Photo of Dr. Linda Thompson, Psychologist in Palos Verdes Estates, CA
Dr. Linda Thompson
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
I have specialized training in trauma and grief.
Finding a psychotherapist you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings with can seem like a great challenge. As you search, it is helpful to be mindful of what is bringing you to therapy and what you are wanting from a therapist. When you find someone you think you may be able to bond with, you can talk with them about what you are looking for and if you don't know, ask them how they envision working with you. As a psychologist with over 30 years of experience, I believe that meeting the client where they are is the key to creating a safe and supportive environment conducive to change.
I have specialized training in trauma and grief.
Finding a psychotherapist you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings with can seem like a great challenge. As you search, it is helpful to be mindful of what is bringing you to therapy and what you are wanting from a therapist. When you find someone you think you may be able to bond with, you can talk with them about what you are looking for and if you don't know, ask them how they envision working with you. As a psychologist with over 30 years of experience, I believe that meeting the client where they are is the key to creating a safe and supportive environment conducive to change.
(310) 896-4194 View (310) 896-4194
Photo of Beverly Scott/Licensed Marriage Family Counselor, Marriage & Family Therapist in Palos Verdes Estates, CA
Beverly Scott/Licensed Marriage Family Counselor
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
My newest passion & training is trauma & the brain.
Suffer no more with depression, panic attacks, addictions, low self esteem and bad relationships, time to transform those close relationships into great ones whether at home or in the office.I use EMDR, brain spotting, hypnosis, codependence therapy, plus couples theories (certified Imago Therapist & Relationsl Life Therapist), joining all in loving communication. I love 12 step programs & have been trained & certified by the best in the field for addiction issues. . I am trained in mediation working for LA court as a mediator for divorcing couples using communication & collaborative methods. I have taught classes helping divorcing couples cope Good communication=love!
My newest passion & training is trauma & the brain.
Suffer no more with depression, panic attacks, addictions, low self esteem and bad relationships, time to transform those close relationships into great ones whether at home or in the office.I use EMDR, brain spotting, hypnosis, codependence therapy, plus couples theories (certified Imago Therapist & Relationsl Life Therapist), joining all in loving communication. I love 12 step programs & have been trained & certified by the best in the field for addiction issues. . I am trained in mediation working for LA court as a mediator for divorcing couples using communication & collaborative methods. I have taught classes helping divorcing couples cope Good communication=love!
(424) 789-8455 View (424) 789-8455
Photo of Julia M McHugh, Psychologist in Palos Verdes Estates, CA
Julia M McHugh
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
I specialize in educational and psychological assessment, Infant-Preschool Mental Health, parent education, and coaching, Psychological Trauma (PTSD), Veterans, depression, anxiety, child behavioral disorders, ADHD, scholastic issues, adoption, grief, chronic health, and aging issues.
Are you ready for a change? I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist with an office in Torrance, CA across from the Del Amo Mall. I believe in everyone's ability to live a better life through healing and change in a sportive, caring environment designed to attend personal needs. I provide individual and family therapy to address the many struggles and life issues we all face. My practice includes psychological testing (IQ, SSI, PTSD, Personality, Education, Development, Autism/ADHD diagnosis). I strive to meet every client where they are and tailor specific treatment to facilitate growth and happiness through positive change.
I specialize in educational and psychological assessment, Infant-Preschool Mental Health, parent education, and coaching, Psychological Trauma (PTSD), Veterans, depression, anxiety, child behavioral disorders, ADHD, scholastic issues, adoption, grief, chronic health, and aging issues.
Are you ready for a change? I am a licensed Clinical Psychologist with an office in Torrance, CA across from the Del Amo Mall. I believe in everyone's ability to live a better life through healing and change in a sportive, caring environment designed to attend personal needs. I provide individual and family therapy to address the many struggles and life issues we all face. My practice includes psychological testing (IQ, SSI, PTSD, Personality, Education, Development, Autism/ADHD diagnosis). I strive to meet every client where they are and tailor specific treatment to facilitate growth and happiness through positive change.
(626) 646-5227 View (626) 646-5227
Photo of Burney Therapy Group, Marriage & Family Therapist in Palos Verdes Estates, CA
Burney Therapy Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90275
Megan is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, specializing in working with all eating disorders, body image struggles, depression and anxiety disorders, trauma, chemical dependency, LGBTQ concerns, domestic violence, and identity/self-esteem struggles. She enjoys working with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents. She has worked at various levels of care—from residential to outpatient treatment. In session, Megan has a warm, caring, non-judgmental, explorative, and honest approach. She utilizes CBT, DBT, ACT and various other evidence-based practices, tailoring each intervention to suit your unique needs.
Megan is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, specializing in working with all eating disorders, body image struggles, depression and anxiety disorders, trauma, chemical dependency, LGBTQ concerns, domestic violence, and identity/self-esteem struggles. She enjoys working with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents. She has worked at various levels of care—from residential to outpatient treatment. In session, Megan has a warm, caring, non-judgmental, explorative, and honest approach. She utilizes CBT, DBT, ACT and various other evidence-based practices, tailoring each intervention to suit your unique needs.
(562) 554-4048 View (562) 554-4048
Photo of Grace Counseling Group, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in Palos Verdes Estates, CA
Grace Counseling Group
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC, PPS
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90275
Seeking therapy can be an overwhelming experience. I am here to make the process a positive one for you. My goal is to help you resolve issues in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. I strive to meet each person where they are at on their journey and offer hope/support that will improve your quality of life . I incorporate biblical principles in my practice; I believe it is the foundational guide to true freedom.
Seeking therapy can be an overwhelming experience. I am here to make the process a positive one for you. My goal is to help you resolve issues in a safe, nonjudgmental environment. I strive to meet each person where they are at on their journey and offer hope/support that will improve your quality of life . I incorporate biblical principles in my practice; I believe it is the foundational guide to true freedom.
(310) 361-3214 View (310) 361-3214
Photo of Crossroads Institute, Psychologist in Palos Verdes Estates, CA
Crossroads Institute
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
We are an organization of mental health professionals with a common goal of providing excellent and expert services in Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego counties. We are committed to providing the highest level of professional expertise and human compassion for issues and concerns that arise in the course of our lives. Crossroads Institute offers psychotherapy services for all ages, psychiatry, clinical, educational, and neuropsychological assessment, and brain training services, including qEEG based Neurofeedback and Biofeedback services.
We are an organization of mental health professionals with a common goal of providing excellent and expert services in Los Angeles, Orange County, and San Diego counties. We are committed to providing the highest level of professional expertise and human compassion for issues and concerns that arise in the course of our lives. Crossroads Institute offers psychotherapy services for all ages, psychiatry, clinical, educational, and neuropsychological assessment, and brain training services, including qEEG based Neurofeedback and Biofeedback services.
(562) 354-8971 View (562) 354-8971
Photo of Dr. Waybright & Associates, Psychologist in Palos Verdes Estates, CA
Dr. Waybright & Associates
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
I specialize in the treatment of Anxiety Disorders. Do you have repetitive bothersome thoughts? Do physical symptoms of anxiety have you concerned? Are you limiting yourself in other ways? Doing nothing? Doing the same thing over and over? Panic attacks? Obsessive Compulsive Disorder? Social Anxiety? Depressed/isolating? Are you simply experiencing a difficult life transition, or is this more than that? Feel like you are stuck in a rut? Feel like the treatments you have tried so far haven't helped much? Relax...you've just now located someone who can help. Email me with any questions or to schedule a first session.
I specialize in the treatment of Anxiety Disorders. Do you have repetitive bothersome thoughts? Do physical symptoms of anxiety have you concerned? Are you limiting yourself in other ways? Doing nothing? Doing the same thing over and over? Panic attacks? Obsessive Compulsive Disorder? Social Anxiety? Depressed/isolating? Are you simply experiencing a difficult life transition, or is this more than that? Feel like you are stuck in a rut? Feel like the treatments you have tried so far haven't helped much? Relax...you've just now located someone who can help. Email me with any questions or to schedule a first session.
(323) 767-8931 View (323) 767-8931
Photo of Blair P Hand, Psychologist in Palos Verdes Estates, CA
Blair P Hand
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
Life can be full of challenges, loss, and anxiety. I strive to provide a safe and supportive environment where healing can occur, and you and your loved ones can become your best selves. I work with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with anxiety, OCD, perfectionism, depression, assertiveness, social skills, ADHD, selective mutism, academic problems, grief and loss, divorce, and relationship issues.
Life can be full of challenges, loss, and anxiety. I strive to provide a safe and supportive environment where healing can occur, and you and your loved ones can become your best selves. I work with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with anxiety, OCD, perfectionism, depression, assertiveness, social skills, ADHD, selective mutism, academic problems, grief and loss, divorce, and relationship issues.
(424) 571-2643 View (424) 571-2643
Photo of Counseling for Couples & Families, Psychologist in Palos Verdes Estates, CA
Counseling for Couples & Families
Psychologist, PsyD, MFCC, CHT
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
Relationships between husbands, wives, lovers, boy/girl friends, children or parents can be tricky. Happy, satisfying and fulfilling relationships require attention, energy, fun, humor, communication, time and investment of yourself. Too often relationships are hampered by misunderstandings, hurtful actions, stress, differences of opinions, unmet needs, and different expectations. Personality changes over time, affairs of the heart, infidelity, unmet sexual intimacy, abuse, cruel words, neglect, self-centeredness, different communication styles, different goals, values and dissimilar interests or fun activities also create unhappiness in relationships. Dr. Carol Francis has worked with relationships satisfaction for 32 years. 310-543-1824 or RelationshipSatisfactionNow.com and drcarolfrancis.com pathstosuccesses.com
Relationships between husbands, wives, lovers, boy/girl friends, children or parents can be tricky. Happy, satisfying and fulfilling relationships require attention, energy, fun, humor, communication, time and investment of yourself. Too often relationships are hampered by misunderstandings, hurtful actions, stress, differences of opinions, unmet needs, and different expectations. Personality changes over time, affairs of the heart, infidelity, unmet sexual intimacy, abuse, cruel words, neglect, self-centeredness, different communication styles, different goals, values and dissimilar interests or fun activities also create unhappiness in relationships. Dr. Carol Francis has worked with relationships satisfaction for 32 years. 310-543-1824 or RelationshipSatisfactionNow.com and drcarolfrancis.com pathstosuccesses.com
(310) 543-1824 View (310) 543-1824
Photo of David Hirohama, Psychologist in Palos Verdes Estates, CA
David Hirohama
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
Are you stuck in the past or reaching aimlessly for the future? Therapy provided by an experienced compassionate psychologist can help you to make lasting positive changes in your life. I have helped many clients to resolve their past issues so that they can focus more on the present moment and live more fully. I have successfully worked with people from all walks of life, including adult individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents. Together we will move toward greater self-understanding, insight and self-confidence. So here's to a new you in 2014!
Are you stuck in the past or reaching aimlessly for the future? Therapy provided by an experienced compassionate psychologist can help you to make lasting positive changes in your life. I have helped many clients to resolve their past issues so that they can focus more on the present moment and live more fully. I have successfully worked with people from all walks of life, including adult individuals, couples, families, children and adolescents. Together we will move toward greater self-understanding, insight and self-confidence. So here's to a new you in 2014!
(562) 263-9168 View (562) 263-9168
Photo of Joanna Edwards, Psychologist in Palos Verdes Estates, CA
Joanna Edwards
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
Are you having trouble with difficult people in your life? Do you feel as if there are issues at work, school or home that are spiraling out of control? At some point in life, most of us face obstacles that can keep us from achieving success in our personal, academic, or professional lives. Regardless of where these issues originate, Dr. Edwards can help you find and use your strengths to cope with your particular life challenges.
Are you having trouble with difficult people in your life? Do you feel as if there are issues at work, school or home that are spiraling out of control? At some point in life, most of us face obstacles that can keep us from achieving success in our personal, academic, or professional lives. Regardless of where these issues originate, Dr. Edwards can help you find and use your strengths to cope with your particular life challenges.
(310) 895-9511 View (310) 895-9511
Photo of Counseling Adults, Children & Couples, Psychologist in Palos Verdes Estates, CA
Counseling Adults, Children & Couples
Psychologist, PsyD, MAMFCT, CHYP
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
(310) 421-2863 View (310) 421-2863
Photo of Jacqueline Valdovinos, Marriage & Family Therapist in Palos Verdes Estates, CA
Jacqueline Valdovinos
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90275
My ideal client would be someone who is going through a life transition. My client would want to learn exercises to become a stong and independent individual.
My ideal client would be someone who is going through a life transition. My client would want to learn exercises to become a stong and independent individual.
(213) 528-3953 View (213) 528-3953
Photo of Nicole Danielle Callella, Psychologist in Palos Verdes Estates, CA
Nicole Danielle Callella
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90275
As a psychologist, I allow the space for individuals to gain insight and growth in their lives that help them reach their goals and aspirations. We all encounter challenges, whether it be someone suffering from anxiety and depression, a family who just found out their child has a medical issue, a child with fears, or a teen who has been bullied. During these unfortunate times what is needed is someone to connect with and help you out of this dark cave of distress. One of my greatest strengths has been the ability to connect with others and reveal the ways through this emotional distress.
As a psychologist, I allow the space for individuals to gain insight and growth in their lives that help them reach their goals and aspirations. We all encounter challenges, whether it be someone suffering from anxiety and depression, a family who just found out their child has a medical issue, a child with fears, or a teen who has been bullied. During these unfortunate times what is needed is someone to connect with and help you out of this dark cave of distress. One of my greatest strengths has been the ability to connect with others and reveal the ways through this emotional distress.
(424) 218-9953 View (424) 218-9953

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Susan M. Schlag, Marriage & Family Therapist in Palos Verdes Estates, CA
Susan M. Schlag
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LCMFT-S, CEIM
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in offering trauma informed and culturally sensitive psychotherapy to individuals, children, couples and families.
Whether you are wanting support in becoming your best self, enriching relationships or exploring how past experiences are impacting your own or your child's current well-being, therapy may be the helping hand you need. I offer over 15 years experience providing therapy in private practice and community mental health settings. I work from an attachment based and family systems approach to help individuals and families restore balance and improve relationships. I also utilize mindfulness and client centered techniques to empower my clients to reach their full potential.
I specialize in offering trauma informed and culturally sensitive psychotherapy to individuals, children, couples and families.
Whether you are wanting support in becoming your best self, enriching relationships or exploring how past experiences are impacting your own or your child's current well-being, therapy may be the helping hand you need. I offer over 15 years experience providing therapy in private practice and community mental health settings. I work from an attachment based and family systems approach to help individuals and families restore balance and improve relationships. I also utilize mindfulness and client centered techniques to empower my clients to reach their full potential.
(913) 285-8992 View (913) 285-8992
Photo of Janet A Vivero, Psychologist in Palos Verdes Estates, CA
Janet A Vivero
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Waitlist for new clients
I'm a bilingual/bicultural (Spanish speaking) psychologist with an extensive history working with diverse, multicultural populations. I specialize in psychological and neuropsychological testing for young children, adolescents, and adults and provide psychotherapy for relationship issues, family functioning, parenting, sexuality, trauma, anxiety, depression, and ADHD. As a psychologist I believe in forming a trusting partnership and establishing a safe and comfortable space for self-exploration. Your involvement in therapy can be a means for exploring ways to improve the quality of your life and of your relationships. I believe transformation is possible through understanding, healing, support, and connectedness."
I'm a bilingual/bicultural (Spanish speaking) psychologist with an extensive history working with diverse, multicultural populations. I specialize in psychological and neuropsychological testing for young children, adolescents, and adults and provide psychotherapy for relationship issues, family functioning, parenting, sexuality, trauma, anxiety, depression, and ADHD. As a psychologist I believe in forming a trusting partnership and establishing a safe and comfortable space for self-exploration. Your involvement in therapy can be a means for exploring ways to improve the quality of your life and of your relationships. I believe transformation is possible through understanding, healing, support, and connectedness."
(562) 282-9651 View (562) 282-9651
Photo of Carol Ann Francis, Psychologist in Palos Verdes Estates, CA
Carol Ann Francis
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, MFTT, CHT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Adult-life circumstance therapy:3105431824; Hypnotherapy- habit changes, self-exploration, reduction of trauma anxieties, sadnesses, & angers.
Relief from anxiety, depression, fears or angers gives you room to live your life fully. Self-improvement (your mind, body, self-esteem, capacity for satisfying/exciting relationships and powerful career advances) can move you leaps and bounds toward a richer, lively life. Eliminating habits (smoking, over-eating, lack of exercise, substances, etc) frees you to be you. Creating new paths after divorce, death, traumatic disruptions, leads toward a self-directed future. Through many different therapeutic approaches--well researched and tested-- you can attain your goals & dreams for your fuller, peaceful life. www.drcarolfrancis.com or call 310-543-1824.
Adult-life circumstance therapy:3105431824; Hypnotherapy- habit changes, self-exploration, reduction of trauma anxieties, sadnesses, & angers.
Relief from anxiety, depression, fears or angers gives you room to live your life fully. Self-improvement (your mind, body, self-esteem, capacity for satisfying/exciting relationships and powerful career advances) can move you leaps and bounds toward a richer, lively life. Eliminating habits (smoking, over-eating, lack of exercise, substances, etc) frees you to be you. Creating new paths after divorce, death, traumatic disruptions, leads toward a self-directed future. Through many different therapeutic approaches--well researched and tested-- you can attain your goals & dreams for your fuller, peaceful life. www.drcarolfrancis.com or call 310-543-1824.
(424) 570-2143 View (424) 570-2143
Photo of Jennifer Kuchler, Marriage & Family Therapist in Palos Verdes Estates, CA
Jennifer Kuchler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274  (Online Only)
I know personally, what it feels like to be on edge looking for the next issue to come. Having your brain obsess about things- like a prisoner to your own thoughts- Waiting to fall asleep for hours, not being able to recall specific names or numbers. I've been there, I know hope is possible- I found it & have been trained to help others. Let's develop the skills needed to build confidence, improve communication skills, dive deep into bringing out your identity and feel in control of your emotions, create coping skills to build better habits, battle procrastination & have more fulfillment in life.
I know personally, what it feels like to be on edge looking for the next issue to come. Having your brain obsess about things- like a prisoner to your own thoughts- Waiting to fall asleep for hours, not being able to recall specific names or numbers. I've been there, I know hope is possible- I found it & have been trained to help others. Let's develop the skills needed to build confidence, improve communication skills, dive deep into bringing out your identity and feel in control of your emotions, create coping skills to build better habits, battle procrastination & have more fulfillment in life.
(424) 272-6168 View (424) 272-6168
Photo of Jesica Magi Camarena, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Palos Verdes Estates, CA
Jesica Magi Camarena
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274
Hello my name is Jesica! I am Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor. We as individuals no matter what age experience different life changes/challenges that affect us in our everyday lives. I as a clinician believe that you are the expert of your life. I believe that my job as a clinician is not to fix you, but to guide and give you the necessary tools/skills to overcome/heal from difficult life events. My goal is to show my clients their strengths and they are capable of doing anything they put their mind to.
Hello my name is Jesica! I am Associate Marriage and Family Therapist and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor. We as individuals no matter what age experience different life changes/challenges that affect us in our everyday lives. I as a clinician believe that you are the expert of your life. I believe that my job as a clinician is not to fix you, but to guide and give you the necessary tools/skills to overcome/heal from difficult life events. My goal is to show my clients their strengths and they are capable of doing anything they put their mind to.
(424) 581-0497 View (424) 581-0497
Photo of Hillside Counseling Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Palos Verdes Estates, CA
Hillside Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Have you ever felt overwhelmed and just don't know what else to do? In therapy, I provide an environment in which you can feel safe and encouraged when working through relationship issues or to make changes when life has become too stressful. I will work with you to help bring back hope, peace, and balance into your life. Change may not be easy but it is possible. I speak Spanish fluently and have worked with individuals, couples and families for years honoring their journey, culture, and uniqueness.
Have you ever felt overwhelmed and just don't know what else to do? In therapy, I provide an environment in which you can feel safe and encouraged when working through relationship issues or to make changes when life has become too stressful. I will work with you to help bring back hope, peace, and balance into your life. Change may not be easy but it is possible. I speak Spanish fluently and have worked with individuals, couples and families for years honoring their journey, culture, and uniqueness.
(310) 907-8398 View (310) 907-8398

See more therapy options for Palos Verdes Estates


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.