Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Iowa

Photo of Alison Holt, Counselor in Iowa
Alison Holt
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Johnston, IA 50131
Beyond my client-centered and trauma-informed approach, I focus heavily on the use of empathy, humor, kindness, and genuine curiosity.
I am a child and family therapist with over 12 years of experience. I work with both children, and, adults who are parents. My specialties include teens, parent coaching, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ youth. I have been successful at treating a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ODD, behavioral problems, stress management difficulties, and more. Overall, my goal is to ensure that you feel safe and supported right from the start by creating a space that is inclusive, non-judgmental and fun for both children and parents.
Beyond my client-centered and trauma-informed approach, I focus heavily on the use of empathy, humor, kindness, and genuine curiosity.
I am a child and family therapist with over 12 years of experience. I work with both children, and, adults who are parents. My specialties include teens, parent coaching, trauma, and LGBTQIA+ youth. I have been successful at treating a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ODD, behavioral problems, stress management difficulties, and more. Overall, my goal is to ensure that you feel safe and supported right from the start by creating a space that is inclusive, non-judgmental and fun for both children and parents.
(515) 585-6117 View (515) 585-6117
Photo of Sattva Integrative Therapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Iowa
Sattva Integrative Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fairfield, IA 52556
I have been providing therapy to individuals, families, and couples for the past 25 years. I have extensive training and experience with trauma, anxiety, stress and relationships. I believe in meeting individuals where they are and assisting them to reach their goals. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, EMDR certified therapist, and Registered Yoga Teacher, I integrate different techniques in therapy to heal mind, body, spirit, and relationships.
I have been providing therapy to individuals, families, and couples for the past 25 years. I have extensive training and experience with trauma, anxiety, stress and relationships. I believe in meeting individuals where they are and assisting them to reach their goals. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, EMDR certified therapist, and Registered Yoga Teacher, I integrate different techniques in therapy to heal mind, body, spirit, and relationships.
(320) 428-0957 View (320) 428-0957
Photo of Kylie Russell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Kylie Russell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ames, IA 50010
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in trauma-informed care and EMDR and actively practice this intervention with many of my clients.
It takes a great deal of courage to reach out during vulnerable times and making the decision to seek help is a big step, which is why I focus on building a supportive and trusting therapeutic relationship in a safe environment. I focus on empowering clients to gain overall well-being by providing a non-judgmental atmosphere. A cornerstone of my work is to become an ally for clients to assist them in achieving their goals and recognizing their strengths. Although I work with clients with many different concerns, my passion lies in assisting with symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and self-esteem.
I am trained in trauma-informed care and EMDR and actively practice this intervention with many of my clients.
It takes a great deal of courage to reach out during vulnerable times and making the decision to seek help is a big step, which is why I focus on building a supportive and trusting therapeutic relationship in a safe environment. I focus on empowering clients to gain overall well-being by providing a non-judgmental atmosphere. A cornerstone of my work is to become an ally for clients to assist them in achieving their goals and recognizing their strengths. Although I work with clients with many different concerns, my passion lies in assisting with symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and self-esteem.
(319) 601-8078 View (319) 601-8078
Photo of Kelly Dianne Shea, Marriage & Family Therapist in Iowa
Kelly Dianne Shea
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sumner, IA 50674  (Online Only)
I love working with folks from teens to elders, people who are at a crossroads in their lives , who need a compassion listener and an insightful, candid person to join them on the path for a while. Sometimes we meet for just a few sessions on that path; sometimes we work together for a longer distance. I cherish the collaborative nature of good therapy; we work together to find solutions and the next step on your path!
I love working with folks from teens to elders, people who are at a crossroads in their lives , who need a compassion listener and an insightful, candid person to join them on the path for a while. Sometimes we meet for just a few sessions on that path; sometimes we work together for a longer distance. I cherish the collaborative nature of good therapy; we work together to find solutions and the next step on your path!
(515) 512-5546 View (515) 512-5546
Photo of Kelson Warner, Counselor in Iowa
Kelson Warner
Counselor, tLMHC
Verified Verified
Iowa City, IA 52245
I have experience working with career development, stress management, self-esteem, personal development and identity, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, domestic violence, relationship conflicts, substance use, and chronic and terminal illness.
It can be very challenging and difficult to talk to someone about your mental health. Reaching out to a therapist is a brave first step towards healing. I aim to provide a warm, safe, and non-judgmental environment where I assist my client in constructing a treatment plan that works best for their current needs and lifestyle. In session, I utilize a combination of Person-Centered, Narrative, Cognitive-behavioral, and Solution Focused approaches to meet my client’s individualistic or holistic needs. I also specialize in the technique of brain-spotting and am currently working to earn certification.
I have experience working with career development, stress management, self-esteem, personal development and identity, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, domestic violence, relationship conflicts, substance use, and chronic and terminal illness.
It can be very challenging and difficult to talk to someone about your mental health. Reaching out to a therapist is a brave first step towards healing. I aim to provide a warm, safe, and non-judgmental environment where I assist my client in constructing a treatment plan that works best for their current needs and lifestyle. In session, I utilize a combination of Person-Centered, Narrative, Cognitive-behavioral, and Solution Focused approaches to meet my client’s individualistic or holistic needs. I also specialize in the technique of brain-spotting and am currently working to earn certification.
(319) 988-2878 x3 View (319) 988-2878 x3
Photo of Alicia Peña, Counselor in Iowa
Alicia Peña
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Moines, IA 50310
Welcome! Life is a continual journey of healing the mind, body, and spirit. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I provide individual and family therapy. My passion is working with people from multi-cultural populations who have experienced trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, grief/loss, anger, irritability, stress, and substance abuse. I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and Consultant, (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and offer Mindfulness, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Client Centered Therapy,
Welcome! Life is a continual journey of healing the mind, body, and spirit. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and I provide individual and family therapy. My passion is working with people from multi-cultural populations who have experienced trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, grief/loss, anger, irritability, stress, and substance abuse. I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and Consultant, (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and offer Mindfulness, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Client Centered Therapy,
(515) 608-8892 View (515) 608-8892
Photo of Doug Buttikofer, Counselor in Iowa
Doug Buttikofer
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Fairfield, IA 52556
As a "Brainspotting" practitioner, we use a powerful, focused treatment method that works by identifying, processing and releasing core neurophysiological sources of emotional/body pain, trauma, dissociation and a variety of other challenging symptoms.
I appreciate your consideration of me as your therapist. I am committed to assisting my clients in achieving their potential, and although I am a practitioner of several validated effective therapies, perhaps the most important trait I bring to my clients, is to be present for them and make an effort to create an environment that promotes wellness. "EMDR" is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences.
As a "Brainspotting" practitioner, we use a powerful, focused treatment method that works by identifying, processing and releasing core neurophysiological sources of emotional/body pain, trauma, dissociation and a variety of other challenging symptoms.
I appreciate your consideration of me as your therapist. I am committed to assisting my clients in achieving their potential, and although I am a practitioner of several validated effective therapies, perhaps the most important trait I bring to my clients, is to be present for them and make an effort to create an environment that promotes wellness. "EMDR" is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences.
(641) 458-1982 View (641) 458-1982
Photo of Katie Ballenger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Katie Ballenger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterloo, IA 50703  (Online Only)
Katie is passionate about mental health and wellness for all. She uses a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach to create a space where individuals and families are able to experience a sense of safety and connection. Building on these experiences, Katie aims to help individuals understand their own strengths, needs and agency for change. With families, Katie incorporates brain development and attachment theory to build a working alliance with families to identify the specific needs of their child. Katie aims to help families experience connection, attunement and enjoyment as tools to improve and strengthen relationships.
Katie is passionate about mental health and wellness for all. She uses a strengths-based, trauma-informed approach to create a space where individuals and families are able to experience a sense of safety and connection. Building on these experiences, Katie aims to help individuals understand their own strengths, needs and agency for change. With families, Katie incorporates brain development and attachment theory to build a working alliance with families to identify the specific needs of their child. Katie aims to help families experience connection, attunement and enjoyment as tools to improve and strengthen relationships.
(319) 220-5096 View (319) 220-5096
Photo of Samantha Rives, Counselor in Iowa
Samantha Rives
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
Are you noticing tension and discomfort in your body? I believe that this is often easier to notice than what might be contributing to your symptoms, things like anxiety, stress, or trauma. We tend to push on and avoid taking good care of ourselves, despite feeling depressed, managing grief, and experiencing life challenges. We can find ourselves feeling burned out, struggling to function in our daily lives, and needing to reconnect with ourselves and those around us. Wherever you’re at in your healing and wellness journey, I’d love to help you along the way.
Are you noticing tension and discomfort in your body? I believe that this is often easier to notice than what might be contributing to your symptoms, things like anxiety, stress, or trauma. We tend to push on and avoid taking good care of ourselves, despite feeling depressed, managing grief, and experiencing life challenges. We can find ourselves feeling burned out, struggling to function in our daily lives, and needing to reconnect with ourselves and those around us. Wherever you’re at in your healing and wellness journey, I’d love to help you along the way.
(515) 599-9060 View (515) 599-9060
Photo of Shelby Dolley, Counselor in Iowa
Shelby Dolley
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Marion, IA 52302
Waitlist for new clients
I am here to sit with you through the hardest parts of your life and help you to be able to live your best life! If you are struggling with trauma, low self-esteem, high stress, hard life transitions, anxiety, or depression, you have come to the right place to heal.
Taking the first step towards change, healing & growth can be difficult. I am a laid back therapist who loves seeing clients get to their best selves in a non-judgmental, unbiased space. I pride myself on being down to earth, positive, and relatable. You won't find a traditional atmosphere in my office, which I believe is one of my strengths. I provide individual therapy for clients aged 18 years and older. I am trained in EMDR, DBT, and CBT techniques and utilize strength-based and client-centered approaches.
I am here to sit with you through the hardest parts of your life and help you to be able to live your best life! If you are struggling with trauma, low self-esteem, high stress, hard life transitions, anxiety, or depression, you have come to the right place to heal.
Taking the first step towards change, healing & growth can be difficult. I am a laid back therapist who loves seeing clients get to their best selves in a non-judgmental, unbiased space. I pride myself on being down to earth, positive, and relatable. You won't find a traditional atmosphere in my office, which I believe is one of my strengths. I provide individual therapy for clients aged 18 years and older. I am trained in EMDR, DBT, and CBT techniques and utilize strength-based and client-centered approaches.
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Photo of Kerstin Marnin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Kerstin Marnin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
North Liberty, IA 52317
I believe that people have the capacity for growth and self-actualization. We are the best experts on ourselves and have tremendous capacity for change but sometimes we don't know how to put that potential to use. Sometimes, anxiety, trauma, or low self-esteem keep us from coping with circumstances or trusting our abilities. We feel trapped, overwhelmed, or helpless and we question or doubt ourselves at every turn. But it doesn't have to stay this way. Therapy can give you the support to feel accepted and the confidence to start facing your biggest challenges.
I believe that people have the capacity for growth and self-actualization. We are the best experts on ourselves and have tremendous capacity for change but sometimes we don't know how to put that potential to use. Sometimes, anxiety, trauma, or low self-esteem keep us from coping with circumstances or trusting our abilities. We feel trapped, overwhelmed, or helpless and we question or doubt ourselves at every turn. But it doesn't have to stay this way. Therapy can give you the support to feel accepted and the confidence to start facing your biggest challenges.
(319) 469-8145 View (319) 469-8145
Photo of Pamela Severson, Counselor in Iowa
Pamela Severson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Hiawatha, IA 52233
My integrative approach encompasses training in trauma, EMDR, EXRP, DBT, CBT, and parenting to support clients to increase awareness and manage life's challenges more effectively.
Overwhelmed, it's hard to breathe, tears well in your eyes, and you are fatigued with worry. Maybe the flood of emotions started recently or years ago. Perhaps someone hurt you, you saw something terrible happen, or you always felt down, scared and alone. You want nothing more then to feel confident again to move forward; free from hurt. My focus is on helping others resolve what is most troubling for them.
My integrative approach encompasses training in trauma, EMDR, EXRP, DBT, CBT, and parenting to support clients to increase awareness and manage life's challenges more effectively.
Overwhelmed, it's hard to breathe, tears well in your eyes, and you are fatigued with worry. Maybe the flood of emotions started recently or years ago. Perhaps someone hurt you, you saw something terrible happen, or you always felt down, scared and alone. You want nothing more then to feel confident again to move forward; free from hurt. My focus is on helping others resolve what is most troubling for them.
(319) 774-7277 View (319) 774-7277
Photo of Candice Cox, Counselor in Iowa
Candice Cox
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peosta, IA 52068
I am trained in Motivational Interviewing, Trauma Art Narrative Therapy (TANT), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Mindfulness Techniques, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Dan Hughes' Attachment Focused Family Therapy and Trauma Informed Care through the Midwest Trauma Services Network (MTSN).
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor that has experience working with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues including depression, anxiety, relational issues, low self-esteem, grief and loss, PTSD and other trauma related issues. I believe in a mindful person-centered approach where the therapeutic relationship is grounded in trust and unconditional acceptance. It is my mission to walk with you on your journey to making positive and lasting change in your life. All people deserve a healthy and balanced life.
I am trained in Motivational Interviewing, Trauma Art Narrative Therapy (TANT), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Mindfulness Techniques, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Dan Hughes' Attachment Focused Family Therapy and Trauma Informed Care through the Midwest Trauma Services Network (MTSN).
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor that has experience working with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues including depression, anxiety, relational issues, low self-esteem, grief and loss, PTSD and other trauma related issues. I believe in a mindful person-centered approach where the therapeutic relationship is grounded in trust and unconditional acceptance. It is my mission to walk with you on your journey to making positive and lasting change in your life. All people deserve a healthy and balanced life.
(563) 284-7559 x1 View (563) 284-7559 x1
Photo of Riverstone Counseling, PLLC, Counselor in Iowa
Riverstone Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Maquoketa, IA 52060
I am trained in EMDR therapy which is highly effective in treating PTSD and other trauma.
Welcome! I am so glad you chose to explore counseling! It is my belief that life is filled with ever-changing seasons. There are some seasons that fill us with joy, excitement, and peace. Then there are other seasons that can plant seeds of intense emotions that may be difficult to cope with.
I am trained in EMDR therapy which is highly effective in treating PTSD and other trauma.
Welcome! I am so glad you chose to explore counseling! It is my belief that life is filled with ever-changing seasons. There are some seasons that fill us with joy, excitement, and peace. Then there are other seasons that can plant seeds of intense emotions that may be difficult to cope with.
(563) 239-5264 View (563) 239-5264
Photo of Melissa Schuldt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Iowa
Melissa Schuldt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Sioux City, IA 51101
I earned my Masters degree in Social Work from the University of Iowa and my Bachelors degree in Psychology and Social Work from the University of South Dakota. I have over 15 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have experience treating all age groups from diverse backgrounds and for a variety of concerns. Including, mental illness, addiction, abuse/neglect, domestic violence, adjustment issues, anxiety and panic disorders, depression, life transitions, mood disorders, relationship problems and self-esteem issues. I am a trained EMDR therapist and specialize in treating trauma survivors.
I earned my Masters degree in Social Work from the University of Iowa and my Bachelors degree in Psychology and Social Work from the University of South Dakota. I have over 15 years of experience working in the mental health field. I have experience treating all age groups from diverse backgrounds and for a variety of concerns. Including, mental illness, addiction, abuse/neglect, domestic violence, adjustment issues, anxiety and panic disorders, depression, life transitions, mood disorders, relationship problems and self-esteem issues. I am a trained EMDR therapist and specialize in treating trauma survivors.
(720) 726-1468 View (720) 726-1468
Photo of Michael Sullivan, Counselor in Iowa
Michael Sullivan
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
If you have ever asked yourself if you are living as well as you could then counseling may be for you. I find most people (including my clients) can get by just fine on their own. I am here to help them do more than "just get by." My goal is to help you live the life you want and enjoy it more fully. How to better manage anxiety, improve mood, improve coping skills, and better your interpersonal relationships are something I enjoy helping people with. I also address people's history of trauma and how that may be affecting their life and/or relationships.
If you have ever asked yourself if you are living as well as you could then counseling may be for you. I find most people (including my clients) can get by just fine on their own. I am here to help them do more than "just get by." My goal is to help you live the life you want and enjoy it more fully. How to better manage anxiety, improve mood, improve coping skills, and better your interpersonal relationships are something I enjoy helping people with. I also address people's history of trauma and how that may be affecting their life and/or relationships.
(515) 532-5528 View (515) 532-5528
Photo of Natalie Lonsdale Gruss, Marriage & Family Therapist in Iowa
Natalie Lonsdale Gruss
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 19 years of experience working with a variety of clients from different backgrounds, nationalities, identities and orientations. I work closely with clients to create personalized goals and am trained in a wide range of issues including: anxiety, panic, depression, PTSD, identity, sexuality, body image, survivors of trauma, adult children of alcoholics, postpartum depression/anxiety, grief/loss, and many others. If you want to feel better, I am here to help!
Hello, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 19 years of experience working with a variety of clients from different backgrounds, nationalities, identities and orientations. I work closely with clients to create personalized goals and am trained in a wide range of issues including: anxiety, panic, depression, PTSD, identity, sexuality, body image, survivors of trauma, adult children of alcoholics, postpartum depression/anxiety, grief/loss, and many others. If you want to feel better, I am here to help!
(515) 421-4370 View (515) 421-4370
Photo of Katy Heim, Counselor in Iowa
Katy Heim
Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sioux City, IA 51101
Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times if one only remembers to turn on the light- Albus Dumbledore. I believe a small amount of hope helps a person get through most obstacles in life. Hope, to me, is the little bit of light in the darkness. My ultimate goal is to help my clients find their light. The common thread throughout my career as a therapist has been the treatment of trauma, adverse experiences, and toxic stress. Regardless of where a client is on their journey towards healing, I help them continue to take the steps to move forward.
Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times if one only remembers to turn on the light- Albus Dumbledore. I believe a small amount of hope helps a person get through most obstacles in life. Hope, to me, is the little bit of light in the darkness. My ultimate goal is to help my clients find their light. The common thread throughout my career as a therapist has been the treatment of trauma, adverse experiences, and toxic stress. Regardless of where a client is on their journey towards healing, I help them continue to take the steps to move forward.
(712) 539-7843 View (712) 539-7843
Photo of Hilary Johnson, Counselor in Iowa
Hilary Johnson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Des Moines, IA 50309
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
Immediate appointments availiable. My name is Hilary Johnson and I am a licensed Mental Health Therapist (LMHC). Making the decision to come to therapy is not an easy one whether it is for you or your child. I am here to help by providing a safe, compassionate, and judgement free space. As a client centered therapist my goal is to focus on you and what you need out of therapy. I specialize in children (age 10 and up), teens, and young adults who have experienced trauma in their life. I also specialize in the LGBTQIA population, as an identified therapist.
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
Immediate appointments availiable. My name is Hilary Johnson and I am a licensed Mental Health Therapist (LMHC). Making the decision to come to therapy is not an easy one whether it is for you or your child. I am here to help by providing a safe, compassionate, and judgement free space. As a client centered therapist my goal is to focus on you and what you need out of therapy. I specialize in children (age 10 and up), teens, and young adults who have experienced trauma in their life. I also specialize in the LGBTQIA population, as an identified therapist.
(515) 375-5576 View (515) 375-5576
Photo of Michelle Renee Curtis, Counselor in Iowa
Michelle Renee Curtis
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Life can be overwhelming at times. In fact, most people will experience at least mild depression and or anxiety at some time due to life events such as death, divorce, relationship difficulties, and work stress. Traumatic events in childhood create a different kind of stress and can cause only mildly stressful events to be amplified for you. Did you know that most people have at least one event in their childhood that qualifies as a traumatic event? It is normal for individuals who have experienced trauma of some kind to experience anxiety and or depression. So here you are looking through a website full of therapists trying to make a decision! Congratulations on taking the first step to improving your life. Many of the most successful people in life seek the counsel of others in order to increase knowledge and improve their lives. Therapy can be that counsel bringing clarity, collaboration, and change to your life.
Life can be overwhelming at times. In fact, most people will experience at least mild depression and or anxiety at some time due to life events such as death, divorce, relationship difficulties, and work stress. Traumatic events in childhood create a different kind of stress and can cause only mildly stressful events to be amplified for you. Did you know that most people have at least one event in their childhood that qualifies as a traumatic event? It is normal for individuals who have experienced trauma of some kind to experience anxiety and or depression. So here you are looking through a website full of therapists trying to make a decision! Congratulations on taking the first step to improving your life. Many of the most successful people in life seek the counsel of others in order to increase knowledge and improve their lives. Therapy can be that counsel bringing clarity, collaboration, and change to your life.
(515) 373-4349 View (515) 373-4349
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.