Photo of Joanne Mednick, Marriage & Family Therapist in Malibu, CA
Joanne Mednick
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265
Serenity Trauma Healing Center is an outpatient treatment center that provides integrative psychological services in Southern California.
Dr. Mednick is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specialized in a unique blend of various methodologies to offer her clients the deepest possible healing. Dr. Mednick has built her practice with clients worldwide. Through illness,trauma and addictions therapy, she transitions clients with the identification of living as "victims" or "survivors" all the way to that of living as "thrivers." Dr. Mednick strives to bring her clients completion in the trauma/addiction/illness cycle, and to move them from pull into the trauma vortex (pain and chaos) towards easily and consciously choosing the healing vortex (calm and relaxed).
Serenity Trauma Healing Center is an outpatient treatment center that provides integrative psychological services in Southern California.
Dr. Mednick is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who specialized in a unique blend of various methodologies to offer her clients the deepest possible healing. Dr. Mednick has built her practice with clients worldwide. Through illness,trauma and addictions therapy, she transitions clients with the identification of living as "victims" or "survivors" all the way to that of living as "thrivers." Dr. Mednick strives to bring her clients completion in the trauma/addiction/illness cycle, and to move them from pull into the trauma vortex (pain and chaos) towards easily and consciously choosing the healing vortex (calm and relaxed).
(310) 627-2241 View (310) 627-2241
Photo of Jeffrey Titcher, Psychologist in Malibu, CA
Jeffrey Titcher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265
I treat adults, couples, families, and children. I view treatment from a developmental perspective and will meet the client wherever they exist on the life span continuum, and whenever they have difficulty negotiating the next step. I have an expertise in disorders of attachment, as well as exposure therapy for trauma, and I've trained many classes of interns and psychologists, in the treatment of these disorders utilizing neurological correlates to psychological mechanisms. My focus is on training the individual to understand his/her own process, so that dissociated material can be integrated, bringing the individual into the present moment.
I treat adults, couples, families, and children. I view treatment from a developmental perspective and will meet the client wherever they exist on the life span continuum, and whenever they have difficulty negotiating the next step. I have an expertise in disorders of attachment, as well as exposure therapy for trauma, and I've trained many classes of interns and psychologists, in the treatment of these disorders utilizing neurological correlates to psychological mechanisms. My focus is on training the individual to understand his/her own process, so that dissociated material can be integrated, bringing the individual into the present moment.
(424) 256-1790 View (424) 256-1790
Photo of Elizabeth Topp, Psychologist in Malibu, CA
Elizabeth Topp
Psychologist, PhD, MACP
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265  (Online Only)
Attachment-focused EMDR trauma therapist using somatic and mindfulness approaches to support personal healing, wellbeing and wholeness. Additional specialization in personal and professional coaching and Presence practices support goals pertaining to personal development, peak performance, and life purpose.
Attachment-focused EMDR trauma therapist using somatic and mindfulness approaches to support personal healing, wellbeing and wholeness. Additional specialization in personal and professional coaching and Presence practices support goals pertaining to personal development, peak performance, and life purpose.
(818) 273-6492 View (818) 273-6492
Photo of David E Bresler, Psychologist in Malibu, CA
David E Bresler
Psychologist, PhD, LAC, DiplAc, NCCAOM, AAPM
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265  (Online Only)
My practice focuses on helping individuals, couples, and families who are suffering from emotional or physical pain or the aftereffects of trauma. We help them resolve the traumatic experience, as well as its consequences (e.g. physical pain, stress, disability, depression, anxiety, insomnia, medication dependence, isolation, etc.) Although many of our patients have not responded well to prior therapies, we've had outstanding success in helping them move from feeling a severe loss to finding a new and positive beginning. We love to work with people who are ready to change and eager to learn how to do it.
My practice focuses on helping individuals, couples, and families who are suffering from emotional or physical pain or the aftereffects of trauma. We help them resolve the traumatic experience, as well as its consequences (e.g. physical pain, stress, disability, depression, anxiety, insomnia, medication dependence, isolation, etc.) Although many of our patients have not responded well to prior therapies, we've had outstanding success in helping them move from feeling a severe loss to finding a new and positive beginning. We love to work with people who are ready to change and eager to learn how to do it.
(562) 250-5763 x1 View (562) 250-5763 x1
Photo of Patrick Kenney, Counselor in Malibu, CA
Patrick Kenney
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265
I help people find relief from the effects of trauma. That is just the fancy Greek word for wound, and we all get wounded in various ways at all stages of life. The worst part of trauma is that it teaches us things: things about our worth and value, our safety, who to trust (or not), and what we can expect the future to hold. These learnings will always be limiting, and they will have the ability to commandeer the nervous system to make sure nothing like that ever happens again. If you are held back by poor self-esteem, anxiety, depression, PTSD, or addiction, things can change no matter how long the problem has been going on.
I help people find relief from the effects of trauma. That is just the fancy Greek word for wound, and we all get wounded in various ways at all stages of life. The worst part of trauma is that it teaches us things: things about our worth and value, our safety, who to trust (or not), and what we can expect the future to hold. These learnings will always be limiting, and they will have the ability to commandeer the nervous system to make sure nothing like that ever happens again. If you are held back by poor self-esteem, anxiety, depression, PTSD, or addiction, things can change no matter how long the problem has been going on.
(424) 403-1038 View (424) 403-1038
Photo of Karen Gurr, Psychologist in Malibu, CA
Karen Gurr
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist that uses Integrative therapy, combining Evidence-based modalities with CAMs, such as Brainspotting and Havening. I treat substance use issues, PTSD, anxiety, mood disorders, interpersonal challenges, couples and families. In today's world, people from all walks of life struggle with the very real issues that come with just being human. Stress, anxiety, depression, grief and trauma are everyday experiences for many. How we deal with them often determines our capacity for balance, health and happiness. Therapy can be an effective tool for identifying and resolving such issues.
I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist that uses Integrative therapy, combining Evidence-based modalities with CAMs, such as Brainspotting and Havening. I treat substance use issues, PTSD, anxiety, mood disorders, interpersonal challenges, couples and families. In today's world, people from all walks of life struggle with the very real issues that come with just being human. Stress, anxiety, depression, grief and trauma are everyday experiences for many. How we deal with them often determines our capacity for balance, health and happiness. Therapy can be an effective tool for identifying and resolving such issues.
(323) 709-8334 View (323) 709-8334
Photo of Dr. Andrea F Polard, Psychologist in Malibu, CA
Dr. Andrea F Polard
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265  (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 Georgina Kim Smith, Psychologist in Malibu, CA
Georgina Kim Smith
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
Smith has significant experience treating survivors of abuse and trauma, individuals suffering with addiction, and also treats depression, self-injury, and mood and anxiety disorders.
Dr. Smith's genuine, grounded and integrated therapeutic approach allows for a connection to her clients where through modalities such as EMDR, IFS (parts work), and attachment-based talk therapy, there is a focus on insight shifting to somatic integration and actionable change, discovering and healing the core self, learning to regulate emotion and express needs in healthy ways, adapting internal dialogue, core beliefs, and reinforcing coping resources. Dr. Smith believes in building an authentic therapeutic relationship based on respect, empathy, challenge and change while creating a renewed sense of self, empowerment and hope.
Smith has significant experience treating survivors of abuse and trauma, individuals suffering with addiction, and also treats depression, self-injury, and mood and anxiety disorders.
Dr. Smith's genuine, grounded and integrated therapeutic approach allows for a connection to her clients where through modalities such as EMDR, IFS (parts work), and attachment-based talk therapy, there is a focus on insight shifting to somatic integration and actionable change, discovering and healing the core self, learning to regulate emotion and express needs in healthy ways, adapting internal dialogue, core beliefs, and reinforcing coping resources. Dr. Smith believes in building an authentic therapeutic relationship based on respect, empathy, challenge and change while creating a renewed sense of self, empowerment and hope.
(424) 258-5793 View (424) 258-5793
Photo of Mindfulpath, Inc.- Erica Ives, MFT, CEDS, Marriage & Family Therapist in Malibu, CA
Mindfulpath, Inc.- Erica Ives, MFT, CEDS
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
My work as a therapist began with the treatment of adolescents who suffered from trauma, substance abuse, eating disorders.
As a therapist, I demonstrate a passionate devotion to fostering growth in a safe, nurturing environment. My treatment approach is tailored to your strengths and uniqueness. I teach and guide you how to actively pay attention to the messages of your body, thoughts, feelings, and your actions. Learn new coping skills that compliment your uniqueness. Visit my websites at www.mindfulpath.com and www.ericaives.com I believe recovery is much more than eliminating self-destructive behaviors; it's about cultivating and living life everyday on a mindful path filled with self-awareness, fulfilling relationships, meaning, and vitality.
My work as a therapist began with the treatment of adolescents who suffered from trauma, substance abuse, eating disorders.
As a therapist, I demonstrate a passionate devotion to fostering growth in a safe, nurturing environment. My treatment approach is tailored to your strengths and uniqueness. I teach and guide you how to actively pay attention to the messages of your body, thoughts, feelings, and your actions. Learn new coping skills that compliment your uniqueness. Visit my websites at www.mindfulpath.com and www.ericaives.com I believe recovery is much more than eliminating self-destructive behaviors; it's about cultivating and living life everyday on a mindful path filled with self-awareness, fulfilling relationships, meaning, and vitality.
(818) 639-4273 View (818) 639-4273
Photo of Gwen Staples, Marriage & Family Therapist in Malibu, CA
Gwen Staples
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90264  (Online Only)
I offer cognitive behavioral, cognitive reprocessing, trauma focused cognitive behavioral, solution focused, mindfulness, bilateral stimulation, positive psychology and other evidence based modalities to help clients process their trauma that presents as anxiety, depression and stress.
If you are feeling stuck due to a traumatic past that you are struggling to deal with and you need an empathetic, knowledgeable, experienced professional to help you navigate through the broken and dysregulated pieces then email me today. Trauma can show up in so many different ways from depression, anxiety, self-harming behaviors, dysfunctional relationships, and so much more. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional it is my goal to not only assist you in the process of healing but to help you establish coping skills to manage distress and maintain appropriate self-care so that you can obtain peace and emotional well being.
I offer cognitive behavioral, cognitive reprocessing, trauma focused cognitive behavioral, solution focused, mindfulness, bilateral stimulation, positive psychology and other evidence based modalities to help clients process their trauma that presents as anxiety, depression and stress.
If you are feeling stuck due to a traumatic past that you are struggling to deal with and you need an empathetic, knowledgeable, experienced professional to help you navigate through the broken and dysregulated pieces then email me today. Trauma can show up in so many different ways from depression, anxiety, self-harming behaviors, dysfunctional relationships, and so much more. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional it is my goal to not only assist you in the process of healing but to help you establish coping skills to manage distress and maintain appropriate self-care so that you can obtain peace and emotional well being.
(424) 332-1658 View (424) 332-1658
Photo of Michele Ryan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Malibu, CA
Michele Ryan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Michele Ryan. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who loves working with individuals, families and couples who have been affected by mental illness or just the everyday stressors and strains of life. Sometimes it can be very difficult to get relief from emotional problems on our own. Too often, when we feel discouraged, angry, stressed out and overwhelmed and we can turn to unhealthy coping skills. I have worked with clients struggling with chemical and behavioral addictions, depression, multiple anxiety disorders, PTSD and ongoing difficulties due to past traumatic experiences and life stressors.
Hello, my name is Michele Ryan. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who loves working with individuals, families and couples who have been affected by mental illness or just the everyday stressors and strains of life. Sometimes it can be very difficult to get relief from emotional problems on our own. Too often, when we feel discouraged, angry, stressed out and overwhelmed and we can turn to unhealthy coping skills. I have worked with clients struggling with chemical and behavioral addictions, depression, multiple anxiety disorders, PTSD and ongoing difficulties due to past traumatic experiences and life stressors.
(747) 294-3646 View (747) 294-3646
Photo of Tara A Burnley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Malibu, CA
Tara A Burnley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265
Hello, thank you for finding me on Psychology Today. Much of my work is with children, adolescents, families (parenting) and adult individuals. I have experience working with trauma, abuse, grief, loss, long term illness, anxiety, depression, ADHD and other childhood emotional disorders. I view my clients in a holistic sense, taking into consideration their symptoms, life stressors, emotional/physical developmental changes/stages, past/recent trauma(s), family dynamics, parenting styles from childhood -past/present, as well as coping skills and interpersonal relationships and support systems.
Hello, thank you for finding me on Psychology Today. Much of my work is with children, adolescents, families (parenting) and adult individuals. I have experience working with trauma, abuse, grief, loss, long term illness, anxiety, depression, ADHD and other childhood emotional disorders. I view my clients in a holistic sense, taking into consideration their symptoms, life stressors, emotional/physical developmental changes/stages, past/recent trauma(s), family dynamics, parenting styles from childhood -past/present, as well as coping skills and interpersonal relationships and support systems.
(843) 305-3819 View (843) 305-3819
Photo of Jennifer Brady, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Malibu, CA
Jennifer Brady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
Brainspotting is a powerful, focused trauma therapy method that works by identifying, processing and releasing core neurophysiological sources of emotional/body pain, trauma, dissociation and a variety of other challenging symptoms. Brainspotting is a simultaneous form of diagnosis and treatment, enhanced with Biolateral sound, which is deep, direct, and powerful yet focused and containing." (David Grand, PhD Brainspotting.com) Research has shown how effective and powerful Brainspotting therapy is for a multitude of disorders. Including anxiety, depression, trauma, interpersonal issues, addiction, weight loss, and chronic pain.
Brainspotting is a powerful, focused trauma therapy method that works by identifying, processing and releasing core neurophysiological sources of emotional/body pain, trauma, dissociation and a variety of other challenging symptoms. Brainspotting is a simultaneous form of diagnosis and treatment, enhanced with Biolateral sound, which is deep, direct, and powerful yet focused and containing." (David Grand, PhD Brainspotting.com) Research has shown how effective and powerful Brainspotting therapy is for a multitude of disorders. Including anxiety, depression, trauma, interpersonal issues, addiction, weight loss, and chronic pain.
(424) 346-6022 View (424) 346-6022
Photo of Star Rose Bond, Trauma Specialist - LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Malibu, CA
Star Rose Bond, Trauma Specialist - LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90263
I have specialized in the recovery of trauma and PTSD for over 15 years and helping people identify their 'emotional blueprint' (i.
Seasoned trauma specialist & psychotherapist dedicated to co-creating a meaningful healing journey for individuals and couples who are feeling stuck, lost and trapped in dysfunctional patterns. I offer a variety of different modalities including Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) to aid in the recovery of many common mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, addiction, etc. Additionally, I am committed to providing innovative programing as well as a practical skillset, specially designed to address personal limitations that often manifest in low self-esteem, relationship challenges and declined mental health.
I have specialized in the recovery of trauma and PTSD for over 15 years and helping people identify their 'emotional blueprint' (i.
Seasoned trauma specialist & psychotherapist dedicated to co-creating a meaningful healing journey for individuals and couples who are feeling stuck, lost and trapped in dysfunctional patterns. I offer a variety of different modalities including Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) to aid in the recovery of many common mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, addiction, etc. Additionally, I am committed to providing innovative programing as well as a practical skillset, specially designed to address personal limitations that often manifest in low self-esteem, relationship challenges and declined mental health.
(828) 373-8526 View (828) 373-8526
Photo of Taylor Pierce, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Malibu, CA
Taylor Pierce
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90265
Trauma can be confusing and debilitating, leaving you with diminished happiness, feelings of helplessness, or an ongoing sense of threat. It's exhausting to experience unexplainable outbursts, uncontrollable crying, anxiety, or irritability. It can interfere with maintaining close relationships as you feel numb, detached, and isolated. You may be easily startled or frightened, feeling on guard, experiencing flashbacks, nightmares, or uncontrollable thoughts. Do you have trouble sleeping, concentrating, or overwhelming guilt or shame? My practice is dedicated to supporting those who are ready and committed to the process of healing.
Trauma can be confusing and debilitating, leaving you with diminished happiness, feelings of helplessness, or an ongoing sense of threat. It's exhausting to experience unexplainable outbursts, uncontrollable crying, anxiety, or irritability. It can interfere with maintaining close relationships as you feel numb, detached, and isolated. You may be easily startled or frightened, feeling on guard, experiencing flashbacks, nightmares, or uncontrollable thoughts. Do you have trouble sleeping, concentrating, or overwhelming guilt or shame? My practice is dedicated to supporting those who are ready and committed to the process of healing.
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Photo of Kimberly Anne Miller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Malibu, CA
Kimberly Anne Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, S, E, P
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90263  (Online Only)
I work with anxiety and PTSD which I have found seem to be the symptoms that bother people the most.
My ideal client is someone who is willing to try and not perfect. I feel everyone has a story to tell and I love listening to people and learning about them as well as developing a plan. I tend to pivot and figure out what each client needs not what I want to do. I am trained in most cutting edge modalities so I like to give you the chance to see and try different tools. I love doing some experiential components. I work a lot with anxiety/depression and PTSD which are often the symptoms which often unravel other things.
I work with anxiety and PTSD which I have found seem to be the symptoms that bother people the most.
My ideal client is someone who is willing to try and not perfect. I feel everyone has a story to tell and I love listening to people and learning about them as well as developing a plan. I tend to pivot and figure out what each client needs not what I want to do. I am trained in most cutting edge modalities so I like to give you the chance to see and try different tools. I love doing some experiential components. I work a lot with anxiety/depression and PTSD which are often the symptoms which often unravel other things.
(520) 987-9226 View (520) 987-9226
Photo of Donald Marks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Malibu, CA
Donald Marks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265  (Online Only)
If you are thinking about starting therapy, you've already taken the first step toward making a change. I strive to help you grow into your best self, to collaborate on holistic goal setting, to feel validated and heard, and have increased self-compassion. I work with adolescents and adults who struggle with eating disorders/disordered eating, compulsive exercise, anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, relational stress, and life transitions. It is my belief that having an accepting, respectful, and collaborative relationship is necessary for the healing and change process to occur.
If you are thinking about starting therapy, you've already taken the first step toward making a change. I strive to help you grow into your best self, to collaborate on holistic goal setting, to feel validated and heard, and have increased self-compassion. I work with adolescents and adults who struggle with eating disorders/disordered eating, compulsive exercise, anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, relational stress, and life transitions. It is my belief that having an accepting, respectful, and collaborative relationship is necessary for the healing and change process to occur.
(971) 395-4132 View (971) 395-4132
Photo of Alyson Huneycutt Brander, Psychologist in Malibu, CA
Alyson Huneycutt Brander
Psychologist, PsyD, MFT, MA
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265  (Online Only)
Life presents us with many challenges. Do you want a compassionate space to pursue growth and healing? I understand it takes courage to start therapy, and I'm glad you are here, finding the right therapist for you. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, social anxiety, panic, trauma, and ADHD.
Life presents us with many challenges. Do you want a compassionate space to pursue growth and healing? I understand it takes courage to start therapy, and I'm glad you are here, finding the right therapist for you. I specialize in the treatment of anxiety, social anxiety, panic, trauma, and ADHD.
(805) 779-3638 View (805) 779-3638
Photo of Tracie Temple, Psychologist in Malibu, CA
Tracie Temple
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Malibu, CA 90263
Whether you are a teenager or an adult, existential moments present themselves. Sometimes it takes the help of someone compassionate, yet straightforward, who is outside of the problem to help you find solutions. There is not always a clear cut answer to life's complex problems, but together we can prioritize and sort them out in order to achieve our goals. I work with both adolescents and adults in areas such as: trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.
Whether you are a teenager or an adult, existential moments present themselves. Sometimes it takes the help of someone compassionate, yet straightforward, who is outside of the problem to help you find solutions. There is not always a clear cut answer to life's complex problems, but together we can prioritize and sort them out in order to achieve our goals. I work with both adolescents and adults in areas such as: trauma, depression, anxiety, and substance abuse.
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Photo of Transform Therapy Services, Psychologist in Malibu, CA
Transform Therapy Services
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Malibu, CA 90265  (Online Only)
We specialize in individualized Virtual psychotherapy, coaching and groups for adults with trauma and related disorders.
Transform Therapy Services offers Virtual Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy for Embodied Trauma Recovery throughout California.
We specialize in individualized Virtual psychotherapy, coaching and groups for adults with trauma and related disorders.
Transform Therapy Services offers Virtual Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy for Embodied Trauma Recovery throughout California.
(424) 625-7538 View (424) 625-7538

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.