Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Virginia

Photo of Jenny Prewtt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Jenny Prewtt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bon Air, VA 23235  (Online Only)
It is my belief that many people not only experience stress and anxiety by unfortunate adversities, but also by how they construct their views of reality through the stories they tell themselves regarding the stressful incident. While systematically pulling from different counseling techniques from a wide range of theories, she tends to work most heavily from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness techniques and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. These types of therapies help overcome irrational, dysfunctional, and unhealthy thought process that tend to add to and prolong emotional strain, trauma, and tension.
It is my belief that many people not only experience stress and anxiety by unfortunate adversities, but also by how they construct their views of reality through the stories they tell themselves regarding the stressful incident. While systematically pulling from different counseling techniques from a wide range of theories, she tends to work most heavily from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness techniques and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. These types of therapies help overcome irrational, dysfunctional, and unhealthy thought process that tend to add to and prolong emotional strain, trauma, and tension.
(804) 792-3426 View (804) 792-3426
Photo of Kate Lewis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Kate Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Burke, VA 22015
As an experienced therapist, I have helped people work through complex problems including depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, substance use and relationship issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience working with adults from diverse backgrounds in community, outpatient and hospital settings. I am a compassionate, skilled and creative therapist who values the process of getting to know your individual story so we can work together on ways to increase self-awareness and decrease suffering in your life. Doing this work, I have come to believe strongly in the power of connection; that the story of one of us is the story of all of us.
As an experienced therapist, I have helped people work through complex problems including depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, substance use and relationship issues.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years of experience working with adults from diverse backgrounds in community, outpatient and hospital settings. I am a compassionate, skilled and creative therapist who values the process of getting to know your individual story so we can work together on ways to increase self-awareness and decrease suffering in your life. Doing this work, I have come to believe strongly in the power of connection; that the story of one of us is the story of all of us.
(571) 445-8196 View (571) 445-8196
Photo of Nancy Paz Welsh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Nancy Paz Welsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Purcellville, VA 20132  (Online Only)
Nancy has helped clients manage and navigate issues such as: trauma, anger, anxiety, depression, grief, relationships, parenting, life transitions, and other life stressors.
Nancy Paz Welsh is a first-generation American of Salvadorian descent who is a bilingual (English & Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maryland and Virginia. She is a strong advocate and educator in mental health development and insightfulness, while also normalizing the importance of mental health therapy.
Nancy has helped clients manage and navigate issues such as: trauma, anger, anxiety, depression, grief, relationships, parenting, life transitions, and other life stressors.
Nancy Paz Welsh is a first-generation American of Salvadorian descent who is a bilingual (English & Spanish) Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maryland and Virginia. She is a strong advocate and educator in mental health development and insightfulness, while also normalizing the importance of mental health therapy.
(540) 779-1079 View (540) 779-1079
Photo of Allison Gasca-Backman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Allison Gasca-Backman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22301  (Online Only)
I primarily meet with adults as individual clients, although I also have experience working with adolescents and families. My ideal clients are goal-oriented and eager to gain insight into the dynamics and forces that are causing them discomfort. I have worked with individuals who have experienced depression, anxiety, immigration stress, past and current trauma, eating disorders, grief, pregnancy, issues with acculturation and identity formation, and the general stress of living and functioning in a world that is often unkind to folks of marginalized identities.
I primarily meet with adults as individual clients, although I also have experience working with adolescents and families. My ideal clients are goal-oriented and eager to gain insight into the dynamics and forces that are causing them discomfort. I have worked with individuals who have experienced depression, anxiety, immigration stress, past and current trauma, eating disorders, grief, pregnancy, issues with acculturation and identity formation, and the general stress of living and functioning in a world that is often unkind to folks of marginalized identities.
(703) 991-8952 View (703) 991-8952
Photo of Hannah Robinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Hannah Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
My specialties include trauma, anxiety, adjusting to new situations (family changes, jobs, moving, etc), OCD, and having depressive symptoms.
Therapy does not have to be scary or overwhelming; sometimes a little humor can help. I practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and am a solution-focused therapist. I work with teenagers and adults and my goal is to work towards people not needing to see a therapist and being able to have skills to cope on their own. I collaborate with clients to figure out treatment goals to know what their individual therapy entails. Also, I provide a supportive environment where people can be themselves and know they will be understood. I am very supportive of diverse clientele and love learning about new people.
My specialties include trauma, anxiety, adjusting to new situations (family changes, jobs, moving, etc), OCD, and having depressive symptoms.
Therapy does not have to be scary or overwhelming; sometimes a little humor can help. I practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and am a solution-focused therapist. I work with teenagers and adults and my goal is to work towards people not needing to see a therapist and being able to have skills to cope on their own. I collaborate with clients to figure out treatment goals to know what their individual therapy entails. Also, I provide a supportive environment where people can be themselves and know they will be understood. I am very supportive of diverse clientele and love learning about new people.
(434) 362-5257 View (434) 362-5257
Photo of Courtney Cooper, Pre-Licensed Professional in Virginia
Courtney Cooper
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Woodbridge, VA 22191  (Online Only)
If you've found yourself in the midst of trauma or past traumatic memories, I empathize with you and know how hard that can be. I encourage you to try something you may not have tried before: EMDR treatment. Clients on my caseload are frequently referred to me because of their need for a different type of therapy... something in addition to talk therapy with great scientific success rates. That's where EMDR comes in. It’s most renowned for addressing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, however, its applications extend to many other mental concerns as well.
If you've found yourself in the midst of trauma or past traumatic memories, I empathize with you and know how hard that can be. I encourage you to try something you may not have tried before: EMDR treatment. Clients on my caseload are frequently referred to me because of their need for a different type of therapy... something in addition to talk therapy with great scientific success rates. That's where EMDR comes in. It’s most renowned for addressing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, however, its applications extend to many other mental concerns as well.
(434) 432-6328 View (434) 432-6328
Yvonne Williams
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, QMHP-A, QMHP-C
Verified Verified
Alexandria, VA 22314
I have been working in the counseling and substance use field for over 25+ years working in the areas of mental health, substance abuse , corrections and leadership. I serve various individuals who seek assistance in working through life issues and moving forward. I offer Counseling and Psychotherapy Services to address: Relationship Issues, Anger, Depression, Anxiety, Work/Home Stress, Life Transitions, Grief and Loss, Healing from Current and Past Trauma, Interpersonal Relations, Parenting, Self-Esteem, Sexuality, Gender Identification and other impasses.
I have been working in the counseling and substance use field for over 25+ years working in the areas of mental health, substance abuse , corrections and leadership. I serve various individuals who seek assistance in working through life issues and moving forward. I offer Counseling and Psychotherapy Services to address: Relationship Issues, Anger, Depression, Anxiety, Work/Home Stress, Life Transitions, Grief and Loss, Healing from Current and Past Trauma, Interpersonal Relations, Parenting, Self-Esteem, Sexuality, Gender Identification and other impasses.
(703) 691-5027 View (703) 691-5027
Photo of Anne Giles, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Anne Giles
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blacksburg, VA 24060
I am trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for PTSD, a trauma treatment recommended by the American Psychological Association and the Veterans' Administration.
I specialize in assisting adults, 18 to 100+, who are experiencing distress from life situations, transitions, stressors and losses, anxiety, trauma, and depression. I welcome clients who have received mental illness diagnoses. I've been a counselor for almost 10 years, use many therapies, and have specialized training in cognitive theory-based protocols - CBT, DBT, and cognitive processing therapy for PTSD (CPT) - substance overuse, and grief.
I am trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for PTSD, a trauma treatment recommended by the American Psychological Association and the Veterans' Administration.
I specialize in assisting adults, 18 to 100+, who are experiencing distress from life situations, transitions, stressors and losses, anxiety, trauma, and depression. I welcome clients who have received mental illness diagnoses. I've been a counselor for almost 10 years, use many therapies, and have specialized training in cognitive theory-based protocols - CBT, DBT, and cognitive processing therapy for PTSD (CPT) - substance overuse, and grief.
(540) 750-4811 View (540) 750-4811
Photo of Rosa M Johnson, EdS, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Rosa M Johnson, EdS, MA
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Newport News, VA 23606
As a Certified Grief and Trauma Informed Therapist, I am prepared to partner with your work through grief and loss, and traumatic experiences.
Start living your best life now. 2024 is the year for you to explore, experience, and embrace the BVOY. Becoming the best version of yourself 'BVOY' is within your reach. An awareness that you deserve to live a life filled with purpose and being the BVOY is step one. The next step is unpacking your baggage and identifying, exposing, and working through your stuck points. Stuck points manifest in many ways such as negative self-talk, self-doubt, self-sabotage, depression, anxiety, anger, stress, unresolved grief and loss, fears, and holding on to past hurts, disappointments, or toxic relationships. The BVOY is within you.
As a Certified Grief and Trauma Informed Therapist, I am prepared to partner with your work through grief and loss, and traumatic experiences.
Start living your best life now. 2024 is the year for you to explore, experience, and embrace the BVOY. Becoming the best version of yourself 'BVOY' is within your reach. An awareness that you deserve to live a life filled with purpose and being the BVOY is step one. The next step is unpacking your baggage and identifying, exposing, and working through your stuck points. Stuck points manifest in many ways such as negative self-talk, self-doubt, self-sabotage, depression, anxiety, anger, stress, unresolved grief and loss, fears, and holding on to past hurts, disappointments, or toxic relationships. The BVOY is within you.
(757) 347-8087 View (757) 347-8087
Photo of Elia H Charles, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Elia H Charles
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW, BCD, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22314
Waitlist for new clients
I have 17+ years of experience in the field of Social Work, treating individuals with childhood trauma and abuse, grief and loss, combat trauma, sexual assault, and domestic violence. I have successfully helped individuals and families build a strong foundation for the long-term management of their mental health needs. I am also a CSAT, and I treat individuals with sex and/or love addiction as well as sexual anorexia.
I have 17+ years of experience in the field of Social Work, treating individuals with childhood trauma and abuse, grief and loss, combat trauma, sexual assault, and domestic violence. I have successfully helped individuals and families build a strong foundation for the long-term management of their mental health needs. I am also a CSAT, and I treat individuals with sex and/or love addiction as well as sexual anorexia.
(703) 372-9682 View (703) 372-9682
Photo of Kaitlin Westerman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Kaitlin Westerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20155
I work with adults who experience trauma,anxiety/depression, mood disorders, personality changes, life transitions, and dissociation.
YOU can heal you! It’s not about what's wrong with you, it’s about what happened to you. Finding a safe space that encourages healing can be difficult to find and asking for help can be an intimidating prospect. I aim to help create a space where you can begin to reconnect with yourself, empowering all parts of you to choose the path YOU want. I want to help you approach emotions with curiosity and gentleness. Viewing behavior, thoughts, and feelings as techniques adapted to help us survive, we begin to move towards a place of acceptance. I want you to live a life free from emotional suffering, feeling stable in all areas of life.
I work with adults who experience trauma,anxiety/depression, mood disorders, personality changes, life transitions, and dissociation.
YOU can heal you! It’s not about what's wrong with you, it’s about what happened to you. Finding a safe space that encourages healing can be difficult to find and asking for help can be an intimidating prospect. I aim to help create a space where you can begin to reconnect with yourself, empowering all parts of you to choose the path YOU want. I want to help you approach emotions with curiosity and gentleness. Viewing behavior, thoughts, and feelings as techniques adapted to help us survive, we begin to move towards a place of acceptance. I want you to live a life free from emotional suffering, feeling stable in all areas of life.
(571) 554-5246 View (571) 554-5246
Photo of Chelsea Barbosa, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Chelsea Barbosa
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Alexandria, VA 22302  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience working with individuals who have experienced various forms of trauma, including childhood abuse, domestic violence, and sexual assault.
Hey there! My name is Chelsea and I'm excited to potentially be apart of your journey. Many of us have experienced crushing situations that leave a lasting impact on our hearts. Whether you've struggled to maintain a relationship with your family or feel burnt-out from life, stress can weigh heavily on us. My guiding philosophy for your mental health is rooted in support, challenges, and encouragement, as I help you achieve a life that feels free, whole, and healthy.
I have extensive experience working with individuals who have experienced various forms of trauma, including childhood abuse, domestic violence, and sexual assault.
Hey there! My name is Chelsea and I'm excited to potentially be apart of your journey. Many of us have experienced crushing situations that leave a lasting impact on our hearts. Whether you've struggled to maintain a relationship with your family or feel burnt-out from life, stress can weigh heavily on us. My guiding philosophy for your mental health is rooted in support, challenges, and encouragement, as I help you achieve a life that feels free, whole, and healthy.
(571) 749-2110 View (571) 749-2110
Photo of Joan Marie Nelson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Joan Marie Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030
My ideal clients are those seeking quality treatment. I utilize my 25 years of experience as a trauma therapist to serve emotionally disabled children and their families, troubled teens, and individuals/couples challenged by chronic relationship issues. In addition, I have extensive experience working with veterans and others suffering from Traumatic Brain Injury.
My ideal clients are those seeking quality treatment. I utilize my 25 years of experience as a trauma therapist to serve emotionally disabled children and their families, troubled teens, and individuals/couples challenged by chronic relationship issues. In addition, I have extensive experience working with veterans and others suffering from Traumatic Brain Injury.
(571) 568-7379 View (571) 568-7379
Photo of Ilona Schenk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Ilona Schenk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Chesterfield, VA 23236  (Online Only)
I am a holistically focused trauma therapist using EMDR, mindfulness, inner child work, writing & somatic sensing with a "shoeless" in-person office.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS (Private Pay) - You feel stuck. You are tired of feeling overwhelmed. Each day, you are trying so hard to please others only to get disappointed over and over again. You diligently worked on providing others with resources so they can live a better life. At the same time you have read and tried many strategies to work on yourself, but you still end up feeling defeated. You have been holding on to a dream of everything changing if you or they only...you fill in the blank. Now imagine - a life where your relationships are life-giving, boundaried, and healthy—not soul-sucking, draining, and empty...
I am a holistically focused trauma therapist using EMDR, mindfulness, inner child work, writing & somatic sensing with a "shoeless" in-person office.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS (Private Pay) - You feel stuck. You are tired of feeling overwhelmed. Each day, you are trying so hard to please others only to get disappointed over and over again. You diligently worked on providing others with resources so they can live a better life. At the same time you have read and tried many strategies to work on yourself, but you still end up feeling defeated. You have been holding on to a dream of everything changing if you or they only...you fill in the blank. Now imagine - a life where your relationships are life-giving, boundaried, and healthy—not soul-sucking, draining, and empty...
(804) 269-8371 View (804) 269-8371
Photo of Whitney Artutis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Whitney Artutis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24016
I work with adults on adjustment to life issues, self-exploration, and offer EMDR and trauma-informed treatment.
I have NO availability for new clients, though our practice does have openings for new clients with Medicaid insurance or ability to self-pay! I believe that the relationship between client and counselor is the most important factor in how successful counseling will be. I want you to feel comfortable sharing details of your life with me so that we can move toward change together. I believe therapy is an incredible tool to know yourself, heal, and move toward change. I have been in therapy for many years and continue to participate in my own therapeutic journey as a client.
I work with adults on adjustment to life issues, self-exploration, and offer EMDR and trauma-informed treatment.
I have NO availability for new clients, though our practice does have openings for new clients with Medicaid insurance or ability to self-pay! I believe that the relationship between client and counselor is the most important factor in how successful counseling will be. I want you to feel comfortable sharing details of your life with me so that we can move toward change together. I believe therapy is an incredible tool to know yourself, heal, and move toward change. I have been in therapy for many years and continue to participate in my own therapeutic journey as a client.
(540) 274-2261 View (540) 274-2261
Photo of Kimberley L. Berlin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Kimberley L. Berlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC, MAC, SAP, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Leesburg, VA 20175  (Online Only)
I am an integrated therapist who uses traditional Western and Eastern mental health and wellness approaches to help you overcome anxiety, and depression, or work through layers of trauma that you may have experienced in your life. As a Level 3 Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist, I can help you to connect to your self-energy, unburden wounds, and further your healing process. If you want to experience a greater sense of self-confidence and inner calm I can help you.
I am an integrated therapist who uses traditional Western and Eastern mental health and wellness approaches to help you overcome anxiety, and depression, or work through layers of trauma that you may have experienced in your life. As a Level 3 Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist, I can help you to connect to your self-energy, unburden wounds, and further your healing process. If you want to experience a greater sense of self-confidence and inner calm I can help you.
(703) 775-1019 View (703) 775-1019
Photo of Yasmeen Al-Suqi, Licensed Professional Counselor in Virginia
Yasmeen Al-Suqi
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Fairfax, VA 22030  (Online Only)
Empowering healing with 13+ years in mental health, focusing on trauma, stress, and adaptation.
Life’s journey often brings a complex mix of challenges and transitions that can impact anyone, regardless of their background or experiences. My clients are individuals facing the multifaceted difficulties of adapting to significant life changes, managing stress, anxiety, depression, and healing from trauma and past adversities. They are people from all walks of life who seek to understand and overcome their personal struggles to find balance, healing, and fulfillment. These individuals are looking for effective coping strategies, support in navigating their emotions, and guidance in building resilience and making life changes.
Empowering healing with 13+ years in mental health, focusing on trauma, stress, and adaptation.
Life’s journey often brings a complex mix of challenges and transitions that can impact anyone, regardless of their background or experiences. My clients are individuals facing the multifaceted difficulties of adapting to significant life changes, managing stress, anxiety, depression, and healing from trauma and past adversities. They are people from all walks of life who seek to understand and overcome their personal struggles to find balance, healing, and fulfillment. These individuals are looking for effective coping strategies, support in navigating their emotions, and guidance in building resilience and making life changes.
(703) 634-4492 View (703) 634-4492
Photo of Theodora Vance, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
Theodora Vance
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Richmond, VA 23225  (Online Only)
If you are dealing with anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship issues, trauma and grief, stress management, women's issues, personality disorders and/or have criminal-justice involvement, let's talk.
Hey y'all! Welcome to Real Talk with Renae! We'll do more than just talk-we'll journey! As the creator and owner of Real Talk, I'm partnering with Grow Therapy to bring hope, healing and change. If you're here, it means you're ready, or at least, curious about making shifts in your life and I'm here for it! Let's face it. Life is downright messy at times!
If you are dealing with anxiety, depression, substance use, relationship issues, trauma and grief, stress management, women's issues, personality disorders and/or have criminal-justice involvement, let's talk.
Hey y'all! Welcome to Real Talk with Renae! We'll do more than just talk-we'll journey! As the creator and owner of Real Talk, I'm partnering with Grow Therapy to bring hope, healing and change. If you're here, it means you're ready, or at least, curious about making shifts in your life and I'm here for it! Let's face it. Life is downright messy at times!
(804) 293-3309 View (804) 293-3309
Photo of 1 Journey Counseling Services, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Virginia
1 Journey Counseling Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Danville, VA 24540  (Online Only)
Majority of my practice has been with addressing childhood trauma, life transitions, and anxiety.
Welcome. I am an experienced therapist working in partnership with clients who are motivated to bring greater peace and healthy balance to their lives. Many of my clients are dealing with transitions or difficult life events. I certified and trained in Trauma-Based Therapy to address present trauma and/or childhood trauma. I believe once self-awareness increases it develops conscious awareness to behaviors. My approach is gentle, supportive, inclusive, highly informed and effective. I am accepting clients for online services only at this time. Most people find this works well for them.
Majority of my practice has been with addressing childhood trauma, life transitions, and anxiety.
Welcome. I am an experienced therapist working in partnership with clients who are motivated to bring greater peace and healthy balance to their lives. Many of my clients are dealing with transitions or difficult life events. I certified and trained in Trauma-Based Therapy to address present trauma and/or childhood trauma. I believe once self-awareness increases it develops conscious awareness to behaviors. My approach is gentle, supportive, inclusive, highly informed and effective. I am accepting clients for online services only at this time. Most people find this works well for them.
(434) 204-4268 View (434) 204-4268
Photo of Esther Levine, Resident in Counseling in Virginia
Esther Levine
Resident in Counseling, MA
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23322
My approach to counseling is eclectic and incorporates person-centered, strength-based, trauma-focused, and play-based interventions.
Imagine a space where you can be your authentic self, express your deepest concerns without fear, where your thoughts and feelings matter, and where your experiences are acknowledged and respected. I am a Resident in Counseling who is here to guide, support, and empower you every step of the way on your journey towards healing. I work with children ages 4 & up, adolescents, adults, individuals, groups, couples, and families to explore strategies to navigate challenges, develop coping mechanisms, and build a strong foundation for your mental and emotional well-being.
My approach to counseling is eclectic and incorporates person-centered, strength-based, trauma-focused, and play-based interventions.
Imagine a space where you can be your authentic self, express your deepest concerns without fear, where your thoughts and feelings matter, and where your experiences are acknowledged and respected. I am a Resident in Counseling who is here to guide, support, and empower you every step of the way on your journey towards healing. I work with children ages 4 & up, adolescents, adults, individuals, groups, couples, and families to explore strategies to navigate challenges, develop coping mechanisms, and build a strong foundation for your mental and emotional well-being.
(757) 780-1176 View (757) 780-1176
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.