Photo of Courtney Samari Rayne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Courtney Samari Rayne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93313
I specialize in working with individuals struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, self esteem/self worth challenges, grief and loss, difficulty regulating mood and emotions, co-dependency, and suicidal thoughts or self injurious behavior.
Accepting New In-Person and Tele-health Patients! It is my passion to work with people who are interested in a holistic approach to self healing and empowerment. It is important to me that I offer clients a sacred space to share, authentic connection, and honest & direct communication. It is my goal to support people in their personal exploration and growth through therapeutic counseling, breath work, relaxation training, the practice of somatic awareness and meditation. The methods I use also have very strong response to treatment for individuals with a history of trauma.
I specialize in working with individuals struggling with trauma, depression, anxiety, self esteem/self worth challenges, grief and loss, difficulty regulating mood and emotions, co-dependency, and suicidal thoughts or self injurious behavior.
Accepting New In-Person and Tele-health Patients! It is my passion to work with people who are interested in a holistic approach to self healing and empowerment. It is important to me that I offer clients a sacred space to share, authentic connection, and honest & direct communication. It is my goal to support people in their personal exploration and growth through therapeutic counseling, breath work, relaxation training, the practice of somatic awareness and meditation. The methods I use also have very strong response to treatment for individuals with a history of trauma.
(661) 367-8493 View (661) 367-8493
Photo of Jesse Marez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Jesse Marez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93307
My name is Jesse Marez, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, licensed in the State of California since 2003. Over the years of my practice, I have cultivated an ability to respond to my clients personally and individually while establishing therapeutic rapport by using motivational interviewing, client-centered therapy and Jungian and existential psychology. My clinical orientation is cognitive behavioral (CBT) and client-centered therapy with a specialty in Trauma Focused CBT; I am also well-versed in psychodynamic and humanistic psychology.
My name is Jesse Marez, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, licensed in the State of California since 2003. Over the years of my practice, I have cultivated an ability to respond to my clients personally and individually while establishing therapeutic rapport by using motivational interviewing, client-centered therapy and Jungian and existential psychology. My clinical orientation is cognitive behavioral (CBT) and client-centered therapy with a specialty in Trauma Focused CBT; I am also well-versed in psychodynamic and humanistic psychology.
(661) 463-7903 View (661) 463-7903
Photo of Daniel S. Rubiaco, Psychologist in Kern County, CA
Daniel S. Rubiaco
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93312
Welcome! My practice includes supporting adolescents, young adults, and adult professionals who are stressed, experiencing anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and major conflict. I also have significant experience working with victims of violent crimes of all ages, which includes the challenges of navigating the criminal court process. I work with clients of various racial, ethnic, cultural, sexual, and religious identities both in inpatient and outpatient settings. My commitment is to cultivate an accepting and confidential environment to promote emotional support and safety in difficult times.
Welcome! My practice includes supporting adolescents, young adults, and adult professionals who are stressed, experiencing anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and major conflict. I also have significant experience working with victims of violent crimes of all ages, which includes the challenges of navigating the criminal court process. I work with clients of various racial, ethnic, cultural, sexual, and religious identities both in inpatient and outpatient settings. My commitment is to cultivate an accepting and confidential environment to promote emotional support and safety in difficult times.
(661) 381-1115 View (661) 381-1115
Photo of Dena Barnes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Dena Barnes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, ATR, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93301
I have experience helping with depression, anxiety, trauma/ptsd, dual diagnoses, substance abuse and behavioral and developmental diagnoses.
Sometimes, it's hard to know how to change things without the help of someone you trust. Perhaps you are ready to make a change in your life...ready to finally close the gap between the way your life is and the way you would like it to be? I'd like to help you along that journey. My goal is to help each client develop a pathway to achieve inner health, resolve conflicts, and find happiness and wholeness in their lives. Here, you will find an open, safe and empathic space for transformation.
I have experience helping with depression, anxiety, trauma/ptsd, dual diagnoses, substance abuse and behavioral and developmental diagnoses.
Sometimes, it's hard to know how to change things without the help of someone you trust. Perhaps you are ready to make a change in your life...ready to finally close the gap between the way your life is and the way you would like it to be? I'd like to help you along that journey. My goal is to help each client develop a pathway to achieve inner health, resolve conflicts, and find happiness and wholeness in their lives. Here, you will find an open, safe and empathic space for transformation.
(661) 460-5123 View (661) 460-5123
Photo of Christian Counseling with Stephanie, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Christian Counseling with Stephanie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93306
I am trained in and have experience delivering Prolonged Exposure (PE), one of the 4 Strongly Recommended Treatments for PTSD by the American Psychological Association.
Ever feel like all you do in therapy is talk about problems, but never get to the really important part of making concrete changes? I know many individuals have expressed these concerns to me. So, you may ask, "How can I change that?" Enter Evidence-Based Practice! Research shows us how to do it! It shows us what works and what doesn’t work. I can take those findings and translate them into the changes you are seeking to make in your life. It takes the guesswork out of getting from Point A to Point B. You’ll spend less time in therapy as your goals will be focused and tracked so we know we are moving in the right direction.
I am trained in and have experience delivering Prolonged Exposure (PE), one of the 4 Strongly Recommended Treatments for PTSD by the American Psychological Association.
Ever feel like all you do in therapy is talk about problems, but never get to the really important part of making concrete changes? I know many individuals have expressed these concerns to me. So, you may ask, "How can I change that?" Enter Evidence-Based Practice! Research shows us how to do it! It shows us what works and what doesn’t work. I can take those findings and translate them into the changes you are seeking to make in your life. It takes the guesswork out of getting from Point A to Point B. You’ll spend less time in therapy as your goals will be focused and tracked so we know we are moving in the right direction.
(661) 402-6526 View (661) 402-6526
Photo of Dr. Corey Gonzales, PhD, Psychologist in Kern County, CA
Dr. Corey Gonzales, PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93312
My practice is predominantly adults and adolescents. My areas of emphasis are in anxiety/trauma, relationship issues, interpersonal growth, grief and loss, health issues and depression. I also work closely with Psychiatrists and Primary Treating Physicians which makes coordination of care efficient if medication is necessary. Trust, support, empathy, education and insight are an important emphasis in my work.
My practice is predominantly adults and adolescents. My areas of emphasis are in anxiety/trauma, relationship issues, interpersonal growth, grief and loss, health issues and depression. I also work closely with Psychiatrists and Primary Treating Physicians which makes coordination of care efficient if medication is necessary. Trust, support, empathy, education and insight are an important emphasis in my work.
(661) 247-0218 View (661) 247-0218
Photo of Angeli Fernandez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Angeli Fernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309  (Online Only)
I help treat many symptoms of mental illnesses to include depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, and substance abuse.
It takes a lot of courage to ask for help, and it is an honor to be trusted with your healing journey. I provide a compassionate and supportive therapeutic environment for my clients. Together, we will work on identifying what is no longer serving you, develop goals and a plan that work for you to make changes to reduce, and even eliminate, these feelings and behaviors causing pain and distress in your life today. My style is warm, open, engaging, occasionally humorous, and at all times respectful. My approach to counseling is caring, supportive, and genuine.
I help treat many symptoms of mental illnesses to include depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, and substance abuse.
It takes a lot of courage to ask for help, and it is an honor to be trusted with your healing journey. I provide a compassionate and supportive therapeutic environment for my clients. Together, we will work on identifying what is no longer serving you, develop goals and a plan that work for you to make changes to reduce, and even eliminate, these feelings and behaviors causing pain and distress in your life today. My style is warm, open, engaging, occasionally humorous, and at all times respectful. My approach to counseling is caring, supportive, and genuine.
(661) 215-8242 View (661) 215-8242
Photo of Dr. Alma Pozo-Breen Clinical Therapist, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Kern County, CA
Dr. Alma Pozo-Breen Clinical Therapist
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PhD, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mojave, CA 93501
My specializations are focused on depression, anxiety, and trauma. I bring a transparent, honest, and easy-going approach. If you are ready to make strategic changes, grow, thrive, and enhance your life, our work will be a collaborative team to reach your ultimate goals. www.drapb.com
My specializations are focused on depression, anxiety, and trauma. I bring a transparent, honest, and easy-going approach. If you are ready to make strategic changes, grow, thrive, and enhance your life, our work will be a collaborative team to reach your ultimate goals. www.drapb.com
(661) 485-3987 View (661) 485-3987
Photo of Jeffrey Bellissimo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Jeffrey Bellissimo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93312
I have 7 years of professional experience working with individuals facing a range of issues, including substance use, trauma, anxiety, depression, interpersonal and family relationships, grief and loss, and others. My method is straightforward- I assist my clients with identifying the root cause of their suffering and help them access their inner strengths to create healthy solutions. I believe that people are experts in their own lives, and my goal is to facilitate the healing process by holding space and allowing clients to navigate their journey to wellness.
I have 7 years of professional experience working with individuals facing a range of issues, including substance use, trauma, anxiety, depression, interpersonal and family relationships, grief and loss, and others. My method is straightforward- I assist my clients with identifying the root cause of their suffering and help them access their inner strengths to create healthy solutions. I believe that people are experts in their own lives, and my goal is to facilitate the healing process by holding space and allowing clients to navigate their journey to wellness.
(661) 466-2290 View (661) 466-2290
Photo of Donald Kirk Weintz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Donald Kirk Weintz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93305
Waitlist for new clients
My expertise is in the areas of complex trauma, addictive behaviors (e.
My work with clients for over 29 years has allowed me to be part of a special journey with each person, couple, and family. My experience in serving as a psychotherapist, with multiple ages, socioeconomic, and culturally diverse clients has allowed me to learn how clients have needs and life goals, which are part of their life journey. I work with clients to identify who is writing their story in positive and adverse ways, which causes them to be 'stuck', wounded, or lost. During the therapy process, we explore skills and/or deep healing to assist them in moving toward healthier experiences, relationships, and living with purpose.
My expertise is in the areas of complex trauma, addictive behaviors (e.
My work with clients for over 29 years has allowed me to be part of a special journey with each person, couple, and family. My experience in serving as a psychotherapist, with multiple ages, socioeconomic, and culturally diverse clients has allowed me to learn how clients have needs and life goals, which are part of their life journey. I work with clients to identify who is writing their story in positive and adverse ways, which causes them to be 'stuck', wounded, or lost. During the therapy process, we explore skills and/or deep healing to assist them in moving toward healthier experiences, relationships, and living with purpose.
(559) 205-9087 View (559) 205-9087
Photo of Veronica Calkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93304
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
(310) 905-5816 View (310) 905-5816
Photo of Millicent Pitts, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Millicent Pitts
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93312
I understand how difficult sharing life altering memories can be for people. Just ignoring unresolved issues will not make the pain any less. Addressing old hurt, anger, fears, and other emotions will assist in gaining a better sense of self. My goal is to help people with the thoughts that keep them up at night. We can’t change the past, but we can change how we process old grief and allow past trauma to impact our lives.
I understand how difficult sharing life altering memories can be for people. Just ignoring unresolved issues will not make the pain any less. Addressing old hurt, anger, fears, and other emotions will assist in gaining a better sense of self. My goal is to help people with the thoughts that keep them up at night. We can’t change the past, but we can change how we process old grief and allow past trauma to impact our lives.
(661) 215-5927 View (661) 215-5927
Photo of Dr. Jeffrey W Cheney, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Dr. Jeffrey W Cheney
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Areas of expertise include: Crisis Management, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Gottman Communication Skills, CBT therapy to reduce anger and address addictive behaviors, Love & Logic Parenting, ADHD testing, and extensive experience working with loss/trauma.
You're hurt and angry and thinking, 'Why do we argue about the same things over and over again I am so tired of fighting! What happened to the way we used to be?' I know you're frustrated. Couples tell me how lonely they feel. You and your partner can be happy again, you can learn to turn towards eachother, reconnect emotionally, and create a more caring and fulfilling relationship. For more than 20 years I've worked with couples and families helping them find a better way to live and love and work together.
Areas of expertise include: Crisis Management, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, Gottman Communication Skills, CBT therapy to reduce anger and address addictive behaviors, Love & Logic Parenting, ADHD testing, and extensive experience working with loss/trauma.
You're hurt and angry and thinking, 'Why do we argue about the same things over and over again I am so tired of fighting! What happened to the way we used to be?' I know you're frustrated. Couples tell me how lonely they feel. You and your partner can be happy again, you can learn to turn towards eachother, reconnect emotionally, and create a more caring and fulfilling relationship. For more than 20 years I've worked with couples and families helping them find a better way to live and love and work together.
(661) 731-3925 View (661) 731-3925
Photo of Glenda G. Love, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Glenda G. Love
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW, PhD, in, Progres
Verified Verified
Tehachapi, CA 93561
I work with women, men and children effected by trauma including domestic abuse, sexual assault, and other trauma.
I hold an M.S. in Sociology with a Certificate in Criminology and Corrections, an M.S.W. in Social Work, and am finishing a Ph.D. in Social Work. I am the past President of the Domestic Violence Advisory Council 2014 (and 2008), with expertise in domestic abuse, sexual assault and children exposed to domestic abuse. I volunteer with the American Red Cross as a Mental Health Clinician, deploying to Moore, Oklahoma in May 2013 for the Spring Tornadoes, Austin, TX in October for the Halloween Flood and the Volcano eruptions in Hilo, Hawaii 2018. Along with individual counseling, I offer relationship, family, children, and teens.
I work with women, men and children effected by trauma including domestic abuse, sexual assault, and other trauma.
I hold an M.S. in Sociology with a Certificate in Criminology and Corrections, an M.S.W. in Social Work, and am finishing a Ph.D. in Social Work. I am the past President of the Domestic Violence Advisory Council 2014 (and 2008), with expertise in domestic abuse, sexual assault and children exposed to domestic abuse. I volunteer with the American Red Cross as a Mental Health Clinician, deploying to Moore, Oklahoma in May 2013 for the Spring Tornadoes, Austin, TX in October for the Halloween Flood and the Volcano eruptions in Hilo, Hawaii 2018. Along with individual counseling, I offer relationship, family, children, and teens.
(661) 689-4098 View (661) 689-4098
Photo of Jefferson Young, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Jefferson Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93311
Currently, Jefferson provides care and supervision for clinicians and clients in a Trauma Recovery Center in Los Angeles.
Jefferson Young is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience providing exceptional care and assisting clients and their families to improve their emotional health. Jefferson came to Los Angeles from Virginia and became a trained and licensed therapist assisting in the development of a Dual Diagnosis program for a local area non-profit. He has lent that experience in assisting the development of Medication Assisted Therapy program for clients with substance use disorders.
Currently, Jefferson provides care and supervision for clinicians and clients in a Trauma Recovery Center in Los Angeles.
Jefferson Young is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 20 years of experience providing exceptional care and assisting clients and their families to improve their emotional health. Jefferson came to Los Angeles from Virginia and became a trained and licensed therapist assisting in the development of a Dual Diagnosis program for a local area non-profit. He has lent that experience in assisting the development of Medication Assisted Therapy program for clients with substance use disorders.
(661) 443-3039 View (661) 443-3039
Photo of Janice Valdez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Janice Valdez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Delano, CA 93215
As a therapist my approach is electic with a touch of narrative, solution focused, cognitive behavioral, DBT, and trauma focused.
Hi, I’m Janice Valdez and I am a Licensed Marriage Family therapist. My career began providing services to individuals who suffer from addiction. For the last three years I have provided individual therapy to clients of all ages with an array of different issues including depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, abuse, and more.
As a therapist my approach is electic with a touch of narrative, solution focused, cognitive behavioral, DBT, and trauma focused.
Hi, I’m Janice Valdez and I am a Licensed Marriage Family therapist. My career began providing services to individuals who suffer from addiction. For the last three years I have provided individual therapy to clients of all ages with an array of different issues including depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, abuse, and more.
(661) 464-1984 View (661) 464-1984
Photo of Catherine Spears, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Catherine Spears
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93307
I have found that my style and clinical experience are a good fit for adults who may be dealing with the challenges of childhood trauma.
Hi there, I’m Catherine! My name is Catherine Spears, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Visalia, California, and work with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adult individuals and couples and have extensive experience working with substance abuse, traumatic stress, depression, and anxiety using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Attachment-Based therapy, and Emotionally Focused therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
I have found that my style and clinical experience are a good fit for adults who may be dealing with the challenges of childhood trauma.
Hi there, I’m Catherine! My name is Catherine Spears, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Visalia, California, and work with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adult individuals and couples and have extensive experience working with substance abuse, traumatic stress, depression, and anxiety using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Attachment-Based therapy, and Emotionally Focused therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
(661) 441-3359 View (661) 441-3359
Photo of Elizabeth Waissman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Elizabeth Waissman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93307
My name is Elizabeth (Liz) Waissman, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I have worked in many different settings over the last 20 years as a Clinician, both with individuals and couples. I have worked in various settings, with Individuals who have experienced a variety of personal issues such as Depression/Anxiety, Stress, PTSD, Grief and Loss, Workplace issues, coping with change, Relationship issues and Aging issues. My approach to therapy is a client centered approach, and solution focused therapy, in other words, we will start where you are, right now.
My name is Elizabeth (Liz) Waissman, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California. I have worked in many different settings over the last 20 years as a Clinician, both with individuals and couples. I have worked in various settings, with Individuals who have experienced a variety of personal issues such as Depression/Anxiety, Stress, PTSD, Grief and Loss, Workplace issues, coping with change, Relationship issues and Aging issues. My approach to therapy is a client centered approach, and solution focused therapy, in other words, we will start where you are, right now.
(661) 438-0298 View (661) 438-0298
Photo of Mindful Path Counseling LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Mindful Path Counseling LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309  (Online Only)
Life can be difficult at times but we are built to survive under trauma.
Depression is overwhelming sadness that has an impact in living your best life. Depression can be accompanied by different symptoms of anxiety, panic and loss of energy/motivation. Overcoming depression can be challenging if you are doing it alone. Negative life experiences can and do have an impact on who you are and your happiness. Awareness and understanding of what is going on inside of yourself is powerful in helping yourself to overcome negative or irrational thoughts that are keeping you from being your true self.
Life can be difficult at times but we are built to survive under trauma.
Depression is overwhelming sadness that has an impact in living your best life. Depression can be accompanied by different symptoms of anxiety, panic and loss of energy/motivation. Overcoming depression can be challenging if you are doing it alone. Negative life experiences can and do have an impact on who you are and your happiness. Awareness and understanding of what is going on inside of yourself is powerful in helping yourself to overcome negative or irrational thoughts that are keeping you from being your true self.
(661) 220-5161 View (661) 220-5161
Photo of Jeffrey McNamara, Counselor in Kern County, CA
Jeffrey McNamara
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Tehachapi, CA 93561
I am a combat retired veteran that have worked in the military behavioral health community for over 30 years, and I am well versed with treating combat-related trauma and substance use issues.
Life is filled with ups and downs, which can seem overwhelming at times for many of us. I believe that therapy should be tailored to accommodate your needs and measurable treatment goals will be established and take priority for each client I serve. My goal is to work collectively as a team with you to identify current difficulties and assist your efforts to overcome these difficulties in a healthy environment where you feel heard and supported.
I am a combat retired veteran that have worked in the military behavioral health community for over 30 years, and I am well versed with treating combat-related trauma and substance use issues.
Life is filled with ups and downs, which can seem overwhelming at times for many of us. I believe that therapy should be tailored to accommodate your needs and measurable treatment goals will be established and take priority for each client I serve. My goal is to work collectively as a team with you to identify current difficulties and assist your efforts to overcome these difficulties in a healthy environment where you feel heard and supported.
(661) 463-9570 View (661) 463-9570

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.