Photo of Jeff McIntosh, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Jeff McIntosh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
I have been providing professional therapeutic services to a wide range of individuals, couples, and families for over 20 years. My current specialized areas of interest are life transitions, mindfulness with teens, trauma healing using EMDR, and recovery from sexual abuse and addiction.
I have been providing professional therapeutic services to a wide range of individuals, couples, and families for over 20 years. My current specialized areas of interest are life transitions, mindfulness with teens, trauma healing using EMDR, and recovery from sexual abuse and addiction.
(925) 241-5200 View (925) 241-5200
Photo of Kira Monterrey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Kira Monterrey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPA, CIMHP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
I specialize in PTSD and other trauma-related issues.
One of the most important lessons I have learned as a therapist is that therapy requires more than a one size fits all approach. I treat every person as an individual. I lean on my years of experience and use a multitude of treatment modalities to treat your individual needs. We can work together to help you achieve your therapeutic goals. I have treated individuals with a variety of issues, including PTSD, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, dissociative identity disorder, substance abuse disorders, anger, and more. I have also helped families and couples achieve harmony and improve their relationships and communication.
I specialize in PTSD and other trauma-related issues.
One of the most important lessons I have learned as a therapist is that therapy requires more than a one size fits all approach. I treat every person as an individual. I lean on my years of experience and use a multitude of treatment modalities to treat your individual needs. We can work together to help you achieve your therapeutic goals. I have treated individuals with a variety of issues, including PTSD, depression, anxiety, panic disorders, dissociative identity disorder, substance abuse disorders, anger, and more. I have also helped families and couples achieve harmony and improve their relationships and communication.
(925) 643-2034 View (925) 643-2034
Photo of Sheril Elizabeth Phillips, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Sheril Elizabeth Phillips
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
Generally, my history of working with clients at a deep level gives me insight into those things that are difficult for them to see. Since I work with groups, I am able to identify the patterns that are preventing growth and I’m also informed of the effects of family history and trauma
Generally, my history of working with clients at a deep level gives me insight into those things that are difficult for them to see. Since I work with groups, I am able to identify the patterns that are preventing growth and I’m also informed of the effects of family history and trauma
(925) 230-0456 View (925) 230-0456
Photo of Amy L W Scott, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Amy L W Scott
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
In my practice, I work with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. I offer both short-term therapy and longer insight-oriented work. I utilize my years of experience, intuition, compassion, and humor to support my clients in addressing the issues that brought them into therapy. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, anger, abuse/trauma, parenting/divorce/blended family issues, foster care, as well as other social, emotional, and behavioral issues. Through my dynamic approach, I provide a safe and nurturing environment to explore and resolve various issues. I draw from the following theories and techniques: psychodynamic, client-centered, humanistic, play therapy, mindfulness, and somatic psychology.
In my practice, I work with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. I offer both short-term therapy and longer insight-oriented work. I utilize my years of experience, intuition, compassion, and humor to support my clients in addressing the issues that brought them into therapy. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, anger, abuse/trauma, parenting/divorce/blended family issues, foster care, as well as other social, emotional, and behavioral issues. Through my dynamic approach, I provide a safe and nurturing environment to explore and resolve various issues. I draw from the following theories and techniques: psychodynamic, client-centered, humanistic, play therapy, mindfulness, and somatic psychology.
(925) 259-3954 View (925) 259-3954
Photo of Robyn Binder, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Robyn Binder
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513  (Online Only)
I have several years of experience working with children, teens and adults who have experienced trauma, as well as many clients struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, parenting struggles and relationship challenges.
I believe therapy works best when it is a partnership between the therapist and client. I would love to partner with you to support the change or increased happiness you might be seeking. You do not have to struggle alone, I am happy to work with individuals, including adults and teens. During our work together, I hope to provide you with a safe, comfortable space to work towards your goals. My style is collaborative, compassionate, and warm.
I have several years of experience working with children, teens and adults who have experienced trauma, as well as many clients struggling with issues such as anxiety, depression, parenting struggles and relationship challenges.
I believe therapy works best when it is a partnership between the therapist and client. I would love to partner with you to support the change or increased happiness you might be seeking. You do not have to struggle alone, I am happy to work with individuals, including adults and teens. During our work together, I hope to provide you with a safe, comfortable space to work towards your goals. My style is collaborative, compassionate, and warm.
(925) 267-6858 View (925) 267-6858
Photo of Charlotte Santos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Charlotte Santos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with adults who have experienced trauma, abuse, have ADHD, or are navigating life transitions and intense personal relationships. The majority of my clients have experienced a recent traumatic event, childhood trauma or abuse, sexual trauma, intense or abusive relationships, substance use, medical trauma, combat trauma, and life impacted by the military. I utilize EMDR among other evidence based and trauma informed therapy modalities. I prioritize a very client centered, and individualized approach to therapy. I love working with clients who want to go deep or dig into solution focused work.
I specialize in working with adults who have experienced trauma, abuse, have ADHD, or are navigating life transitions and intense personal relationships. The majority of my clients have experienced a recent traumatic event, childhood trauma or abuse, sexual trauma, intense or abusive relationships, substance use, medical trauma, combat trauma, and life impacted by the military. I utilize EMDR among other evidence based and trauma informed therapy modalities. I prioritize a very client centered, and individualized approach to therapy. I love working with clients who want to go deep or dig into solution focused work.
(530) 212-7053 View (530) 212-7053
Photo of Sharon Andrews, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Sharon Andrews
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513  (Online Only)
ImTT is a breakthrough in the treatment of Trauma, OCD, Depression, Anxiety, Behavioral and Substance Addictions.
I am passionate about therapy that produces lasting, inner healing! I use a combination of several psychological theories, depending on what will best meet my client's needs, including ImTT and EMDR, to help clients experience healing and change in the places where their pain originated. This not only creates symptom reduction and/or extinction but also produces an outcome of inner peace, joy and freedom, putting an end to trying harder, pretending or "white-knuckling" through. I love this work and look forward to connecting with you in your journey toward emotional wholeness!
ImTT is a breakthrough in the treatment of Trauma, OCD, Depression, Anxiety, Behavioral and Substance Addictions.
I am passionate about therapy that produces lasting, inner healing! I use a combination of several psychological theories, depending on what will best meet my client's needs, including ImTT and EMDR, to help clients experience healing and change in the places where their pain originated. This not only creates symptom reduction and/or extinction but also produces an outcome of inner peace, joy and freedom, putting an end to trying harder, pretending or "white-knuckling" through. I love this work and look forward to connecting with you in your journey toward emotional wholeness!
(925) 854-4071 View (925) 854-4071
Photo of Lauren Dummit, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Lauren Dummit
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT-S, CST
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
I am a CSAT specializing in trauma and addiction as well as sexuality and intimacy issues. My unique style treats emotional discomfort and pain as avenues for self-discovery and personal growth. As a somatic therapist, I believe true healing comes from creating alignment between body, mind, and soul. As you more skilled at navigating your inner obstacles, you will rediscover your capacity to find balance and live a life that is healthy, joyful, and free. I emphasize insight, self-awareness, and empowerment to help you grow, learn about the meaning behind your symptoms, and lead a more gratifying life.
I am a CSAT specializing in trauma and addiction as well as sexuality and intimacy issues. My unique style treats emotional discomfort and pain as avenues for self-discovery and personal growth. As a somatic therapist, I believe true healing comes from creating alignment between body, mind, and soul. As you more skilled at navigating your inner obstacles, you will rediscover your capacity to find balance and live a life that is healthy, joyful, and free. I emphasize insight, self-awareness, and empowerment to help you grow, learn about the meaning behind your symptoms, and lead a more gratifying life.
(310) 895-9316 View (310) 895-9316
Photo of Dr. Andrea F Polard, Psychologist in Brentwood, CA
Dr. Andrea F Polard
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513  (Online Only)
Thank you for reaching out, which is a first, brave step in finding the therapist you like -the best predictor for therapeutic success. I feel blessed in my role as a therapist and deeply love my work. My clients suffer from depression, new relational wounds, old wounds and trauma, stress, anxiety, autism, and/or LGBTQ+ related problems. Because happiness and success depend on a sense of interconnectedness, my clients often seek to improve the quality of their relationships to themselves (inner peace, self-love, mindfulness, clarity), others (e.g., partnerships, parents, friends, employers), and the universe that can seem so cold.
Thank you for reaching out, which is a first, brave step in finding the therapist you like -the best predictor for therapeutic success. I feel blessed in my role as a therapist and deeply love my work. My clients suffer from depression, new relational wounds, old wounds and trauma, stress, anxiety, autism, and/or LGBTQ+ related problems. Because happiness and success depend on a sense of interconnectedness, my clients often seek to improve the quality of their relationships to themselves (inner peace, self-love, mindfulness, clarity), others (e.g., partnerships, parents, friends, employers), and the universe that can seem so cold.
(310) 879-5949 View (310) 879-5949
Photo of Brittani Simberg, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Brittani Simberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
It is my greatest privilege to join someone on their journey; to help them find their way around the boulders, over the stumbling blocks and out of the crevasses that have derailed goals, clouded views or kept them from happiness. To see them make the changes they have dreamed of. Together we can examine patterns, identify sources of hope, build on strengths, challenge fears and create road maps which you can use to take those next powerful, healing steps. I specialize in working with individuals and couples struggling with Borderline Personality Disorder, mood and anxiety disorders, trauma and relational issues.
It is my greatest privilege to join someone on their journey; to help them find their way around the boulders, over the stumbling blocks and out of the crevasses that have derailed goals, clouded views or kept them from happiness. To see them make the changes they have dreamed of. Together we can examine patterns, identify sources of hope, build on strengths, challenge fears and create road maps which you can use to take those next powerful, healing steps. I specialize in working with individuals and couples struggling with Borderline Personality Disorder, mood and anxiety disorders, trauma and relational issues.
(424) 372-4198 View (424) 372-4198
Photo of Carolyn Breaud, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Carolyn Breaud
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
Among my areas of expertise are trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, self harm and suicidal ideation.
If you've never had therapy before, you may be imagining a silent, clinical note-taker who may not truly understand your perspective. I want to be the therapist to change that for you. My interactive, laid-back, upfront style helps my clients feel at ease. Alfred Adler, an early pioneer of psychotherapy says, "Empathy is seeing with the eyes of another, listening with the ears of another and feeling with the heart of another." This best describes my approach to therapy. I have a natural authentic interest in the stories of others and the experiences they bring in.
Among my areas of expertise are trauma, anxiety, mood disorders, self harm and suicidal ideation.
If you've never had therapy before, you may be imagining a silent, clinical note-taker who may not truly understand your perspective. I want to be the therapist to change that for you. My interactive, laid-back, upfront style helps my clients feel at ease. Alfred Adler, an early pioneer of psychotherapy says, "Empathy is seeing with the eyes of another, listening with the ears of another and feeling with the heart of another." This best describes my approach to therapy. I have a natural authentic interest in the stories of others and the experiences they bring in.
(603) 825-4836 View (603) 825-4836
Photo of Akilah V. Vazquez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Akilah V. Vazquez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in trauma and I am a Certified Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapist.
There are things that happen in life that we try to overcome on our own but realize it has become too much to handle alone. You may be experiencing work related stress, conflict in your relationships, shame, grief, anxiety, depression, or a trauma. As a Therapist I want to support you heal those parts of yourself that hold you back. My goal is to support you in navigating, refining or developing skills to improve and enhance your life. I want to help restore, renew and heal yourself, relationships, life or work. Psychotherapy can be a difficult process; It is important to feel comfortable and safe as you go on this journey.
I specialize in trauma and I am a Certified Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapist.
There are things that happen in life that we try to overcome on our own but realize it has become too much to handle alone. You may be experiencing work related stress, conflict in your relationships, shame, grief, anxiety, depression, or a trauma. As a Therapist I want to support you heal those parts of yourself that hold you back. My goal is to support you in navigating, refining or developing skills to improve and enhance your life. I want to help restore, renew and heal yourself, relationships, life or work. Psychotherapy can be a difficult process; It is important to feel comfortable and safe as you go on this journey.
(510) 466-1874 View (510) 466-1874
Photo of Miya Moore-Felton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Miya Moore-Felton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
Each and every person has their own unique story as life events have varying impacts on individuals. There is no cookie cutter approach to treating trauma, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, ADHD, etc., therefore my approach with each client is tailored to the client's needs.
Each and every person has their own unique story as life events have varying impacts on individuals. There is no cookie cutter approach to treating trauma, depression, anxiety, personality disorders, ADHD, etc., therefore my approach with each client is tailored to the client's needs.
(925) 759-9272 View (925) 759-9272
Photo of Renee Zavislak, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Renee Zavislak
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
If you are facing sadness, anxiety, trauma, or dependence, finding and contacting a therapist is likely a daunting process and a huge leap of faith.
As an integrative therapist, I draw from different psychotherapy orientations. This allows me to tailor therapy to your needs and allows for a truly collaborative process in deciding where we go and how. Since successful therapy depends on a strong relationship between client and therapist, my first priority is nurturing that bond by creating a safe and supportive environment. I believe therapy is most effective when it is flexible, demystified, and client-centered, so you can expect me to be transparent about my ideas and approaches. My style is at times infused with humor and is always warm and direct.
If you are facing sadness, anxiety, trauma, or dependence, finding and contacting a therapist is likely a daunting process and a huge leap of faith.
As an integrative therapist, I draw from different psychotherapy orientations. This allows me to tailor therapy to your needs and allows for a truly collaborative process in deciding where we go and how. Since successful therapy depends on a strong relationship between client and therapist, my first priority is nurturing that bond by creating a safe and supportive environment. I believe therapy is most effective when it is flexible, demystified, and client-centered, so you can expect me to be transparent about my ideas and approaches. My style is at times infused with humor and is always warm and direct.
(415) 881-4930 View (415) 881-4930
Photo of Shari Brickin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Shari Brickin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
Christopher Reeve said, "Once you choose hope anything is possible" and therapy builds hope. I specialize in helping trauma survivors find relief from the effects of traumatic experiences. Trauma happens when our mind and body become so overwhelmed that we cannot process it or make sense of what has happened. Complex trauma is experienced when trauma is perpetuated over a long period of time and the traumatic-state becomes "the norm." Together we will work to build resilience, reduce suffering, affect positive behavioral changes, and learn healthy coping skills.
Christopher Reeve said, "Once you choose hope anything is possible" and therapy builds hope. I specialize in helping trauma survivors find relief from the effects of traumatic experiences. Trauma happens when our mind and body become so overwhelmed that we cannot process it or make sense of what has happened. Complex trauma is experienced when trauma is perpetuated over a long period of time and the traumatic-state becomes "the norm." Together we will work to build resilience, reduce suffering, affect positive behavioral changes, and learn healthy coping skills.
(747) 227-7818 View (747) 227-7818
Photo of Isabella (Bella) Shirinyan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Isabella (Bella) Shirinyan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513
Navigating personal struggles often leaves us feeling alone, anxious, and disconnected. This experience can become even more intense when dealing with issues such as eating disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, bipolar disorder, and co-occurring conditions. I specialize in helping individuals navigate these challenges. Collaborating with psychiatrists, doctors, and dietitians, we form a holistic support team, going beyond traditional methods for comprehensive healing. We aim to equip you with tools for emotional, physical, and mental wellness, enabling lasting growth and resilience.
Navigating personal struggles often leaves us feeling alone, anxious, and disconnected. This experience can become even more intense when dealing with issues such as eating disorders, trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, bipolar disorder, and co-occurring conditions. I specialize in helping individuals navigate these challenges. Collaborating with psychiatrists, doctors, and dietitians, we form a holistic support team, going beyond traditional methods for comprehensive healing. We aim to equip you with tools for emotional, physical, and mental wellness, enabling lasting growth and resilience.
(818) 918-2237 View (818) 918-2237
Photo of Aisha Ishtiaq, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Aisha Ishtiaq
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513  (Online Only)
I work from the lens of Trauma-Informed Care and Childhood Attachment.
Do you feel as if every effort you make is never enough, that you are always striving for something bigger and better? Are you struggling in your relationship or marriage and cannot break the unhealthy patterns of how you and your partner relate to each other? As your therapist, I support individuals and couples to begin to heal from past traumas and learn to accept and love themselves. I help couples to break free from unhealthy patterns to truly enjoy each other's company and love.
I work from the lens of Trauma-Informed Care and Childhood Attachment.
Do you feel as if every effort you make is never enough, that you are always striving for something bigger and better? Are you struggling in your relationship or marriage and cannot break the unhealthy patterns of how you and your partner relate to each other? As your therapist, I support individuals and couples to begin to heal from past traumas and learn to accept and love themselves. I help couples to break free from unhealthy patterns to truly enjoy each other's company and love.
(323) 765-3101 View (323) 765-3101
Photo of Allie Herrington, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Brentwood, CA
Allie Herrington
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, CA 94513  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in ImTT and Brainspotting and take a dynamic approach, one that is client centered, body based, and trauma informed.
It may feel like parts of you are broken or you hurt so deeply and nothing seems to heal the wounds. But you know you want more for yourself, for your relationships, and you want to take that next step towards healing. You may find you are struggling with anxiety, depression, you feel “stuck”, your relationships are challenged, your body feels tense and stressed, or you can’t quite understand why things feel out of sorts. You want to heal, but you don't know where to begin. I want you to know you are not alone, you are not too broken to heal, and you are worthy of living in a body and environment that is calm and enjoyable.
I am trained in ImTT and Brainspotting and take a dynamic approach, one that is client centered, body based, and trauma informed.
It may feel like parts of you are broken or you hurt so deeply and nothing seems to heal the wounds. But you know you want more for yourself, for your relationships, and you want to take that next step towards healing. You may find you are struggling with anxiety, depression, you feel “stuck”, your relationships are challenged, your body feels tense and stressed, or you can’t quite understand why things feel out of sorts. You want to heal, but you don't know where to begin. I want you to know you are not alone, you are not too broken to heal, and you are worthy of living in a body and environment that is calm and enjoyable.
(925) 966-2049 View (925) 966-2049
Photo of Megan Bradley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Megan Bradley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
), with various presenting issues, such as, trauma, bereavement, self-emotional dysregulation, anxiety, depression, adjusting to an illness and/or disability, and marital discord.
During stressful times, constant worrying, anxiety, anger, and sadness surfaces and causes disruption with relationships, sleep, eating habits, and health. I strongly believe in the mind and body connection and, with help, stress can be an opportunity for emotional growth. I utilize my clinical experience and evidence-based therapeutic interventions to motivate clients and families towards their own emotional growth. I tailor various therapeutic approaches according to what works for my client and what my client needs to meet their goals.
), with various presenting issues, such as, trauma, bereavement, self-emotional dysregulation, anxiety, depression, adjusting to an illness and/or disability, and marital discord.
During stressful times, constant worrying, anxiety, anger, and sadness surfaces and causes disruption with relationships, sleep, eating habits, and health. I strongly believe in the mind and body connection and, with help, stress can be an opportunity for emotional growth. I utilize my clinical experience and evidence-based therapeutic interventions to motivate clients and families towards their own emotional growth. I tailor various therapeutic approaches according to what works for my client and what my client needs to meet their goals.
(925) 318-9684 View (925) 318-9684
Photo of Sophia Hutton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Brentwood, CA
Sophia Hutton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brentwood, CA 94513
I believe that my style and approach are a good fit for teens, young adults, and adults impacted by depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and other life challenges that are preventing them from being their healthiest and happiest selves.
Hey there! My name is Sophia Hutton, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Southern California. I have a diverse background and skillset within the field of mental health which I utilize to support teens and adults impacted by anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and day-to-day life stressors. My approach to therapy is collaborative and centered around the development of a positive therapeutic relationship in which the client feels safe to process, explore, admit, grieve, celebrate, and heal.
I believe that my style and approach are a good fit for teens, young adults, and adults impacted by depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and other life challenges that are preventing them from being their healthiest and happiest selves.
Hey there! My name is Sophia Hutton, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Southern California. I have a diverse background and skillset within the field of mental health which I utilize to support teens and adults impacted by anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and day-to-day life stressors. My approach to therapy is collaborative and centered around the development of a positive therapeutic relationship in which the client feels safe to process, explore, admit, grieve, celebrate, and heal.
(925) 718-9021 View (925) 718-9021
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.