Photo of Maria N Reyes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Maria N Reyes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tehachapi, CA 93561  (Online Only)
I’d like to begin by acknowledging the courage that it takes to seek out therapy. The reality is that life is hard! Yes, there are beautiful moments but the difficult times are very real. I am a BILINGUAL (Spanish speaking) LMFT providing counseling to individuals and families addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, parenting issues, DCFS, and much more.
I’d like to begin by acknowledging the courage that it takes to seek out therapy. The reality is that life is hard! Yes, there are beautiful moments but the difficult times are very real. I am a BILINGUAL (Spanish speaking) LMFT providing counseling to individuals and families addressing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, parenting issues, DCFS, and much more.
(661) 215-2801 View (661) 215-2801
Photo of Samuel Moore, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Samuel Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93306
I have been practicing as a therapist since 2015. I have worked with individuals who are suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, and attachment difficulties. I have extensive experience working with individuals who have suffered childhood abuse. I specialize in depression, anxiety, and trauma utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic theory. I believe that if there is a leaky pipe in the ceiling, the best approach is to figure out what caused that pipe to leak and repair the traumatic experiences.
I have been practicing as a therapist since 2015. I have worked with individuals who are suffering from depression, anxiety, trauma, and attachment difficulties. I have extensive experience working with individuals who have suffered childhood abuse. I specialize in depression, anxiety, and trauma utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy and psychodynamic theory. I believe that if there is a leaky pipe in the ceiling, the best approach is to figure out what caused that pipe to leak and repair the traumatic experiences.
(661) 760-2781 View (661) 760-2781
Photo of STONE Mental Health Services, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
STONE Mental Health Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, Ed D, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93306
I have experience working with various mental disorders and have especially become connected with trauma-based work.
Clients' needs may vary but most share the same theme of wanting to work toward positive change. My experience with working with such a diverse client population and education in sport & performance psychology has provided me with an approach that I am confident can help almost anyone in need. Therapy has the potential to be a space where clients' can explore their concerns and issues with professional guidance with the focus to achieve their individual goals. Getting symptoms under control, exploring mental blockage, and so many more obstacles can be effectively addressed with the right support.
I have experience working with various mental disorders and have especially become connected with trauma-based work.
Clients' needs may vary but most share the same theme of wanting to work toward positive change. My experience with working with such a diverse client population and education in sport & performance psychology has provided me with an approach that I am confident can help almost anyone in need. Therapy has the potential to be a space where clients' can explore their concerns and issues with professional guidance with the focus to achieve their individual goals. Getting symptoms under control, exploring mental blockage, and so many more obstacles can be effectively addressed with the right support.
(661) 459-5209 View (661) 459-5209
Photo of Amarilys Reyes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Amarilys Reyes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93308
Issues that I address in therapy range from trauma and emotional distress, issues with relationships, domestic violence, depression, low self-esteem, anxiety-related challenges, ADHD, academic challenges, and acculturation.
Hi! Ser padre/madre, mujer, hija/hijo y pareja en esta nueva etapa de tu vida puede ser una tarea muy difícil, pero no tiene que enfrentarla solo. Me alegro que haya llegado hasta mi para poder brindarle mi ayuda. I am a Latinx, mother, educator, Bilingual Spanish Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Clinical Supervisor in the state of California.
Issues that I address in therapy range from trauma and emotional distress, issues with relationships, domestic violence, depression, low self-esteem, anxiety-related challenges, ADHD, academic challenges, and acculturation.
Hi! Ser padre/madre, mujer, hija/hijo y pareja en esta nueva etapa de tu vida puede ser una tarea muy difícil, pero no tiene que enfrentarla solo. Me alegro que haya llegado hasta mi para poder brindarle mi ayuda. I am a Latinx, mother, educator, Bilingual Spanish Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Clinical Supervisor in the state of California.
(661) 486-5262 View (661) 486-5262
Photo of Lillian Fox, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Kern County, CA
Lillian Fox
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93304  (Online Only)
In a world full of noise and expectation, are you feeling stuck? My passion lies in supporting Queer young adults as they actively seek identities, lifestyles, career paths & relationships that truly reflect their authentic selves. Along this journey of self-discovery, we also work on rejecting what doesn’t fit—whether it's the weight of parental expectations, the influence of religion, or the burden of internalized societal norms. Therapy with me is a space where you can find confidence in the life path that resonates with you, overcoming the anxiety, attachments, trauma & grief that may have characterized your life until now.
In a world full of noise and expectation, are you feeling stuck? My passion lies in supporting Queer young adults as they actively seek identities, lifestyles, career paths & relationships that truly reflect their authentic selves. Along this journey of self-discovery, we also work on rejecting what doesn’t fit—whether it's the weight of parental expectations, the influence of religion, or the burden of internalized societal norms. Therapy with me is a space where you can find confidence in the life path that resonates with you, overcoming the anxiety, attachments, trauma & grief that may have characterized your life until now.
(661) 690-7064 View (661) 690-7064
Photo of Ana Zalles, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Ana Zalles
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
I am Ana Zalles, LMFT 137168. I am a multi-dynamic and integrative therapist. I have a background in Trauma, CBT, DBT and multiple other EBP approaches to range ages 3-65+ . I enjoy expanding my treatment expertise and currently training on EMDR and Psychedelic Assisted Treatment. I feel comfortable with clients from all ages and cultural back grounds. I have an extensive training and treatment focus with survivors of trauma, anxiety and depression.
I am Ana Zalles, LMFT 137168. I am a multi-dynamic and integrative therapist. I have a background in Trauma, CBT, DBT and multiple other EBP approaches to range ages 3-65+ . I enjoy expanding my treatment expertise and currently training on EMDR and Psychedelic Assisted Treatment. I feel comfortable with clients from all ages and cultural back grounds. I have an extensive training and treatment focus with survivors of trauma, anxiety and depression.
(661) 768-0903 View (661) 768-0903
Photo of Amanda Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Amanda Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rosamond, CA 93560  (Online Only)
Hi there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Clinical Trauma Provider. My background is a combination of trauma and community-based mental health and I work with clients with an array of diverse backgrounds. My work with clients involves finding out how to address the concerns that stop you from living a fulfilling life. Finding answers to question such as: How can we move from surviving to thriving, becoming the best version of what we want for ourselves? Prior to becoming a psychotherapist I spent seven years in crisis work, working with individuals experiencing domestic violence and sexual assault.
Hi there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Clinical Trauma Provider. My background is a combination of trauma and community-based mental health and I work with clients with an array of diverse backgrounds. My work with clients involves finding out how to address the concerns that stop you from living a fulfilling life. Finding answers to question such as: How can we move from surviving to thriving, becoming the best version of what we want for ourselves? Prior to becoming a psychotherapist I spent seven years in crisis work, working with individuals experiencing domestic violence and sexual assault.
(661) 449-9284 View (661) 449-9284
Photo of Ana Isela An, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Ana Isela An
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309  (Online Only)
I have helped individuals overcome anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, adjusting to family changes, and substance abuse.
I am a bilingual, Licenced Clinical Social Worker with a passion and commitment for serving and helping others achieve their goals of recovery. My goal is to create a safe setting where you feel comfortable talking about your feelings, emotions, and traumatic experiences.
I have helped individuals overcome anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, adjusting to family changes, and substance abuse.
I am a bilingual, Licenced Clinical Social Worker with a passion and commitment for serving and helping others achieve their goals of recovery. My goal is to create a safe setting where you feel comfortable talking about your feelings, emotions, and traumatic experiences.
(661) 463-8939 View (661) 463-8939
Photo of Vicki Underwood, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Vicki Underwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93309
I have worked with various populations and issues, including forensics, sexual abuse, domestic violence, trauma, transgender, gay & lesbian, adolescents, crisis, self-harming behaviors, couples & families.
We all struggle at times and our struggles are our own, do not compare what may feel catastrophic to you to what others are dealing with. I have been practicing for 12 years and revolve my practice around person-centered therapy; non-judgment, genuineness & positive regard. I will accept you for who you are and we will start where you are. My goal is to help you reach your goals. I find that humor, compassion, and authenticity allow my clients to feel comfortable and progress at the same time. Since 2010, I have provided intensive therapy at institutional, residential, and outpatient levels of care for adults and adolescents.
I have worked with various populations and issues, including forensics, sexual abuse, domestic violence, trauma, transgender, gay & lesbian, adolescents, crisis, self-harming behaviors, couples & families.
We all struggle at times and our struggles are our own, do not compare what may feel catastrophic to you to what others are dealing with. I have been practicing for 12 years and revolve my practice around person-centered therapy; non-judgment, genuineness & positive regard. I will accept you for who you are and we will start where you are. My goal is to help you reach your goals. I find that humor, compassion, and authenticity allow my clients to feel comfortable and progress at the same time. Since 2010, I have provided intensive therapy at institutional, residential, and outpatient levels of care for adults and adolescents.
(661) 215-6319 View (661) 215-6319
Photo of Sharon L Stroup, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Sharon L Stroup
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tehachapi, CA 93561  (Online Only)
We will use a variety of approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and trauma-focused techniques to achieve your goals.
How are you functioning in your life? In your relationships? Are you joyful, confident, optimistic? Or are you feeling stuck, sad, frustrated, or lonely? Relationships are the primary force in our lives; without healthy relationships our lives suffer. Because relationships are so important, the way we attach to others is within those relationships, and how we create healthy attachments is extremely important. What I work toward is healthier relationships for my clients; relationship with self as well as with others. In our work together it will be our relationship that provides a safe place from which to explore change.
We will use a variety of approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness, and trauma-focused techniques to achieve your goals.
How are you functioning in your life? In your relationships? Are you joyful, confident, optimistic? Or are you feeling stuck, sad, frustrated, or lonely? Relationships are the primary force in our lives; without healthy relationships our lives suffer. Because relationships are so important, the way we attach to others is within those relationships, and how we create healthy attachments is extremely important. What I work toward is healthier relationships for my clients; relationship with self as well as with others. In our work together it will be our relationship that provides a safe place from which to explore change.
(661) 218-2223 View (661) 218-2223
Photo of Elizabeth Rogers, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Elizabeth Rogers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bakersfield, CA 93389  (Online Only)
I use Somatic Psychology, a form of body-oriented therapy that uses techniques and holistic approaches, to help people deal with various forms of trauma from daily life stressors to major life incidents.
Chaos happens--accidents, divorces, traumas, as well as setbacks in life, transitions, everyday interruptions, and unexpected events--even falling in love. Chaos untethers us; it changes everything. Our work is to find a new normal--to develop ways to weather the chaos, ultimately leaving us stronger and more resilient.
I use Somatic Psychology, a form of body-oriented therapy that uses techniques and holistic approaches, to help people deal with various forms of trauma from daily life stressors to major life incidents.
Chaos happens--accidents, divorces, traumas, as well as setbacks in life, transitions, everyday interruptions, and unexpected events--even falling in love. Chaos untethers us; it changes everything. Our work is to find a new normal--to develop ways to weather the chaos, ultimately leaving us stronger and more resilient.
(661) 243-0250 View (661) 243-0250
Photo of Nastasia Santoyo, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Nastasia Santoyo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93301
Hello, my name is Nastasia Santoyo, and I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 3 years and have worked in the mental health field for 12 years. I have worked with children in the school, community mental, crisis, and foster care settings. I have experience working with adults in both arenas of severe crisis to brief support to process stressors. My focus areas of practice are cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR. My client focuses ranges from work with pre-teens to older adults. I am most comfortable treating trauma, PTSD, and brief crises.
Hello, my name is Nastasia Santoyo, and I have been a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist for 3 years and have worked in the mental health field for 12 years. I have worked with children in the school, community mental, crisis, and foster care settings. I have experience working with adults in both arenas of severe crisis to brief support to process stressors. My focus areas of practice are cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR. My client focuses ranges from work with pre-teens to older adults. I am most comfortable treating trauma, PTSD, and brief crises.
(707) 878-5014 View (707) 878-5014
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 Janette Delina Rodriguez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Janette Delina Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93304  (Online Only)
  I am passionate about helping Client’s with PTSD, anxiety, and depression via Tele-Health.
Are you an adult 18+ struggling to enjoy life in the present moment, after experiencing a traumatic event(s)? Are symptoms creating barriers in your ability to enjoy your life? These symptoms are signals that the body is sending to make one aware that now is the time to take those steps to process and heal. I understand that unraveling the most delicate parts of your past can seem overwhelming. I am here to guide you and support you through your journey. As your Therapist, I will meet you where you are. I will continuously make sure you are comfortable in treatment by always making sure you feel we are working together.
  I am passionate about helping Client’s with PTSD, anxiety, and depression via Tele-Health.
Are you an adult 18+ struggling to enjoy life in the present moment, after experiencing a traumatic event(s)? Are symptoms creating barriers in your ability to enjoy your life? These symptoms are signals that the body is sending to make one aware that now is the time to take those steps to process and heal. I understand that unraveling the most delicate parts of your past can seem overwhelming. I am here to guide you and support you through your journey. As your Therapist, I will meet you where you are. I will continuously make sure you are comfortable in treatment by always making sure you feel we are working together.
(661) 451-6410 View (661) 451-6410
Photo of Susette Abbas, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in Kern County, CA
Susette Abbas
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Shafter, CA 93263
Hi there, I'm Susette! I have been a therapist for the past 12 years and have worked with adolescents and adults, as well as children and families from diverse backgrounds. My focus has been primarily on depression, anxiety, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, life transitions, and pregnancy/postpartum concerns. y approach to therapy is an integration of the psychodynamic approach with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as mind/body and mindfulness techniques. This essentially means that we would be collaboratively exploring thoughts, beliefs, and personal narratives and adjusting narratives that are false or faulty.
Hi there, I'm Susette! I have been a therapist for the past 12 years and have worked with adolescents and adults, as well as children and families from diverse backgrounds. My focus has been primarily on depression, anxiety, trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, life transitions, and pregnancy/postpartum concerns. y approach to therapy is an integration of the psychodynamic approach with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as well as mind/body and mindfulness techniques. This essentially means that we would be collaboratively exploring thoughts, beliefs, and personal narratives and adjusting narratives that are false or faulty.
(925) 247-3855 View (925) 247-3855
Photo of Amanda Lockie, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Amanda Lockie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ridgecrest, CA 93556  (Online Only)
If you have had trauma or difficult experiences in your past that you are struggling with, and are ready to move forward with healing, hit that contact button.
Feeling burnt out? Having problems sleeping? Feeling disconnected from your friends and family? Have you ever wondered what it would be like to run away and leave it all behind? If you have ever felt that while you were juggling all the things, you have lost yourself as a person...therapy is where you can find hope. This is the place to sort through all the worry and stress and noise that is weighing you down. Just imagine being able to feel confident to live the life you want to live, and be able to show up for yourself in the best way possible. If this sounds like you, and what you want to achieve, let's talk!
If you have had trauma or difficult experiences in your past that you are struggling with, and are ready to move forward with healing, hit that contact button.
Feeling burnt out? Having problems sleeping? Feeling disconnected from your friends and family? Have you ever wondered what it would be like to run away and leave it all behind? If you have ever felt that while you were juggling all the things, you have lost yourself as a person...therapy is where you can find hope. This is the place to sort through all the worry and stress and noise that is weighing you down. Just imagine being able to feel confident to live the life you want to live, and be able to show up for yourself in the best way possible. If this sounds like you, and what you want to achieve, let's talk!
(760) 280-6710 View (760) 280-6710
Photo of Erin Igarashi-Parra, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Erin Igarashi-Parra
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Shafter, CA 93263  (Online Only)
My experience includes working with trauma, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, intimate partner violence, and women’s issues.
It can be very difficult to take steps towards positive change when facing challenges in life. Have you been having difficulties engaging in things you previously enjoyed? Are you isolating and finding it harder to talk to family or friends? If you are looking for a safe empowering space where you can begin the process of healing, you have already taken your first step.
My experience includes working with trauma, sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress, intimate partner violence, and women’s issues.
It can be very difficult to take steps towards positive change when facing challenges in life. Have you been having difficulties engaging in things you previously enjoyed? Are you isolating and finding it harder to talk to family or friends? If you are looking for a safe empowering space where you can begin the process of healing, you have already taken your first step.
(661) 724-4866 View (661) 724-4866
Photo of Rachel Page, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Rachel Page
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93307
Hi! My name is Rachel, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I have been practicing therapy since 2010 and am passionate about helping others. I help people with adolescent/teen issues, grief, self esteem, trauma and PTSD, job stress, and more. I have worked in inpatient and outpatient settings, including drug and alcohol rehabilitation, with adolescents in schools, and with domestic violence services. I practice Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, and Solution-focused therapy. Using mindfulness and ACT skills, I explore the thoughts and beliefs that create stagnation.
Hi! My name is Rachel, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I have been practicing therapy since 2010 and am passionate about helping others. I help people with adolescent/teen issues, grief, self esteem, trauma and PTSD, job stress, and more. I have worked in inpatient and outpatient settings, including drug and alcohol rehabilitation, with adolescents in schools, and with domestic violence services. I practice Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Narrative Therapy, and Solution-focused therapy. Using mindfulness and ACT skills, I explore the thoughts and beliefs that create stagnation.
(661) 732-2011 View (661) 732-2011
Photo of Rose M. Lester, Marriage & Family Therapist in Kern County, CA
Rose M. Lester
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in EMDR, EFT, and other energy psychology methods which are helpful for treating trauma and PTSD.
"It's never to late to have a happy childhood" This quote embodies the core belief and hope that I bring into my practice. Most people bring wounds from childhood into their adulthood. These wounds show up in their lives as depression, anxiety, low-self-esteem and unhealthy relationships. In therapy, you can become aware of those wound and how they limit your life today, grieve your losses and learn healthier ways to get those childhood needs met. As this healing occurs, we can explore ways to live life more fully and joyfully and to thrive rather than just survive.
I am trained in EMDR, EFT, and other energy psychology methods which are helpful for treating trauma and PTSD.
"It's never to late to have a happy childhood" This quote embodies the core belief and hope that I bring into my practice. Most people bring wounds from childhood into their adulthood. These wounds show up in their lives as depression, anxiety, low-self-esteem and unhealthy relationships. In therapy, you can become aware of those wound and how they limit your life today, grieve your losses and learn healthier ways to get those childhood needs met. As this healing occurs, we can explore ways to live life more fully and joyfully and to thrive rather than just survive.
(661) 903-8559 View (661) 903-8559
Photo of Marisol Keegan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Kern County, CA
Marisol Keegan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bakersfield, CA 93309
My name is Marisol Keegan, LCSW, a private practice provider who has provided mental health services for over ten years. I graduated with a Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Northridge, and since then, I have offered mental health and behavioral services to the undeserved population. I specialize in giving strength-based interventions and solution-focused trauma psychotherapy for adults (18+). I work with diverse groups, cultural competencies, beliefs, sexual orientations, and values.
My name is Marisol Keegan, LCSW, a private practice provider who has provided mental health services for over ten years. I graduated with a Master's Degree in Social Work from the University of Northridge, and since then, I have offered mental health and behavioral services to the undeserved population. I specialize in giving strength-based interventions and solution-focused trauma psychotherapy for adults (18+). I work with diverse groups, cultural competencies, beliefs, sexual orientations, and values.
(559) 315-4534 View (559) 315-4534

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.