Trauma and PTSD Therapists in North Carolina

Photo of Katherine Therrell, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina
Katherine Therrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arden, NC 28704
My clients are adults, adolescents, and children who need help coping with anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, abuse, educational/employment situations, family dynamics, or other problems impacting their mental health. Though I practice Cognative Behavioral Therapy, I employ a variety of methods including "talk therapy", EMDR, sand therapy, and play therapy, depending upon individual need. I strive to provide unconditional acceptance and support to my clients as they work to achieve their counseling goals. I accept Medicaid and most private insurance.
My clients are adults, adolescents, and children who need help coping with anxiety, depression, anger, trauma, abuse, educational/employment situations, family dynamics, or other problems impacting their mental health. Though I practice Cognative Behavioral Therapy, I employ a variety of methods including "talk therapy", EMDR, sand therapy, and play therapy, depending upon individual need. I strive to provide unconditional acceptance and support to my clients as they work to achieve their counseling goals. I accept Medicaid and most private insurance.
(828) 565-1925 View (828) 565-1925
Photo of Liz Waters, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Liz Waters
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
High Point, NC 27265
If you’re reading this then you have decided that it’s time to get reconnected with yourself, your partner, or even your friends. Dating may be a struggle, you may be having trouble finding direction with your partner, or you may even be holding yourself back from opportunities that you feel you're not good enough for. There's one thing that is often the common denominator: relational trauma. When you’re hurt by the people that you love, it breaks and it builds.
If you’re reading this then you have decided that it’s time to get reconnected with yourself, your partner, or even your friends. Dating may be a struggle, you may be having trouble finding direction with your partner, or you may even be holding yourself back from opportunities that you feel you're not good enough for. There's one thing that is often the common denominator: relational trauma. When you’re hurt by the people that you love, it breaks and it builds.
(984) 230-4684 View (984) 230-4684
Photo of Gwyn Mohler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Gwyn Mohler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma and attachment wounds, and I have training in trauma-focused therapies like EMDR, CPT and mind-body approaches.
I’m so glad you’re here. Making the decision to reach out for help takes tremendous courage and vulnerability. Great job on taking this first step. Maybe you're here because you're struggling with recurring anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges. Or maybe you've tried therapy before and it helped briefly, but you found yourself repeating the same patterns shortly after. If you're ready to do the deep work to uncover and heal the root cause of your distress so that you see lasting change in your life, I'd be honored to support you on this journey.
I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma and attachment wounds, and I have training in trauma-focused therapies like EMDR, CPT and mind-body approaches.
I’m so glad you’re here. Making the decision to reach out for help takes tremendous courage and vulnerability. Great job on taking this first step. Maybe you're here because you're struggling with recurring anxiety, depression, or relationship challenges. Or maybe you've tried therapy before and it helped briefly, but you found yourself repeating the same patterns shortly after. If you're ready to do the deep work to uncover and heal the root cause of your distress so that you see lasting change in your life, I'd be honored to support you on this journey.
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Photo of Everett Uhl, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Carolina
Everett Uhl
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27612
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for painful memories (betrayals, abuse) and PTSD.
Here you are, in the frustrating position of scrolling through therapists online. You do not want to book an intake and tell someone your whole life story only to realize a few sessions in that they are just nodding, not saying much and you don't click. So, are we going to talk about feelings? Sure. And, I believe in a no bullshit approach to therapy. I will hold you accountable to create the change you want to see in your life. I bring body scans, breathing exercises, movement, silence, listening and laughter to every session. Because if we aren't laughing, we're crying.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for painful memories (betrayals, abuse) and PTSD.
Here you are, in the frustrating position of scrolling through therapists online. You do not want to book an intake and tell someone your whole life story only to realize a few sessions in that they are just nodding, not saying much and you don't click. So, are we going to talk about feelings? Sure. And, I believe in a no bullshit approach to therapy. I will hold you accountable to create the change you want to see in your life. I bring body scans, breathing exercises, movement, silence, listening and laughter to every session. Because if we aren't laughing, we're crying.
(984) 217-2506 View (984) 217-2506
Photo of Beck Long Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina
Beck Long Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, NBCC
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
My emphasis is on building trust and support, assisting in a person's post-trauma growth towards wellbeing in the present.
Welcome. I am a person centered, LGBTQ+ clinical mental health counselor and addictions specialist. I use an eclectic and uniquely adaptable approach for a range of ages, developmental-transitional stages towards positive shifts in attitude, behavior, and mood for the wellbeing of clients. I have advanced training using expressive arts therapy, trauma-informed care, infused with nature, and sports psychotherapy interventions. I work collaboratively with people to rebuild trust in themselves and the world. I work with local resources and help identify self strategies for increased positive life experiences.
My emphasis is on building trust and support, assisting in a person's post-trauma growth towards wellbeing in the present.
Welcome. I am a person centered, LGBTQ+ clinical mental health counselor and addictions specialist. I use an eclectic and uniquely adaptable approach for a range of ages, developmental-transitional stages towards positive shifts in attitude, behavior, and mood for the wellbeing of clients. I have advanced training using expressive arts therapy, trauma-informed care, infused with nature, and sports psychotherapy interventions. I work collaboratively with people to rebuild trust in themselves and the world. I work with local resources and help identify self strategies for increased positive life experiences.
(828) 332-5512 View (828) 332-5512
Photo of Cypher Treatment Services, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Cypher Treatment Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Thomasville, NC 27360  (Online Only)
I believe that I have the skill set to do just that! In our work together we will explore life challenges through a trauma informed lens and find realistic solutions to the issues that you experience.
A wise prophet once said "life as a shorty shouldn't be so rough". Considering the turmoil that we face in our world today, I'd say those sentiments still resonate. From Inflation to war; mass shootings to racial injustice, It seems that the list of problems are endless. Combine those issues with family drama, church hurt, marriage conflict, and challenges at work...well, you my friend have a recipe for an implosion! You've seen the signs, that's why you're here. The irritability, ghosting, distance from family and friends, racing thoughts, anxiousness. You know that you have to do something before you explode!
I believe that I have the skill set to do just that! In our work together we will explore life challenges through a trauma informed lens and find realistic solutions to the issues that you experience.
A wise prophet once said "life as a shorty shouldn't be so rough". Considering the turmoil that we face in our world today, I'd say those sentiments still resonate. From Inflation to war; mass shootings to racial injustice, It seems that the list of problems are endless. Combine those issues with family drama, church hurt, marriage conflict, and challenges at work...well, you my friend have a recipe for an implosion! You've seen the signs, that's why you're here. The irritability, ghosting, distance from family and friends, racing thoughts, anxiousness. You know that you have to do something before you explode!
(336) 502-2356 View (336) 502-2356
Photo of Amanda Brescia, Pre-Licensed Professional in North Carolina
Amanda Brescia
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Jacksonville, NC 28540
Starting your therapeutic journey can feel overwhelming, and I'd be honored to accompany you on your path toward well-being. Whether you are struggling with life transitions, depression, or processing trauma, I'm passionate about fostering space for folks to heal. While I specialize in women’s issues, I enjoy working with people from an array of backgrounds. My therapeutic approach is non-judgmental, strengths-based, and rooted in unconditional positive regard. Our sessions will be an hour dedicated to you and your needs.
Starting your therapeutic journey can feel overwhelming, and I'd be honored to accompany you on your path toward well-being. Whether you are struggling with life transitions, depression, or processing trauma, I'm passionate about fostering space for folks to heal. While I specialize in women’s issues, I enjoy working with people from an array of backgrounds. My therapeutic approach is non-judgmental, strengths-based, and rooted in unconditional positive regard. Our sessions will be an hour dedicated to you and your needs.
(910) 504-9281 View (910) 504-9281
Photo of Kayla Patterson, Counselor in North Carolina
Kayla Patterson
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
Waitlist for new clients
You are the adult child of a family often filled with dysfunction. You were handed responsibility at an early age due to familial circumstances, and you have built your identity on being the "strong one" in your relationships. You struggle with expressing your needs, emotions, and boundaries with others. You worry that, if left unchecked, one day you will continue to repeat the patterns of generational trauma expressed by others in your family. If you resonate with the above statements, I think it is incredibly brave of you to consider seeking help. It is never too late to rewrite the story you wish to tell with your life.
You are the adult child of a family often filled with dysfunction. You were handed responsibility at an early age due to familial circumstances, and you have built your identity on being the "strong one" in your relationships. You struggle with expressing your needs, emotions, and boundaries with others. You worry that, if left unchecked, one day you will continue to repeat the patterns of generational trauma expressed by others in your family. If you resonate with the above statements, I think it is incredibly brave of you to consider seeking help. It is never too late to rewrite the story you wish to tell with your life.
(704) 389-5748 View (704) 389-5748
Photo of Sandra Milling, Psychologist in North Carolina
Sandra Milling
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
There comes a time when we need some support from a professional to cope with many of life’s challenges. It takes strength and courage to ask for help. Just by being here, you are already starting your path toward recovery. I’m a licensed Psychologist in the greater Charlotte area, and I have over 10 years of therapy experience. My therapeutic style is warm, compassionate, and non-judgmental. I am trained as a generalist in clinical psychology and I have treated individuals with a broad spectrum of mental health issues. My specialty areas are trauma, low self-worth, anxiety, depression, binge eating disorder, and body image issues.
There comes a time when we need some support from a professional to cope with many of life’s challenges. It takes strength and courage to ask for help. Just by being here, you are already starting your path toward recovery. I’m a licensed Psychologist in the greater Charlotte area, and I have over 10 years of therapy experience. My therapeutic style is warm, compassionate, and non-judgmental. I am trained as a generalist in clinical psychology and I have treated individuals with a broad spectrum of mental health issues. My specialty areas are trauma, low self-worth, anxiety, depression, binge eating disorder, and body image issues.
(980) 446-3387 View (980) 446-3387
Photo of Danielle Hood, Counselor in North Carolina
Danielle Hood
Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
When you make the decision to take charge of your mental health and venture into therapy, you want to find a therapist who makes you feel comfortable and encouraged. Someone who will listen, understand, and most importantly - care about your therapeutic growth. People seek therapy for numerous reasons, like depression, trauma, anxiety, life transitions, etc. No matter what brings you to therapy, I would love to assist you throughout the process, to reach your goals. We don't have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to.” -Dr. Brené Brown
When you make the decision to take charge of your mental health and venture into therapy, you want to find a therapist who makes you feel comfortable and encouraged. Someone who will listen, understand, and most importantly - care about your therapeutic growth. People seek therapy for numerous reasons, like depression, trauma, anxiety, life transitions, etc. No matter what brings you to therapy, I would love to assist you throughout the process, to reach your goals. We don't have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to.” -Dr. Brené Brown
(919) 343-9315 View (919) 343-9315
Photo of Grove Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Grove Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28217
“Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren’t always comfortable, but they’re never weakness.” -Brene Brown. When life feels overwhelming and scary, asking for help can feel like a huge risk. We offer a safe space where you will be heard, seen, and valued as the unique and complex individual that you are. Life is hard, but you don't have to do it alone. We can help you process trauma, work through big feelings, cope with change, and be your best self.
“Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren’t always comfortable, but they’re never weakness.” -Brene Brown. When life feels overwhelming and scary, asking for help can feel like a huge risk. We offer a safe space where you will be heard, seen, and valued as the unique and complex individual that you are. Life is hard, but you don't have to do it alone. We can help you process trauma, work through big feelings, cope with change, and be your best self.
(980) 983-0624 View (980) 983-0624
Photo of Erin Lewis, Counselor in North Carolina
Erin Lewis
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC, NARM MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27513
DID), shame, trauma (relational, physical, sexual, and emotional), developmental trauma/childhood trauma, spiritual trauma, interpersonal difficulties, intrapersonal issues (internal conflicts), anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ issues, self-harm, and more, just ask.
Erin believes that all people need connection with others to be able to thrive. She operates from a multicultural perspective and strives to create an honest, empathetic, non-judgmental, and safe therapeutic environment. As an LCMHC & NARM Master Therapist, Erin has been trained in a wide array of modalities to help clients heal. Erin believes that every person is unique. Erin tailors the treatment modality to what the client best responds to. She believes in the long-standing research that supports treatments in mind-body/somatic therapy.
DID), shame, trauma (relational, physical, sexual, and emotional), developmental trauma/childhood trauma, spiritual trauma, interpersonal difficulties, intrapersonal issues (internal conflicts), anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ issues, self-harm, and more, just ask.
Erin believes that all people need connection with others to be able to thrive. She operates from a multicultural perspective and strives to create an honest, empathetic, non-judgmental, and safe therapeutic environment. As an LCMHC & NARM Master Therapist, Erin has been trained in a wide array of modalities to help clients heal. Erin believes that every person is unique. Erin tailors the treatment modality to what the client best responds to. She believes in the long-standing research that supports treatments in mind-body/somatic therapy.
(919) 343-0485 View (919) 343-0485
Photo of Wendy Lehnertz, Marriage & Family Therapist in North Carolina
Wendy Lehnertz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe it's not only important but essential for individuals and couples to have a safe, non-judgemental space to share and work through problems. I have nearly twenty years of experience working with individuals and couples struggling with destructive relationship patterns, post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, sexual and intimacy disruptions (such as infidelity, sexual addiction, past sexual abuse, etc), trauma and abuse, domestic violence, depression, and grief.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I believe it's not only important but essential for individuals and couples to have a safe, non-judgemental space to share and work through problems. I have nearly twenty years of experience working with individuals and couples struggling with destructive relationship patterns, post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, sexual and intimacy disruptions (such as infidelity, sexual addiction, past sexual abuse, etc), trauma and abuse, domestic violence, depression, and grief.
(919) 343-9011 View (919) 343-9011
Photo of Nicole C Fortune, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Nicole C Fortune
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MPH
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
Waitlist for new clients
My "ideal" client is someone who is curious about who they are. I want to work with those who are feeling a little off, trauma survivors and everyone in between. Its such a privilege to watch people heal discover their authentic selves.
My "ideal" client is someone who is curious about who they are. I want to work with those who are feeling a little off, trauma survivors and everyone in between. Its such a privilege to watch people heal discover their authentic selves.
(984) 203-6819 View (984) 203-6819
Photo of Maddie Krause, LCMHC Associate in North Carolina
Maddie Krause
LCMHC Associate
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511  (Online Only)
I work with adults facing a variety of obstacles including anxiety, depression, trauma, and work/life stress. Therapy is a collaborative process, meaning that together, we will work on developing and achieving the goals that are important to you, in whatever season you may be in. Whether your goal is to improve your relationships, manage stress, or uncover and work through the source(s) of your trauma, we will bring your story to light and ensure you have the tools to write the rest of it in the way that best serves you.
I work with adults facing a variety of obstacles including anxiety, depression, trauma, and work/life stress. Therapy is a collaborative process, meaning that together, we will work on developing and achieving the goals that are important to you, in whatever season you may be in. Whether your goal is to improve your relationships, manage stress, or uncover and work through the source(s) of your trauma, we will bring your story to light and ensure you have the tools to write the rest of it in the way that best serves you.
(919) 729-5667 View (919) 729-5667
Photo of Harris Counseling and Consulting PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Harris Counseling and Consulting PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, EMDR, MSW
Verified Verified
Lincolnton, NC 28092  (Online Only)
I have been successfully practicing therapy for over twenty years. The clients I work with prior to enrolling in treatment express that they feel frustrated, ignored and helpless. I provide individual, couple, and family telehealth therapy. I have successfully treated clients who have experienced physical, emotional, and sexual trauma. I also treat clients with anxiety, anger, communication, and depression issues. My clients see significant improvement and develop tools and skills over time in treatment. I'm very proactive in my person centered approach.
I have been successfully practicing therapy for over twenty years. The clients I work with prior to enrolling in treatment express that they feel frustrated, ignored and helpless. I provide individual, couple, and family telehealth therapy. I have successfully treated clients who have experienced physical, emotional, and sexual trauma. I also treat clients with anxiety, anger, communication, and depression issues. My clients see significant improvement and develop tools and skills over time in treatment. I'm very proactive in my person centered approach.
(704) 610-2965 View (704) 610-2965
Photo of R. Mark Adams, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina
R. Mark Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Lexington, NC 27292
Are you feeling like you are overwhelmed? Do you feel like there is a number of unresolved issues in your life? Do you have a history of trauma that you feel is affecting your life today? Have you noticed that you are withdrawing from others and maybe even isolating yourself? Do you lack the tools to live in society? Is there a lack of supportive people in your life? Do you have a substance issue? Are you self-medicating? Do you find that it is hard to express yourself in social settings? Has someone told you that you have "anger mgmt. issues?" Do you lack healthy coping skills and outlets? Are you constantly negative?
Are you feeling like you are overwhelmed? Do you feel like there is a number of unresolved issues in your life? Do you have a history of trauma that you feel is affecting your life today? Have you noticed that you are withdrawing from others and maybe even isolating yourself? Do you lack the tools to live in society? Is there a lack of supportive people in your life? Do you have a substance issue? Are you self-medicating? Do you find that it is hard to express yourself in social settings? Has someone told you that you have "anger mgmt. issues?" Do you lack healthy coping skills and outlets? Are you constantly negative?
(336) 489-4791 View (336) 489-4791
Photo of Sarah Frick, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in North Carolina
Sarah Frick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Therapy is a space in which the depths of our emotions and needs can be felt, expressed, and better understood. As a therapist, I use language to help process trauma, heal past injuries, and enable progress. I find that the process of talking loosens stagnation, repetition, or confusion. It makes room for new insight and understanding, and provides relief from restrictive ways of thinking or acting. If you have a heartfelt desire to know and understand yourself, and a willingness to talk, you are at a great starting point.
Therapy is a space in which the depths of our emotions and needs can be felt, expressed, and better understood. As a therapist, I use language to help process trauma, heal past injuries, and enable progress. I find that the process of talking loosens stagnation, repetition, or confusion. It makes room for new insight and understanding, and provides relief from restrictive ways of thinking or acting. If you have a heartfelt desire to know and understand yourself, and a willingness to talk, you are at a great starting point.
(828) 415-5296 View (828) 415-5296
Photo of Abe Hickey in North Carolina
Abe Hickey
NCC, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27609
I am experienced working with all ages, and experienced in a broad range of issues including: Autism, Asperger's, Behavioral Issues, Trauma/PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, School Issues, LGBTQ+ Issues, Problematic Sexual Behaviors, Couple/Marriage Problems, Polyamory/Open Relationships, Sexual Issues, Parenting, Career Issues, as well as many others.
I believe in helping a person overcome the problems and situations that are faced in life, not just treating a diagnosis. My philosophy is to provide a private, comfortable, and non-judgmental environment where everyone can feel safe no matter age, beliefs, lifestyle, sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity, cultural background, or life circumstances. I provide a laid-back conversational approach and regularly use activities, art, music, technology, toys, and games to help everyone feel comfortable as well as gain skills. I try to provide flexible appointment times (Appointment times are subject to availability).
I am experienced working with all ages, and experienced in a broad range of issues including: Autism, Asperger's, Behavioral Issues, Trauma/PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, School Issues, LGBTQ+ Issues, Problematic Sexual Behaviors, Couple/Marriage Problems, Polyamory/Open Relationships, Sexual Issues, Parenting, Career Issues, as well as many others.
I believe in helping a person overcome the problems and situations that are faced in life, not just treating a diagnosis. My philosophy is to provide a private, comfortable, and non-judgmental environment where everyone can feel safe no matter age, beliefs, lifestyle, sexual orientation, gender identity, ethnicity, cultural background, or life circumstances. I provide a laid-back conversational approach and regularly use activities, art, music, technology, toys, and games to help everyone feel comfortable as well as gain skills. I try to provide flexible appointment times (Appointment times are subject to availability).
(919) 888-4594 View (919) 888-4594
Photo of Veronica A. Zinkham, LPC, Psychotherapist, Licensed Professional Counselor in North Carolina
Veronica A. Zinkham, LPC, Psychotherapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, CPC
Verified Verified
Leland, NC 28451
My goal is to help you feel welcomed, safe, and unjudged. My passion is to assist you in learning to meet, manage, and move beyond difficult life challenges and gain optimal growth and belief in YOU. If you struggle with Relationships, Depression, Grief, Life Transitions, Trauma or Abuse, you have the power to heal. I am humbled by the human spirit. Therapy is a process of collaboration, mutual goal setting, awareness, trust and change. When you are hurting, reach out - help is there for you. I will offer support, guidance and steps to overcome life hurts.
My goal is to help you feel welcomed, safe, and unjudged. My passion is to assist you in learning to meet, manage, and move beyond difficult life challenges and gain optimal growth and belief in YOU. If you struggle with Relationships, Depression, Grief, Life Transitions, Trauma or Abuse, you have the power to heal. I am humbled by the human spirit. Therapy is a process of collaboration, mutual goal setting, awareness, trust and change. When you are hurting, reach out - help is there for you. I will offer support, guidance and steps to overcome life hurts.
(412) 265-2646 View (412) 265-2646

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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.