Photo of Carla Carreira in Silver Spring, MD
Carla Carreira
MA, MS, SEP
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20906  (Online Only)
I am especially versed in issues regarding somatic therapy techniques for increased trauma recovery and resiliency.
I am a somatic experiencing practitioner and clinical sexologist committed to diversity and accessibility and offer a holistic therapeutic approach targeted to fit client needs. I am dedicated to trust-building and co-creation and enjoy worksheets/ post-session exercises that reinforce and assist integration. I enjoy working with clients with traditionally limited access to care. I also appreciate curiosity for self-awareness and commitment to growth.
I am especially versed in issues regarding somatic therapy techniques for increased trauma recovery and resiliency.
I am a somatic experiencing practitioner and clinical sexologist committed to diversity and accessibility and offer a holistic therapeutic approach targeted to fit client needs. I am dedicated to trust-building and co-creation and enjoy worksheets/ post-session exercises that reinforce and assist integration. I enjoy working with clients with traditionally limited access to care. I also appreciate curiosity for self-awareness and commitment to growth.
(240) 226-2577 View (240) 226-2577
Photo of Sabrina Valdez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Sabrina Valdez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910  (Online Only)
I am passionate about empowering folks to heal from the trauma they've experienced and learn new ways of viewing themselves and the relationships they inhabit.
Have you ever wondered why life might feel like a growing mountain to which you are unsure of how to begin to climb? Have you experienced a lack of purpose or direction in life and feel stuck? Are relationships harder to maintain? My goal is to create a space where you, as the client, feels safe to share your thoughts, emotions, and life experiences. Over the past 9 years I have used my clinical training to help individuals, couples and families untangle the scary, messy, and upsetting parts of their lives.
I am passionate about empowering folks to heal from the trauma they've experienced and learn new ways of viewing themselves and the relationships they inhabit.
Have you ever wondered why life might feel like a growing mountain to which you are unsure of how to begin to climb? Have you experienced a lack of purpose or direction in life and feel stuck? Are relationships harder to maintain? My goal is to create a space where you, as the client, feels safe to share your thoughts, emotions, and life experiences. Over the past 9 years I have used my clinical training to help individuals, couples and families untangle the scary, messy, and upsetting parts of their lives.
(858) 318-7294 View (858) 318-7294
Photo of Marina Kerlow, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Silver Spring, MD
Marina Kerlow
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LGMFT
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20901  (Online Only)
I am a trauma-informed therapist, trained in EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing).
Are you feeling stuck in old patterns and confusion? I can help you break old cycles that no longer serve you and develop more productive and healthier ways of being - whether that's individually or as a family. I provide therapy for improving relationships, healing from trauma, and exploring identity. I draw from my background working in research on child development and family resilience, evidence-based practices, my clinical expertise, and own lived experiences.
I am a trauma-informed therapist, trained in EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing).
Are you feeling stuck in old patterns and confusion? I can help you break old cycles that no longer serve you and develop more productive and healthier ways of being - whether that's individually or as a family. I provide therapy for improving relationships, healing from trauma, and exploring identity. I draw from my background working in research on child development and family resilience, evidence-based practices, my clinical expertise, and own lived experiences.
(301) 804-2658 View (301) 804-2658
Photo of Diana Escobar, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Diana Escobar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20901  (Online Only)
My ideal client is someone who makes that phone call to ask for help and is ready to begin clarifying goals to improve some aspect of their life. Issues that they may be facing include self-esteem issues, depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, lack of coping and communication skills, family dynamics, grief, etc. The most important thing for me to do to help my clients with all their needs is to provide a safe environment, build rapport with them by making them feel comfortable, and assisting them in prioritizing what they want to work on.
My ideal client is someone who makes that phone call to ask for help and is ready to begin clarifying goals to improve some aspect of their life. Issues that they may be facing include self-esteem issues, depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, lack of coping and communication skills, family dynamics, grief, etc. The most important thing for me to do to help my clients with all their needs is to provide a safe environment, build rapport with them by making them feel comfortable, and assisting them in prioritizing what they want to work on.
(301) 835-2352 View (301) 835-2352
Photo of Holistic Psychotherapy by Santa, LLC., Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Holistic Psychotherapy by Santa, LLC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, SEP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20906
I have been serving survivors of trauma for over 23 years.
No matter how you are feeling, know that there is someone out here to support you, don't lose hope. I believe that we all have the innate ability to be well, regardless of race, sexual orientation or gender identification. Traumatic and challenging experiences in our lifes, can affect our nervous system, rendering us vulnerable, confused and at times stuck/frozen in fight and or flight responses to life. It would be an honor to assist you at recognizing and reclaiming your strength and true potential through gentle, mindful and regulated interventions that provide balance and peace.
I have been serving survivors of trauma for over 23 years.
No matter how you are feeling, know that there is someone out here to support you, don't lose hope. I believe that we all have the innate ability to be well, regardless of race, sexual orientation or gender identification. Traumatic and challenging experiences in our lifes, can affect our nervous system, rendering us vulnerable, confused and at times stuck/frozen in fight and or flight responses to life. It would be an honor to assist you at recognizing and reclaiming your strength and true potential through gentle, mindful and regulated interventions that provide balance and peace.
(202) 499-6292 View (202) 499-6292
Photo of Angela Gilbert, Psychologist in Silver Spring, MD
Angela Gilbert
Psychologist, PsyD, NBCCH
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I am a seasoned psychologist, consultant, clinician who has been practicing in the DC 30 years. I'm returning to f/t self employment/ private practice after working f/t in the medical context at Walter Reed Bethesda, Kaiser, Nursing homes. Strengths as an agent of positive change include my personable, collaborative approach and our success in achieving agreed- upon desired results. I have extensive experience in the fields of behavioral medicine, trauma recovery, hypnosis, and clinical supervision and training. My clients see positive results and return on investment relatively quickly. I love this work, and always learning.
I am a seasoned psychologist, consultant, clinician who has been practicing in the DC 30 years. I'm returning to f/t self employment/ private practice after working f/t in the medical context at Walter Reed Bethesda, Kaiser, Nursing homes. Strengths as an agent of positive change include my personable, collaborative approach and our success in achieving agreed- upon desired results. I have extensive experience in the fields of behavioral medicine, trauma recovery, hypnosis, and clinical supervision and training. My clients see positive results and return on investment relatively quickly. I love this work, and always learning.
(240) 647-9278 View (240) 647-9278
Photo of Chika Igwe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Chika Igwe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20904  (Online Only)
My speciality is in trauma-informed therapy for those with single incident or complex trauma including childhood trauma, trauma/chronic stress from racism and oppressive systems, and sexual and gender based violence.
I believe that the best way to help clients achieve their goals is through empathy and empowerment. Therapy is a collaborative team effort as the client is the expert in their life and experience and I, the therapist, am here to help you find the answers you need.
My speciality is in trauma-informed therapy for those with single incident or complex trauma including childhood trauma, trauma/chronic stress from racism and oppressive systems, and sexual and gender based violence.
I believe that the best way to help clients achieve their goals is through empathy and empowerment. Therapy is a collaborative team effort as the client is the expert in their life and experience and I, the therapist, am here to help you find the answers you need.
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Photo of Nancy K Montagna, Psychologist in Silver Spring, MD
Nancy K Montagna
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Maybe you want a sense of security, to be calmer, to have more energy and creativity or more loving relationships. Maybe you want freedom from the after-effects of trauma. We begin with an attitude of loving self acceptance. You can change an unhealthy habit, heal from trauma or shed an addiction relatively quickly with a brand new (evidence-based) method called Accelerated Resolution Therapy (A.R.T.). I bring wide experience and a large professional toolbox to help you toward your goals.
Maybe you want a sense of security, to be calmer, to have more energy and creativity or more loving relationships. Maybe you want freedom from the after-effects of trauma. We begin with an attitude of loving self acceptance. You can change an unhealthy habit, heal from trauma or shed an addiction relatively quickly with a brand new (evidence-based) method called Accelerated Resolution Therapy (A.R.T.). I bring wide experience and a large professional toolbox to help you toward your goals.
(301) 691-4317 x2 View (301) 691-4317 x2
Photo of Elizabeth Blocker Ebaugh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Elizabeth Blocker Ebaugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20910
After 26 years of practice I see my ideal client as one who is ready for change. Ultimately, life is the method by which we grow. I work with a variety of tools to meet each client where they are. I have faith that we can all meet the challenges within ourselves and in life and find the inner capacity to move forward. My clients have ranged from those healing from a recent or historical trauma to those wanting life coaching. I have a holistic/systemic vision of my clients and enjoy working with body, mind spirit when appropriate.
After 26 years of practice I see my ideal client as one who is ready for change. Ultimately, life is the method by which we grow. I work with a variety of tools to meet each client where they are. I have faith that we can all meet the challenges within ourselves and in life and find the inner capacity to move forward. My clients have ranged from those healing from a recent or historical trauma to those wanting life coaching. I have a holistic/systemic vision of my clients and enjoy working with body, mind spirit when appropriate.
(301) 852-7515 View (301) 852-7515
Photo of Julia Han, Psychologist in Silver Spring, MD
Julia Han
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
Welcome to my site. Finding the right therapist can be daunting, so let me give you a sense of how I work. Most appreciate how engaged & active I am, We will explore not only the reasons for your difficulties, BUT more importantly, how stress affects your body; how you internalize thoughts of self & others. Thoughts lead to-> Beliefs -> Habits; automatic responses. I will give you tools to help with difficult emotions. I specialize in: 1) postpartum, 2) trauma/grief, 3) non-traditional family formation, 4) adoption, 5) ThirdCultureKid, 6) LGBTQ. I am open to explore non-traditional methods to assist you in the healing process.
Welcome to my site. Finding the right therapist can be daunting, so let me give you a sense of how I work. Most appreciate how engaged & active I am, We will explore not only the reasons for your difficulties, BUT more importantly, how stress affects your body; how you internalize thoughts of self & others. Thoughts lead to-> Beliefs -> Habits; automatic responses. I will give you tools to help with difficult emotions. I specialize in: 1) postpartum, 2) trauma/grief, 3) non-traditional family formation, 4) adoption, 5) ThirdCultureKid, 6) LGBTQ. I am open to explore non-traditional methods to assist you in the healing process.
(202) 643-2966 View (202) 643-2966
Photo of Iraida Virginia Rivera, Licensed Professional Counselor in Silver Spring, MD
Iraida Virginia Rivera
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, RPT , CCTP
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20907
I'm a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor, Registered Play Therapist and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with over 26 years of treating children, teens, adults and families in private and public settings. I work with individuals with complex trauma, and personal histories of neglect/abuse. Addressing family systems issues like, parent/child relational issues, family reunification and ineffective/ inadequate parenting skills, and insecure attachment. Implementing evidence based practices and mindfulness techniques to achieve individualized treatment goals. I provide treatment to Spanish speaking individuals/ families.
I'm a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor, Registered Play Therapist and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional with over 26 years of treating children, teens, adults and families in private and public settings. I work with individuals with complex trauma, and personal histories of neglect/abuse. Addressing family systems issues like, parent/child relational issues, family reunification and ineffective/ inadequate parenting skills, and insecure attachment. Implementing evidence based practices and mindfulness techniques to achieve individualized treatment goals. I provide treatment to Spanish speaking individuals/ families.
(240) 220-9161 View (240) 220-9161
Photo of Zamantha Gobourne, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Zamantha Gobourne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910
I am an integrative psychotherapist who is known for having a sincere, relaxed, and comfortable approach towards counseling. Serving a wide range of clients in a variety of treatment settings, I provide individual, family, and group counseling to both adolescent and adult populations. My practice focus includes a broad range of emotional, behavioral, and adjustment disorders such as: depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship and family conflict, and general phase of life changes.
I am an integrative psychotherapist who is known for having a sincere, relaxed, and comfortable approach towards counseling. Serving a wide range of clients in a variety of treatment settings, I provide individual, family, and group counseling to both adolescent and adult populations. My practice focus includes a broad range of emotional, behavioral, and adjustment disorders such as: depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship and family conflict, and general phase of life changes.
(202) 858-0565 View (202) 858-0565
Photo of Kim Dumas Elevation Therapy Maryland, Counselor in Silver Spring, MD
Kim Dumas Elevation Therapy Maryland
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20901
I am a Certified Trauma Professional and a Certified Level 1 Gottman Method Couples Counselor.
Accepting Clients for In Person (or virtual) Therapy in Hagerstown MD! Hello, my name is Kimberly and I am a mental health therapist who is committed to helping clients learn how to overcome obstacles and become the hero of their own story. I am looking forward to helping you discover your most authentic self. Let’s partner together to help you find the healing you deserve!
I am a Certified Trauma Professional and a Certified Level 1 Gottman Method Couples Counselor.
Accepting Clients for In Person (or virtual) Therapy in Hagerstown MD! Hello, my name is Kimberly and I am a mental health therapist who is committed to helping clients learn how to overcome obstacles and become the hero of their own story. I am looking forward to helping you discover your most authentic self. Let’s partner together to help you find the healing you deserve!
(240) 219-6346 View (240) 219-6346
Photo of Claudia L Hernandez, Counselor in Silver Spring, MD
Claudia L Hernandez
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20902
Drawing from a diverse range of therapeutic approaches, including CBT, DBT, EMDR and other trauma-informed modalities, I tailor my methods to best suit your needs.
Navigating life's complexities can be daunting and unsettling at times, and that's perfectly alright. Our world is vast, and it's natural to feel overwhelmed or adrift. With support, discovering life's true essence becomes attainable. Life's splendor awaits, and I am here to illuminate it for you. By taking this initial step towards seeking assistance, you are embarking on a profound journey.
Drawing from a diverse range of therapeutic approaches, including CBT, DBT, EMDR and other trauma-informed modalities, I tailor my methods to best suit your needs.
Navigating life's complexities can be daunting and unsettling at times, and that's perfectly alright. Our world is vast, and it's natural to feel overwhelmed or adrift. With support, discovering life's true essence becomes attainable. Life's splendor awaits, and I am here to illuminate it for you. By taking this initial step towards seeking assistance, you are embarking on a profound journey.
(240) 253-6806 View (240) 253-6806
Photo of Denisse (De) Herrera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Denisse (De) Herrera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Silver Spring, MD 20906
Are you questioning your gender identity or sexual orientation? Do you crave a safe space to explore these aspects of yourself, free from judgment? As a non-binary, queer Latine therapist, I understand the unique challenges you face. I can guide you through navigating your identities within a cultural context, while also celebrating anyone who pushes boundaries and embraces their authentic self in love and sexuality. Whether you're facing a major life change, struggling with past trauma, or simply seeking a compassionate space to heal and grow, I'm here to support you on your journey of self-discovery and liberation.
Are you questioning your gender identity or sexual orientation? Do you crave a safe space to explore these aspects of yourself, free from judgment? As a non-binary, queer Latine therapist, I understand the unique challenges you face. I can guide you through navigating your identities within a cultural context, while also celebrating anyone who pushes boundaries and embraces their authentic self in love and sexuality. Whether you're facing a major life change, struggling with past trauma, or simply seeking a compassionate space to heal and grow, I'm here to support you on your journey of self-discovery and liberation.
(410) 453-8541 View (410) 453-8541
Photo of Octavia Brown, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Octavia Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20902  (Online Only)
Octavia Specializes ADHD & Neurodiversity; Family/Ancestral Trauma; Racial Trauma & Identity; Body Liberation/Body Love; Domestic Violence; Narcissistic Abuse Recovery; Healing work with Healers; and Spirituality.
Octavia Brown, LCSW-C has dedicated her clinical practice to restoring the lives of those who live with one or more marginalized identities. She believes in healing the whole self (mind, body, and spirit) and utilizes indigenous techniques which include; but, are not limited to: insight-oriented practice; mindfulness techniques & awareness of self; ancestral healing; and spiritual practice (upon request). Octavia challenges each individual she works with to decolonize their way of existing and to boldly live in their own uniqueness and true authenticity.
Octavia Specializes ADHD & Neurodiversity; Family/Ancestral Trauma; Racial Trauma & Identity; Body Liberation/Body Love; Domestic Violence; Narcissistic Abuse Recovery; Healing work with Healers; and Spirituality.
Octavia Brown, LCSW-C has dedicated her clinical practice to restoring the lives of those who live with one or more marginalized identities. She believes in healing the whole self (mind, body, and spirit) and utilizes indigenous techniques which include; but, are not limited to: insight-oriented practice; mindfulness techniques & awareness of self; ancestral healing; and spiritual practice (upon request). Octavia challenges each individual she works with to decolonize their way of existing and to boldly live in their own uniqueness and true authenticity.
(240) 560-5294 View (240) 560-5294
Photo of Veronica Fabani Psychotherapy, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Silver Spring, MD
Veronica Fabani Psychotherapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, CAC I, MAC
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20901  (Online Only)
Our experience includes working in mental health clinics and hospitals conducting crisis intervention and working with individuals dealing with domestic violence, PTSD, and trauma.
If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, we look forward to working with you to achieve your goals. As bilingual (Spanish and English) solution-focused therapists, the goal is to accompany you through the process of a personal challenge, in which you allow and make possible the transformation of your attitude towards what troubles you.
Our experience includes working in mental health clinics and hospitals conducting crisis intervention and working with individuals dealing with domestic violence, PTSD, and trauma.
If you're looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, we look forward to working with you to achieve your goals. As bilingual (Spanish and English) solution-focused therapists, the goal is to accompany you through the process of a personal challenge, in which you allow and make possible the transformation of your attitude towards what troubles you.
(202) 902-9085 View (202) 902-9085
Photo of Gigi Gruenke, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Gigi Gruenke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20901
I am licensed as a Clinical Social Worker in California & Maryland . During the pandemic all my sessions are tele/video. My clients may feel overwhelmed by past events or current challenges; be seeking to reduce stress / anxiety in their lives, often manifested by depression, anger or control issues; wish to address trauma experiences; to complete Immigrant Psychological Evaluations ; or seek help coping with the range of challenges and stresses they experience in the United States. People come hoping to resolve obstacles to growth and to experience greater satisfaction.
I am licensed as a Clinical Social Worker in California & Maryland . During the pandemic all my sessions are tele/video. My clients may feel overwhelmed by past events or current challenges; be seeking to reduce stress / anxiety in their lives, often manifested by depression, anger or control issues; wish to address trauma experiences; to complete Immigrant Psychological Evaluations ; or seek help coping with the range of challenges and stresses they experience in the United States. People come hoping to resolve obstacles to growth and to experience greater satisfaction.
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Photo of Lisa M. Ford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Lisa M. Ford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20901
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical interests and areas of expertise include trauma recovery, health and self-care, mood and anxiety disorders, grief and loss, DID, domestic and sexual violence, parent training, LGBTQ, and cultural and feminist intersectionality.
For several years before starting a private practice, I worked as a clinician at community-based mental health clinics, nonprofit and private practice groups in Maryland, DC, VA, and Pennsylvania. As a clinical social worker, I am passionate about helping children, adults, couples, families, and immigrants heal and improve their quality of life. My expertise focuses on facilitating a therapeutic process that creates harmony between one's mind, body, and soul. ​ My treatment approach integrates a broad range of interventions influenced by evidence and trauma-based theories, CBT, DBT, and alternative therapies.
My clinical interests and areas of expertise include trauma recovery, health and self-care, mood and anxiety disorders, grief and loss, DID, domestic and sexual violence, parent training, LGBTQ, and cultural and feminist intersectionality.
For several years before starting a private practice, I worked as a clinician at community-based mental health clinics, nonprofit and private practice groups in Maryland, DC, VA, and Pennsylvania. As a clinical social worker, I am passionate about helping children, adults, couples, families, and immigrants heal and improve their quality of life. My expertise focuses on facilitating a therapeutic process that creates harmony between one's mind, body, and soul. ​ My treatment approach integrates a broad range of interventions influenced by evidence and trauma-based theories, CBT, DBT, and alternative therapies.
(443) 747-7462 View (443) 747-7462
Photo of Joseph C Melendez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Silver Spring, MD
Joseph C Melendez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20910  (Online Only)
Joseph is a holistic and integrative therapist and his core principles are compassion, collaboration, and transparency. He has extensive experience in counseling individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, work/life balance stressors, life transitions, substance use, and other areas. He provides counseling to couples and families to address stress, communication concerns, and conflict. Additionally, Joseph facilitates groups including a Men’s Wellness Group, an Emotional Regulation Basics group, and a Healthy Relationships Group.
Joseph is a holistic and integrative therapist and his core principles are compassion, collaboration, and transparency. He has extensive experience in counseling individuals experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, work/life balance stressors, life transitions, substance use, and other areas. He provides counseling to couples and families to address stress, communication concerns, and conflict. Additionally, Joseph facilitates groups including a Men’s Wellness Group, an Emotional Regulation Basics group, and a Healthy Relationships Group.
(240) 730-4353 View (240) 730-4353

See more therapy options for Silver Spring

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.