Photo of Stephanie Hawotte, Counselor in Algonquin, IL
Stephanie Hawotte
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60102
I also have advanced training in Trauma focused care and EMDR, and am always working to develop additional skills to help my clients move forward in reaching their goals.
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I work with adults and children with a variety of issues in conjunction with or separately from family therapy/consultation. My focus is on clarifying and addressing the issues that bring each individual into counseling and creating a partnership and treatment plan that will support change and growth. I believe that the relationship between client and therapist is crucial to creating the environment needed for change. Social and emotional difficulties rarely emerge in isolation, but rather from a variety of experiences and interactions.
I also have advanced training in Trauma focused care and EMDR, and am always working to develop additional skills to help my clients move forward in reaching their goals.
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I work with adults and children with a variety of issues in conjunction with or separately from family therapy/consultation. My focus is on clarifying and addressing the issues that bring each individual into counseling and creating a partnership and treatment plan that will support change and growth. I believe that the relationship between client and therapist is crucial to creating the environment needed for change. Social and emotional difficulties rarely emerge in isolation, but rather from a variety of experiences and interactions.
(815) 315-9010 View (815) 315-9010
Photo of Amy M Wilhelmi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Algonquin, IL
Amy M Wilhelmi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, AT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60102
Welcome to the transformative journey of emotional connection and healing in your relationship or future relationships. I'm Amy Wilhelmi, and I am an Emotionally Focused Couples, Family, and Individual Therapist. I also do EMDR and am Trauma and Attachment informed. I want to extend a warm and empathetic welcome to you and your partner as we embark on a path toward fostering deeper emotional bonds, understanding, and intimacy within your relationships.
Welcome to the transformative journey of emotional connection and healing in your relationship or future relationships. I'm Amy Wilhelmi, and I am an Emotionally Focused Couples, Family, and Individual Therapist. I also do EMDR and am Trauma and Attachment informed. I want to extend a warm and empathetic welcome to you and your partner as we embark on a path toward fostering deeper emotional bonds, understanding, and intimacy within your relationships.
(847) 750-3666 View (847) 750-3666
Photo of Suzi Leigh, Licensed Professional Counselor in Algonquin, IL
Suzi Leigh
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Algonquin, IL 60102
I use a person-centered, trauma-informed foundation that incorporates ego states, EMDR, CBT, ACT, and mindfulness.
I believe that humans are inherently resilient but that sometimes we need support to acknowledge our innate strengths in order to thrive. My ideal client is one who acknowledges that there are pieces of their life that need tending to. Whether it's life stress, grief, relationships, or identity, this person is open to the process of walking alongside someone who can assist them in building resiliency and becoming empowered.
I use a person-centered, trauma-informed foundation that incorporates ego states, EMDR, CBT, ACT, and mindfulness.
I believe that humans are inherently resilient but that sometimes we need support to acknowledge our innate strengths in order to thrive. My ideal client is one who acknowledges that there are pieces of their life that need tending to. Whether it's life stress, grief, relationships, or identity, this person is open to the process of walking alongside someone who can assist them in building resiliency and becoming empowered.
(847) 472-0428 View (847) 472-0428
Photo of Amanda Berge, Counselor in Algonquin, IL
Amanda Berge
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Algonquin, IL 60102
I have specialized training in treating depression, anxiety and trauma.
Hi there! My name is Amanda and I am a clinical therapist. I help people who are stuck because of overwhelming feelings, bad habits, relationship problems or work challenges. If you want to feel better or live better, I'm here. I understand that life is not always easy and I can help you move from where you are to where you want to be. Therapy is all about finding the right fit. So, give me a call or schedule a consultation to see if I'm the right person for you.
I have specialized training in treating depression, anxiety and trauma.
Hi there! My name is Amanda and I am a clinical therapist. I help people who are stuck because of overwhelming feelings, bad habits, relationship problems or work challenges. If you want to feel better or live better, I'm here. I understand that life is not always easy and I can help you move from where you are to where you want to be. Therapy is all about finding the right fit. So, give me a call or schedule a consultation to see if I'm the right person for you.
(847) 239-5858 View (847) 239-5858
Photo of Timothy J. Hayes, Psychologist in Algonquin, IL
Timothy J. Hayes
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60102
If you struggle with sadness, anger, thoughts that won't leave you alone, anxiety (a restless uncomfortable feeling), or just feel like life is harder for you than most of the people you know, you are suffering needlessly. If you feel frustrated when dealing with others, I can help you get more out of life with less frustration. If you have suffered a loss or a serious trauma, either recent or distant past, I can teach you how to heal your emotional wounds and reclaim your life.
If you struggle with sadness, anger, thoughts that won't leave you alone, anxiety (a restless uncomfortable feeling), or just feel like life is harder for you than most of the people you know, you are suffering needlessly. If you feel frustrated when dealing with others, I can help you get more out of life with less frustration. If you have suffered a loss or a serious trauma, either recent or distant past, I can teach you how to heal your emotional wounds and reclaim your life.
(815) 661-2238 View (815) 661-2238
Photo of Leila B Nelson, Counselor in Algonquin, IL
Leila B Nelson
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Algonquin, IL 60156
I have considerable experience treating: Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Crisis and Trauma Issues, Codependency, Couples & Family Therapy, Decision Making Depression, Emotional Struggles, Grief, Improving Relationships, OCD, Panic Attacks, PTSD, and Women's Issues.
Struggling from time to time with life's stresses is something we all have in common. I'm easy to talk to, practical, down to earth and good at what I do. I specialize in helping people just like you discover meaningful and lasting solutions to emotional, behavioral and relational struggles.
I have considerable experience treating: Anxiety, Bipolar Disorder, Crisis and Trauma Issues, Codependency, Couples & Family Therapy, Decision Making Depression, Emotional Struggles, Grief, Improving Relationships, OCD, Panic Attacks, PTSD, and Women's Issues.
Struggling from time to time with life's stresses is something we all have in common. I'm easy to talk to, practical, down to earth and good at what I do. I specialize in helping people just like you discover meaningful and lasting solutions to emotional, behavioral and relational struggles.
(815) 734-3089 View (815) 734-3089
Photo of Doctor Annie Therapy Group, Psychologist in Algonquin, IL
Doctor Annie Therapy Group
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60102
With a specialization in anxiety and trauma, many of our clinicians often utilize Somatic Experiencing (SE) techniques when working with individuals who are experiencing PTSD/trauma related symptoms.
Our Clinicians at Doctor Annie Therapy are a group of experienced therapists who value the collaborative relationship with patients, their families/caregivers, as well as physicians and other members of the treatment team. We offer individual, family, and group therapy as well as psychological testing. We strive to foster inspiration and encourage our youth and our community to continue to learn, create, and develop new skills that help deepen their understanding of themselves and the world to expand their perceived potential in terms of their effect on others and their environment.
With a specialization in anxiety and trauma, many of our clinicians often utilize Somatic Experiencing (SE) techniques when working with individuals who are experiencing PTSD/trauma related symptoms.
Our Clinicians at Doctor Annie Therapy are a group of experienced therapists who value the collaborative relationship with patients, their families/caregivers, as well as physicians and other members of the treatment team. We offer individual, family, and group therapy as well as psychological testing. We strive to foster inspiration and encourage our youth and our community to continue to learn, create, and develop new skills that help deepen their understanding of themselves and the world to expand their perceived potential in terms of their effect on others and their environment.
(224) 400-9961 View (224) 400-9961
Photo of Jenn Balleto, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Algonquin, IL
Jenn Balleto
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60102
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. Over the last 10 years, I have had the opportunity to provide compassionate service to individuals, groups, and families who are experiencing challenges related to, depression, anxiety/panic, mood disorders, mental health crisis, substance use, psychosis, life transitions, and additional life stressors; with an expertise in the areas of grief/loss, trauma, and traumatic loss.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and a certified Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional. Over the last 10 years, I have had the opportunity to provide compassionate service to individuals, groups, and families who are experiencing challenges related to, depression, anxiety/panic, mood disorders, mental health crisis, substance use, psychosis, life transitions, and additional life stressors; with an expertise in the areas of grief/loss, trauma, and traumatic loss.
(815) 338-3590 View (815) 338-3590
Photo of Healthy Mentality, LLC, Psychologist in Algonquin, IL
Healthy Mentality, LLC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60102
Healthy Mentality specializes in trauma related concerns, such as (but not limited to) emotional/physical/sexual abuse, domestic abuse, trauma arising from difficult relationships, accidents, divorce or the loss of loved ones.
Everyone struggles at some point in their lives; we are humans, not robots. But sometimes those struggles can become overwhelming, and we don’t know how to manage our fears, feelings, thoughts or behaviors. Here, at Healthy Mentality, we will guide you to face those fears and concerns in a safe environment. We offer traditional in-office therapy, as well as animal-assisted psychotherapy.
Healthy Mentality specializes in trauma related concerns, such as (but not limited to) emotional/physical/sexual abuse, domestic abuse, trauma arising from difficult relationships, accidents, divorce or the loss of loved ones.
Everyone struggles at some point in their lives; we are humans, not robots. But sometimes those struggles can become overwhelming, and we don’t know how to manage our fears, feelings, thoughts or behaviors. Here, at Healthy Mentality, we will guide you to face those fears and concerns in a safe environment. We offer traditional in-office therapy, as well as animal-assisted psychotherapy.
(833) 496-1126 View (833) 496-1126
Photo of Sarah Barham in Algonquin, IL
Sarah Barham
LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Algonquin, IL 60102
I use psychotherapy and evidence-based interventions like CBT and DBT to treat trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, difficult life transitions, ADHD, teen and young adult issues, parent-teen relational problems, stress and anger management problems, and mood dysregulation disorders.
Welcome! If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, depressed, irritable, anxious, defeated, afraid, uncertain, or alone, call me. Or do you need help with relationships or sleep hygiene or stress management? I'm here to help. I am eager to learn about your individual needs and goals so that together we can improve your quality of life.
I use psychotherapy and evidence-based interventions like CBT and DBT to treat trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, difficult life transitions, ADHD, teen and young adult issues, parent-teen relational problems, stress and anger management problems, and mood dysregulation disorders.
Welcome! If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, depressed, irritable, anxious, defeated, afraid, uncertain, or alone, call me. Or do you need help with relationships or sleep hygiene or stress management? I'm here to help. I am eager to learn about your individual needs and goals so that together we can improve your quality of life.
(847) 994-4161 View (847) 994-4161
Photo of New Hope Counseling Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Algonquin, IL
New Hope Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, AMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Algonquin, IL 60102
We specialize in couples counseling, affair recovery, teen anxiety and depression, school avoidance, trauma, depression and anxiety.
New Office Opening in DeKalb! Is your marriage struggling to thrive? Are you worried about changes you've seen in your teenager? Have you experienced trauma that has left you unable to manage day to day life? Our therapists are here to provide a safe place for you to come ask questions, receive a listening ear, and walk with you through life's challenges.
We specialize in couples counseling, affair recovery, teen anxiety and depression, school avoidance, trauma, depression and anxiety.
New Office Opening in DeKalb! Is your marriage struggling to thrive? Are you worried about changes you've seen in your teenager? Have you experienced trauma that has left you unable to manage day to day life? Our therapists are here to provide a safe place for you to come ask questions, receive a listening ear, and walk with you through life's challenges.
(224) 302-6961 View (224) 302-6961
Photo of Salt'n'Pepper Consulting LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Algonquin, IL
Salt'n'Pepper Consulting LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC, CADC, CCTP-II, CCTHP
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60102
My specific interest is in Trauma work, Substance use recovery, Nutritional Mental Health & Personal Growth.
Hello, my name is Thomas Kaltenecker and I believe my skillset is best suited with adolescents, adults and elderly both male and female as well as couples, searching for someone to actively listen to, coach them through life's challenges. If you are looking for someone to support you through adjustment issues, to guide you working through debilitating anxiety and stopping paralyzing depressive thoughts, as well as unhealthy behavior patterns, my patient centered approach just might be what you need. Let's talk and see if I can help you, spice up your life again.
My specific interest is in Trauma work, Substance use recovery, Nutritional Mental Health & Personal Growth.
Hello, my name is Thomas Kaltenecker and I believe my skillset is best suited with adolescents, adults and elderly both male and female as well as couples, searching for someone to actively listen to, coach them through life's challenges. If you are looking for someone to support you through adjustment issues, to guide you working through debilitating anxiety and stopping paralyzing depressive thoughts, as well as unhealthy behavior patterns, my patient centered approach just might be what you need. Let's talk and see if I can help you, spice up your life again.
(224) 298-8216 View (224) 298-8216
Photo of Dr. Franci Zingrone & Associates, Psychologist in Algonquin, IL
Dr. Franci Zingrone & Associates
Psychologist, PsyD, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Algonquin, IL 60102
Welcome! We are a small, private, multi-clinician practice. I am a supervising clinical psychologist, and am passionate about helping people overcome obstacles in their lives, particularly those stemming from traumatic experiences and events. These can include (but are not limited to) toxic relationships, divorce, car accidents, loss of a loved one, abuse/neglect (physical, sexual, verbal or emotional), domestic violence and secondary trauma.
Welcome! We are a small, private, multi-clinician practice. I am a supervising clinical psychologist, and am passionate about helping people overcome obstacles in their lives, particularly those stemming from traumatic experiences and events. These can include (but are not limited to) toxic relationships, divorce, car accidents, loss of a loved one, abuse/neglect (physical, sexual, verbal or emotional), domestic violence and secondary trauma.
(815) 828-4616 View (815) 828-4616
Photo of Leida Woodham, Counselor in Algonquin, IL
Leida Woodham
Counselor, MA, CRC, LCPC, AMFT
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60102  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and bipolar related disorders.
Personal growth and soul-searching take courage. Therapy is a journey, and I am ready to begin that journey with those courageous clients. It takes courage to seek help and sit with a stranger, the therapist, and talk about what troubles you, what motivates you and what you love. Counseling is about you and for you. No matter the age and stage in your life seek help if you feel you need it. At times, what is going on in our lives seems insurmountable. Having someone to provide encouragement, listen without judgement, and helping you set goals and realistic expectations can ease the burden.
I specialize in helping clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, and bipolar related disorders.
Personal growth and soul-searching take courage. Therapy is a journey, and I am ready to begin that journey with those courageous clients. It takes courage to seek help and sit with a stranger, the therapist, and talk about what troubles you, what motivates you and what you love. Counseling is about you and for you. No matter the age and stage in your life seek help if you feel you need it. At times, what is going on in our lives seems insurmountable. Having someone to provide encouragement, listen without judgement, and helping you set goals and realistic expectations can ease the burden.
(224) 212-1309 View (224) 212-1309
Photo of Haley Lochan in Algonquin, IL
Haley Lochan
LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Algonquin, IL 60156
Hello! I am a trauma-informed therapist who is fluent in Spanish and an ally to the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities. I am certified in Crisis Intervention and am drawn to clients who can relate to domestic violence, human trafficking, depression, anxiety, ADHD, life transitions, and complex trauma. I also can help if you have trouble with sleep, motivation, phobias or stress. I see children, adolescents, adults, and families. Even if you are not sure what you want from therapy or how to get there, I will meet you where you are at in your journey, and together we will figure out a plan for you to live your best, most fulfilled life!
Hello! I am a trauma-informed therapist who is fluent in Spanish and an ally to the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities. I am certified in Crisis Intervention and am drawn to clients who can relate to domestic violence, human trafficking, depression, anxiety, ADHD, life transitions, and complex trauma. I also can help if you have trouble with sleep, motivation, phobias or stress. I see children, adolescents, adults, and families. Even if you are not sure what you want from therapy or how to get there, I will meet you where you are at in your journey, and together we will figure out a plan for you to live your best, most fulfilled life!
(847) 851-4546 View (847) 851-4546
Photo of Angela Serritella, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Algonquin, IL
Angela Serritella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Algonquin, IL 60156
Hello and thank you for taking the time to reach out! Do you ever have those days where things are especially challenging? Many of the people that I meet are navigating mental wellness, substance use, and/or traumatic events they have experienced. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker as well as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I also have extensive experience supporting teens/young adults who have experienced trauma, which led me to become a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. Currently I work with adults and youth, and I'm a strong believer in the mental/physical health connection.
Hello and thank you for taking the time to reach out! Do you ever have those days where things are especially challenging? Many of the people that I meet are navigating mental wellness, substance use, and/or traumatic events they have experienced. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker as well as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I also have extensive experience supporting teens/young adults who have experienced trauma, which led me to become a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional. Currently I work with adults and youth, and I'm a strong believer in the mental/physical health connection.
(779) 704-6033 View (779) 704-6033
Photo of Julie Konrath, Pre-Licensed Professional in Algonquin, IL
Julie Konrath
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60102
She has experience working with individuals with eating disorders, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma.
Julie Konrath is a pre-licensed professional with a master's degree in Counseling from Northwestern University. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from North Central University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from American InterContinental University. Her background includes work as a Behavioral Tech at a substance abuse treatment center as well as a behavioral health hospital. She has been trained in pre surgical bariatric psychological evaluations, spinal cord stimulator evaluations, and ADHD evaluations.
She has experience working with individuals with eating disorders, substance abuse, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and trauma.
Julie Konrath is a pre-licensed professional with a master's degree in Counseling from Northwestern University. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from North Central University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from American InterContinental University. Her background includes work as a Behavioral Tech at a substance abuse treatment center as well as a behavioral health hospital. She has been trained in pre surgical bariatric psychological evaluations, spinal cord stimulator evaluations, and ADHD evaluations.
(847) 807-1335 x108 View (847) 807-1335 x108
Photo of Alexandra Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist in Algonquin, IL
Alexandra Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Algonquin, IL 60102  (Online Only)
I value taking a culturally sensitive, contextual/systemic, trauma-informed approach to therapy.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in the states of IL & CA who specializes in working with pregnant & postpartum moms and families, Highly Sensitive Persons (HSPs), and sexual assault survivors. I also have experience helping clients with premarital and marital problems (e.g., communication and trust issues, helping partners connect deeper with one another), blended family issues, challenges in pregnancy & postpartum (including perinatal anxiety and depression), grief and loss, various life transitions, trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, and depression.
I value taking a culturally sensitive, contextual/systemic, trauma-informed approach to therapy.
I am a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in the states of IL & CA who specializes in working with pregnant & postpartum moms and families, Highly Sensitive Persons (HSPs), and sexual assault survivors. I also have experience helping clients with premarital and marital problems (e.g., communication and trust issues, helping partners connect deeper with one another), blended family issues, challenges in pregnancy & postpartum (including perinatal anxiety and depression), grief and loss, various life transitions, trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, and depression.
(847) 961-4086 View (847) 961-4086
Photo of Megan Rosecrans, Psychologist in Algonquin, IL
Megan Rosecrans
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Algonquin, IL 60102
I specialize in pain-management, stress-management, weight management, binge-eating disorder and bariatric behavioral changes, living with chronic illness, depression, anxiety and panic related disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, grief, and trauma-related issues.
Depression, anxiety, grief/loss, ADHD, and relationship problems are just some of the many reasons people seek out therapy. You may want to learn ways to feel better and reduce uncomfortable emotions, or you may want to just talk through difficult times. I strive to create a safe place and work collaboratively towards your goals. I focus on creating goals, solutions, process one's past and life circumstances, and teach skills and strategies that will reduce uncomfortable and unpleasant emotions. I provide hypnotherapy and biofeedback for pain management and anxiety/panic as added tools to reduce physcial and emotional discomfort.
I specialize in pain-management, stress-management, weight management, binge-eating disorder and bariatric behavioral changes, living with chronic illness, depression, anxiety and panic related disorders, mood disorders, ADHD, grief, and trauma-related issues.
Depression, anxiety, grief/loss, ADHD, and relationship problems are just some of the many reasons people seek out therapy. You may want to learn ways to feel better and reduce uncomfortable emotions, or you may want to just talk through difficult times. I strive to create a safe place and work collaboratively towards your goals. I focus on creating goals, solutions, process one's past and life circumstances, and teach skills and strategies that will reduce uncomfortable and unpleasant emotions. I provide hypnotherapy and biofeedback for pain management and anxiety/panic as added tools to reduce physcial and emotional discomfort.
(331) 256-1835 x101 View (331) 256-1835 x101
Photo of Molly Raymond, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Algonquin, IL
Molly Raymond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Algonquin, IL 60102  (Online Only)
Feelings of anxiety, depression, inattention, and generally feeling like you are not in control of your mental and emotional state is an experience that many of us have. I have been working with youth, adults, and families in developing skills to achieve mental and emotional health goals for the past 6 years in school social work and domestic violence survivor counseling. I am passionate about supporting you or your child with a variety of presenting concerns. From anxiety and depression, coping skills to trauma-informed care working with me will encompass utilizing the best practices for your presenting issues.
Feelings of anxiety, depression, inattention, and generally feeling like you are not in control of your mental and emotional state is an experience that many of us have. I have been working with youth, adults, and families in developing skills to achieve mental and emotional health goals for the past 6 years in school social work and domestic violence survivor counseling. I am passionate about supporting you or your child with a variety of presenting concerns. From anxiety and depression, coping skills to trauma-informed care working with me will encompass utilizing the best practices for your presenting issues.
(847) 916-0516 View (847) 916-0516
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.