Photo of Trevor Olson, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Trevor Olson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92109
I work for people wanting some of the main things in life: trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, shame, addiction, loss, grief, coping, adjustment, identity angst, children of divorce, serious mental health problems, and unresolved problems from the past - to change.
The philosophy is people + relationship = the good life. One's relationship to others and oneself is the basis of my work. Healing from the past, knowing the freedom of a better life, and becoming able to give and receive love are the transformative results of doing good work. Our work is successful when you become more of the person you are supposed to be: a whole person in life-giving relationship. My specialty is within the overlapping layers of say anxiety, depression, an unfolding course of work, and a better than expected day. Being a generalist, by specialty, my experience is in taking you as I find you.
I work for people wanting some of the main things in life: trauma, abuse, depression, anxiety, shame, addiction, loss, grief, coping, adjustment, identity angst, children of divorce, serious mental health problems, and unresolved problems from the past - to change.
The philosophy is people + relationship = the good life. One's relationship to others and oneself is the basis of my work. Healing from the past, knowing the freedom of a better life, and becoming able to give and receive love are the transformative results of doing good work. Our work is successful when you become more of the person you are supposed to be: a whole person in life-giving relationship. My specialty is within the overlapping layers of say anxiety, depression, an unfolding course of work, and a better than expected day. Being a generalist, by specialty, my experience is in taking you as I find you.
(858) 914-1603 View (858) 914-1603
Photo of Dr. Alan Acre, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Dr. Alan Acre
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
I specialize in trauma/PTSD, substance use, military, LEOs, self-defeating behaviors, anger mastery, family of origin issues, marriage/couples counseling, emotional stability, family counseling, parenting, rebuilding healthy relationships and behaviors.
Hello. I am Dr. Alan Acre, clinical psychologist. I was the clinical director of a trauma clinic in San Diego for over four years. If you’re looking for a quality private counseling session with a provider that cares, then you’ve come to the right place. I like helping clients conquer difficulties by using evidenced based treatments that allow you to engage life with a peaceful mind, a healthy outlook, and joy. We'll learn how to stop white knuckling life's problems and proudly use effective techniques to engage our family, friends, and co-workers with. Call me for a free consult, or I can help match you with one of our therapists.
I specialize in trauma/PTSD, substance use, military, LEOs, self-defeating behaviors, anger mastery, family of origin issues, marriage/couples counseling, emotional stability, family counseling, parenting, rebuilding healthy relationships and behaviors.
Hello. I am Dr. Alan Acre, clinical psychologist. I was the clinical director of a trauma clinic in San Diego for over four years. If you’re looking for a quality private counseling session with a provider that cares, then you’ve come to the right place. I like helping clients conquer difficulties by using evidenced based treatments that allow you to engage life with a peaceful mind, a healthy outlook, and joy. We'll learn how to stop white knuckling life's problems and proudly use effective techniques to engage our family, friends, and co-workers with. Call me for a free consult, or I can help match you with one of our therapists.
(619) 566-7336 View (619) 566-7336
Photo of Dr. Jen Bachtold, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Dr. Jen Bachtold
Psychologist, PhD, CADC-II
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92154  (Online Only)
Hi there! Thank you for taking the time to stop by! I work with those suffering from chronic pain, addiction, depression, anxiety, grief, mental and emotional disturbances, change of life transitions, relationship concerns, work stress/burnout, personality disorders, intra and interpersonal issues, trauma, anger, and just every day stresses! I have experience delivering evidenced-based therapies in individual and group therapy, including providing individual short-term and long-term psychotherapy. Providers in my office are allies of Racial-Justiced and LGBTQIA+.
Hi there! Thank you for taking the time to stop by! I work with those suffering from chronic pain, addiction, depression, anxiety, grief, mental and emotional disturbances, change of life transitions, relationship concerns, work stress/burnout, personality disorders, intra and interpersonal issues, trauma, anger, and just every day stresses! I have experience delivering evidenced-based therapies in individual and group therapy, including providing individual short-term and long-term psychotherapy. Providers in my office are allies of Racial-Justiced and LGBTQIA+.
(619) 824-1954 View (619) 824-1954
Photo of Ebb and Flow Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Ebb and Flow Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92108
At Ebb and Flow Psychotherapy we have had the privilege of learning from many of our clients a very valuable lesson: what might appear to be an insurmountable obstacle, is actually an opportunity to be resilient and overcome adversity. Our team is full of Clinicians with a committed passion for assisting individuals with a variety of concerns including; adjustment disorders, ADHD, complex trauma, anxiety, grief and loss, and depression.
At Ebb and Flow Psychotherapy we have had the privilege of learning from many of our clients a very valuable lesson: what might appear to be an insurmountable obstacle, is actually an opportunity to be resilient and overcome adversity. Our team is full of Clinicians with a committed passion for assisting individuals with a variety of concerns including; adjustment disorders, ADHD, complex trauma, anxiety, grief and loss, and depression.
(619) 350-2361 View (619) 350-2361
Photo of Sarah Schumacher, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Sarah Schumacher
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
I am passionate about helping clients who suffered traumas and are experiencing PTSD.
Hello, I am Sarah Schumacher, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been working in the mental health field since 2018 and I was previously a lead clinician. Prior to being a therapist, I spent 20 years in the army, and served several tours in Afghanistan. If you’re looking for quality private counseling with a provider that cares, then you’ve come to the right place. I love helping people overcome the difficulties that life brings and assisting my clients to feel empowered as they learn the skills necessary to prevail and enjoy a happy, healthy, and successful life. I enjoy working with adults and children.
I am passionate about helping clients who suffered traumas and are experiencing PTSD.
Hello, I am Sarah Schumacher, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have been working in the mental health field since 2018 and I was previously a lead clinician. Prior to being a therapist, I spent 20 years in the army, and served several tours in Afghanistan. If you’re looking for quality private counseling with a provider that cares, then you’ve come to the right place. I love helping people overcome the difficulties that life brings and assisting my clients to feel empowered as they learn the skills necessary to prevail and enjoy a happy, healthy, and successful life. I enjoy working with adults and children.
(619) 493-2170 View (619) 493-2170
Photo of Veronica Calkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92105
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
(310) 905-5816 View (310) 905-5816
Photo of Bapsi Slali, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Bapsi Slali
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92123
Waitlist for new clients
I particularly enjoy working with military spouses, the elderly, and people struggling with PTSD issues.
Having been in practice as a clinical psychologist for over 40 years in the San Diego community, I offer my clients the experience and wisdom that has been gathered over time. My personal belief is that each individual has a unique perspective that must be understood, and that every individual has the strength and ability to successfully address and resolve troubling issues.
I particularly enjoy working with military spouses, the elderly, and people struggling with PTSD issues.
Having been in practice as a clinical psychologist for over 40 years in the San Diego community, I offer my clients the experience and wisdom that has been gathered over time. My personal belief is that each individual has a unique perspective that must be understood, and that every individual has the strength and ability to successfully address and resolve troubling issues.
(858) 215-1956 View (858) 215-1956
Photo of Alexander Gilburd, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Alexander Gilburd
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92131  (Online Only)
I also help people who are struggling with substance abuse, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, and schizophrenia.
I believe in people’s innate ability to persevere and evolve through their struggles. Everyone has an innate potential to achieve their goals if given the proper nourishment and environment. As a therapist, I strive to provide that environment. I help patients find their path towards their own peace of mind. I foster a trusting and caring relationship with my patients, focusing on the unique and fascinating experiences that every individual brings to the table.
I also help people who are struggling with substance abuse, depression, bipolar disorder, OCD, PTSD, and schizophrenia.
I believe in people’s innate ability to persevere and evolve through their struggles. Everyone has an innate potential to achieve their goals if given the proper nourishment and environment. As a therapist, I strive to provide that environment. I help patients find their path towards their own peace of mind. I foster a trusting and caring relationship with my patients, focusing on the unique and fascinating experiences that every individual brings to the table.
(858) 935-4859 View (858) 935-4859
Photo of Christiana Silva, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Christiana Silva
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
Areas of specialization include ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, ODD, OCD, Trauma/Abuse.
Dr. Silva is the Chief Behavior Health Officer for San Diego based mental healthcare provider Fusion Care Group. Fusion Care Group is changing the way people think about and receive mental health service and support. We offer a welcoming and accepting environment where you can feel calm and comfortable while in our care. Our relaxed, modern atmosphere and our amazing, highly trained Psychologists, Psychiatrists and therapists are here for you. Our hope is to provide a place to help our clients achieve their life goals, explore life-circumstances, move through difficult life transitions.
Areas of specialization include ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, ODD, OCD, Trauma/Abuse.
Dr. Silva is the Chief Behavior Health Officer for San Diego based mental healthcare provider Fusion Care Group. Fusion Care Group is changing the way people think about and receive mental health service and support. We offer a welcoming and accepting environment where you can feel calm and comfortable while in our care. Our relaxed, modern atmosphere and our amazing, highly trained Psychologists, Psychiatrists and therapists are here for you. Our hope is to provide a place to help our clients achieve their life goals, explore life-circumstances, move through difficult life transitions.
(619) 916-4099 View (619) 916-4099
Photo of George Dabdoub, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
George Dabdoub
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
We specialize in treating trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, moral injury, crisis, codependency, substance abuse, and family/relational.
If you’re looking for quality Private Counseling sessions with providers who care, then you’ve come to the right place. We guide our patients every step of the way and implement methods to help them develop new attitudes towards all of life’s most complex matters. Clearing away obstacles and dysfunction can occur faster than expected and allow us to engage life with a clear mind, a healthy view, and joy.
We specialize in treating trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, moral injury, crisis, codependency, substance abuse, and family/relational.
If you’re looking for quality Private Counseling sessions with providers who care, then you’ve come to the right place. We guide our patients every step of the way and implement methods to help them develop new attitudes towards all of life’s most complex matters. Clearing away obstacles and dysfunction can occur faster than expected and allow us to engage life with a clear mind, a healthy view, and joy.
(909) 323-0911 View (909) 323-0911
Photo of Melissa Houlston, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Melissa Houlston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
I am no stranger to crisis and trauma, and can handle raw emotions with the upmost compassion and care.
The thought of going to therapy can be overwhelming and scary, but it doesn't have to be. As your therapist, I will hold a safe space for you, free from judgement and provide plenty of support. This will be a place where you can heal from past traumas and/or present issues that are making you feel stuck. I will meet you where you are and only take you where you want to go. I have over eight years of experience in both mental health and hospital settings. I started my career as an ER Social Worker at CHOC and most recently was with the County of Orange providing psychological evaluations for suicidal and homicidal minors.
I am no stranger to crisis and trauma, and can handle raw emotions with the upmost compassion and care.
The thought of going to therapy can be overwhelming and scary, but it doesn't have to be. As your therapist, I will hold a safe space for you, free from judgement and provide plenty of support. This will be a place where you can heal from past traumas and/or present issues that are making you feel stuck. I will meet you where you are and only take you where you want to go. I have over eight years of experience in both mental health and hospital settings. I started my career as an ER Social Worker at CHOC and most recently was with the County of Orange providing psychological evaluations for suicidal and homicidal minors.
(909) 316-3351 View (909) 316-3351
Photo of Julie M Hayden, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Julie M Hayden
Psychologist, MRS, MACP, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
I specialize in alcohol and substance addictions, as well as situations that lead to addictions, such as, chronic mental illness, PTSD, gambling, sex addiction, past trauma and abuse, chronic pain, and more.
Addiction is not a problem to be fixed, but rather a person. I have worked with many people with various addictions and realize that addressing one problem from one perspective is not enough. I specialize in getting to know a person first and then helping that person heal from past hurts, learn skills for problem-solving, improve communication, build strong relationships, practice ways to manage strong emotions, learn to slow down and change their harmful or intrusive thoughts, draw from their faith for strength, develop strong support systems, and with all this, hope of long-term recovery can become reality.
I specialize in alcohol and substance addictions, as well as situations that lead to addictions, such as, chronic mental illness, PTSD, gambling, sex addiction, past trauma and abuse, chronic pain, and more.
Addiction is not a problem to be fixed, but rather a person. I have worked with many people with various addictions and realize that addressing one problem from one perspective is not enough. I specialize in getting to know a person first and then helping that person heal from past hurts, learn skills for problem-solving, improve communication, build strong relationships, practice ways to manage strong emotions, learn to slow down and change their harmful or intrusive thoughts, draw from their faith for strength, develop strong support systems, and with all this, hope of long-term recovery can become reality.
(844) 262-8310 View (844) 262-8310
Photo of Dr. Jeff Riffle, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Dr. Jeff Riffle
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92102  (Online Only)
We all have challenges. We all need a supportive and non-judgmental helping hand from time-to-time. I'm Dr. Jeff Riffle, a CA Licensed Clinical Psychologist. Allow me the opportunity to provide that help. I see men and women online from all across California and am available evenings and weekends. I specialize in helping adults manage a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD (including sexual abuse), ADHD, OCD, low self-esteem, chronic illness, life transitions, grief & loss, masculinity issues, military lifestyle concerns, and first responder/law enforcement challenges. I also provide couple’s counseling.
We all have challenges. We all need a supportive and non-judgmental helping hand from time-to-time. I'm Dr. Jeff Riffle, a CA Licensed Clinical Psychologist. Allow me the opportunity to provide that help. I see men and women online from all across California and am available evenings and weekends. I specialize in helping adults manage a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD (including sexual abuse), ADHD, OCD, low self-esteem, chronic illness, life transitions, grief & loss, masculinity issues, military lifestyle concerns, and first responder/law enforcement challenges. I also provide couple’s counseling.
(707) 392-3796 View (707) 392-3796
Photo of Gabriel Lam, LCSW, Inc., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Gabriel Lam, LCSW, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
In my years in practice the ideal client is always the one willing to effect changes in their present situation. Often times I see clients who have gone to other practitioner, but are yet to find the right fit and level of understanding they need. In my practice I take the approach of collaborating and starting "where the client is" in an effort to adequately help and not merely make the client feel better.
In my years in practice the ideal client is always the one willing to effect changes in their present situation. Often times I see clients who have gone to other practitioner, but are yet to find the right fit and level of understanding they need. In my practice I take the approach of collaborating and starting "where the client is" in an effort to adequately help and not merely make the client feel better.
(442) 333-6865 View (442) 333-6865
Photo of Mind Thrive Health, Psychologist in San Diego, CA
Mind Thrive Health
Psychologist
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92101
As a Therapy practice we love to help everyone! no matter what the situation is, our purpose is to help anyone struggling during these times!
As a Therapy practice we love to help everyone! no matter what the situation is, our purpose is to help anyone struggling during these times!
(949) 989-5476 View (949) 989-5476
Angela Phillips
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92130
Everyone encounters challenges and new situations in life. We all want to meet these challenges with confidence, and hope to have acquired the necessary skills along the way to do so. Occasionally, however, we find that the tools that once worked for us no longer do. We may then feel frustrated, unsure of ourselves and have difficulty moving forward. These very challenges, however, help us grow, develop a greater awareness of ourselves and others, and empower us to make good choices. A caring and experienced therapist can help with these challenges...
Everyone encounters challenges and new situations in life. We all want to meet these challenges with confidence, and hope to have acquired the necessary skills along the way to do so. Occasionally, however, we find that the tools that once worked for us no longer do. We may then feel frustrated, unsure of ourselves and have difficulty moving forward. These very challenges, however, help us grow, develop a greater awareness of ourselves and others, and empower us to make good choices. A caring and experienced therapist can help with these challenges...
(858) 386-7806 View (858) 386-7806
Photo of Alcohol Detox San Diego | Drug Rehabs San Diego, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in San Diego, CA
Alcohol Detox San Diego | Drug Rehabs San Diego
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, RADT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
Best alcohol detox San Diego and drug rehabs San Diego near me Escondido, California providing inpatient, intensive outpatient and alcohol and drug detox centers. When seeking drug rehabs La Jolla substance abuse rehabilitation centers it's critical to find evidence based addiction treatment. The detoxification process and continues in inpatient residential and IOP treatments. A large amount of people that need addiction treatment medical care around drug rehabs San Diego. We teach relapse prevention and include the 12-steps at all of our facilities. We at Harmony Grover Recovery drug rehabs Escondido can help you today.
Best alcohol detox San Diego and drug rehabs San Diego near me Escondido, California providing inpatient, intensive outpatient and alcohol and drug detox centers. When seeking drug rehabs La Jolla substance abuse rehabilitation centers it's critical to find evidence based addiction treatment. The detoxification process and continues in inpatient residential and IOP treatments. A large amount of people that need addiction treatment medical care around drug rehabs San Diego. We teach relapse prevention and include the 12-steps at all of our facilities. We at Harmony Grover Recovery drug rehabs Escondido can help you today.
(442) 233-3478 View (442) 233-3478
Photo of Alicia Rodriguez Marenco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Diego, CA
Alicia Rodriguez Marenco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
Hello, I am Alicia Marenco, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been working in the mental health field for over 10 years. I started my career after my husband passed during a combat deployment, while serving in the military and now I love helping others get through tragedy and grief. If you want quality private counseling with a provider that cares about you, then please call me. I enjoy helping people overcome the difficulties that life brings and I love empowering clients to learn the skills necessary to prevail and enjoy a happy, healthy, and successful life. I enjoy working with adults and children and I am bilingual.
Hello, I am Alicia Marenco, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have been working in the mental health field for over 10 years. I started my career after my husband passed during a combat deployment, while serving in the military and now I love helping others get through tragedy and grief. If you want quality private counseling with a provider that cares about you, then please call me. I enjoy helping people overcome the difficulties that life brings and I love empowering clients to learn the skills necessary to prevail and enjoy a happy, healthy, and successful life. I enjoy working with adults and children and I am bilingual.
(909) 341-4356 View (909) 341-4356
Photo of Lisa Walker, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Diego, CA
Lisa Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92110  (Online Only)
Maybe life doesn't feel the way you wish it could. Sometimes life is harder than we expect. Maybe you're not happy with how things are going at home, work, or school and you're dealing with anxiety or depression. Would you like to better understand the implications of past events and relational patterns that no longer serve you and learn to trust more in yourself? Do you want to improve your relationship with yourself and others and live an authentic, meaningful life? Sometimes we get stuck in cycles that move us away from what's most important. Focusing on what's important to us helps us create purpose and meaning in our lives.
Maybe life doesn't feel the way you wish it could. Sometimes life is harder than we expect. Maybe you're not happy with how things are going at home, work, or school and you're dealing with anxiety or depression. Would you like to better understand the implications of past events and relational patterns that no longer serve you and learn to trust more in yourself? Do you want to improve your relationship with yourself and others and live an authentic, meaningful life? Sometimes we get stuck in cycles that move us away from what's most important. Focusing on what's important to us helps us create purpose and meaning in our lives.
(805) 243-1280 View (805) 243-1280
Photo of Drug Rehabs Carlsbad | Drug Rehabs San Diego, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in San Diego, CA
Drug Rehabs Carlsbad | Drug Rehabs San Diego
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CADC l
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92101
Inpatient drug rehabs Carlsbad and drug rehabs San Diego for inpatient substance abuse medical care accepting most insurances like TRICARE. This inpatient drug rehabs San Diego alcohol addiction treatment centers with alcohol and drug detox centers in Escondido, California. HGR drug rehabs has a full continuum of care. We are evidence based and connect our clients to 12-step teachings. Credentialed and experience therapists provide individual and group counseling. The drug rehabs Carlsbad protocol includes family engagement in the process. If you are looking for inpatient drug rehabs California or in Escondido, CA give us a call.
Inpatient drug rehabs Carlsbad and drug rehabs San Diego for inpatient substance abuse medical care accepting most insurances like TRICARE. This inpatient drug rehabs San Diego alcohol addiction treatment centers with alcohol and drug detox centers in Escondido, California. HGR drug rehabs has a full continuum of care. We are evidence based and connect our clients to 12-step teachings. Credentialed and experience therapists provide individual and group counseling. The drug rehabs Carlsbad protocol includes family engagement in the process. If you are looking for inpatient drug rehabs California or in Escondido, CA give us a call.
(442) 245-8034 View (442) 245-8034

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.