Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Denver, CO

Photo of Sparked Life Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Denver, CO
Sparked Life Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
Hi! I'm Karen Holland. I want to help you live a sparked life. This means, I want to help you get free from the past and build capacity to deal with your current struggles. I have a lot of experience working with: anxiety, breakups, grief, infidelity, relationship struggles, self esteem and self confidence, all kinds of trauma and dealing with chronic pain and illness. I know you want to heal, improve your ability to cope and find a way to enjoy life again.
Hi! I'm Karen Holland. I want to help you live a sparked life. This means, I want to help you get free from the past and build capacity to deal with your current struggles. I have a lot of experience working with: anxiety, breakups, grief, infidelity, relationship struggles, self esteem and self confidence, all kinds of trauma and dealing with chronic pain and illness. I know you want to heal, improve your ability to cope and find a way to enjoy life again.
(720) 780-6936 View (720) 780-6936
Photo of Sammy Weakley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Sammy Weakley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80212
I am EMDR trained, and my experience in intensive care has provided me with an understanding to help individuals in both trauma and anxiety.
Do you ever feel like your emotions are imbalanced, and you can't put your finger on why or how to manage them? Sometimes, when our feelings are unpredictable, it can lead to added stress, panic attacks, and personal reactions that may catch us off guard. Trauma, anxiety, and significant life changes, like a move or new job, can affect the way we respond in sensitive circumstances. You may want to discover the why, or you may just want to figure out a solution to regulate the turbulence and navigate the uncertainty.
I am EMDR trained, and my experience in intensive care has provided me with an understanding to help individuals in both trauma and anxiety.
Do you ever feel like your emotions are imbalanced, and you can't put your finger on why or how to manage them? Sometimes, when our feelings are unpredictable, it can lead to added stress, panic attacks, and personal reactions that may catch us off guard. Trauma, anxiety, and significant life changes, like a move or new job, can affect the way we respond in sensitive circumstances. You may want to discover the why, or you may just want to figure out a solution to regulate the turbulence and navigate the uncertainty.
(512) 866-4369 View (512) 866-4369
Photo of Laura Messenger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Laura Messenger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80218
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in supporting individuals who are working through experiences of trauma, anxiety, depression, and substance use.
I believe that therapy can help us to move toward greater self-understanding, empowerment, and fulfillment. I strive to create a supportive therapeutic space in which you and I can collaboratively process through thoughts, feelings, and experiences with openness and compassion. So often societal messages and stigmas can cause us to view our behaviors with shame and judgment, which can lead us to feel even more stuck. My goal is to support you in slowing down, shifting toward curiosity and compassion, and feeling empowered to make the changes that you seek.
I specialize in supporting individuals who are working through experiences of trauma, anxiety, depression, and substance use.
I believe that therapy can help us to move toward greater self-understanding, empowerment, and fulfillment. I strive to create a supportive therapeutic space in which you and I can collaboratively process through thoughts, feelings, and experiences with openness and compassion. So often societal messages and stigmas can cause us to view our behaviors with shame and judgment, which can lead us to feel even more stuck. My goal is to support you in slowing down, shifting toward curiosity and compassion, and feeling empowered to make the changes that you seek.
(303) 529-4053 View (303) 529-4053
Photo of Samantha Burns in Denver, CO
Samantha Burns
MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209  (Online Only)
Do you feel like you are struggling with nightmares, past trauma and flashbacks of negative memories that you have experienced in your life? Are you or your child having difficulties with functioning with daily tasks such as attending school or work because of negative past experiences you have endured? Or do you feel extremely overwhelmed, depressed and experience difficulties with racing thought patterns? These difficulties can limit your ability to live a happy and fulfilling life. Allow me to support you in your therapeutic journey as we work through these experiences together.
Do you feel like you are struggling with nightmares, past trauma and flashbacks of negative memories that you have experienced in your life? Are you or your child having difficulties with functioning with daily tasks such as attending school or work because of negative past experiences you have endured? Or do you feel extremely overwhelmed, depressed and experience difficulties with racing thought patterns? These difficulties can limit your ability to live a happy and fulfilling life. Allow me to support you in your therapeutic journey as we work through these experiences together.
(970) 601-7355 View (970) 601-7355
Photo of Libby Korell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Libby Korell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209
As a dedicated trauma therapist, I have special training and expertise in working with children (4-11) and families that have experienced trauma. I also have extensive experience in working with families whose children are facing end-of-life situations, life-limiting illnesses, and chronic health issues. I believe that children and parents are the experts in their lives and view my role as a catalyst for greater connection, attachment, healing, and meaningful change. As a clinical social worker, I recognize the impact systems and institutions can have on children and families and will be your advocate as you navigate these systems
As a dedicated trauma therapist, I have special training and expertise in working with children (4-11) and families that have experienced trauma. I also have extensive experience in working with families whose children are facing end-of-life situations, life-limiting illnesses, and chronic health issues. I believe that children and parents are the experts in their lives and view my role as a catalyst for greater connection, attachment, healing, and meaningful change. As a clinical social worker, I recognize the impact systems and institutions can have on children and families and will be your advocate as you navigate these systems
(720) 675-7123 View (720) 675-7123
Photo of Allie Laber, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Allie Laber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80246
I aim to create a warm and welcoming environment where clients feel safe to be themselves and share their unique stories. I utilize a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach in practice to connect with clients and support them as they navigate life’s highs and lows. As a Licensed Social Worker, I have experience working with children and adolescents experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, relational and identity challenges, and grief.
I aim to create a warm and welcoming environment where clients feel safe to be themselves and share their unique stories. I utilize a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach in practice to connect with clients and support them as they navigate life’s highs and lows. As a Licensed Social Worker, I have experience working with children and adolescents experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, relational and identity challenges, and grief.
(720) 702-1816 View (720) 702-1816
Photo of Elissa Berlinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Elissa Berlinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
Areas of Interest: psychodynamic psychotherapy, anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, chronic illness, food/eating concerns, substance use, family and relational issues, identity concerns, and training and supervision.
I received my Master of Social Work from Smith College School for Social Work. I completed a two year post-graduate training program in psychodynamic psychotherapy and in the treatment of eating disorders and substance abuse at Wardenbrug Health Center at CU-Boulder. I have additional specialized training in the treatment of chronic neurological illnesses-MS in particular-through my work with the Rocky Mountain MS Center. I coordinated the eating disorder program at CU-Boulder and I have undergone additional trainings in DBT, ACT, CBT and psychodynamic therapy.
Areas of Interest: psychodynamic psychotherapy, anxiety, trauma, mood disorders, chronic illness, food/eating concerns, substance use, family and relational issues, identity concerns, and training and supervision.
I received my Master of Social Work from Smith College School for Social Work. I completed a two year post-graduate training program in psychodynamic psychotherapy and in the treatment of eating disorders and substance abuse at Wardenbrug Health Center at CU-Boulder. I have additional specialized training in the treatment of chronic neurological illnesses-MS in particular-through my work with the Rocky Mountain MS Center. I coordinated the eating disorder program at CU-Boulder and I have undergone additional trainings in DBT, ACT, CBT and psychodynamic therapy.
(720) 309-7779 View (720) 309-7779
Photo of Abby Matt, Counselor in Denver, CO
Abby Matt
Counselor, MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80220  (Online Only)
I also use brainspotting, an eye movement-based approach, to help clients work through trauma and triggers.
Is anxiety keeping you from living your life? Do you feel like that physical feelings like pain, exhaustion, and tension make it difficult to make changes? If you're struggling with daily and consuming anxiety, therapy can be a great next step. I work with my clients so that we can find tangible ways to cope with anxiety while also looking triggers and/or root causes.
I also use brainspotting, an eye movement-based approach, to help clients work through trauma and triggers.
Is anxiety keeping you from living your life? Do you feel like that physical feelings like pain, exhaustion, and tension make it difficult to make changes? If you're struggling with daily and consuming anxiety, therapy can be a great next step. I work with my clients so that we can find tangible ways to cope with anxiety while also looking triggers and/or root causes.
(720) 776-5979 View (720) 776-5979
Photo of Genevieve Therese Henderson, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Denver, CO
Genevieve Therese Henderson
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
My approach to mental health is client-centered. My areas of focus are substance use and addiction, trauma, and retirement from sport. It is my priority to create a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. My goal is to work collaboratively to explore your concerns, identify strengths, and develop strategies for positive change. Choosing a mental health professional is a personal decision, and I am honored that you're considering me to be a part of your journey. I am available for in-person sessions in Denver, CO, and I offer virtual session across Colorado.
My approach to mental health is client-centered. My areas of focus are substance use and addiction, trauma, and retirement from sport. It is my priority to create a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. My goal is to work collaboratively to explore your concerns, identify strengths, and develop strategies for positive change. Choosing a mental health professional is a personal decision, and I am honored that you're considering me to be a part of your journey. I am available for in-person sessions in Denver, CO, and I offer virtual session across Colorado.
(720) 664-8223 View (720) 664-8223
Photo of Jamie Miller, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Jamie Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80237
I guide individuals, teens, young adults, and couples through all the challenges and transitions that life brings. I have specialty in supporting someone through complex trauma, difficult family dynamics, LGBTQIA+ relationships and identity questions, anxiety, depression, and establishing healthy relationships. If you're seeking someone to be collaborative and supportive, who can be real with you when you need it and hold space for the hard stuff at the same time- I could be a good fit.
I guide individuals, teens, young adults, and couples through all the challenges and transitions that life brings. I have specialty in supporting someone through complex trauma, difficult family dynamics, LGBTQIA+ relationships and identity questions, anxiety, depression, and establishing healthy relationships. If you're seeking someone to be collaborative and supportive, who can be real with you when you need it and hold space for the hard stuff at the same time- I could be a good fit.
(720) 802-4621 x1 View (720) 802-4621 x1
Photo of Dmitra Danilenko-Dixon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Dmitra Danilenko-Dixon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209  (Online Only)
My specialties lie within LGBTQ+, trauma, attachment/interpersonal issues.
My personal and professional experiences has helped me understand that life can often make us feel lost. It challenges us and often makes us question who we are. I am here to be a companion on your journey of self-discovery while assisting to bring more clarity and meaning into your life. I believe every person has the answers they seek rooted within them just waiting to be unearthed. Life can be difficult to navigate alone, and we process our experiences best through social connection. I can provide you with a safe place to explore your struggles while challenging you and providing a sense of acceptance.
My specialties lie within LGBTQ+, trauma, attachment/interpersonal issues.
My personal and professional experiences has helped me understand that life can often make us feel lost. It challenges us and often makes us question who we are. I am here to be a companion on your journey of self-discovery while assisting to bring more clarity and meaning into your life. I believe every person has the answers they seek rooted within them just waiting to be unearthed. Life can be difficult to navigate alone, and we process our experiences best through social connection. I can provide you with a safe place to explore your struggles while challenging you and providing a sense of acceptance.
(720) 410-5754 View (720) 410-5754
Photo of Emma Bowen, Pre-Licensed Professional in Denver, CO
Emma Bowen
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203
Through my own personal experience healing from trauma, I have been in the spot you may be in—scrolling through therapists’ bios and wondering if therapy will really be worth it.
You are so worthy of happiness and peace. While that might not feel possible right now, I promise it is. I would be honored to walk beside you to help you get there. Healing from trauma can seem daunting or even terrifying—we sometimes like to stay in the comfort of our ways, even when it does not serve us anymore. My goal is to help you find what serves you and help you let go of what does not serve you anymore. You deserve to trust yourself and your body and feel a sense of peace and joy. I am an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist and I am passionate about supporting clients across the lifespan as children, teens, and adults.
Through my own personal experience healing from trauma, I have been in the spot you may be in—scrolling through therapists’ bios and wondering if therapy will really be worth it.
You are so worthy of happiness and peace. While that might not feel possible right now, I promise it is. I would be honored to walk beside you to help you get there. Healing from trauma can seem daunting or even terrifying—we sometimes like to stay in the comfort of our ways, even when it does not serve us anymore. My goal is to help you find what serves you and help you let go of what does not serve you anymore. You deserve to trust yourself and your body and feel a sense of peace and joy. I am an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist and I am passionate about supporting clients across the lifespan as children, teens, and adults.
(720) 776-8903 View (720) 776-8903
Photo of Kristen Pellow, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Kristen Pellow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80212  (Online Only)
I offer an effective combination of therapies, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Dialectal Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), person-centered therapy, and trauma focused therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with clients in Colorado and Arizona. I work with a variety of clients who have unique needs. I believe the client and therapist relationship is a vital part of the therapeutic journey and will work with each client to build an authentic and individualized experience. My job is to be an active listener and your therapeutic support as I partner with you during your journey to mental health wellness.
I offer an effective combination of therapies, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Dialectal Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), person-centered therapy, and trauma focused therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who works with clients in Colorado and Arizona. I work with a variety of clients who have unique needs. I believe the client and therapist relationship is a vital part of the therapeutic journey and will work with each client to build an authentic and individualized experience. My job is to be an active listener and your therapeutic support as I partner with you during your journey to mental health wellness.
(720) 792-4417 View (720) 792-4417
Photo of Heather Trish, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Heather Trish
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80246  (Online Only)
Heather Trish, NCC, LPC has nearly 30 yrs of experience treating trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, career, & relationship issues.
Whether you are returning to therapy or considering services for the first time, compassionate care will be given to your goals for treatment. EMDR Consultation is available for those practitioners seeking certification, consultant in training, or approved consultant status.
Heather Trish, NCC, LPC has nearly 30 yrs of experience treating trauma, depression, anxiety, PTSD, career, & relationship issues.
Whether you are returning to therapy or considering services for the first time, compassionate care will be given to your goals for treatment. EMDR Consultation is available for those practitioners seeking certification, consultant in training, or approved consultant status.
(720) 213-5091 View (720) 213-5091
Photo of Alicia Borley, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Alicia Borley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80246  (Online Only)
Every phase of life offers challenges, uncertainties, and opportunities for growth. I empower my clients to make the changes they feel they can't. I take a holistic approach, incorporating the person and their environment in healing. I know how vital it is to meet you where you are in life, and will help you build your resilience from within through a person-centered approach. You may often feel alone, but I provide a safe space to walk with you through life’s obstacles. I use a variety of modalities, a strengths-based approach, and a trauma-informed lens to tailor your treatment.
Every phase of life offers challenges, uncertainties, and opportunities for growth. I empower my clients to make the changes they feel they can't. I take a holistic approach, incorporating the person and their environment in healing. I know how vital it is to meet you where you are in life, and will help you build your resilience from within through a person-centered approach. You may often feel alone, but I provide a safe space to walk with you through life’s obstacles. I use a variety of modalities, a strengths-based approach, and a trauma-informed lens to tailor your treatment.
(720) 449-2055 View (720) 449-2055
Photo of Russell Allard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Russell Allard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80238
I have worked with severely persistently mentally ill populations since the 1990's but have recently been working with clients who struggle with complex trauma and addiction.
I was born and raised in Oakland California, but moved to the Bronx, New York after high school. I currently live with my wife and two cats in Thornton, Colorado. I love lifting weights, hiking, and watching football. my teams are the Raiders, 49ers, and Warriors. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Addiction Counselor, as well as a Colorado licensed School Psychologist. I am also trained in EMDR therapy. I received my masters in clinical psychology from Adelphi University in Long Island, NY. My undergraduate degree was from the State University of New York at Purchase.
I have worked with severely persistently mentally ill populations since the 1990's but have recently been working with clients who struggle with complex trauma and addiction.
I was born and raised in Oakland California, but moved to the Bronx, New York after high school. I currently live with my wife and two cats in Thornton, Colorado. I love lifting weights, hiking, and watching football. my teams are the Raiders, 49ers, and Warriors. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Addiction Counselor, as well as a Colorado licensed School Psychologist. I am also trained in EMDR therapy. I received my masters in clinical psychology from Adelphi University in Long Island, NY. My undergraduate degree was from the State University of New York at Purchase.
(720) 640-7838 View (720) 640-7838
Photo of There Is Always Hope Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
There Is Always Hope Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed, exhausted, or even hopeless? Do you wonder if things will ever get better? Whether you are experiencing emotional struggles that you just can’t seem to get through, having problems in your relationships, struggling with past trauma, addiction or substance use, experiencing stressful life changes, or stuck repeating the same old unhealthy or destructive patterns and behaviors you just can’t seem to break free of, therapy can help. Seeking help for the first time can be a scary and overwhelming experience. It takes courage to be willing to reach out and open up to someone new.
Are you feeling stressed, overwhelmed, exhausted, or even hopeless? Do you wonder if things will ever get better? Whether you are experiencing emotional struggles that you just can’t seem to get through, having problems in your relationships, struggling with past trauma, addiction or substance use, experiencing stressful life changes, or stuck repeating the same old unhealthy or destructive patterns and behaviors you just can’t seem to break free of, therapy can help. Seeking help for the first time can be a scary and overwhelming experience. It takes courage to be willing to reach out and open up to someone new.
(720) 619-8778 View (720) 619-8778
Photo of Nadia Duncan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Nadia Duncan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
I provide therapy that helps you gain insight into your own patterns through an attachment and trauma lens and learn strategies to overcome distressing emotions.
I support individuals in their teens, 20s, and 30s who are navigating anxiety, trauma, and attachment challenges. I specialize in EMDR and ego states therapy to help people gain a better understanding of themselves, improve relationships, and work through past experiences while gaining coping strategies. I treat anxiety, depression, PTSD, disordered eating, mood and dissociative disorders. I provide a compassionate space for you to navigate life transitions, relationships, process experiences, and gain insight in a path towards healing. I am accepting clients for in-person therapy in the Denver area, and telehealth across CO and FL.
I provide therapy that helps you gain insight into your own patterns through an attachment and trauma lens and learn strategies to overcome distressing emotions.
I support individuals in their teens, 20s, and 30s who are navigating anxiety, trauma, and attachment challenges. I specialize in EMDR and ego states therapy to help people gain a better understanding of themselves, improve relationships, and work through past experiences while gaining coping strategies. I treat anxiety, depression, PTSD, disordered eating, mood and dissociative disorders. I provide a compassionate space for you to navigate life transitions, relationships, process experiences, and gain insight in a path towards healing. I am accepting clients for in-person therapy in the Denver area, and telehealth across CO and FL.
(720) 743-5266 View (720) 743-5266
Photo of Patricia S. Duggan, Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate in Denver, CO
Patricia S. Duggan
Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate, LCMHCA, LPCC, LCASA
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80212  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Often our hurtful experiences are out of our control. You didn’t choose to live with pain. You are tired of feeling alone and misunderstood. The reality is our experiences and memories can shape our beliefs and worldviews, creating guilt, anxiety, shame, anger, and isolation. Living with chronic pain, illness, trauma, anxiety, and grief – does impact us. Even if you don’t feel like it at this very moment, there is part of you that knows they deserve something more, whether it’s self-compassion, healthy connections, pleasure, joy, or the chance to move from surviving to thriving. Let's get curious.
Often our hurtful experiences are out of our control. You didn’t choose to live with pain. You are tired of feeling alone and misunderstood. The reality is our experiences and memories can shape our beliefs and worldviews, creating guilt, anxiety, shame, anger, and isolation. Living with chronic pain, illness, trauma, anxiety, and grief – does impact us. Even if you don’t feel like it at this very moment, there is part of you that knows they deserve something more, whether it’s self-compassion, healthy connections, pleasure, joy, or the chance to move from surviving to thriving. Let's get curious.
(720) 704-1273 View (720) 704-1273
Photo of Lauren Pinneo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Lauren Pinneo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209
Whether trauma and co-occuring concerns has affected you or someone you love, the process of healing can feel overwhelming and even frightening. Regardless of what happened and where you find yourself now, I believe everyone is capable of growth. A safe, supportive, and authentic space is essential for clients to move past those negative thoughts, beliefs, and patterns that keep them stuck in anxiety, destructive behaviors, shame, and sadness. I've found that warm support, while also challenging people to look within, leads to healing and connection with the best version of themselves.
Whether trauma and co-occuring concerns has affected you or someone you love, the process of healing can feel overwhelming and even frightening. Regardless of what happened and where you find yourself now, I believe everyone is capable of growth. A safe, supportive, and authentic space is essential for clients to move past those negative thoughts, beliefs, and patterns that keep them stuck in anxiety, destructive behaviors, shame, and sadness. I've found that warm support, while also challenging people to look within, leads to healing and connection with the best version of themselves.
(720) 259-9225 View (720) 259-9225
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.