Photo of Samantha Cunningham, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Samantha Cunningham
Licensed Professional Counselor, ATR, LPC, SAC-IT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53718
When someone experiences or witness trauma it can become hard to verbally communicate.
Sometimes the journey of life will present challenges that are hard to face alone. As a licensed professional counselor and art therapist, I can walk alongside you with a creative approach on your healing journey. We will collaborate to increase self-compassion, foster resilience, set boundaries and diminish self-defeating thinking to help you live the life you want. I recognize the importance of creating a safe, supportive and non-judgemental environment to manifest growth and change.
When someone experiences or witness trauma it can become hard to verbally communicate.
Sometimes the journey of life will present challenges that are hard to face alone. As a licensed professional counselor and art therapist, I can walk alongside you with a creative approach on your healing journey. We will collaborate to increase self-compassion, foster resilience, set boundaries and diminish self-defeating thinking to help you live the life you want. I recognize the importance of creating a safe, supportive and non-judgemental environment to manifest growth and change.
(608) 802-7562 View (608) 802-7562
Photo of Steve Hable, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Steve Hable
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSE, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Oshkosh, WI 54901
My background is in sports psychology, trauma treatment, anxiety, depression and personality disorders, with intensive training in DBT, EMDR, CPT and Prolonged Exposure Therapy.
If life is a struggle and you feel like it is getting harder for you to do things you used to enjoy, I would love to help you get where you want to be. You deserve to be happy and live the life you are meant to live. Sometimes we may need someone to help us travel our path through life and walk with us. If you are anxious, depressed or wondering how you will ever get through your emotional storm, call me and I will ride the wave with you. You are worth the best I can give. The purpose of my life is to help you find meaning and purpose in yours. Your life is your story. Write well. Edit often.
My background is in sports psychology, trauma treatment, anxiety, depression and personality disorders, with intensive training in DBT, EMDR, CPT and Prolonged Exposure Therapy.
If life is a struggle and you feel like it is getting harder for you to do things you used to enjoy, I would love to help you get where you want to be. You deserve to be happy and live the life you are meant to live. Sometimes we may need someone to help us travel our path through life and walk with us. If you are anxious, depressed or wondering how you will ever get through your emotional storm, call me and I will ride the wave with you. You are worth the best I can give. The purpose of my life is to help you find meaning and purpose in yours. Your life is your story. Write well. Edit often.
(920) 645-0834 View (920) 645-0834
Photo of Trisha Broihahn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wisconsin
Trisha Broihahn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fitchburg, WI 53719
My goal for therapy is to provide women with a safe and confidential space to talk about hard things, reduce stress, heal from trauma, and discover inner strength.
The stress of being a woman in today’s society is significantly overlooked. We’re expected to excel in school, have full-time careers, raise a family, keep the house clean and the pantry stocked, make homecooked meals, keep up with society’s ever-changing standard of “beauty,” exercise and eat healthy, maintain a close group of friends, and have strong relationships with our partners. We do all this while battling intrusive thoughts of perfectionism, low-self worth, poor body image, and never-ending guilt. Even when we feel like we’re drowning and there’s nothing left of us to give, we continue to put other's first.
My goal for therapy is to provide women with a safe and confidential space to talk about hard things, reduce stress, heal from trauma, and discover inner strength.
The stress of being a woman in today’s society is significantly overlooked. We’re expected to excel in school, have full-time careers, raise a family, keep the house clean and the pantry stocked, make homecooked meals, keep up with society’s ever-changing standard of “beauty,” exercise and eat healthy, maintain a close group of friends, and have strong relationships with our partners. We do all this while battling intrusive thoughts of perfectionism, low-self worth, poor body image, and never-ending guilt. Even when we feel like we’re drowning and there’s nothing left of us to give, we continue to put other's first.
(515) 650-3051 View (515) 650-3051
Photo of Christen R Brockner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Christen R Brockner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Monona, WI 53713
I have trained in Theraplay, EMDR, TF-CBT, and am currently working to complete a certificate program in Trauma-Informed, Child-Parent Psychotherapy.
The narratives of life can leave us feeling rough and jagged. Sometimes we need someone to come alongside us as we navigate the rapids, and discover the beauty and new form waiting in still waters. I consider being a part of this process to be a privilege and an honor. I serve children birth-adolescence, families, and adults. I am able to address a variety of needs, with a specialization in serving those who have experienced trauma. I provide an encouraging, supportive, attuned, relationship-focused environment, that is mindful of culture, and, if desired, incorporates faith into the work.
I have trained in Theraplay, EMDR, TF-CBT, and am currently working to complete a certificate program in Trauma-Informed, Child-Parent Psychotherapy.
The narratives of life can leave us feeling rough and jagged. Sometimes we need someone to come alongside us as we navigate the rapids, and discover the beauty and new form waiting in still waters. I consider being a part of this process to be a privilege and an honor. I serve children birth-adolescence, families, and adults. I am able to address a variety of needs, with a specialization in serving those who have experienced trauma. I provide an encouraging, supportive, attuned, relationship-focused environment, that is mindful of culture, and, if desired, incorporates faith into the work.
(618) 408-1309 View (618) 408-1309
Photo of Katrina C Davis-Hicks, Marriage & Family Therapist in Wisconsin
Katrina C Davis-Hicks
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53202  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and although this is my specialty, I am trained to provide psychotherapy services for a variety of services including: grief, couples, family, individual, group, and marriage counseling. I have experience working with a multitude of different issues ranging from depression, post-traumatic stress, anxiety, trauma, career counseling, coaching, anger management, work-life issues/balance, etc. I feel that the client is the expert of their lives and my duty is to provide unbiased, and non-judgmental support. I offer a laid back approach in order to foster a peaceful therapeutic environment.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and although this is my specialty, I am trained to provide psychotherapy services for a variety of services including: grief, couples, family, individual, group, and marriage counseling. I have experience working with a multitude of different issues ranging from depression, post-traumatic stress, anxiety, trauma, career counseling, coaching, anger management, work-life issues/balance, etc. I feel that the client is the expert of their lives and my duty is to provide unbiased, and non-judgmental support. I offer a laid back approach in order to foster a peaceful therapeutic environment.
(414) 246-5663 View (414) 246-5663
Photo of Lori L Mcdaniel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Lori L Mcdaniel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hudson, WI 54016
My expertise lies in discovering the root cause of issues like trauma, anxiety and depression.
When life is challenging and we find ourselves in unfamiliar and stressful situations it is courageous to reach out for help with these struggles. I can walk you through the process of making changes to improve your approach to the struggle and help you find it’s origins. I work with individual adults struggling with trauma, parenting, divorce, spirituality and spiritual reconstruction. . My goal is that clients leave feeling heard, validated and able to look at their struggle with new eyes. I consider it a privilege to be invited into my clients lives.
My expertise lies in discovering the root cause of issues like trauma, anxiety and depression.
When life is challenging and we find ourselves in unfamiliar and stressful situations it is courageous to reach out for help with these struggles. I can walk you through the process of making changes to improve your approach to the struggle and help you find it’s origins. I work with individual adults struggling with trauma, parenting, divorce, spirituality and spiritual reconstruction. . My goal is that clients leave feeling heard, validated and able to look at their struggle with new eyes. I consider it a privilege to be invited into my clients lives.
(715) 602-0072 View (715) 602-0072
Photo of Emily Stephenson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Wisconsin
Emily Stephenson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Altoona, WI 54720
I work with Wisconsinites who struggle with depression, anxiety, life stressors, eating disorders, and trauma. I use an eclectic approach to bring a tailored approach to therapy because I realize what is helpful for one person may not be helpful for another. My goal in therapy is to understand my client's needs and to help my clients experience healing by understanding themselves better, improving their relationships, and improving coping skills.
I work with Wisconsinites who struggle with depression, anxiety, life stressors, eating disorders, and trauma. I use an eclectic approach to bring a tailored approach to therapy because I realize what is helpful for one person may not be helpful for another. My goal in therapy is to understand my client's needs and to help my clients experience healing by understanding themselves better, improving their relationships, and improving coping skills.
(715) 312-2470 View (715) 312-2470
Photo of Lisa Marie Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wisconsin
Lisa Marie Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Eau Claire, WI 54701
Specialty areas include: complex trauma, personality disorders, OCD, and thought disorders (i.
Welcome! I’m happy that you are taking that leap and exploring how therapy may be able to help you in your healing process. I would feel privileged to be entrusted with your story and to walk alongside you on that journey. I believe that connecting with your therapist is foundational for doing great work in therapy. Therefore, I try to connect with my clients in a casual, authentic way and create a safe environment for people to speak their truth. I believe that you are the expert on you! I will work with you to create goals that are important to you and based on your unique, individualized needs.
Specialty areas include: complex trauma, personality disorders, OCD, and thought disorders (i.
Welcome! I’m happy that you are taking that leap and exploring how therapy may be able to help you in your healing process. I would feel privileged to be entrusted with your story and to walk alongside you on that journey. I believe that connecting with your therapist is foundational for doing great work in therapy. Therefore, I try to connect with my clients in a casual, authentic way and create a safe environment for people to speak their truth. I believe that you are the expert on you! I will work with you to create goals that are important to you and based on your unique, individualized needs.
(715) 690-1912 View (715) 690-1912
Photo of Holly Doughty, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Holly Doughty
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Kaukauna, WI 54130
My specialties included chronic pain; relationships; anxiety; depression; and trauma treatment.
Hello! I am Holly Doughty, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I am a EMDR and DBT therapist. I am accepting new patients (adults, teens, kids). I have recently opened a new location in Kaukauna. Are you struggling with anxiety? Worried about others and what they are thinking? Asking yourself "what if" a lot? Are you feeling triggered by others? Questioning your relationships? Is someone in your life causing you distress in a relationship? Are you struggling but don't know what is causing it. I can help you and you are in the right place.
My specialties included chronic pain; relationships; anxiety; depression; and trauma treatment.
Hello! I am Holly Doughty, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I am a EMDR and DBT therapist. I am accepting new patients (adults, teens, kids). I have recently opened a new location in Kaukauna. Are you struggling with anxiety? Worried about others and what they are thinking? Asking yourself "what if" a lot? Are you feeling triggered by others? Questioning your relationships? Is someone in your life causing you distress in a relationship? Are you struggling but don't know what is causing it. I can help you and you are in the right place.
(920) 415-4416 View (920) 415-4416
Photo of Laura Hodges, Marriage & Family Therapist in Wisconsin
Laura Hodges
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
River Falls, WI 54022
Through a trauma informed, attachment theory and systems framework Laura utilizes traditional psychotherapy as well as evidence based therapies including Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
Laura is acutely aware that reaching out for therapy services in the midst of difficulty is an act of courage. She is encouraged that you have sought help and hopes that you find the information listed here informative as you make the best decision for this time in your life’s journey. This journey could mean individual work or it might mean that you include your partner/spouse or chosen family member(s) to join you in healing. Laura looks forward to walking alongside you during this time with encouragement as you move towards reaching your goals.
Through a trauma informed, attachment theory and systems framework Laura utilizes traditional psychotherapy as well as evidence based therapies including Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
Laura is acutely aware that reaching out for therapy services in the midst of difficulty is an act of courage. She is encouraged that you have sought help and hopes that you find the information listed here informative as you make the best decision for this time in your life’s journey. This journey could mean individual work or it might mean that you include your partner/spouse or chosen family member(s) to join you in healing. Laura looks forward to walking alongside you during this time with encouragement as you move towards reaching your goals.
(715) 200-8342 View (715) 200-8342
Photo of Golden Vibes Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Golden Vibes Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, SAC
Verified Verified
Madison, WI 53703  (Online Only)
My special interests involve serving transgender, non-binary, and other adult members of the LGBTQIA+ population, as well as adults struggling with the impacts of trauma and PTSD.
I decided to become a therapist because of my passion for helping others. My mission is to help others heal and grow. When people have a safe space to explore their concerns, the possibilities for healing and growth are endless. It is an honor for me to provide that space and empower others to identify the next steps in their journey. I facilitate a welcoming, safe, judgment-free zone. I promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. My approach is trauma-informed and culturally sensitive.
My special interests involve serving transgender, non-binary, and other adult members of the LGBTQIA+ population, as well as adults struggling with the impacts of trauma and PTSD.
I decided to become a therapist because of my passion for helping others. My mission is to help others heal and grow. When people have a safe space to explore their concerns, the possibilities for healing and growth are endless. It is an honor for me to provide that space and empower others to identify the next steps in their journey. I facilitate a welcoming, safe, judgment-free zone. I promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. My approach is trauma-informed and culturally sensitive.
(608) 509-7142 View (608) 509-7142
Photo of Chris Sommerfield, Marriage & Family Therapist in Wisconsin
Chris Sommerfield
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Baraboo, WI 53913
Are you feeling overwhelmed or struggling to relate with your significant other, spouse, adolescent, child or coworkers? Do you or a family member struggle with the effects of trauma, depression, anxiety, or other mental health condition? I have over twenty years of experience helping individuals of all ages and families who were experiencing crisis in their lives or seeking increased fulfillment in their relationships. My education and practice is based on a strong Systems Theory background where all life influences are considered important and significant others are encouraged to participate as part of the therapeutic process.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or struggling to relate with your significant other, spouse, adolescent, child or coworkers? Do you or a family member struggle with the effects of trauma, depression, anxiety, or other mental health condition? I have over twenty years of experience helping individuals of all ages and families who were experiencing crisis in their lives or seeking increased fulfillment in their relationships. My education and practice is based on a strong Systems Theory background where all life influences are considered important and significant others are encouraged to participate as part of the therapeutic process.
(608) 519-4738 View (608) 519-4738
Photo of Mercy Maxan Greenwald, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Wisconsin
Mercy Maxan Greenwald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53718
Clients that I see come from all sorts of backgrounds and present with diverse challenges and strengths. Many of the clients I work with are living with complex trauma, due to both the individual challenges they've faced in their lives, but also due to living in a society that has been structured to dehumanize and marginalize many people. I work with clients collaboratively, not only to see the ways in which they want to change behaviors/thoughts/patterns in how they are in the world, but also to develop resiliency and strength to face the systemic barriers that challenge their ability to live full and joyful lives.
Clients that I see come from all sorts of backgrounds and present with diverse challenges and strengths. Many of the clients I work with are living with complex trauma, due to both the individual challenges they've faced in their lives, but also due to living in a society that has been structured to dehumanize and marginalize many people. I work with clients collaboratively, not only to see the ways in which they want to change behaviors/thoughts/patterns in how they are in the world, but also to develop resiliency and strength to face the systemic barriers that challenge their ability to live full and joyful lives.
(608) 292-5863 View (608) 292-5863
Photo of Lindsay K. Sather, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Lindsay K. Sather
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hudson, WI 54016
My philosophy of care focuses on achieving genuine, real, and tangible goals for my clients. I strive to do this through a collaborative working relationship with my clients--using their values and ideas as our guide. I obtained my Bachelor's Degree and Master's Degree from the University of Wisconsin-Stout in Mental Health Counseling with concentrations in Eating Disorders and Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse (AODA). I have also completed all education to obtain my Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Certificate.
My philosophy of care focuses on achieving genuine, real, and tangible goals for my clients. I strive to do this through a collaborative working relationship with my clients--using their values and ideas as our guide. I obtained my Bachelor's Degree and Master's Degree from the University of Wisconsin-Stout in Mental Health Counseling with concentrations in Eating Disorders and Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse (AODA). I have also completed all education to obtain my Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Certificate.
(715) 802-2810 View (715) 802-2810
Photo of Betsy Byler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Betsy Byler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-SAS, ICS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Superior, WI 54880  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in trauma therapy (EMDR and TF-CBT) and as well as DBT skills and other more general types of therapy.
People often come to see me when things are huge mess in their lives and they need a calm and safe space to sort it out. Help them get unstuck and move forward. About half of the people I see are teenagers (14+) who aren't really fond of anyone right now (I love those ones). And the other half are adults. You'll find me to be fairly informal as a person, direct, kind and real. I've been doing therapy since 2003 and it's what I would do even if work wasn't a thing. Issues range from trauma, depression, anxiety and addiction.
I am trained in trauma therapy (EMDR and TF-CBT) and as well as DBT skills and other more general types of therapy.
People often come to see me when things are huge mess in their lives and they need a calm and safe space to sort it out. Help them get unstuck and move forward. About half of the people I see are teenagers (14+) who aren't really fond of anyone right now (I love those ones). And the other half are adults. You'll find me to be fairly informal as a person, direct, kind and real. I've been doing therapy since 2003 and it's what I would do even if work wasn't a thing. Issues range from trauma, depression, anxiety and addiction.
(715) 883-3240 View (715) 883-3240
Photo of Dr. Steven Charpentier, Psychologist in Wisconsin
Dr. Steven Charpentier
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
New Richmond, WI 54017
Waitlist for new clients
In addition to traditional talk therapy, I offer EMDR which can have powerful results for trauma disorders.
I am a Licensed Psychologist who provides therapy and psychological assessment/testing. In therapy, I use a variety of techniques that I tailor to the client and the issue being treated. However, research shows that the quality of the therapeutic relationship, not the technique used, has more to do with successful outcomes. This is why I prioritize establishing and maintaining a healthy connection and trust. I am passionate about treating veterans and first responders (and their families), those with trauma, OCD, anxiety, and depression. Regardless of the issue, I try to help clients find more meaning and connection in their life.
In addition to traditional talk therapy, I offer EMDR which can have powerful results for trauma disorders.
I am a Licensed Psychologist who provides therapy and psychological assessment/testing. In therapy, I use a variety of techniques that I tailor to the client and the issue being treated. However, research shows that the quality of the therapeutic relationship, not the technique used, has more to do with successful outcomes. This is why I prioritize establishing and maintaining a healthy connection and trust. I am passionate about treating veterans and first responders (and their families), those with trauma, OCD, anxiety, and depression. Regardless of the issue, I try to help clients find more meaning and connection in their life.
(715) 602-8506 View (715) 602-8506
Photo of Robin A Deethardt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Robin A Deethardt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Delavan, WI 53115
Life is journey. We all experience a myriad of ups and downs across our lifespan. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults in providing counseling services that foster understanding, personal challenges, personal resiliency, emotional healing and inner personal growth with solutions-based counseling that enhances quality of life with compassion and empathy. Our emotions can be indicators for development and life change. I enjoy providing EAP services and work with Compsych, Optum, and Kepro. I have extensive experience with complex trauma and crisis. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults and couples.
Life is journey. We all experience a myriad of ups and downs across our lifespan. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults in providing counseling services that foster understanding, personal challenges, personal resiliency, emotional healing and inner personal growth with solutions-based counseling that enhances quality of life with compassion and empathy. Our emotions can be indicators for development and life change. I enjoy providing EAP services and work with Compsych, Optum, and Kepro. I have extensive experience with complex trauma and crisis. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, adults and couples.
(262) 379-8413 x859774 View (262) 379-8413 x859774
Photo of Jovid Schuette, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Jovid Schuette
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Wausau, WI 54403
I specialize in helping others with trauma recovery and interpersonal relationships.
I enjoy offering assistance to those who are looking for ways to improve their relationships with themselves and their families. I help them do this by addressing their physical, mental, and spiritual needs.
I specialize in helping others with trauma recovery and interpersonal relationships.
I enjoy offering assistance to those who are looking for ways to improve their relationships with themselves and their families. I help them do this by addressing their physical, mental, and spiritual needs.
(715) 260-3841 View (715) 260-3841
Photo of Lakeside Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor in Wisconsin
Lakeside Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, WI 53718  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with stress in your daily life that keeps you awake at night or ongoing depression that prevents you from feeling motivated? Maybe you've experienced a significant loss or trauma that causes debilitating intrusive thoughts or flashbacks. Additionally, if you are struggling with the stress of university life, setting healthy boundaries, or communication with a partner or family member, we are here to help you explore what is keeping you stuck and find new ways of coping.
Are you struggling with stress in your daily life that keeps you awake at night or ongoing depression that prevents you from feeling motivated? Maybe you've experienced a significant loss or trauma that causes debilitating intrusive thoughts or flashbacks. Additionally, if you are struggling with the stress of university life, setting healthy boundaries, or communication with a partner or family member, we are here to help you explore what is keeping you stuck and find new ways of coping.
(608) 560-5533 View (608) 560-5533
Photo of Mind Body Spirit Program, Psychologist in Wisconsin
Mind Body Spirit Program
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Shorewood, WI 53211
Trauma, PTSD, panic, anxiety, eating disorders.
Immediate Appointments Available Visit www.mindbodyspiritprogram.com. We treat each client with the the respect and compassion they deserve. We work as a team to help each client accomplish their goals, fulfill their potential and live their best life. Each client has rheir own story and we collaboratively design a plan to accomplish success. We believe that providing a ZERO judgement zone is crucial. We will be your guide, mentor, and biggest cheerleader. Together we will accomplish your goals so you can live the life you were meant to live
Trauma, PTSD, panic, anxiety, eating disorders.
Immediate Appointments Available Visit www.mindbodyspiritprogram.com. We treat each client with the the respect and compassion they deserve. We work as a team to help each client accomplish their goals, fulfill their potential and live their best life. Each client has rheir own story and we collaboratively design a plan to accomplish success. We believe that providing a ZERO judgement zone is crucial. We will be your guide, mentor, and biggest cheerleader. Together we will accomplish your goals so you can live the life you were meant to live
(262) 217-7809 View (262) 217-7809
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.