Photo of Cheri Haire, Counselor in Maine
Cheri Haire
Counselor, LCPC-C
Verified Verified
Biddeford, ME 04005  (Online Only)
I am an Expressive Arts Therapist, trained in Trauma-Informed care and Anti-Oppression practices.
I am non-binary, polyamorous, and pansexual and love providing support to people in the LGBTQ+ community. I love working with children and teenagers, but have no specific age restrictions on my practice. I'm seeking clients who need to explore their emotions, experiences, and behaviors in an expressive way. Talking only gets us so far, whereas in my experience, use of the Expressive Arts (dance, drama, music, art, and writing) has an ability to get at the deeper stuff.
I am an Expressive Arts Therapist, trained in Trauma-Informed care and Anti-Oppression practices.
I am non-binary, polyamorous, and pansexual and love providing support to people in the LGBTQ+ community. I love working with children and teenagers, but have no specific age restrictions on my practice. I'm seeking clients who need to explore their emotions, experiences, and behaviors in an expressive way. Talking only gets us so far, whereas in my experience, use of the Expressive Arts (dance, drama, music, art, and writing) has an ability to get at the deeper stuff.
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Photo of Susan Cook, Psychologist in Maine
Susan Cook
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Brunswick, ME 04011
Anxiety, stress reduction, mindfulness, ADHD concern, school, divorce, parent-child conflict, loss, EMDR and Trauma interventions, for children, adolescents and adults are specialties.
In my calm, safe, confidential office, I am currently offering HIPAA secure Online video sessions using a HIPPA-compliant secure platform or phone consultations. We integrate CDC guidelines for COVID-19 for any inperson sessions. My 25 years of clinical experience have taught me about the courage those facing complex life difficulties bring to psychotherapy. Adults, children and adolescents are given help finding solutions. Mindfulness techniques which I have discovered the value of through a 25+ year meditation practice are also of benefit to clients who are looking to make life changes.
Anxiety, stress reduction, mindfulness, ADHD concern, school, divorce, parent-child conflict, loss, EMDR and Trauma interventions, for children, adolescents and adults are specialties.
In my calm, safe, confidential office, I am currently offering HIPAA secure Online video sessions using a HIPPA-compliant secure platform or phone consultations. We integrate CDC guidelines for COVID-19 for any inperson sessions. My 25 years of clinical experience have taught me about the courage those facing complex life difficulties bring to psychotherapy. Adults, children and adolescents are given help finding solutions. Mindfulness techniques which I have discovered the value of through a 25+ year meditation practice are also of benefit to clients who are looking to make life changes.
(207) 747-3831 View (207) 747-3831
Photo of UCP of Maine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
UCP of Maine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Not Verified Not Verified
Bangor, ME 04401  (Online Only)
Our team has expertise in working with a broad range of mental health issues and life stressors including trauma, grief and loss, parent-child relationship problems, attachment, relationship issues, challenges at home and employment, LGBTQ issues, substance use, domestic violence, intellectual disabilities, and physical disabilities to name a few.
In person and telehealth counseling is available to adults, teens and children seeking individual or family therapy in a respectful, safe, and supportive environment. We want to work with you to understand your goals and help you develop plans and skills to achieve your goals that utilize your strengths. Our clinicians provide a broad spectrum of quality, evidence-based care . We help you resolve life stressors such as relationship issues, grief and loss, the effects of trauma, problems at home, school or work, behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, attachment, anger issues, and other mental health challenges.
Our team has expertise in working with a broad range of mental health issues and life stressors including trauma, grief and loss, parent-child relationship problems, attachment, relationship issues, challenges at home and employment, LGBTQ issues, substance use, domestic violence, intellectual disabilities, and physical disabilities to name a few.
In person and telehealth counseling is available to adults, teens and children seeking individual or family therapy in a respectful, safe, and supportive environment. We want to work with you to understand your goals and help you develop plans and skills to achieve your goals that utilize your strengths. Our clinicians provide a broad spectrum of quality, evidence-based care . We help you resolve life stressors such as relationship issues, grief and loss, the effects of trauma, problems at home, school or work, behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, attachment, anger issues, and other mental health challenges.
(207) 656-1962 x333 View (207) 656-1962 x333
Photo of Elizabeth Doyle @ Compass Counseling, Counselor in Maine
Elizabeth Doyle @ Compass Counseling
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Gardiner, ME 04345
My speciality is trauma.
There are many things that keep us from being true to ourselves and/or brings conflict into our lives making it easy to feel lost or off-track. My work involves allowing you to find your compass by resolving traumas from the past and finding simple and workable solutions for the present. It is my priority to help people come back to their strengths and rediscover their inner compass. My job is to create an environment for you that is free of judgement and debris; together we can find your bearings and put the wind back in your sails.
My speciality is trauma.
There are many things that keep us from being true to ourselves and/or brings conflict into our lives making it easy to feel lost or off-track. My work involves allowing you to find your compass by resolving traumas from the past and finding simple and workable solutions for the present. It is my priority to help people come back to their strengths and rediscover their inner compass. My job is to create an environment for you that is free of judgement and debris; together we can find your bearings and put the wind back in your sails.
(207) 204-8332 View (207) 204-8332
Photo of Emily Rhodes, Pre-Licensed Professional in Maine
Emily Rhodes
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCPC-C
Verified Verified
Augusta, ME 04330  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience working with and am open to working with adults, 18 years of age and older, addressing a variety of presenting problems such as surviving trauma, surviving sexual trauma, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, women’s issues, surviving domestic violence, self-esteem issues, and life transitions.
I firmly believe in providing a safe place for all. I am a believer that you are the expert in all things you! Therefore, I aim to meet you where you are. To do this, I utilize an eclectic approach drawing on multiple counseling theories, such as Person-Centered and strengths-based approaches to help identify current issues you wish to address in therapy and the strengths you possess to overcome and work through life’s problems. Additionally, I have been formally trained in and utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness, Narrative Therapy, and Trauma-informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (Tf-CBT).
I have experience working with and am open to working with adults, 18 years of age and older, addressing a variety of presenting problems such as surviving trauma, surviving sexual trauma, grief/loss, anxiety, depression, women’s issues, surviving domestic violence, self-esteem issues, and life transitions.
I firmly believe in providing a safe place for all. I am a believer that you are the expert in all things you! Therefore, I aim to meet you where you are. To do this, I utilize an eclectic approach drawing on multiple counseling theories, such as Person-Centered and strengths-based approaches to help identify current issues you wish to address in therapy and the strengths you possess to overcome and work through life’s problems. Additionally, I have been formally trained in and utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness, Narrative Therapy, and Trauma-informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (Tf-CBT).
(207) 962-2737 View (207) 962-2737
Photo of Jeff Morrill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Jeff Morrill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Freeport, ME 04032
I Am Accepting New Patients: I am a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist who works with people to enhance their natural strengths and overcome obstacles to success. I am Nationally Certified as a Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I work with children, youth, adults, and families with mental health concerns, using solution-focused, evidence-based approaches. Specializing in Focus and Performance, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression Attention and Mood Regulation. I help empower people to enhance their strengths, supports, and skills toward living healthy, productive lives.
I Am Accepting New Patients: I am a Cognitive Behavioral Therapist who works with people to enhance their natural strengths and overcome obstacles to success. I am Nationally Certified as a Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapist. I work with children, youth, adults, and families with mental health concerns, using solution-focused, evidence-based approaches. Specializing in Focus and Performance, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression Attention and Mood Regulation. I help empower people to enhance their strengths, supports, and skills toward living healthy, productive lives.
(207) 358-3485 View (207) 358-3485
Photo of Maine Psychological Services, Psychologist in Maine
Maine Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ellsworth, ME 04605
Vagt specializes in providing treatment for anxiety and trauma related disorders, including history of physical, sexual, or verbal abuse as well as combat related trauma.
Accepting new patients for work with clinical intern, Ms. Mailena Alicea. Dr. Denise Vagt is a licensed clinical psychologist (Maine License PS1998). She has a broad range of experience treating anxiety and depressive disorders and specializes in the treatment of anxiety, trauma, and stress related disorders. Dr. Vagt completed her Doctorate in Psychology at Florida Institute of Technology and spent the beginning of her career serving as an Active Duty Air Force Psychologist. She now works in the private sector as the owner of Maine Psychological Services.
Vagt specializes in providing treatment for anxiety and trauma related disorders, including history of physical, sexual, or verbal abuse as well as combat related trauma.
Accepting new patients for work with clinical intern, Ms. Mailena Alicea. Dr. Denise Vagt is a licensed clinical psychologist (Maine License PS1998). She has a broad range of experience treating anxiety and depressive disorders and specializes in the treatment of anxiety, trauma, and stress related disorders. Dr. Vagt completed her Doctorate in Psychology at Florida Institute of Technology and spent the beginning of her career serving as an Active Duty Air Force Psychologist. She now works in the private sector as the owner of Maine Psychological Services.
(207) 412-5942 View (207) 412-5942
Photo of Sharie Ann Peacock, Counselor in Maine
Sharie Ann Peacock
Counselor, RN, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbia Falls, ME 04623  (Online Only)
I have successfully used Traumatic Incident Reduction with my clients for 23 years. TIR is an Evidence-Based Practice. It is a rapid (compared to traditional therapy) method of effectively reducing traumatic stress from emotionally or physically painful past events resulting in permanent elimination of PTSD symptomatology, enabling you to move on with a greatly improved quality of life. I use Life Stress Reduction which makes use of an array of techniques designed to relieve issues such as depression, anxiety, anger problems, relationship difficulties, job/career concerns, financial problems, health concerns, grief/loss and more.
I have successfully used Traumatic Incident Reduction with my clients for 23 years. TIR is an Evidence-Based Practice. It is a rapid (compared to traditional therapy) method of effectively reducing traumatic stress from emotionally or physically painful past events resulting in permanent elimination of PTSD symptomatology, enabling you to move on with a greatly improved quality of life. I use Life Stress Reduction which makes use of an array of techniques designed to relieve issues such as depression, anxiety, anger problems, relationship difficulties, job/career concerns, financial problems, health concerns, grief/loss and more.
(207) 420-2117 View (207) 420-2117
Photo of Amber Russell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Amber Russell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cape Elizabeth, ME 04107  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am an individual and family therapist with over a decade of experience working with adolescents, adults, and parents of children with difficult behaviors. I specialize in helping families and individuals cope with life changes and manage symptoms related to Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Autism, and grief.
I am an individual and family therapist with over a decade of experience working with adolescents, adults, and parents of children with difficult behaviors. I specialize in helping families and individuals cope with life changes and manage symptoms related to Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, Autism, and grief.
(207) 218-0522 View (207) 218-0522
Photo of Patricia Anne Proulx-Lough, Marriage & Family Therapist in Maine
Patricia Anne Proulx-Lough
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, AAMFT, TIRA, FST
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04102  (Online Only)
I have extensive training and experience treating families who encounter transitional issues, behavioral issues, parenting concerns, couples conflict, and adolescents who are in trouble with the law or who have problem sexual behavior. I also work with individuals who experience anxiety and depressive disorders, disruptive behavioral disorders, trauma and post traumatic stress disorder, grief and loss, and reactive attachment disorder.
I have extensive training and experience treating families who encounter transitional issues, behavioral issues, parenting concerns, couples conflict, and adolescents who are in trouble with the law or who have problem sexual behavior. I also work with individuals who experience anxiety and depressive disorders, disruptive behavioral disorders, trauma and post traumatic stress disorder, grief and loss, and reactive attachment disorder.
(207) 482-0784 View (207) 482-0784
Photo of Justin Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Justin Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC, CCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gorham, ME 04038
I specialize in working with people who experience substance use disorders and developmental trauma.
Please note that I am currently at capacity and unable to accept new patients at this time. There is wisdom in the ways we adapt to our environments, but they do not always serve us in the present moment. My aim is to help people identify their adaptive patterns and view them with compassion, while also learning what to hold and what to let go. As a neurobiological informed therapist, I aim to help people move from judgement, shame and isolation to curiosity, acceptance and connection.
I specialize in working with people who experience substance use disorders and developmental trauma.
Please note that I am currently at capacity and unable to accept new patients at this time. There is wisdom in the ways we adapt to our environments, but they do not always serve us in the present moment. My aim is to help people identify their adaptive patterns and view them with compassion, while also learning what to hold and what to let go. As a neurobiological informed therapist, I aim to help people move from judgement, shame and isolation to curiosity, acceptance and connection.
(207) 218-0296 View (207) 218-0296
Photo of Jill FitzGerald, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Jill FitzGerald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portland, ME 04104
I have experience and expertise in working with survivors of trauma, PTSD, Family Issues/Conflicts, Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorders, and Mood Disorders.
I utilize a solution focused and empirically based approach to treatment that incorporates cognitive behavioral, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness practices within a collaborative and non-judgmental space.
I have experience and expertise in working with survivors of trauma, PTSD, Family Issues/Conflicts, Anxiety, Depression, Adjustment Disorders, and Mood Disorders.
I utilize a solution focused and empirically based approach to treatment that incorporates cognitive behavioral, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness practices within a collaborative and non-judgmental space.
(978) 757-4773 View (978) 757-4773
Photo of Chelsea, Healthy Minds Counseling Inc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Chelsea, Healthy Minds Counseling Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Portland, ME 04106  (Online Only)
My practice is built on strengths-based, client-centered, and trauma-informed care.
Many warm welcomes to you! I believe that life can be heavy at times, and my purpose is to help lighten the load and be a source of light during dark times. Laughter, a good conversation, a warm hug, or a walk in nature can do wonders for the human spirit. Unfortunately, our society isn't always conducive to our well-being, which is why it's essential to unlearn some things and search within ourselves to find inner peace. It's an honor to accompany you on that journey. Throughout my career, I've worked with clients from different cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds and age groups.
My practice is built on strengths-based, client-centered, and trauma-informed care.
Many warm welcomes to you! I believe that life can be heavy at times, and my purpose is to help lighten the load and be a source of light during dark times. Laughter, a good conversation, a warm hug, or a walk in nature can do wonders for the human spirit. Unfortunately, our society isn't always conducive to our well-being, which is why it's essential to unlearn some things and search within ourselves to find inner peace. It's an honor to accompany you on that journey. Throughout my career, I've worked with clients from different cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds and age groups.
(207) 820-2001 View (207) 820-2001
Photo of Daniel Pierce - Counseling For Trauma And Anxiety, Registered Psychotherapist in Maine
Daniel Pierce - Counseling For Trauma And Anxiety
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterville, ME 04901
With a history in school counseling, I have transitioned to allow for individual and group counseling through both a virtual platform and in nature-based settings. My years as a percussionist have taught me that everyone has rhythm build into their bodies. Once people find their rhythm, positive life changes and natural healing can take place. I work from a trauma-focused lens using Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) and Therapeutic Fly-Fishing with EMDR (TF-EMDR) for treating trauma.
With a history in school counseling, I have transitioned to allow for individual and group counseling through both a virtual platform and in nature-based settings. My years as a percussionist have taught me that everyone has rhythm build into their bodies. Once people find their rhythm, positive life changes and natural healing can take place. I work from a trauma-focused lens using Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) and Therapeutic Fly-Fishing with EMDR (TF-EMDR) for treating trauma.
(207) 819-8724 View (207) 819-8724
Photo of MK-Healthy Minds Counseling, Inc. , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
MK-Healthy Minds Counseling, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ellsworth, ME 04605  (Online Only)
I am trained in Comprehensive DBT, trauma-focused CBT, Somatic Experiencing therapy, Narrative therapy, and Complex Trauma Systems therapy.
My therapeutic partnership history is with folks who have not seen themselves reflected or heard in traditional wellness or therapy spaces. Some focus areas are complex trauma, substance misuse, and severe mental illness, highly sensitive/empathic folks, ASD and neurodivergent folks, strengthening self-compassion and building shame resilience, navigating liberation and justice, trauma-informed work, body liberation + supporting those recovering from diet culture and body stigma, furthering gender, racial liberation, and those impacted by the criminal and family court systems.
I am trained in Comprehensive DBT, trauma-focused CBT, Somatic Experiencing therapy, Narrative therapy, and Complex Trauma Systems therapy.
My therapeutic partnership history is with folks who have not seen themselves reflected or heard in traditional wellness or therapy spaces. Some focus areas are complex trauma, substance misuse, and severe mental illness, highly sensitive/empathic folks, ASD and neurodivergent folks, strengthening self-compassion and building shame resilience, navigating liberation and justice, trauma-informed work, body liberation + supporting those recovering from diet culture and body stigma, furthering gender, racial liberation, and those impacted by the criminal and family court systems.
(207) 204-3791 View (207) 204-3791
Photo of Cheryl Krawietz, Counselor in Maine
Cheryl Krawietz
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, CSOTP
Verified Verified
Lincoln, ME 04457
Living with mental health issues restricts the quality of life. I work with individuals, couples, families, groups, adults, adolescents, and children to combat the effects of trauma, stressors, and factors that prevent them from living the life they want to lead. This is my mission.
Living with mental health issues restricts the quality of life. I work with individuals, couples, families, groups, adults, adolescents, and children to combat the effects of trauma, stressors, and factors that prevent them from living the life they want to lead. This is my mission.
(207) 417-4594 View (207) 417-4594
Photo of Toni Bennett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Toni Bennett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Kittery, ME 03904
I have two offices which are professional yet homelike settings. They each have 3-5 stairs. I practice with an eclectic style but do utilize EMDR, CBT and DBT. I draw on clients strengths and empower the client to utilize their present skills. I specialize in trauma and substance abuse and also depression and anxiety etc. I am a co-occurring therapist. The goal is to improve self esteem and self worth and focus on the goals and objectives of the client. The initial visit is a time for the client to share their hopes and aspirations and create a plan that is challenging but attainable. The client will always feel supported.
I have two offices which are professional yet homelike settings. They each have 3-5 stairs. I practice with an eclectic style but do utilize EMDR, CBT and DBT. I draw on clients strengths and empower the client to utilize their present skills. I specialize in trauma and substance abuse and also depression and anxiety etc. I am a co-occurring therapist. The goal is to improve self esteem and self worth and focus on the goals and objectives of the client. The initial visit is a time for the client to share their hopes and aspirations and create a plan that is challenging but attainable. The client will always feel supported.
(207) 560-0905 View (207) 560-0905
Photo of Debra A Ouimette, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Maine
Debra A Ouimette
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, ThD, LADC, CASAC, SAP
Verified Verified
Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064  (Online Only)
Speciality: Addiction issues, codependency, trauma, treating co-occuring disorders, and provision of SAP services for federally licensed drinking drivers.
I am a Substance Abuse Professional that blends therapeutic approaches to help each individual recover. I work with each person to help them find solutions to life's problems and reach their fullest potential. I offer tele-health options.I have 30 years experience as an addictions co-occurring therapist and Christian counselor. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment values based therapy to treat addiction problems. Family mediation is available for families in crisis. Couples counseling , individual therapy, mediation,and SAP services for federally licensed drivers are part of my scope of practice. "Every individual is deserving of help, hope, and healing."
Speciality: Addiction issues, codependency, trauma, treating co-occuring disorders, and provision of SAP services for federally licensed drinking drivers.
I am a Substance Abuse Professional that blends therapeutic approaches to help each individual recover. I work with each person to help them find solutions to life's problems and reach their fullest potential. I offer tele-health options.I have 30 years experience as an addictions co-occurring therapist and Christian counselor. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy and acceptance and commitment values based therapy to treat addiction problems. Family mediation is available for families in crisis. Couples counseling , individual therapy, mediation,and SAP services for federally licensed drivers are part of my scope of practice. "Every individual is deserving of help, hope, and healing."
(207) 482-0139 View (207) 482-0139
Photo of Nate Woodin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Maine
Nate Woodin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, ME 04101
I treat a wide variety of issues across the lifespan including depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship issues, phase of life issues, parenting, etc.
Are you, or someone you know, struggling with life's challenges? I can assist and support individuals and families along their path of change. I offer an eclectic approach to therapy that is shaped by the needs of you or your family.
I treat a wide variety of issues across the lifespan including depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship issues, phase of life issues, parenting, etc.
Are you, or someone you know, struggling with life's challenges? I can assist and support individuals and families along their path of change. I offer an eclectic approach to therapy that is shaped by the needs of you or your family.
(207) 358-4985 View (207) 358-4985
Photo of Madelyn Sauget, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Maine
Madelyn Sauget
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gray, ME 04039
When we experience trauma we are often flooded with overwhelming emotions, body sensations, and memories. I work with clients to cultivate awareness around identifying the patterns our bodies and minds engage in based on our past experiences. Once we can identify the patterns we can encourage change. Through a trauma-informed lens and with the assistance of my equine co-therapist, we can guide you to reconnect with your body and begin to understand how trauma impacts your nervous system. Together we can begin to understand how trauma shows up for you and work to reprocess trauma and sit with challenging emotions
When we experience trauma we are often flooded with overwhelming emotions, body sensations, and memories. I work with clients to cultivate awareness around identifying the patterns our bodies and minds engage in based on our past experiences. Once we can identify the patterns we can encourage change. Through a trauma-informed lens and with the assistance of my equine co-therapist, we can guide you to reconnect with your body and begin to understand how trauma impacts your nervous system. Together we can begin to understand how trauma shows up for you and work to reprocess trauma and sit with challenging emotions
(207) 501-3841 View (207) 501-3841
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.