Therapists in Saint Louis, MO

Photo of Shannon Newcomb, Licensed Master Social Worker in Saint Louis, MO
Shannon Newcomb
Licensed Master Social Worker, MSW, LMSW, CLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63143  (Online Only)
I have over 9-years-experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults with trauma, depression, anxiety, and developmental disabilities.
Do you feel like no one understands what you're going through and like you have to constantly explain yourself? We all have bumps along the road and I am here to provide you with the support needed in order to get through them. I provide therapeutic services through a "person-centered" approach and allow for clients I am working with to take the driver's seat and determine where we go and what aspects of concern we will talk about in session. I am here to listen, help you create positive change in your life, and provide you with skills necessary to handle everyday hurdles you encounter.
I have over 9-years-experience working with children, adolescents, and young adults with trauma, depression, anxiety, and developmental disabilities.
Do you feel like no one understands what you're going through and like you have to constantly explain yourself? We all have bumps along the road and I am here to provide you with the support needed in order to get through them. I provide therapeutic services through a "person-centered" approach and allow for clients I am working with to take the driver's seat and determine where we go and what aspects of concern we will talk about in session. I am here to listen, help you create positive change in your life, and provide you with skills necessary to handle everyday hurdles you encounter.
(636) 434-2577 View (636) 434-2577
Photo of Rachel Wethers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Rachel Wethers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63111  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Trauma-focused telehealth support can often increase efficient time management, and often be easier for those who are distant from higher resource areas or transportation limited.
No current openings at this time. Providing telehealth therapy to clients in the states of Illinois, Michigan, or Missouri. Trained and focused in therapies utilizing EMDR, Parts work, ACT/Mindfulness, and Nurturing/Relational approaches with trauma and anxiety. Special interests in Geek Therapy (gaming and pop-culture related) and Neurodivergence. Best at creating safe spaces with young adults (even at heart), teens, and children as young as age 10 who are comfortable with telehealth and digital tools.
Trauma-focused telehealth support can often increase efficient time management, and often be easier for those who are distant from higher resource areas or transportation limited.
No current openings at this time. Providing telehealth therapy to clients in the states of Illinois, Michigan, or Missouri. Trained and focused in therapies utilizing EMDR, Parts work, ACT/Mindfulness, and Nurturing/Relational approaches with trauma and anxiety. Special interests in Geek Therapy (gaming and pop-culture related) and Neurodivergence. Best at creating safe spaces with young adults (even at heart), teens, and children as young as age 10 who are comfortable with telehealth and digital tools.
(314) 441-7189 View (314) 441-7189
Photo of Amy Lyons Burke, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Amy Lyons Burke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, PLPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63118
I have a special interest in working with survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and all types of trauma.
We all experience hardships in our personal lives, professional lives and relationships that can leave us feeling stressed, confused, isolated, anxious or depressed. Many people experience shame about seeing a therapist or feel they should handle emotional or mental issues on their own. I want to reassure you that we can all use a little help sometimes and we aren't meant to go through it alone. My goal in therapy is to create a safe space where my clients can work through the difficulties in life without judgment.
I have a special interest in working with survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and all types of trauma.
We all experience hardships in our personal lives, professional lives and relationships that can leave us feeling stressed, confused, isolated, anxious or depressed. Many people experience shame about seeing a therapist or feel they should handle emotional or mental issues on their own. I want to reassure you that we can all use a little help sometimes and we aren't meant to go through it alone. My goal in therapy is to create a safe space where my clients can work through the difficulties in life without judgment.
(205) 598-7843 View (205) 598-7843
Photo of Nicole Graham, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saint Louis, MO
Nicole Graham
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63105
We might be a good fit if you’re feeling stuck or as if you’re going through the motions, feeling anxious or depressed about everyday life, identify as LGBTQ+ and want support in your identity or relationships, or if you’re ready to start healing from past trauma.
Showing up as your authentic self in the world can be scary. Will I be accepted? Why am I the way that I am? What are these feelings I’m experiencing, and can I trust them? I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore and process all of these questions and more.
We might be a good fit if you’re feeling stuck or as if you’re going through the motions, feeling anxious or depressed about everyday life, identify as LGBTQ+ and want support in your identity or relationships, or if you’re ready to start healing from past trauma.
Showing up as your authentic self in the world can be scary. Will I be accepted? Why am I the way that I am? What are these feelings I’m experiencing, and can I trust them? I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for you to explore and process all of these questions and more.
(314) 794-6841 View (314) 794-6841
Photo of Aya B Kawasaki, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Aya B Kawasaki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63139
I am interested in trauma and lately I used EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) for most of my clients.
My clients are very diverse in age, ethnicity, social economic status, and gender/sexual identity. I would like to be culturally humble and honor your background and identity.
I am interested in trauma and lately I used EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) for most of my clients.
My clients are very diverse in age, ethnicity, social economic status, and gender/sexual identity. I would like to be culturally humble and honor your background and identity.
(314) 804-1545 View (314) 804-1545
Photo of Halston Hutchison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Halston Hutchison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63119
Waitlist for new clients
I use a strength-based person-centered approach to help you work through concerns related to Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, Stress and Crisis Management, Relationships, Religion or Spirituality & Trauma/PTSD.
First, I would like to say welcome and congratulate you on taking the necessary steps to getting the care, attention and support you deserve! I personally know from previous experience that these first steps can sometimes feel the most difficult; but with encouragement, determination and perseverance, you will be revealed as the conqueror you already are!
I use a strength-based person-centered approach to help you work through concerns related to Anxiety, Depression, Grief/Loss, Stress and Crisis Management, Relationships, Religion or Spirituality & Trauma/PTSD.
First, I would like to say welcome and congratulate you on taking the necessary steps to getting the care, attention and support you deserve! I personally know from previous experience that these first steps can sometimes feel the most difficult; but with encouragement, determination and perseverance, you will be revealed as the conqueror you already are!
(314) 274-6438 x6 View (314) 274-6438 x6
Photo of Kristie M Tyson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Kristie M Tyson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63146
I have been trained in trauma therapy for children and adults to assist them in coping and processing emotions and memories tied to traumatic experiences.
During the human experience, we will have struggles along the way. There are times we don't understand our own actions. We decide to take one approach to solve our problems and find ourselves doing something opposite of what we intended on doing. It is in those moments that we ask ourselves "How did I get here?" As a counselor for over 16 years, I partner with people to find their answers and to unlock their solutions. I have a solution-focused approach that assists clients in reestablishing balance, developing coping skills, and educating them on techniques and strategies to improve their capabilities.
I have been trained in trauma therapy for children and adults to assist them in coping and processing emotions and memories tied to traumatic experiences.
During the human experience, we will have struggles along the way. There are times we don't understand our own actions. We decide to take one approach to solve our problems and find ourselves doing something opposite of what we intended on doing. It is in those moments that we ask ourselves "How did I get here?" As a counselor for over 16 years, I partner with people to find their answers and to unlock their solutions. I have a solution-focused approach that assists clients in reestablishing balance, developing coping skills, and educating them on techniques and strategies to improve their capabilities.
(314) 207-4614 View (314) 207-4614
Photo of Erica Lynn Braun, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Erica Lynn Braun
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63139
Erica is a seasoned, compassionate therapist - dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey towards mental and emotional well-being. With a wealth of experience and a commitment to excellence, Erica has become a trusted guide for those seeking support and transformation in their lives. Erica has a diverse background, having worked with individuals facing a spectrum of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship difficulties. Her holistic approach to therapy integrates evidence-based practices with personalized strategies, tailoring each session to meet the unique needs and goals of her client.
Erica is a seasoned, compassionate therapist - dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey towards mental and emotional well-being. With a wealth of experience and a commitment to excellence, Erica has become a trusted guide for those seeking support and transformation in their lives. Erica has a diverse background, having worked with individuals facing a spectrum of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship difficulties. Her holistic approach to therapy integrates evidence-based practices with personalized strategies, tailoring each session to meet the unique needs and goals of her client.
(314) 310-3654 View (314) 310-3654
Photo of Lauren Kamm, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Lauren Kamm
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63132
Whether it be life transitions, identity, overwhelming anxiety, perfectionism, people-pleasing or breaking generational trauma.
Stuck? People-Pleasing? Burnt out by life? Almost like no matter what you try to change or improve, those wheels just keep spinning, and you are exhausted. My ideal client is someone who is just ready to feel better. You may not exactly know what is going on or why these feelings are coming up all of a sudden. That's okay! You deserve someone who will collaborate with you no matter what you are dealing with. I believe connection and authenticity is the most vital part of the therapy process. Therapy is not just for fears and tears, but laughter and smiles too :) Let's tackle this together! (I hope you enjoy analogies!)
Whether it be life transitions, identity, overwhelming anxiety, perfectionism, people-pleasing or breaking generational trauma.
Stuck? People-Pleasing? Burnt out by life? Almost like no matter what you try to change or improve, those wheels just keep spinning, and you are exhausted. My ideal client is someone who is just ready to feel better. You may not exactly know what is going on or why these feelings are coming up all of a sudden. That's okay! You deserve someone who will collaborate with you no matter what you are dealing with. I believe connection and authenticity is the most vital part of the therapy process. Therapy is not just for fears and tears, but laughter and smiles too :) Let's tackle this together! (I hope you enjoy analogies!)
(314) 937-6408 View (314) 937-6408
Photo of Laura Peroutka, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Laura Peroutka
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63105
Through a focus on insight and empowerment, I help clients heal wounds incurred against their bodies, minds and/or spirit allowing them to feel stronger, more accepting, more whole, more clear, and more motivated for change. I have a special interest in issues such as trauma/PTSD, self-esteem, identity, perfectionism, loss, anger, depression and life transitions. My style is empathic and supportive, but also truthful and authentic. When appropriate I will utilize my sense of humor, celebrate small steps, and seek out the simple joys that can guide us through dark times.
Through a focus on insight and empowerment, I help clients heal wounds incurred against their bodies, minds and/or spirit allowing them to feel stronger, more accepting, more whole, more clear, and more motivated for change. I have a special interest in issues such as trauma/PTSD, self-esteem, identity, perfectionism, loss, anger, depression and life transitions. My style is empathic and supportive, but also truthful and authentic. When appropriate I will utilize my sense of humor, celebrate small steps, and seek out the simple joys that can guide us through dark times.
(314) 736-3649 View (314) 736-3649
Photo of Wally Scull, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Wally Scull
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63122  (Online Only)
My clients come from many walks of life and may be going through several challenges in this thing we call life. My goal is to make therapy a safe space for my clients to process their presenting problems and not feel judged. Only evidence-based therapy approaches will be used to help my clients reach their therapy goals including Person Centered, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Trauma Informed Care. I help my clients feel validated, empowered, and capable to overcome life challenges.
My clients come from many walks of life and may be going through several challenges in this thing we call life. My goal is to make therapy a safe space for my clients to process their presenting problems and not feel judged. Only evidence-based therapy approaches will be used to help my clients reach their therapy goals including Person Centered, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Trauma Informed Care. I help my clients feel validated, empowered, and capable to overcome life challenges.
(314) 745-3003 View (314) 745-3003
Photo of Mary Ann Commes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Mary Ann Commes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63110  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in working with adults who experience anxiety, depression, grief or life transitions, and trauma.
Making the choice to start therapy can feel daunting, but it can be a rewarding and healing experience. Therapy is a space where you can express thoughts and feelings without judgment. You can explore and heal, learn and observe, and work towards the goals and values that you identify as important. I assist people in discovering peace and comfort within their lives through acceptance skills, mindfulness practices, and self compassion, as well as exploring and healing from past experiences and traumas.
I specialize in working with adults who experience anxiety, depression, grief or life transitions, and trauma.
Making the choice to start therapy can feel daunting, but it can be a rewarding and healing experience. Therapy is a space where you can express thoughts and feelings without judgment. You can explore and heal, learn and observe, and work towards the goals and values that you identify as important. I assist people in discovering peace and comfort within their lives through acceptance skills, mindfulness practices, and self compassion, as well as exploring and healing from past experiences and traumas.
(314) 526-2740 View (314) 526-2740
Photo of Michelle Marie Seliner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Michelle Marie Seliner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63105
My practice provides treatment and resources for adolescents and adults who are struggling with mood, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders while engaging in self-injury (cutting, burning, scratching, picking and trichotillomania), disordered eating, sexual promiscuity, substance abuse and other risky, impulsive behaviors. In addition we have programs available for families looking to support a loved one struggling with self-destructive behavior. We offer individual, family and group psychotherapy and, family/friends educational classes.
My practice provides treatment and resources for adolescents and adults who are struggling with mood, anxiety, and trauma-related disorders while engaging in self-injury (cutting, burning, scratching, picking and trichotillomania), disordered eating, sexual promiscuity, substance abuse and other risky, impulsive behaviors. In addition we have programs available for families looking to support a loved one struggling with self-destructive behavior. We offer individual, family and group psychotherapy and, family/friends educational classes.
(630) 503-6721 View (630) 503-6721
Photo of Danielle Endejan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Danielle Endejan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, PLPC, CRAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63130
I have additional training in Trauma focused intervention& Integrative Nutrition Health Counseling & can offer a unique perspective in a foundation of hope for cultivating a heart, mind, soul, & body connection for change.
I look forward to meeting you! I was born and raised in St. Louis, & obtained my undergraduate degree with honors in Counseling and Education followed by a Master of Arts in Counseling for Licensure in Professional Counseling from MBU. I utilize empirically proven interventions (such as Motivational Interviewing, CBT, DBT) interwoven with compassionate wisdom for the therapeutic goal of coming alongside you in your unique journey and extending the opportunity and hope for healing & growth through the situation you find yourself in. My desire is to provide an authentic and compassionate environment that fosters continuous healing.
I have additional training in Trauma focused intervention& Integrative Nutrition Health Counseling & can offer a unique perspective in a foundation of hope for cultivating a heart, mind, soul, & body connection for change.
I look forward to meeting you! I was born and raised in St. Louis, & obtained my undergraduate degree with honors in Counseling and Education followed by a Master of Arts in Counseling for Licensure in Professional Counseling from MBU. I utilize empirically proven interventions (such as Motivational Interviewing, CBT, DBT) interwoven with compassionate wisdom for the therapeutic goal of coming alongside you in your unique journey and extending the opportunity and hope for healing & growth through the situation you find yourself in. My desire is to provide an authentic and compassionate environment that fosters continuous healing.
(314) 470-9169 View (314) 470-9169
Photo of Carly Sparks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Carly Sparks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63108
KINETIC counseling specializes in trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, familial stress, and parenting. With 14 years of experience in family social work, Carly provides private counseling services which focus on a comprehensive appreciation of the complexity of people's lives and choices. She utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Stress Reduction techniques, Mindfulness strategies, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy interventions. Carly works to incorporate a holistic approach embracing each person's interests, hobbies, educational background and belief system.
KINETIC counseling specializes in trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, familial stress, and parenting. With 14 years of experience in family social work, Carly provides private counseling services which focus on a comprehensive appreciation of the complexity of people's lives and choices. She utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Stress Reduction techniques, Mindfulness strategies, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy interventions. Carly works to incorporate a holistic approach embracing each person's interests, hobbies, educational background and belief system.
(314) 310-0186 View (314) 310-0186
Photo of Phoebe Thompson, Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Phoebe Thompson
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63131
This work also included focusing on a wholistic approach, working with clients on their anxiety, depression, trauma, personality disorders, LGBTQIA+ struggles, etc.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. My work often uses a person-centered approach, focusing on my client’s presenting issues and exploring to find the core struggles that lead to what is really going on. I believe in meeting the client where they are and including humor whenever possible.
This work also included focusing on a wholistic approach, working with clients on their anxiety, depression, trauma, personality disorders, LGBTQIA+ struggles, etc.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. My work often uses a person-centered approach, focusing on my client’s presenting issues and exploring to find the core struggles that lead to what is really going on. I believe in meeting the client where they are and including humor whenever possible.
View
Photo of Michelle Perotta, Pre-Licensed Professional in Saint Louis, MO
Michelle Perotta
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63131
Michelle earned her Masters of Social Work degree from Saint Louis University & her Licensed Master of Social Work License 2011. Michelle has worked with a diverse population over the years, primarily focusing on children, teenagers, & families, as well as individuals facing trauma. Michelle believes that all individuals wish to be heard, accepted & understood, but when faced with stressful & challenging situations life can seem overwhelming, unmanageable, and out of control, but therapy can help bring you peace, or "calm the chaos" as she frequently says.
Michelle earned her Masters of Social Work degree from Saint Louis University & her Licensed Master of Social Work License 2011. Michelle has worked with a diverse population over the years, primarily focusing on children, teenagers, & families, as well as individuals facing trauma. Michelle believes that all individuals wish to be heard, accepted & understood, but when faced with stressful & challenging situations life can seem overwhelming, unmanageable, and out of control, but therapy can help bring you peace, or "calm the chaos" as she frequently says.
(314) 582-5126 View (314) 582-5126
Photo of Chatonia Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Chatonia Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63119  (Online Only)
My services are also culturally sensitive and trauma informed.
You sometimes feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders and you don’t know where to start. Feeling stressed, irritated, sad, heavy, or hopeless happens to all of us, and it can be hard to show our feelings when we think no one will understand or that we will be judged. You are never alone even when you feel like you are! I am here to listen and to help you feel supported. Let’s work together to help you find more successful ways to utilize your current strengths and resilience in the face of life’s challenges.
My services are also culturally sensitive and trauma informed.
You sometimes feel like the weight of the world is on your shoulders and you don’t know where to start. Feeling stressed, irritated, sad, heavy, or hopeless happens to all of us, and it can be hard to show our feelings when we think no one will understand or that we will be judged. You are never alone even when you feel like you are! I am here to listen and to help you feel supported. Let’s work together to help you find more successful ways to utilize your current strengths and resilience in the face of life’s challenges.
(314) 208-2852 x5 View (314) 208-2852 x5
Photo of Joshua Goff, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Saint Louis, MO
Joshua Goff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63139
I have experience working persons who have experienced childhood and other traumas/PTSD, sexual abuse, obsessiveness/compulsiveness, LGBTQ+-identity exploration, fears and phobias, poor self-image, anxiety, depression, and more.
Life is hard enough without having to go through it alone. No matter who you are or where you are from, my greatest wish for you at the outset is for you to recognize that we all have complications — we all need growth and healing. As we embrace these realities, we also learn to embrace all of the parts of ourselves, including those that most need our attention and affection Make no mistake, the path to growth can be difficult. It involves equal parts frustration and exploration, and even a good dose of humor! But when we face ourselves, we may also find that the outcome is beautiful, rewarding, and even enchanting.
I have experience working persons who have experienced childhood and other traumas/PTSD, sexual abuse, obsessiveness/compulsiveness, LGBTQ+-identity exploration, fears and phobias, poor self-image, anxiety, depression, and more.
Life is hard enough without having to go through it alone. No matter who you are or where you are from, my greatest wish for you at the outset is for you to recognize that we all have complications — we all need growth and healing. As we embrace these realities, we also learn to embrace all of the parts of ourselves, including those that most need our attention and affection Make no mistake, the path to growth can be difficult. It involves equal parts frustration and exploration, and even a good dose of humor! But when we face ourselves, we may also find that the outcome is beautiful, rewarding, and even enchanting.
(314) 947-2585 View (314) 947-2585
Photo of Krystal Skipper - Ellie Mental Health Concord Mo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Saint Louis, MO
Krystal Skipper - Ellie Mental Health Concord Mo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63128
I am certified in Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and an EMDR trained.
WELCOME to Ellie Mental Health in South County STL. I'm so happy that you are here and are ready to start your or your loved ones mental health journey. I am the Clinic Director and would love to help you connect with one of my wonderfully, talented clinicians. We believe counseling can be a safe place to begin this healing. Myself and my clinicians aim to bring an authentic approach that includes humor, compassion, acceptance and creativity to the therapy room.
I am certified in Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and an EMDR trained.
WELCOME to Ellie Mental Health in South County STL. I'm so happy that you are here and are ready to start your or your loved ones mental health journey. I am the Clinic Director and would love to help you connect with one of my wonderfully, talented clinicians. We believe counseling can be a safe place to begin this healing. Myself and my clinicians aim to bring an authentic approach that includes humor, compassion, acceptance and creativity to the therapy room.
(636) 202-1879 View (636) 202-1879

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.