Photo of Erin Johnson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Erin Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MFTC, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80203
Trauma, fear, and unhappiness can often feel insurmountable; I am privileged and grateful to provide clients with the education, application, and connection necessary to realize their personal and familial goals.
My approach to supporting clients relies on the neurobiological and systemic processes at work when challenging and traumatic events occur. I have been providing therapy and coaching services in Colorado for over a decade and specialize in delivering therapeutic care to complex trauma survivors of all ages. I have extensive knowledge in working with those who have a desire to increase their ability to navigate and process traumatic experiences, connect more meaningfully with their loved ones, and be more present and satisfied in their lives. Trauma isolates us; I believe that connection is our most powerful tool to fight back.
Trauma, fear, and unhappiness can often feel insurmountable; I am privileged and grateful to provide clients with the education, application, and connection necessary to realize their personal and familial goals.
My approach to supporting clients relies on the neurobiological and systemic processes at work when challenging and traumatic events occur. I have been providing therapy and coaching services in Colorado for over a decade and specialize in delivering therapeutic care to complex trauma survivors of all ages. I have extensive knowledge in working with those who have a desire to increase their ability to navigate and process traumatic experiences, connect more meaningfully with their loved ones, and be more present and satisfied in their lives. Trauma isolates us; I believe that connection is our most powerful tool to fight back.
(720) 764-9261 View (720) 764-9261
Photo of Brandon Barbour, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Brandon Barbour
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80205  (Online Only)
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, identity development, and trauma. All of my training and clinical work is grounded in evidenced-based research. I work with children, adolescents, and adults providing individual psychotherapy. My treatment orientation utilizes a combination of approaches to best fit the needs of my clients.
My areas of expertise include depression, anxiety, relationship issues, identity development, and trauma. All of my training and clinical work is grounded in evidenced-based research. I work with children, adolescents, and adults providing individual psychotherapy. My treatment orientation utilizes a combination of approaches to best fit the needs of my clients.
(720) 704-1875 View (720) 704-1875
Photo of Jan Buchanan | Therapy Partners, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Jan Buchanan | Therapy Partners
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80210
Specialties include Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Trauma, Panic Attacks, Family Conflict, Foster and Adoption-Competent.
Whether you’re a person struggling to meet your full potential, a parent hoping to see your child thrive, or a family working to repair broken relationships, good therapy can result in growth and lasting change. It takes courage to be willing to honestly look at ourselves. It takes a safe, open and non-judgmental space, as well as an experienced therapist to make that work possible. As a licensed professional counselor this is the work I do. My approach is open and straightforward. I use scientifically-based methods, years of experience and customized techniques, to match your specific needs.
Specialties include Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, PTSD, Trauma, Panic Attacks, Family Conflict, Foster and Adoption-Competent.
Whether you’re a person struggling to meet your full potential, a parent hoping to see your child thrive, or a family working to repair broken relationships, good therapy can result in growth and lasting change. It takes courage to be willing to honestly look at ourselves. It takes a safe, open and non-judgmental space, as well as an experienced therapist to make that work possible. As a licensed professional counselor this is the work I do. My approach is open and straightforward. I use scientifically-based methods, years of experience and customized techniques, to match your specific needs.
(720) 513-2366 View (720) 513-2366
Photo of Mount Saint Vincent in Denver, CO
Mount Saint Vincent
MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80211
Mount Saint Vincent has been helping children and families in the Denver area for over 135 years. Let us help you and your child with our Pediatric Behavioral Health services: Outpatient Therapy, In-Home Therapy and Day Treatment. Our Masters level clinicians offer evidenced based counseling modalities specific to client needs, including: Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Play Therapy, Trauma Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Mount Saint Vincent has been helping children and families in the Denver area for over 135 years. Let us help you and your child with our Pediatric Behavioral Health services: Outpatient Therapy, In-Home Therapy and Day Treatment. Our Masters level clinicians offer evidenced based counseling modalities specific to client needs, including: Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), Play Therapy, Trauma Therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
(720) 640-8471 View (720) 640-8471
Photo of Betsy Usher, Psychologist in Denver, CO
Betsy Usher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
I know sometimes it feels like no one can help you. That you are too much, too dark, and too broken to be helped. Sometimes trauma can manifest by cutting, eating disorders, depression, chaos, and a real struggle to maintain friendships. It can be hard to even picture what a stable and consistent life would look like, but it's still something you want. Chaotic feelings feel like they take over you and you struggle to make it through each day. You want to live but still feel suicidal. This is all normal for someone with trauma, someone who has been through abuse, someone who has experienced broken relationships and even toxic ones.
I know sometimes it feels like no one can help you. That you are too much, too dark, and too broken to be helped. Sometimes trauma can manifest by cutting, eating disorders, depression, chaos, and a real struggle to maintain friendships. It can be hard to even picture what a stable and consistent life would look like, but it's still something you want. Chaotic feelings feel like they take over you and you struggle to make it through each day. You want to live but still feel suicidal. This is all normal for someone with trauma, someone who has been through abuse, someone who has experienced broken relationships and even toxic ones.
(970) 825-1004 View (970) 825-1004
Photo of Foundations Family Counseling Associates, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Foundations Family Counseling Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80203
anxiety, depression, relationships, life stage transitions, grief and loss, parenting and family, issues of gender and sexuality, spiritual struggles, and trauma.
Creating an incredibly comfortable and dynamic environment where you can process your life, collaborate with us, transform and heal.
anxiety, depression, relationships, life stage transitions, grief and loss, parenting and family, issues of gender and sexuality, spiritual struggles, and trauma.
Creating an incredibly comfortable and dynamic environment where you can process your life, collaborate with us, transform and heal.
(720) 513-4875 View (720) 513-4875
Photo of Agnieszka Baklazec, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Agnieszka Baklazec
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LAC, CFI
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
In my practice we am able to help you work on trauma, addiction, change of life events to include but not limited to starting or dissolving a family, and operating in a family system where conflict is the primary form if interaction.
My name is Agnieszka Baklazec and I along with three other therapists in my practice along with two prescribers are here for you. We believe that some of life events are traumatic enough and difficult enough that we lose sight of who we truly are as people. We believe therapy can help us get to that beautiful state when, even the imperfections, make up for a beautiful human being each of us is. We also believe that therapy should be affordable and accessible, therefore, we have the ability to offer sliding scale. This option is usually ideal for someone who does not have insurance or chooses not to utilize it.
In my practice we am able to help you work on trauma, addiction, change of life events to include but not limited to starting or dissolving a family, and operating in a family system where conflict is the primary form if interaction.
My name is Agnieszka Baklazec and I along with three other therapists in my practice along with two prescribers are here for you. We believe that some of life events are traumatic enough and difficult enough that we lose sight of who we truly are as people. We believe therapy can help us get to that beautiful state when, even the imperfections, make up for a beautiful human being each of us is. We also believe that therapy should be affordable and accessible, therefore, we have the ability to offer sliding scale. This option is usually ideal for someone who does not have insurance or chooses not to utilize it.
(720) 580-5580 View (720) 580-5580
Photo of Dawn Crosswhite, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Dawn Crosswhite
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80205
I have been in practice for over 30 years. I specialize in working with adolescent females, and LGBTQIA-identified clients and their families who are often times involved in the juvenile justice system and child welfare. I also work with female and LGBTQIA military personnel and veterans. Working with these systems has afforded me the opportunity to build my skills so that I am very proficient in many areas, such as trauma and PTSD, adoption, permanency, military personnel, and addiction concerns. I work from a strength-based, solution-focused perspective and utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and experiential treatment models.
I have been in practice for over 30 years. I specialize in working with adolescent females, and LGBTQIA-identified clients and their families who are often times involved in the juvenile justice system and child welfare. I also work with female and LGBTQIA military personnel and veterans. Working with these systems has afforded me the opportunity to build my skills so that I am very proficient in many areas, such as trauma and PTSD, adoption, permanency, military personnel, and addiction concerns. I work from a strength-based, solution-focused perspective and utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and experiential treatment models.
(720) 897-3017 View (720) 897-3017
Photo of Beverly Houston, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Beverly Houston
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80238
I believe that play is essential to a child's growing and learning process as children naturally communicate through play. Play therapy can be utilized as a way for children and adolescents to express themselves, explore and process their experiences and feelings through play/art. I am here to partner with you and your family to support in growing a child or adolescent's ability to process through, cope and regulate with difficult life transitions, school related difficulties, emotional and behavioral challenges, grief/loss, social skills, attachment, trauma and self-exploration.
I believe that play is essential to a child's growing and learning process as children naturally communicate through play. Play therapy can be utilized as a way for children and adolescents to express themselves, explore and process their experiences and feelings through play/art. I am here to partner with you and your family to support in growing a child or adolescent's ability to process through, cope and regulate with difficult life transitions, school related difficulties, emotional and behavioral challenges, grief/loss, social skills, attachment, trauma and self-exploration.
(720) 575-0314 View (720) 575-0314
Photo of Shira Hecht, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Shira Hecht
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80204
LCSW trained in CBT and motivational interviewing, as well as TBRI. I have worked with domestic violence and sexual assault survivors, veterans, and kids and teenagers. I love working with teens and kids, and I have a specialized background in trauma of all kinds. To me, therapy is about the connection between the therapist and the client, and about that attunement and understanding. Beyond that, all the training in the world is secondary!
LCSW trained in CBT and motivational interviewing, as well as TBRI. I have worked with domestic violence and sexual assault survivors, veterans, and kids and teenagers. I love working with teens and kids, and I have a specialized background in trauma of all kinds. To me, therapy is about the connection between the therapist and the client, and about that attunement and understanding. Beyond that, all the training in the world is secondary!
(720) 709-2448 View (720) 709-2448
Photo of Higher Sights - Therapy, EMDR, & Med Management, Counselor in Denver, CO
Higher Sights - Therapy, EMDR, & Med Management
Counselor, MSW, MA, LCSW, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80211
Our counselors specialize in marital counseling, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, family and other relationship issues, ADD/ADHD, and addiction/substance abuse.
Accepting New Clients! Immediate openings, book instantly through our website link in bio! At We understand that being stuck and feeling like everything you have tried has left you hopeless is one of the most painful experiences. We help our clients feel empowered by helping them to see their own strengths and by teaching them new research-based tools to help focus and guide them for lasting change. We believe that therapy is a starting point to healing and changing patterns that have not been working. We work to help each unique client develop a new way to feel confident in approaching life matter what comes their way.
Our counselors specialize in marital counseling, anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, family and other relationship issues, ADD/ADHD, and addiction/substance abuse.
Accepting New Clients! Immediate openings, book instantly through our website link in bio! At We understand that being stuck and feeling like everything you have tried has left you hopeless is one of the most painful experiences. We help our clients feel empowered by helping them to see their own strengths and by teaching them new research-based tools to help focus and guide them for lasting change. We believe that therapy is a starting point to healing and changing patterns that have not been working. We work to help each unique client develop a new way to feel confident in approaching life matter what comes their way.
(720) 796-4704 View (720) 796-4704
Photo of Polaris Partners Counseling and Consulting, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Polaris Partners Counseling and Consulting, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80209
Specialties include: depression, anxiety, addictions, chronic pain, PTSD, grief & loss, LGBTQ, mood disorders, family conflict, dual diagnosis, neurofeedback, EMDR and healing from trauma, abuse, and neglect.
Currently accepting new telehealth clients, Northern CO, Denver, Western Slope (CCHA, COAccess, RMHP) We at Polaris Partners help people chart a course to their full potential. Our staff has a breadth of training and expertise to help clients navigate life's obstacles and we build strong relationships to reach clients and connect them with sources of support and strength. We strive to be the community's first choice in collaborating with clients and their communities to help clients get their bearings and return to their true path. We look forward to partnering with you in the next steps of your journey toward optimum mental health.
Specialties include: depression, anxiety, addictions, chronic pain, PTSD, grief & loss, LGBTQ, mood disorders, family conflict, dual diagnosis, neurofeedback, EMDR and healing from trauma, abuse, and neglect.
Currently accepting new telehealth clients, Northern CO, Denver, Western Slope (CCHA, COAccess, RMHP) We at Polaris Partners help people chart a course to their full potential. Our staff has a breadth of training and expertise to help clients navigate life's obstacles and we build strong relationships to reach clients and connect them with sources of support and strength. We strive to be the community's first choice in collaborating with clients and their communities to help clients get their bearings and return to their true path. We look forward to partnering with you in the next steps of your journey toward optimum mental health.
(970) 579-4130 View (970) 579-4130
Photo of Kelsey McNeill, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Kelsey McNeill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80231  (Online Only)
Every human beings has a true genuine authentic self. Trauma is the disconnection from it and healing is the reconnection to it. - Dr. Gabor Mate Life is full of beauty and hardship. We all have experiences that shape who we are, how we feel, and what we believe about ourselves. Sometimes we need a compassionate space to explore and heal our wounds. From young professionals to helping professionals to new moms, I invite deep exploration and support clients to develop understanding of how the adversities they've faced impact their minds, bodies, and spirits.
Every human beings has a true genuine authentic self. Trauma is the disconnection from it and healing is the reconnection to it. - Dr. Gabor Mate Life is full of beauty and hardship. We all have experiences that shape who we are, how we feel, and what we believe about ourselves. Sometimes we need a compassionate space to explore and heal our wounds. From young professionals to helping professionals to new moms, I invite deep exploration and support clients to develop understanding of how the adversities they've faced impact their minds, bodies, and spirits.
(303) 586-7791 View (303) 586-7791
Photo of Chris Woodward, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Chris Woodward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80216
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties include: stress management, anxiety disorders, panic attacks, social and general phobias, self-esteem issues, Depression and Bipolar, entitlement, parenting difficulties, anger management, personality disorders, grief and loss, trauma (EMDR), ADHD/ADD substance abuse problems, psychotic disorders, and adjustment difficulties.
I believe we are here to discover, learn, and experience as much as possible in this short journey. As a seasoned and experienced Counselor, I take a holistic (comprehensive) approach in psychotherapy focusing on all parts of a person which includes the emotional, social, biological, environmental, spiritual/philosophical (meaning and purpose), and psychological components that make us whole. And if you are in need of psychiatric medications, I work with a Psychiatrist in the area and you will have access to this service.
My specialties include: stress management, anxiety disorders, panic attacks, social and general phobias, self-esteem issues, Depression and Bipolar, entitlement, parenting difficulties, anger management, personality disorders, grief and loss, trauma (EMDR), ADHD/ADD substance abuse problems, psychotic disorders, and adjustment difficulties.
I believe we are here to discover, learn, and experience as much as possible in this short journey. As a seasoned and experienced Counselor, I take a holistic (comprehensive) approach in psychotherapy focusing on all parts of a person which includes the emotional, social, biological, environmental, spiritual/philosophical (meaning and purpose), and psychological components that make us whole. And if you are in need of psychiatric medications, I work with a Psychiatrist in the area and you will have access to this service.
(720) 897-0246 View (720) 897-0246
Photo of Melissa A Autry, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Melissa A Autry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80222
I utilize a strengths-based, client-centered approach with a focus on human development, attachment and the impact of trauma.
Are you, your child or teen, overwhelmed with the stresses of your world? Experiencing emotional and behavioral outbursts in response to this stress? Feeling drained and defeated? Together we can explore and process big emotions by focusing first on regulating our nervous systems and developing healthy relational experiences. With your openness and curiosity, we will embark on a journey of discovery, reflection and empowerment. You will dive into past experiences that live within the body as well as explore the connection between thoughts, feelings and behaviors in a safe and secure environment.
I utilize a strengths-based, client-centered approach with a focus on human development, attachment and the impact of trauma.
Are you, your child or teen, overwhelmed with the stresses of your world? Experiencing emotional and behavioral outbursts in response to this stress? Feeling drained and defeated? Together we can explore and process big emotions by focusing first on regulating our nervous systems and developing healthy relational experiences. With your openness and curiosity, we will embark on a journey of discovery, reflection and empowerment. You will dive into past experiences that live within the body as well as explore the connection between thoughts, feelings and behaviors in a safe and secure environment.
(720) 730-6415 View (720) 730-6415
Photo of Julie Morgan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
Julie Morgan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80022  (Online Only)
My specialty is trauma resolution and I work somatically, attending to deep holding in the body of physical, emotional and psychological wounding.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with several additional trainings including working with Harvard Medical School in Global Mental Health and Traumatic recovery. I have worked within many cultures and contexts including high level business executives, veterans, Indigenous and refugee populations and professional athletes. I work with individuals and couples and am available for crisis or emergency sessions.
My specialty is trauma resolution and I work somatically, attending to deep holding in the body of physical, emotional and psychological wounding.
I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with several additional trainings including working with Harvard Medical School in Global Mental Health and Traumatic recovery. I have worked within many cultures and contexts including high level business executives, veterans, Indigenous and refugee populations and professional athletes. I work with individuals and couples and am available for crisis or emergency sessions.
(970) 696-8080 View (970) 696-8080
Photo of Susan Goodenberger, Marriage & Family Therapist in Denver, CO
Susan Goodenberger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80002  (Online Only)
Helping children and adult survivors of abuse and trauma has been my heart for many years. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, self-esteem, dating issues or parenting issues, I am here with practical, evidence-based techniques and care to help you. I have worked with all ages from infants to adults.
Helping children and adult survivors of abuse and trauma has been my heart for many years. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, self-esteem, dating issues or parenting issues, I am here with practical, evidence-based techniques and care to help you. I have worked with all ages from infants to adults.
(804) 657-4589 View (804) 657-4589
Photo of SALT Wellness Group PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
SALT Wellness Group PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80014
Hello! (: SALT - Spirit, Authenticity, Love, Trust- is geared towards becoming the best version of you.. your child.. your family.. your life! Our clinicians utilize individual therapy, parent-child interaction, couples therapy, group therapy, youth and teen therapy, pre-natal counseling and much more! We are experienced in anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, life transitions, grief and loss, stress management and most challenges you may be facing. Our clinicians are adept in EMDR, CBT, DBT, IFS, somatic therapy, and many others. We also offer sessions in Spanish.
Hello! (: SALT - Spirit, Authenticity, Love, Trust- is geared towards becoming the best version of you.. your child.. your family.. your life! Our clinicians utilize individual therapy, parent-child interaction, couples therapy, group therapy, youth and teen therapy, pre-natal counseling and much more! We are experienced in anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, life transitions, grief and loss, stress management and most challenges you may be facing. Our clinicians are adept in EMDR, CBT, DBT, IFS, somatic therapy, and many others. We also offer sessions in Spanish.
(719) 451-7574 View (719) 451-7574
Photo of Ruth Krug, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Denver, CO
Ruth Krug
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denver, CO 80002
Living with grief, trauma and stress can feel lonely and isolating. It can also show up as chronic pain, fatigue, sleeping, depression and anxiety. If you are looking to be proactive in your mental health healing, want to incorporate empowering coping skills and also have the desire to change patterns that no longer serve you, these therapy sessions can help you to integrate your stress and trauma in a way that allows you to feel embodied and whole again. I specialize in somatic therapy and using a mind-body connection to heal and integrate.
Living with grief, trauma and stress can feel lonely and isolating. It can also show up as chronic pain, fatigue, sleeping, depression and anxiety. If you are looking to be proactive in your mental health healing, want to incorporate empowering coping skills and also have the desire to change patterns that no longer serve you, these therapy sessions can help you to integrate your stress and trauma in a way that allows you to feel embodied and whole again. I specialize in somatic therapy and using a mind-body connection to heal and integrate.
(970) 762-2443 View (970) 762-2443
Photo of KidStuff Child and Family Counseling, P.C., Licensed Professional Counselor in Denver, CO
KidStuff Child and Family Counseling, P.C.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Denver, CO 80022
Our therapists have diverse professional expertise and a depth of understanding of what you may be experiencing: trauma, anxiety, depression, conflict, low self-worth, abuse, attachment disruption, relationship stress, etc.
KidStuff Child & Family Counseling, P.C. specializes in helping kids, families and adults navigate life's challenges and improve overall wellness. LifeStuff, HardStuff, AdultStuff: whatever your reasons for seeking therapy, our therapists will collaborate with you to create a therapeutic experience to meet your needs. Our therapists are open and welcoming while supporting clients through their healing process. If you have Medicaid health insurance, commercial insurance, or are looking for a reasonably affordable cash-pay option, we have options for in-office and telehealth services.
Our therapists have diverse professional expertise and a depth of understanding of what you may be experiencing: trauma, anxiety, depression, conflict, low self-worth, abuse, attachment disruption, relationship stress, etc.
KidStuff Child & Family Counseling, P.C. specializes in helping kids, families and adults navigate life's challenges and improve overall wellness. LifeStuff, HardStuff, AdultStuff: whatever your reasons for seeking therapy, our therapists will collaborate with you to create a therapeutic experience to meet your needs. Our therapists are open and welcoming while supporting clients through their healing process. If you have Medicaid health insurance, commercial insurance, or are looking for a reasonably affordable cash-pay option, we have options for in-office and telehealth services.
(719) 394-9745 View (719) 394-9745
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.