowers you to reclaim agency over your life.
I maintain a private psychotherapy practice dedicated to helping teens and adults work through issues related to trauma, grief and loss, work stress, divorce, depression, anxiety, family conflicts, social stressors, and more.
I specialize in supporting individuals navigating the complex terrains of trauma, chronic illness, and stress. As a therapist deeply committed to your well-being, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise to our sessions. I draw from a blend of EMDR, somatic psychotherapy, and dialectical behavior therapy in my work. I understand the profound impact that trauma, chronic illness, and stress can have on every facet of your life. That's why I've dedicated myself to crafting a therapeutic approach that honors your unique journey and empowers you to reclaim agency over your life.
(864) 707-9889 View (864) 707-9889
Photo of Madeline Fellabom, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Madeline Fellabom
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29403
I have also helped people navigate through various experiences of stress and/or trauma, such as childhood/developmental, sexual, physical, emotional, or religious/spiritual.
Currently accepting new clients! As a therapist, my engaging approach will support, encourage, and challenge you. I passionately believe that through collaboration, we will reflect on your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors and identify your blind spots and pain points. Understanding the way you were raised and relationship dynamics from an early age can help you become self-aware and make connections to how you are relating with others in your life. This increased self-awareness will be our starting point. With my support, you will use your insights to redirect your life to achieve self acceptance and the inner-peace you seek.
I have also helped people navigate through various experiences of stress and/or trauma, such as childhood/developmental, sexual, physical, emotional, or religious/spiritual.
Currently accepting new clients! As a therapist, my engaging approach will support, encourage, and challenge you. I passionately believe that through collaboration, we will reflect on your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors and identify your blind spots and pain points. Understanding the way you were raised and relationship dynamics from an early age can help you become self-aware and make connections to how you are relating with others in your life. This increased self-awareness will be our starting point. With my support, you will use your insights to redirect your life to achieve self acceptance and the inner-peace you seek.
(843) 459-7157 View (843) 459-7157
Photo of Callie Bruns, MEd, EdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Callie Bruns
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, EdS, LPC
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29607
I am certified to complete TFCBT ( Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) to treat PTSD, I am experienced in CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) to help treat and assess Depression and Anxiety and finally DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy).
Now Accepting New Clients! I am a passionate therapist with a love for working with children, adolescents and young adults. My goal in therapy is to help clients find their identity even with a new diagnosis and to teach them that they don't have to be controlled by their symptoms. Therapy is a wonderful resource if you are feeling lost, confused, unheard, defeated, worthless, hopeless or just stuck in life. Through therapy, I work not only with the client but also the family in order to find a resolution to problematic behaviors or improve overall parenting and communication skills with children.
I am certified to complete TFCBT ( Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) to treat PTSD, I am experienced in CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) to help treat and assess Depression and Anxiety and finally DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy).
Now Accepting New Clients! I am a passionate therapist with a love for working with children, adolescents and young adults. My goal in therapy is to help clients find their identity even with a new diagnosis and to teach them that they don't have to be controlled by their symptoms. Therapy is a wonderful resource if you are feeling lost, confused, unheard, defeated, worthless, hopeless or just stuck in life. Through therapy, I work not only with the client but also the family in order to find a resolution to problematic behaviors or improve overall parenting and communication skills with children.
(864) 334-7778 View (864) 334-7778
Photo of Sarah Sudol, LPC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Sudol
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Rock Hill, SC 29732
I work with a wide range of issues- anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, relationships, LGBTQ+ and trauma.
Every client that walks through my door is unique and has their own story. I strive to provide a safe, comfortable and confidential space where clients feel welcome and heard. I mainly serve children and adolescents in my practice.
I work with a wide range of issues- anxiety, depression, grief, life transitions, relationships, LGBTQ+ and trauma.
Every client that walks through my door is unique and has their own story. I strive to provide a safe, comfortable and confidential space where clients feel welcome and heard. I mainly serve children and adolescents in my practice.
(803) 805-8475 View (803) 805-8475
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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.