Photo of Betsy Abrams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tennessee
Betsy Abrams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37043
My specialties include addiction, grief, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, low self esteem, spiritual issues, couples work and codependency issues.
Are you struggling with anxiety, low self esteem, depression or relationship issues? Does life seem overwhelming to you? Emotional pain and stress can affect our lives in many ways, negatively contributing to our emotional, physical and spiritual health. I view each client as a unique person and develop the best therapeutic approach for their needs. My passion is to help individuals identify healthy coping skills and beliefs to deal with everyday life issues or past difficulties that impact their lives today.
My specialties include addiction, grief, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, low self esteem, spiritual issues, couples work and codependency issues.
Are you struggling with anxiety, low self esteem, depression or relationship issues? Does life seem overwhelming to you? Emotional pain and stress can affect our lives in many ways, negatively contributing to our emotional, physical and spiritual health. I view each client as a unique person and develop the best therapeutic approach for their needs. My passion is to help individuals identify healthy coping skills and beliefs to deal with everyday life issues or past difficulties that impact their lives today.
(931) 227-4212 View (931) 227-4212
Photo of Mary Bryant-Likens, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee
Mary Bryant-Likens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37203
I am a specialized trauma therapist trained in EDMR and IFS.
Are you experiencing distressing thoughts that won't go away? Is it difficult for you to calm down when you become upset? Do you feel like you're on edge all the time? You may have a negative relationship with food, exercise or your body image. You may feel scared to start new relationships with others out of fear of getting hurt. This makes it difficult for you to socialize or go outside of your comfort zone. You have likely tried very hard to feel better with no success. I commonly see people who feel overwhelmed by their emotions, have troubling relationships with food, who feel hopeless and unsure of how to feel better.
I am a specialized trauma therapist trained in EDMR and IFS.
Are you experiencing distressing thoughts that won't go away? Is it difficult for you to calm down when you become upset? Do you feel like you're on edge all the time? You may have a negative relationship with food, exercise or your body image. You may feel scared to start new relationships with others out of fear of getting hurt. This makes it difficult for you to socialize or go outside of your comfort zone. You have likely tried very hard to feel better with no success. I commonly see people who feel overwhelmed by their emotions, have troubling relationships with food, who feel hopeless and unsure of how to feel better.
(901) 519-2141 View (901) 519-2141
Photo of Stephanie Hathcock Vaughn, Psychologist in Tennessee
Stephanie Hathcock Vaughn
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37215  (Online Only)
My experience in the Veteran's Administration (combat soldiers and military sexual trauma) has given me some of my best training and life experience.
As a CBT and DBT Psychologist, National Speaker, hospital consultant, and clinical supervisor for Vanderbilt University, I have successfully helped veterans, teens, psychologists, physicians, attorneys, students, celebrities, and homemakers feel better and improve their lives. My business, PSYCHē, PLLC is founded upon the belief that going the extra mile makes all the difference. People need real support and real solutions—not just a nod and concerned look. My job is to help—my clients tell me how. I am a member of PSYPACT which means I can see clients in every state that is a member of PSYPACT and I'm also licensed in MA.
My experience in the Veteran's Administration (combat soldiers and military sexual trauma) has given me some of my best training and life experience.
As a CBT and DBT Psychologist, National Speaker, hospital consultant, and clinical supervisor for Vanderbilt University, I have successfully helped veterans, teens, psychologists, physicians, attorneys, students, celebrities, and homemakers feel better and improve their lives. My business, PSYCHē, PLLC is founded upon the belief that going the extra mile makes all the difference. People need real support and real solutions—not just a nod and concerned look. My job is to help—my clients tell me how. I am a member of PSYPACT which means I can see clients in every state that is a member of PSYPACT and I'm also licensed in MA.
(615) 745-1019 View (615) 745-1019
Photo of The Journey Center for Healing Arts, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee
The Journey Center for Healing Arts, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCS, FAMI, MT-BC, MHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37604
At The Journey Center for Healing Arts, we are passionate about helping people move beyond their past and into a full, authentic life. Trauma affects us all at some level - surviving physical pain, emotional pain, or spiritual pain - and it can keep us from living the life we want. We want to see you thrive through your healing process instead of continuing to struggle with worry, overwhelm, anxiety, depression, grief, and unhealthy relationships.
At The Journey Center for Healing Arts, we are passionate about helping people move beyond their past and into a full, authentic life. Trauma affects us all at some level - surviving physical pain, emotional pain, or spiritual pain - and it can keep us from living the life we want. We want to see you thrive through your healing process instead of continuing to struggle with worry, overwhelm, anxiety, depression, grief, and unhealthy relationships.
(423) 408-8041 View (423) 408-8041
Photo of Britt Palmer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tennessee
Britt Palmer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38117
The treatment of complex histories of trauma, eating disorders, and attachment disruptions must include interventions that rewire the brain from the bottom up, somatic movement to reintegrate the body with the brain, and a felt sense of safety, in the context of relationship. This provides lasting change for improved regulation, mood, energy, the ability to be present and attune to others. Too many therapies focus on decision making, problem solving, or changing your thoughts. This is not how we are wired to work. It leads to disappointment. My evidenced based interventions promise to be different.
The treatment of complex histories of trauma, eating disorders, and attachment disruptions must include interventions that rewire the brain from the bottom up, somatic movement to reintegrate the body with the brain, and a felt sense of safety, in the context of relationship. This provides lasting change for improved regulation, mood, energy, the ability to be present and attune to others. Too many therapies focus on decision making, problem solving, or changing your thoughts. This is not how we are wired to work. It leads to disappointment. My evidenced based interventions promise to be different.
(901) 519-2163 View (901) 519-2163
Photo of Dewaine Rice, Counselor in Tennessee
Dewaine Rice
Counselor, EdD, LPC, MHSP, NBCCH, (fellow
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Germantown, TN 38138
As an experienced clinician and university professor, I bridge theory to practice in a pragmatic way. Interventions are customized to you and your individual needs. I provide clinical mental health counseling for individuals, couples, and families. Hypnotherapy is utilized effectively to address chronic pain management. I have extensive success treating persons with PTSD, phobias, panic attacks, and unwanted habits with both hypnotherapy and individual counseling. My unique background as a university professor, clinical mental health counselor, and national board certified clinical hypnotherapist (fellow) allows me to provide an eclectic approach to effective individualized interventions.
As an experienced clinician and university professor, I bridge theory to practice in a pragmatic way. Interventions are customized to you and your individual needs. I provide clinical mental health counseling for individuals, couples, and families. Hypnotherapy is utilized effectively to address chronic pain management. I have extensive success treating persons with PTSD, phobias, panic attacks, and unwanted habits with both hypnotherapy and individual counseling. My unique background as a university professor, clinical mental health counselor, and national board certified clinical hypnotherapist (fellow) allows me to provide an eclectic approach to effective individualized interventions.
(901) 235-8824 View (901) 235-8824
Photo of Melisse Prusinski, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tennessee
Melisse Prusinski
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37207
I utilize hypnotherapy for smoking cessation, weight loss, phobias, feelings of anxiety, low self esteem, trauma and other issues that arise in therapy.
It's time to reach your full potential. I offer holistic therapy that focuses on your goals and quick solutions to address current problems as well as changing long entrenched behaviorial patterns. Therapy will assist you in gaining insight from your past, healing traumas at the root and making long term changes for the future. I believe in client centered/relational therapy in a supportive environment. I hold a Master's in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. I am also a trained and certified Hypnotherapist by The National Guild of Hypnotists. I work from several therapeutic modalities depending on the individual.
I utilize hypnotherapy for smoking cessation, weight loss, phobias, feelings of anxiety, low self esteem, trauma and other issues that arise in therapy.
It's time to reach your full potential. I offer holistic therapy that focuses on your goals and quick solutions to address current problems as well as changing long entrenched behaviorial patterns. Therapy will assist you in gaining insight from your past, healing traumas at the root and making long term changes for the future. I believe in client centered/relational therapy in a supportive environment. I hold a Master's in Clinical Psychology from Pepperdine University. I am also a trained and certified Hypnotherapist by The National Guild of Hypnotists. I work from several therapeutic modalities depending on the individual.
(310) 596-4164 View (310) 596-4164
Photo of Kandie Hansen Approved Supervisor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee
Kandie Hansen Approved Supervisor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37221  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Skilled in topics such anxiety, self-esteem and self worth, weight related struggles, body positivity, self harm behavior, trauma, religious trauma & deconstruction.
Approved supervisor in TN and KY. Accepting new supervisees in TN and KY for individual and group supervision virtually. New clients are referred to supervisees as Kandie is not accepting new clients. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life. My main objective is to provide a safe, judgment free zone where clients can discuss and work through the struggles in their life. My goal is not to give you advice but to provide a different perspective and cognitive behavioral tools for you to use through your therapeutic journey. Helping clients Defy the Limits they have set in order to embrace a happier more fulfilled life.
Skilled in topics such anxiety, self-esteem and self worth, weight related struggles, body positivity, self harm behavior, trauma, religious trauma & deconstruction.
Approved supervisor in TN and KY. Accepting new supervisees in TN and KY for individual and group supervision virtually. New clients are referred to supervisees as Kandie is not accepting new clients. I enjoy working with people from all walks of life. My main objective is to provide a safe, judgment free zone where clients can discuss and work through the struggles in their life. My goal is not to give you advice but to provide a different perspective and cognitive behavioral tools for you to use through your therapeutic journey. Helping clients Defy the Limits they have set in order to embrace a happier more fulfilled life.
(615) 398-4498 View (615) 398-4498
Photo of Jazzmin Cohen Psyd, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Tennessee
Jazzmin Cohen Psyd
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37212
I work with adults, adolescents, and couples on various issues. Some of the specific areas I excel at are with clients looking to conquer life's obstacles caused by trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. During our time together, I will create a supportive environment and assist you in establishing goals and skills needed to achieve your desired lifestyle.
I work with adults, adolescents, and couples on various issues. Some of the specific areas I excel at are with clients looking to conquer life's obstacles caused by trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. During our time together, I will create a supportive environment and assist you in establishing goals and skills needed to achieve your desired lifestyle.
(615) 909-2384 View (615) 909-2384
Photo of Emmanuel S John, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tennessee
Emmanuel S John
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Johnson City, TN 37601
My name is Emmanuel S. John. I am a Psychotherapist/counselor and author in the Tri-Cities area of TN. I've been working with individuals, couples and families for more than 30 years. I help people with personal emotional struggles of all kinds; Anxiety, Addiction, Depression, Grief, Trauma and PTSD just to name a few. I have a proven track record and you will see results after every session. I can help but not until you call. I am taking new clients. Cash services, insurance is not necessary. Invest the effort, you're worth it! (Ever consider online therapy? Let's talk.)
My name is Emmanuel S. John. I am a Psychotherapist/counselor and author in the Tri-Cities area of TN. I've been working with individuals, couples and families for more than 30 years. I help people with personal emotional struggles of all kinds; Anxiety, Addiction, Depression, Grief, Trauma and PTSD just to name a few. I have a proven track record and you will see results after every session. I can help but not until you call. I am taking new clients. Cash services, insurance is not necessary. Invest the effort, you're worth it! (Ever consider online therapy? Let's talk.)
(423) 302-0338 View (423) 302-0338
Photo of Jeffrey Jay Waller Jr., Pre-Licensed Professional in Tennessee
Jeffrey Jay Waller Jr.
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, LPC-, MHSP, (temp)
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I specialize in helping those who struggle with childhood trauma and self-esteem to gain courage and hope for life. My goal is to rebuild your confidence by healing your past. There is so much potential each of us leaves on the table, my goal is to help you tap into that. You must develop a healthy relationship with yourself and others to rediscover that joy in life. Ultimately, in our work together, you can become the best version of yourself and embrace who you truly are. Whether you are struggling with past trauma, self-esteem, anxiety, grief, depression, or a career choice, I believe we can find a solution together.
I specialize in helping those who struggle with childhood trauma and self-esteem to gain courage and hope for life. My goal is to rebuild your confidence by healing your past. There is so much potential each of us leaves on the table, my goal is to help you tap into that. You must develop a healthy relationship with yourself and others to rediscover that joy in life. Ultimately, in our work together, you can become the best version of yourself and embrace who you truly are. Whether you are struggling with past trauma, self-esteem, anxiety, grief, depression, or a career choice, I believe we can find a solution together.
(615) 882-4583 View (615) 882-4583
Photo of Pepper B Pratt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee
Pepper B Pratt
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Jackson, TN 38305
Waitlist for new clients
I also serve and treat INDIVIDUALS with issues related to trauma, depression, anxiety, sexual addiction, other addictions, and life direction.
Through an integration of science and faith, I bring 30 years of experience, ongoing training and a very relational style to those who just long to be seen and heard. I am currently offering an online 12 week workshop for couples that integrates weekly in-person or live telehealth visits with essential learning through video modules that equips couples for the work needed for meaningful connection. This workshop, ReDiscover Us is available to anyone at any location inside or outside of Tennessee.
I also serve and treat INDIVIDUALS with issues related to trauma, depression, anxiety, sexual addiction, other addictions, and life direction.
Through an integration of science and faith, I bring 30 years of experience, ongoing training and a very relational style to those who just long to be seen and heard. I am currently offering an online 12 week workshop for couples that integrates weekly in-person or live telehealth visits with essential learning through video modules that equips couples for the work needed for meaningful connection. This workshop, ReDiscover Us is available to anyone at any location inside or outside of Tennessee.
(731) 318-1173 View (731) 318-1173
Photo of Samantha Ann Hutton-Metheney, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tennessee
Samantha Ann Hutton-Metheney
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
Oak Ridge, TN 37830
EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing) works to stimulate trauma so that it may be digested.
I believe that clients have the innate ability to heal through accessing their innermost selves. Each client is traveling their own personal, interpersonal, and spiritual path and I act as a guide to help facilitate and co- create healing and wholeness. Through healing old wounds, past traumas, and solving relationship conflicts, I aspire to help individuals, couples, and families reach their highest potentials to aid in having richer and more fulfilling lives. My approach is Transpersonal, which means that I look beyond the ego into the spiritual to encourage wholeness in each client.
EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing) works to stimulate trauma so that it may be digested.
I believe that clients have the innate ability to heal through accessing their innermost selves. Each client is traveling their own personal, interpersonal, and spiritual path and I act as a guide to help facilitate and co- create healing and wholeness. Through healing old wounds, past traumas, and solving relationship conflicts, I aspire to help individuals, couples, and families reach their highest potentials to aid in having richer and more fulfilling lives. My approach is Transpersonal, which means that I look beyond the ego into the spiritual to encourage wholeness in each client.
(865) 730-4209 View (865) 730-4209
Photo of Heather Schow, Pre-Licensed Professional in Tennessee
Heather Schow
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37215
Waitlist for new clients
I can help you work through issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, and trauma.
I am so glad you have decided to take the brave step to start therapy! My goal is to give you a safe and accepting environment where we can work together to help you create the life you want to live. I believe many of our childhood experiences significantly affect how we think and what we do as we become adults and as your therapist, I will be a source of empathy and understanding as you work to process your thoughts and emotions. Ultimately, my hope is that our work together will promote you living an authentic life where you can embrace who you are, find healing, and experience personal growth.
I can help you work through issues such as depression, anxiety, stress, and trauma.
I am so glad you have decided to take the brave step to start therapy! My goal is to give you a safe and accepting environment where we can work together to help you create the life you want to live. I believe many of our childhood experiences significantly affect how we think and what we do as we become adults and as your therapist, I will be a source of empathy and understanding as you work to process your thoughts and emotions. Ultimately, my hope is that our work together will promote you living an authentic life where you can embrace who you are, find healing, and experience personal growth.
(615) 623-8887 View (615) 623-8887
Photo of Fred Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee
Fred Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
I help individuals and couples deal with issues such as trauma, codependency, grief processing, depression, anxiety, faith struggles, parenting, and relationship challenges.
Welcome! Are you tired of dealing with the 'hard stuff' alone? Have you tried for too long to handle life and ready for a break? I help make the hard stuff easier. I love what I do and am honored to help.
I help individuals and couples deal with issues such as trauma, codependency, grief processing, depression, anxiety, faith struggles, parenting, and relationship challenges.
Welcome! Are you tired of dealing with the 'hard stuff' alone? Have you tried for too long to handle life and ready for a break? I help make the hard stuff easier. I love what I do and am honored to help.
(615) 334-9841 View (615) 334-9841
Photo of Christina Benefield, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee
Christina Benefield
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Murfreesboro, TN 37130
I work with adults of all ages who struggle with anxiety, depression, transitions in life, history of trauma, self-esteem issues, and a variety of other topics.
Hey! I'm Christina. I'm proud of you for taking this step toward seeking counseling. It's very hard to be vulnerable, especially in today's world. Counseling is a place to be seen, known, and feel safe. A place where we can talk through all of the hard and difficult things in your life and work towards healing. A place to figure out what's going well and how to build on those strengths.
I work with adults of all ages who struggle with anxiety, depression, transitions in life, history of trauma, self-esteem issues, and a variety of other topics.
Hey! I'm Christina. I'm proud of you for taking this step toward seeking counseling. It's very hard to be vulnerable, especially in today's world. Counseling is a place to be seen, known, and feel safe. A place where we can talk through all of the hard and difficult things in your life and work towards healing. A place to figure out what's going well and how to build on those strengths.
(615) 903-5456 View (615) 903-5456
Photo of Jack Justin Dreher, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee
Jack Justin Dreher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37064  (Online Only)
At the Village of Kairos, I specialize in comprehensive, adherent, and trauma-focused DBT.
I recognize that the journey that brought you to therapy may not have been an easy one. I work to assist you in your self-exploration, learning, and growth by creating a safe, nurturing, respectful, yet challenging environment. I prioritize your autonomy and personal responsibility throughout the healing process.
At the Village of Kairos, I specialize in comprehensive, adherent, and trauma-focused DBT.
I recognize that the journey that brought you to therapy may not have been an easy one. I work to assist you in your self-exploration, learning, and growth by creating a safe, nurturing, respectful, yet challenging environment. I prioritize your autonomy and personal responsibility throughout the healing process.
(615) 488-7683 View (615) 488-7683
Photo of Ascend Counseling, PLLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Tennessee
Ascend Counseling, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LPC, CTT, CMAT, CSAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Nashville, TN 37220
Clayton is also certified in trauma therapy (CTT), a multiple addiction therapist (CMAT), and a sex addiction therapist (CSAT).
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** At Ascend Counseling, PLLC we believe that all people deserve a place to come as they are. As seasoned therapists, we provide a safe, collaborative experience for our clients combining empathy with professional excellence to guide the therapeutic process. Many therapeutic practices simply help you manage your symptoms and/or survive the next crisis. But at Ascend Counseling, PLLC, we believe that therapists should offer more. We will work with you to identify and address the root issues that perpetuate interpersonal problems. With us, you'll get to the bottom of things so that you can move forward!
Clayton is also certified in trauma therapy (CTT), a multiple addiction therapist (CMAT), and a sex addiction therapist (CSAT).
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS*** At Ascend Counseling, PLLC we believe that all people deserve a place to come as they are. As seasoned therapists, we provide a safe, collaborative experience for our clients combining empathy with professional excellence to guide the therapeutic process. Many therapeutic practices simply help you manage your symptoms and/or survive the next crisis. But at Ascend Counseling, PLLC, we believe that therapists should offer more. We will work with you to identify and address the root issues that perpetuate interpersonal problems. With us, you'll get to the bottom of things so that you can move forward!
(615) 913-5958 View (615) 913-5958
Photo of Esteem Counseling and Wellness Center, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tennessee
Esteem Counseling and Wellness Center, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38125
Do you consider yourself a high achiever or go-getter, but recently find yourself feeling stuck in a rut or unable to keep up with life’s pace lately? Are there times when you know you should stand up for yourself, but worry more often how it will affect other people? Well, you are not alone. Adjustments can be hard, and they can draw attention to underlying anxiety, depression and even trauma.
Do you consider yourself a high achiever or go-getter, but recently find yourself feeling stuck in a rut or unable to keep up with life’s pace lately? Are there times when you know you should stand up for yourself, but worry more often how it will affect other people? Well, you are not alone. Adjustments can be hard, and they can draw attention to underlying anxiety, depression and even trauma.
(901) 519-2436 View (901) 519-2436
Photo of Brandi Richmond, Pre-Licensed Professional in Tennessee
Brandi Richmond
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, CTP
Verified Verified
Jackson, TN 38305
Let’s work together to achieve your goals both internally and externally. Together we can discuss what’s important concerning your thoughts, feelings and actions while achieving all goals. I have experience working with Individuals, family/couples, trauma victims, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, anger management and personality disorders. When working with families, together we will improve communication skills, develop effective strategies for conflict resolution and embrace a plan for building a deeper family connection.
Let’s work together to achieve your goals both internally and externally. Together we can discuss what’s important concerning your thoughts, feelings and actions while achieving all goals. I have experience working with Individuals, family/couples, trauma victims, grief and loss, depression, anxiety, anger management and personality disorders. When working with families, together we will improve communication skills, develop effective strategies for conflict resolution and embrace a plan for building a deeper family connection.
(731) 503-3159 View (731) 503-3159
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.