Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Oakland, CA

Photo of Mikhaëla Beaudet-DeBus, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Mikhaëla Beaudet-DeBus
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Welcome! I support my Clients' path to arrive at a freer, more empowered version of themselves. I am passionate about working through an intersectional and trauma-informed lens with everyone. I respect my Clients deeply and give them my genuine warmth and attentiveness. I am a good fit for people who are nervous about therapy, people working on boundaries, self love, finding their voice, embodiment, healing from trauma/complex trauma as well as folks from all parts of the LGBT+ family. I am here for gender exploration, questioning, arrival and take a non judgmental stance on all corners of consensual sex/sexuality/kink/non-monog+
Welcome! I support my Clients' path to arrive at a freer, more empowered version of themselves. I am passionate about working through an intersectional and trauma-informed lens with everyone. I respect my Clients deeply and give them my genuine warmth and attentiveness. I am a good fit for people who are nervous about therapy, people working on boundaries, self love, finding their voice, embodiment, healing from trauma/complex trauma as well as folks from all parts of the LGBT+ family. I am here for gender exploration, questioning, arrival and take a non judgmental stance on all corners of consensual sex/sexuality/kink/non-monog+
(510) 880-3764 View (510) 880-3764
Photo of Sara Bisikirski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Sara Bisikirski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94607
With 20 years of experience, I work with individual adults, adolescents and couples from a trauma-informed model that integrates DBT, psychodynamic, family systems and Mindful Self-Compassion perspectives. Through therapy I can help you to achieve your goals, develop an increased understanding of yourself and build new ways of coping with life’s challenges. As a Certified Mediator with a background in divorce mediation I can lend informed support to those struggling with divorce-related challenges. Furthermore as a transracially adoptive mom of two I hold a strong interest in helping others navigate the world of parenting.
With 20 years of experience, I work with individual adults, adolescents and couples from a trauma-informed model that integrates DBT, psychodynamic, family systems and Mindful Self-Compassion perspectives. Through therapy I can help you to achieve your goals, develop an increased understanding of yourself and build new ways of coping with life’s challenges. As a Certified Mediator with a background in divorce mediation I can lend informed support to those struggling with divorce-related challenges. Furthermore as a transracially adoptive mom of two I hold a strong interest in helping others navigate the world of parenting.
(510) 880-1983 View (510) 880-1983
Photo of Lori Beth Kaplan, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Lori Beth Kaplan
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
My ideal client is an adult, child or teenager struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, relationship and Identity issues. In childhood or adolescence there may be behavioral, academic or social issues that are limiting success and happiness. Today's world is challenging with increased stressors and isolation. Adults may try to mask their struggles or feel stuck in the same pattern of behavior. Parents want their children or teenagers to maximize their potential and grow into fulfilled adults.
My ideal client is an adult, child or teenager struggling with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, relationship and Identity issues. In childhood or adolescence there may be behavioral, academic or social issues that are limiting success and happiness. Today's world is challenging with increased stressors and isolation. Adults may try to mask their struggles or feel stuck in the same pattern of behavior. Parents want their children or teenagers to maximize their potential and grow into fulfilled adults.
(510) 849-6760 View (510) 849-6760
Photo of Heidi Xue, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Heidi Xue
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Do you have trouble with anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues due to trauma? Past experiences can create imprints onto your brain that activate your fight/flight responses whenever your emotions feel dysregulated, but life without the constant feeling of being on edge is possible. Those traumatic memories don’t have to permanently influence who you are meant to be. Through therapy, you will gain control of your feelings/thoughts and your response to everyday life hurdles. Healing from trauma can create healthier beliefs about yourself and your relationships along with sustainable changes.
Do you have trouble with anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues due to trauma? Past experiences can create imprints onto your brain that activate your fight/flight responses whenever your emotions feel dysregulated, but life without the constant feeling of being on edge is possible. Those traumatic memories don’t have to permanently influence who you are meant to be. Through therapy, you will gain control of your feelings/thoughts and your response to everyday life hurdles. Healing from trauma can create healthier beliefs about yourself and your relationships along with sustainable changes.
(415) 949-3882 View (415) 949-3882
Photo of Elizabeth Huck, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Oakland, CA
Elizabeth Huck
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, DBT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I am trained in Brainspotting, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, IFS, ACT, & DBT, which are integral in healing by helping you address the trauma, depression, anxiety, and anger in the mind and body.
The toll of trauma, stress, anxiety, & depression builds over time, things that once seemed manageable turn into a life that's not our own, because we're stuck in survival mode. It's exhausting. As a therapist, my goal is to collaborate with you to safely navigate your inner landscape and put pieces together so you can uncover your unique abilities and create a mental health toolkit that will carry you through a lifetime. I am here to support you in working through unresolved feelings and conflicts and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
I am trained in Brainspotting, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, IFS, ACT, & DBT, which are integral in healing by helping you address the trauma, depression, anxiety, and anger in the mind and body.
The toll of trauma, stress, anxiety, & depression builds over time, things that once seemed manageable turn into a life that's not our own, because we're stuck in survival mode. It's exhausting. As a therapist, my goal is to collaborate with you to safely navigate your inner landscape and put pieces together so you can uncover your unique abilities and create a mental health toolkit that will carry you through a lifetime. I am here to support you in working through unresolved feelings and conflicts and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
(415) 704-6912 View (415) 704-6912
Photo of Freddie Barahona, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Freddie Barahona
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94612  (Online Only)
Hello. Bienvenidos. If you find yourself in a difficult place in life and need extra support then you have come to the right place. I specialize in helping individuals seeking to heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I have training in numerous modalities of therapy and I am committed to finding the one that works for you. Yo me especializo en tratar ansiedad, depresion, trauma, y problemas de relaciones. Incorporo muchas tecnicas distintas muy efectivas para que ud. pueda volver a retomar las riendas en su vida.
Hello. Bienvenidos. If you find yourself in a difficult place in life and need extra support then you have come to the right place. I specialize in helping individuals seeking to heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and life transitions. I have training in numerous modalities of therapy and I am committed to finding the one that works for you. Yo me especializo en tratar ansiedad, depresion, trauma, y problemas de relaciones. Incorporo muchas tecnicas distintas muy efectivas para que ud. pueda volver a retomar las riendas en su vida.
(510) 945-3412 View (510) 945-3412
Photo of Tim Dreby, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Tim Dreby, MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94607  (Online Only)
When things like complex and generational trauma are behind your suffering there may be an array of syndromes to be uncovered.
I offer innovative solutions for complex challenges. I focus on the kind of mental health challenges that may threaten your hopes and dreams. Maybe people are using labels that seem chronic and don’t accurately reflect either what you are experiencing or what you’ve been through! Maybe you’ve had experience with institutionalized care and you don’t want to go back! Or maybe you are a family member and don't know how to help. When there is no simple answer for anxiety, depression, emotional pain, social exclusion, abuse or addictive behavior, perhaps it is time to go a little deeper.
When things like complex and generational trauma are behind your suffering there may be an array of syndromes to be uncovered.
I offer innovative solutions for complex challenges. I focus on the kind of mental health challenges that may threaten your hopes and dreams. Maybe people are using labels that seem chronic and don’t accurately reflect either what you are experiencing or what you’ve been through! Maybe you’ve had experience with institutionalized care and you don’t want to go back! Or maybe you are a family member and don't know how to help. When there is no simple answer for anxiety, depression, emotional pain, social exclusion, abuse or addictive behavior, perhaps it is time to go a little deeper.
(510) 662-6728 View (510) 662-6728
Photo of Eva Healy, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Eva Healy
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
Welcome! By landing here, you’ve taken a momentous first step towards loving and trusting yourself more fully. Whether you want to deepen your intimate relationships, express yourself more authentically, cultivate inner peace, heal from abuse or trauma, explore polyamory, address issues specific to your sexuality or gender identity, or so much more, I am here to help. With my collaborative approach, we will unlock your potential to set healthy boundaries, shift limiting beliefs, make peace with your body, navigate uncertainty, embrace paradox, transcend polarities, embrace “good enough,” and learn to dance in the rain so to speak.
Welcome! By landing here, you’ve taken a momentous first step towards loving and trusting yourself more fully. Whether you want to deepen your intimate relationships, express yourself more authentically, cultivate inner peace, heal from abuse or trauma, explore polyamory, address issues specific to your sexuality or gender identity, or so much more, I am here to help. With my collaborative approach, we will unlock your potential to set healthy boundaries, shift limiting beliefs, make peace with your body, navigate uncertainty, embrace paradox, transcend polarities, embrace “good enough,” and learn to dance in the rain so to speak.
(415) 993-8135 View (415) 993-8135
Photo of Alex Tipton, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Oakland, CA
Alex Tipton
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I work with adults and teenagers who are looking to manage symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma. I will be with you on the journey of healing to discovery, recovery, and connection to your true self. I also specialize in working with individuals experiencing life transition issues such as career/academic concerns and relationship stress. I approach therapy with a person-centered mindset to create as comfortable and welcoming an environment as I can. I believe the trust built between you and a therapist is one of the more powerful tools we as clinicians can offer, and I hope to garner that trust in my own practice.
I work with adults and teenagers who are looking to manage symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma. I will be with you on the journey of healing to discovery, recovery, and connection to your true self. I also specialize in working with individuals experiencing life transition issues such as career/academic concerns and relationship stress. I approach therapy with a person-centered mindset to create as comfortable and welcoming an environment as I can. I believe the trust built between you and a therapist is one of the more powerful tools we as clinicians can offer, and I hope to garner that trust in my own practice.
(415) 322-5279 View (415) 322-5279
Photo of Kathlynn Gates, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Oakland, CA
Kathlynn Gates
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Are you experiencing challenges dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, and trauma/PTSD? Due to these symptoms, we can be in too much emotional pain and feel too stuck to reframe our perceptions or to find solutions to our problems. Childhood or recent trauma can cause emotional distress that can be difficult to process. I am here to support you in working through unresolved trauma and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
Are you experiencing challenges dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship/family issues, and trauma/PTSD? Due to these symptoms, we can be in too much emotional pain and feel too stuck to reframe our perceptions or to find solutions to our problems. Childhood or recent trauma can cause emotional distress that can be difficult to process. I am here to support you in working through unresolved trauma and guide you toward healing. Therefore, you can feel empowered, rejuvenated, and enthusiastic about life again.
(415) 915-0236 View (415) 915-0236
Photo of Alicia Johnson, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Alicia Johnson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
One of the bravest things we can do in life is to seek help when we need it most. It can be difficult to carry our struggles alone, and a true relief to have someone help to hold them. I work with clients experiencing a range of concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, school or career issues, navigating parenting, life transitions, family conflict, identity development, discrimination, and existential distress. No matter what is bringing you to therapy right now, the key is a desire and readiness to evolve and to grow. This is what can lead to true healing, and the discovery of your full potential.
One of the bravest things we can do in life is to seek help when we need it most. It can be difficult to carry our struggles alone, and a true relief to have someone help to hold them. I work with clients experiencing a range of concerns including trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, school or career issues, navigating parenting, life transitions, family conflict, identity development, discrimination, and existential distress. No matter what is bringing you to therapy right now, the key is a desire and readiness to evolve and to grow. This is what can lead to true healing, and the discovery of your full potential.
(510) 398-4410 View (510) 398-4410
Photo of Tig Parker, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Oakland, CA
Tig Parker
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, AFMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
I'm a non-binary therapist offering gender affirming care to other trans, non-binary and queer individuals. My approach is warm, curious, trauma informed, and relationship-centered. So much of our trauma as a species has occurred in relational contexts. Therapy can be an opportunity to re-define and discover what it means to be in healthy relationship with ourself and others. Through building our therapeutic relationship together, I think we can uncover a lot about how you move through the world, where you get stuck, and how you relate to others.
I'm a non-binary therapist offering gender affirming care to other trans, non-binary and queer individuals. My approach is warm, curious, trauma informed, and relationship-centered. So much of our trauma as a species has occurred in relational contexts. Therapy can be an opportunity to re-define and discover what it means to be in healthy relationship with ourself and others. Through building our therapeutic relationship together, I think we can uncover a lot about how you move through the world, where you get stuck, and how you relate to others.
(650) 405-0031 View (650) 405-0031
Photo of Vincent Rozalski, Ph.D., Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Vincent Rozalski, Ph.D.
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
I specialize in focused treatment for individuals who are suffering from the after effects of trauma and other stressful events. I have worked with people who've experienced a variety of terrible events, such as combat, accidents, abuse, sexual assaults, and near death experiences. After such events, it is common to experience a variety of problems, including PTSD, guilt, shame, anger, depression, anxiety, substance use, or emotional dysregulation. If you are experiencing any of these problems, I can help. I also offer psychedelic assisted therapy, including integration of ketamine or other psychedelic medicines.
I specialize in focused treatment for individuals who are suffering from the after effects of trauma and other stressful events. I have worked with people who've experienced a variety of terrible events, such as combat, accidents, abuse, sexual assaults, and near death experiences. After such events, it is common to experience a variety of problems, including PTSD, guilt, shame, anger, depression, anxiety, substance use, or emotional dysregulation. If you are experiencing any of these problems, I can help. I also offer psychedelic assisted therapy, including integration of ketamine or other psychedelic medicines.
(925) 403-4551 View (925) 403-4551
Photo of Carmelinda Martin Mann, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Carmelinda Martin Mann
Psychologist, MA, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
I will support you in working through the difficult experiences that have led to anxiety, depression or any other trauma response.
I work with individuals, couples, parents, families and children to develop a therapeutic relationship based on their needs and goals. Through this process, clients get to know themselves better in a safe and supportive environment. I consider therapy a collaborative process that offers unique opportunities to manifest your ideal self through honesty and trust. I draw from the varied types of training and experience I have to find what works best for you and I create a safe space so you can explore the emotions that arise from difficult and painful experiences. I support couples and families in developing empathy, trust, and healthy
I will support you in working through the difficult experiences that have led to anxiety, depression or any other trauma response.
I work with individuals, couples, parents, families and children to develop a therapeutic relationship based on their needs and goals. Through this process, clients get to know themselves better in a safe and supportive environment. I consider therapy a collaborative process that offers unique opportunities to manifest your ideal self through honesty and trust. I draw from the varied types of training and experience I have to find what works best for you and I create a safe space so you can explore the emotions that arise from difficult and painful experiences. I support couples and families in developing empathy, trust, and healthy
(415) 683-0646 View (415) 683-0646
Photo of Jennifer Lara, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Oakland, CA
Jennifer Lara
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
Childhood trauma can cripple us, it creates overpowering ‘intense’ emotions such as anxiety, depression, and anger when left unattended which begins to create physical symptoms to defend our bodies from the internal wounds. Has there ever been a time in your life where you have experienced this reaction? Are you experiencing these feelings based on current or past trauma from childhood, early teens, adolescence, adulthood, or as a senior? I aim to utilize a variety of actionable techniques to help reduce trauma related symptoms and make lasting changes in life.
Childhood trauma can cripple us, it creates overpowering ‘intense’ emotions such as anxiety, depression, and anger when left unattended which begins to create physical symptoms to defend our bodies from the internal wounds. Has there ever been a time in your life where you have experienced this reaction? Are you experiencing these feelings based on current or past trauma from childhood, early teens, adolescence, adulthood, or as a senior? I aim to utilize a variety of actionable techniques to help reduce trauma related symptoms and make lasting changes in life.
(415) 200-3335 View (415) 200-3335
Photo of Andy Lavine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Andy Lavine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610
I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families. If you've encountered tough experiences, difficulties in work and relationships, traumas, or addiction, I am available to help. I've done extensive work at the crossroads of trauma and mental health, and specialize in helping clients move from crisis into stabilization. I use modalities such as attachment focused EMDR, IFS, DBT skills, somatic interventions and insight oriented talk therapy. I am here to partner with you so that we can work together to help you feel better. Getting you to a place where you can live the life you want to is my primary goal!
I specialize in working with individuals, couples, and families. If you've encountered tough experiences, difficulties in work and relationships, traumas, or addiction, I am available to help. I've done extensive work at the crossroads of trauma and mental health, and specialize in helping clients move from crisis into stabilization. I use modalities such as attachment focused EMDR, IFS, DBT skills, somatic interventions and insight oriented talk therapy. I am here to partner with you so that we can work together to help you feel better. Getting you to a place where you can live the life you want to is my primary goal!
(415) 936-1910 View (415) 936-1910
Photo of Elizabeth Preston, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Elizabeth Preston
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94619
I have extensive experience treating trauma, both recent, acute trauma and the residue of past trauma, such as a history of sexual and physical abuse.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 25 years of experience treating children, adolescents, families and adults. I provide highly indiviudalized therapy to each and every client. I integrate techniques from several theoretical orientations, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, family systems theory, and psychodynamic theory, to formulate an indiviudalized treatment plan for each client. Within the session, I create a safe, compassionate and confidential setting for clients to address their core issues and to work out past and present difficulties.
I have extensive experience treating trauma, both recent, acute trauma and the residue of past trauma, such as a history of sexual and physical abuse.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with 25 years of experience treating children, adolescents, families and adults. I provide highly indiviudalized therapy to each and every client. I integrate techniques from several theoretical orientations, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, family systems theory, and psychodynamic theory, to formulate an indiviudalized treatment plan for each client. Within the session, I create a safe, compassionate and confidential setting for clients to address their core issues and to work out past and present difficulties.
(510) 962-7931 View (510) 962-7931
Photo of Dr. Elizabeth Gayner, Psychologist in Oakland, CA
Dr. Elizabeth Gayner
Psychologist, PsyD, PMH-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94618
As a seasoned psychologist, I have extensive experience in helping women, mothers, and those who have experienced trauma find real, lasting change in their lives.
You never expected this journey to feel this way. The path to becoming a mother or finally settling into the role of raising your child looks so different than you imagined. Negative experiences from the past might be so suffocating it feels like you’ll never break free. The demands and pressure on you keep adding up and you’re trying to balance it at all, but your well-being always ends up on the back burner. You're putting on a brave face for everyone, but inside, you're feeling broken. Honestly, you just wish you could start feeling better or finally get what you've you've been craving for so long.
As a seasoned psychologist, I have extensive experience in helping women, mothers, and those who have experienced trauma find real, lasting change in their lives.
You never expected this journey to feel this way. The path to becoming a mother or finally settling into the role of raising your child looks so different than you imagined. Negative experiences from the past might be so suffocating it feels like you’ll never break free. The demands and pressure on you keep adding up and you’re trying to balance it at all, but your well-being always ends up on the back burner. You're putting on a brave face for everyone, but inside, you're feeling broken. Honestly, you just wish you could start feeling better or finally get what you've you've been craving for so long.
(415) 723-4161 View (415) 723-4161
Photo of Kathy Brady, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Oakland, CA
Kathy Brady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94609
My specialties are Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Substance Use and Parenting.
Life in the Bay Area is challenging and the additional stress associated with being LGBTQ+, a woman, pregnant, a parent or all of the above can push it over the edge. Sometimes, especially if you didn’t feel protected or cared for as a child or if something bad has happened to you, life can feel like you’re in over your head. Relationships feel out of control and painful, sleeping is hard and you can’t seem to take care of yourself the way you know you should. Emotions can feel like a roller coaster and daily responsibilities like work or kids are overwhelming. It is possible to feel better and good therapy can help.
My specialties are Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, Substance Use and Parenting.
Life in the Bay Area is challenging and the additional stress associated with being LGBTQ+, a woman, pregnant, a parent or all of the above can push it over the edge. Sometimes, especially if you didn’t feel protected or cared for as a child or if something bad has happened to you, life can feel like you’re in over your head. Relationships feel out of control and painful, sleeping is hard and you can’t seem to take care of yourself the way you know you should. Emotions can feel like a roller coaster and daily responsibilities like work or kids are overwhelming. It is possible to feel better and good therapy can help.
(628) 300-3570 View (628) 300-3570
Photo of Portia Marie Anderson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Oakland, CA
Portia Marie Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94601  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have 16 years of experience as a psychotherapist. I utilize psychodynamic/solution focused/CBT/ trauma informed techniques. My work is influenced by my belief in social justice, and humanism. I will work with you through the difficulties of your life and support you in your journey to create the life you deserve.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have 16 years of experience as a psychotherapist. I utilize psychodynamic/solution focused/CBT/ trauma informed techniques. My work is influenced by my belief in social justice, and humanism. I will work with you through the difficulties of your life and support you in your journey to create the life you deserve.
(510) 272-7068 View (510) 272-7068
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.