Photo of Melanie Crofts, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Utah
Melanie Crofts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Life is full of challenges, and my clients often feel overwhelmed and unsure how to manage. I provide a safe space for reflection and practical skill-building to help manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, and trauma related to work, school, relationships, or past experiences.
Life is full of challenges, and my clients often feel overwhelmed and unsure how to manage. I provide a safe space for reflection and practical skill-building to help manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, and trauma related to work, school, relationships, or past experiences.
(385) 406-2630 View (385) 406-2630
Photo of Tavish Hubbard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Utah
Tavish Hubbard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Murray, UT 84107
I have experience in mood disorders, substance use, trauma in many forms, and attachment issues.
Life is overwhelming sometimes. Often, we don't know what is wrong and we just know things aren't the way we want them. We want to enjoy the present moment fully. We want to be able to think about the past without crawling into a hole. We want to be able to think about the future without panic. We want healthy, deep connections to those we love. But when we are in the darkness, it feels impossible to find the way out! The truth is we aren't supposed to have all the answers ourselves.
I have experience in mood disorders, substance use, trauma in many forms, and attachment issues.
Life is overwhelming sometimes. Often, we don't know what is wrong and we just know things aren't the way we want them. We want to enjoy the present moment fully. We want to be able to think about the past without crawling into a hole. We want to be able to think about the future without panic. We want healthy, deep connections to those we love. But when we are in the darkness, it feels impossible to find the way out! The truth is we aren't supposed to have all the answers ourselves.
(385) 422-8534 View (385) 422-8534
Photo of Mountain View Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Utah
Mountain View Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ogden, UT 84404  (Online Only)
Additionally I work with people who are recovering from trauma, in life transition (divorce, serious and chronic illness) or want to address end of life issues.
I believe that you can have a great life no matter the issues and feelings you currently have. This possibility may be hard to imagine now, but that is what I help you do. My job is to help you clarify what you want and then to achieve this. We all have a "wise mind" and heart in us. The wise mind can become obscured by stress and circumstance, but this is what you come to therapy to discover. With encouragement and support, you can learn to trust your path and solve whatever your current problems are. I work with motivated people who want to improve their lives.
Additionally I work with people who are recovering from trauma, in life transition (divorce, serious and chronic illness) or want to address end of life issues.
I believe that you can have a great life no matter the issues and feelings you currently have. This possibility may be hard to imagine now, but that is what I help you do. My job is to help you clarify what you want and then to achieve this. We all have a "wise mind" and heart in us. The wise mind can become obscured by stress and circumstance, but this is what you come to therapy to discover. With encouragement and support, you can learn to trust your path and solve whatever your current problems are. I work with motivated people who want to improve their lives.
(307) 413-5803 View (307) 413-5803
Photo of Bobbie Pugh, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Utah
Bobbie Pugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Springville, UT 84663
Working with someone who understands child/teenage development, mood/emotional/behavior issues, and trauma can make all the difference.
Your child means the world to you. You’ve worked and invested so much throughout the years for their benefit and well being. Despite all the planning and parenting preparation you did, there are somethings that you weren’t prepared for: Constant arguments at home and meltdowns. Emails/calls from the school of your child struggling with focus and sitting still. A child that worries and is scared so much of the time. When your teenager says to their friends “I just want to die.” How to help your child through big life changes such as divorce, a move, or the death of a loved one. Or, if someone has purposely hurt him/her.
Working with someone who understands child/teenage development, mood/emotional/behavior issues, and trauma can make all the difference.
Your child means the world to you. You’ve worked and invested so much throughout the years for their benefit and well being. Despite all the planning and parenting preparation you did, there are somethings that you weren’t prepared for: Constant arguments at home and meltdowns. Emails/calls from the school of your child struggling with focus and sitting still. A child that worries and is scared so much of the time. When your teenager says to their friends “I just want to die.” How to help your child through big life changes such as divorce, a move, or the death of a loved one. Or, if someone has purposely hurt him/her.
(801) 821-4061 View (801) 821-4061
Photo of Jennifer Ruggeri, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Utah
Jennifer Ruggeri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTMH, CCTP
Verified Verified
Midvale, UT 84047  (Online Only)
We are seeing more and more individuals who experience varying level of trauma from bullying at school, or in the workplace, as well as spiritual trauma from religious experiences.
My specialty is treating clients suffering from depression and anxiety, I am passionate about helping those who suffer from varying mental health issues. I am fully aware of the impact that living with mental health issues can take on an individual’s life. I believe in helping patients regain control in their lives in order to live their best life. Depression comes in many shapes and sizes from severe to high functioning, all forms of depression can be treatable and I believe that by working together we can come up with a treatment plan to help you feel more like yourself again.
We are seeing more and more individuals who experience varying level of trauma from bullying at school, or in the workplace, as well as spiritual trauma from religious experiences.
My specialty is treating clients suffering from depression and anxiety, I am passionate about helping those who suffer from varying mental health issues. I am fully aware of the impact that living with mental health issues can take on an individual’s life. I believe in helping patients regain control in their lives in order to live their best life. Depression comes in many shapes and sizes from severe to high functioning, all forms of depression can be treatable and I believe that by working together we can come up with a treatment plan to help you feel more like yourself again.
(385) 255-7881 View (385) 255-7881
Photo of Dani Green At Rise Therapy And Coaching, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Utah
Dani Green At Rise Therapy And Coaching
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint George, UT 84790
Understanding this and working with the client to guide the process, healing from trauma is possible and sustainable.
At some point, we may find ourselves in a position that throws us off track with no idea how to move forward. I have personally experienced situations where I needed expert help to guide me through the maze in a way where I emerged resilient and empowered. I specialize in trauma, as it seems that almost everyone has experienced trauma at some point in life. It is helpful to understand how trauma is processed by the brain and the body in a completely different way from processing a healthy, happy experience.
Understanding this and working with the client to guide the process, healing from trauma is possible and sustainable.
At some point, we may find ourselves in a position that throws us off track with no idea how to move forward. I have personally experienced situations where I needed expert help to guide me through the maze in a way where I emerged resilient and empowered. I specialize in trauma, as it seems that almost everyone has experienced trauma at some point in life. It is helpful to understand how trauma is processed by the brain and the body in a completely different way from processing a healthy, happy experience.
(435) 383-2450 View (435) 383-2450
Photo of Samantha Stinnett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Utah
Samantha Stinnett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Provo, UT 84604
I care very deeply, and I work hard to create a safe space in therapy where you feel heard and a part of the change process. My person-centered and trauma-informed approach to therapy allows me to adapt to your specific needs in the therapeutic space.
I care very deeply, and I work hard to create a safe space in therapy where you feel heard and a part of the change process. My person-centered and trauma-informed approach to therapy allows me to adapt to your specific needs in the therapeutic space.
(385) 999-2434 View (385) 999-2434
Photo of Michelle Pomeroy, Diagonal House Family Therapy , Marriage & Family Therapist in Utah
Michelle Pomeroy, Diagonal House Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Sandy, UT 84070
She is also trained in EMDR, an effective intervention for mild to severe trauma.
At Diagonal House Family Therapy, we are a team of therapists who specialize in relationships of all kinds. We prioritize understanding our clients, offering an authentic and non-judgmental space for growth. Some things our clients face include feeling lonely in their marriage, broken trust after infidelity, mixed-faith dynamics, LGBTQ+ issues, poor communication, loved ones with mental health struggles, grief, and sexual issues. In short, we help individuals, couples and families do relationships better so they become a resource to navigate life rather than a source of pain.
She is also trained in EMDR, an effective intervention for mild to severe trauma.
At Diagonal House Family Therapy, we are a team of therapists who specialize in relationships of all kinds. We prioritize understanding our clients, offering an authentic and non-judgmental space for growth. Some things our clients face include feeling lonely in their marriage, broken trust after infidelity, mixed-faith dynamics, LGBTQ+ issues, poor communication, loved ones with mental health struggles, grief, and sexual issues. In short, we help individuals, couples and families do relationships better so they become a resource to navigate life rather than a source of pain.
(385) 374-9855 View (385) 374-9855
Photo of Lauren Christensen, Counselor in Utah
Lauren Christensen
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Lindon, UT 84042
We will learn to notice your past/present pain, then through various trauma modalities we will learn to remove the pain/emotion without changing the memory.
In the Disney Movie, The Lion King, Rafiki the wise monkey says, “Oh yes, the past can hurt. But the way I see it, you can either run from it or learn from it.” Being an avid Harry Potter, Disney fan has taught me a lot of things in my life. I have been a therapist for over 10 + years. I specialize in all types of traumas (i.e. family or origins, bullying, chronic health, divorce, adjustment issues, life change, grief, to all types of abuse and harm), depression, addiction, and anxiety. I work with individuals, families, couples, the LGTBQIA+ community, first responders/military, and ages 6-96+.
We will learn to notice your past/present pain, then through various trauma modalities we will learn to remove the pain/emotion without changing the memory.
In the Disney Movie, The Lion King, Rafiki the wise monkey says, “Oh yes, the past can hurt. But the way I see it, you can either run from it or learn from it.” Being an avid Harry Potter, Disney fan has taught me a lot of things in my life. I have been a therapist for over 10 + years. I specialize in all types of traumas (i.e. family or origins, bullying, chronic health, divorce, adjustment issues, life change, grief, to all types of abuse and harm), depression, addiction, and anxiety. I work with individuals, families, couples, the LGTBQIA+ community, first responders/military, and ages 6-96+.
(385) 462-7454 View (385) 462-7454
Photo of Becky Anderson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Utah
Becky Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Herriman, UT 84096
I will often use IFS with EMDR which gives a client space between them and their trauma and makes it easier for them to progress.
Therapy is a safe place to allow yourself to feel and gain insight to your life and your personal journey. It is a place to work through limiting beliefs and negative behavioral patterns that stop us from progressing toward the life we dream of. In Therapy, we work on long and short-term goals, help you build deeper relationships, and strengthen communication in all areas of your life. Together, we will identify your strengths and use them to address challenging areas in your life. This leads to change and growth which promotes healing.
I will often use IFS with EMDR which gives a client space between them and their trauma and makes it easier for them to progress.
Therapy is a safe place to allow yourself to feel and gain insight to your life and your personal journey. It is a place to work through limiting beliefs and negative behavioral patterns that stop us from progressing toward the life we dream of. In Therapy, we work on long and short-term goals, help you build deeper relationships, and strengthen communication in all areas of your life. Together, we will identify your strengths and use them to address challenging areas in your life. This leads to change and growth which promotes healing.
(385) 250-1372 View (385) 250-1372
Photo of Erin Lincoln, Counselor in Utah
Erin Lincoln
Counselor, MS, ACMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Provo, UT 84604
Counseling has always been that one unique ability of mine that I felt was a higher calling. The encouragement I get from watching clients meet major milestones continues to increase my passion as a therapist. I am a firm believer that there is no shame in asking for help. Regardless of how major or minor your struggle may be, having someone to talk to makes a massive difference. As a therapist, I strive to provide a nonjudgmental environment that allows clients to feel safe and secure. I work with anxiety, depression, loss, and trauma, in addition to youth, couples, LGBTQ+, and individuals.
Counseling has always been that one unique ability of mine that I felt was a higher calling. The encouragement I get from watching clients meet major milestones continues to increase my passion as a therapist. I am a firm believer that there is no shame in asking for help. Regardless of how major or minor your struggle may be, having someone to talk to makes a massive difference. As a therapist, I strive to provide a nonjudgmental environment that allows clients to feel safe and secure. I work with anxiety, depression, loss, and trauma, in addition to youth, couples, LGBTQ+, and individuals.
(385) 483-3134 View (385) 483-3134
Photo of Emerald Baker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Utah
Emerald Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
My training and experience is in OCD and anxiety related disorders, substance use disorders, depression, and trauma.
I know that each person has such strength inside of them that they can create the life that they have been searching for. Together we will explore new and different avenues and I will guide you in an evidence-based approach in developing skills and empowering you as an individual. Often we go through the cycles each day and feel like we have lost control over our own lives. I am excited to walk beside you as you find your unique potential. I work well with both adults and teens with OCD, Anxiety Depression, PANS and PANDAS, and trauma related concerns.
My training and experience is in OCD and anxiety related disorders, substance use disorders, depression, and trauma.
I know that each person has such strength inside of them that they can create the life that they have been searching for. Together we will explore new and different avenues and I will guide you in an evidence-based approach in developing skills and empowering you as an individual. Often we go through the cycles each day and feel like we have lost control over our own lives. I am excited to walk beside you as you find your unique potential. I work well with both adults and teens with OCD, Anxiety Depression, PANS and PANDAS, and trauma related concerns.
(385) 279-5509 View (385) 279-5509
Photo of Jodi Williamson, Pre-Licensed Professional in Utah
Jodi Williamson
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lehi, UT 84043
I can help with issues such as depression and other mood disorders, anxiety and fear, grief and loss, trauma, parenting and divorce-related problems, among others.
I believe that we all have a deep well of wisdom within us and that as my therapy client, you have the ability within you to change your life. My job is to help you access your existing inner strength and wisdom so you can change your life course toward what you really want. I have a deep compassion for the pain you’re experiencing and I use a collaborative approach so that we can work together as a team on your healing journey. I truly enjoy working with a wide variety of age groups and populations.
I can help with issues such as depression and other mood disorders, anxiety and fear, grief and loss, trauma, parenting and divorce-related problems, among others.
I believe that we all have a deep well of wisdom within us and that as my therapy client, you have the ability within you to change your life. My job is to help you access your existing inner strength and wisdom so you can change your life course toward what you really want. I have a deep compassion for the pain you’re experiencing and I use a collaborative approach so that we can work together as a team on your healing journey. I truly enjoy working with a wide variety of age groups and populations.
(801) 758-2623 View (801) 758-2623
Photo of Irene Bradford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Utah
Irene Bradford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
I am fully certified in EMDR, a trauma centered therapy.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress or feeling like you're not coping as well as you once did? Maybe these feelings are a result of a major (or minor) life change, a relationship problem, or you have struggled for some time & know that it's time to get help. It can be difficult to place faith in a stranger, & beginning therapy can be awkward or even scary. However, couples & individuals who I have worked with have experienced a greater sense of purpose, an improved sense of self, and better relationships. I have helped my clients cultivate healthy relationships & break out of dysfunctional patterns.
I am fully certified in EMDR, a trauma centered therapy.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by stress or feeling like you're not coping as well as you once did? Maybe these feelings are a result of a major (or minor) life change, a relationship problem, or you have struggled for some time & know that it's time to get help. It can be difficult to place faith in a stranger, & beginning therapy can be awkward or even scary. However, couples & individuals who I have worked with have experienced a greater sense of purpose, an improved sense of self, and better relationships. I have helped my clients cultivate healthy relationships & break out of dysfunctional patterns.
(801) 405-3904 View (801) 405-3904
Photo of Allie Kate Lee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Utah
Allie Kate Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
I am passionate about processing trauma and gaining full understanding of the impacts of those experiences in client’s current life situations.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience working in various settings. I specialize in working with adolescents, adults, couples, and complex family systems. I have extensive experience working with co-occurring disorders. I utilize concepts from DBT, MBB, ACT, MI, psychodrama, and experiential techniques to assist you in positive changes and life outcomes. I truly believe everyone can find happiness in their lives through vulnerability and connection. I strive to create a safe space where you can tell me anything without fear of shame or judgement. I am here to listen so you can feel seen and heard.
I am passionate about processing trauma and gaining full understanding of the impacts of those experiences in client’s current life situations.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 10 years of experience working in various settings. I specialize in working with adolescents, adults, couples, and complex family systems. I have extensive experience working with co-occurring disorders. I utilize concepts from DBT, MBB, ACT, MI, psychodrama, and experiential techniques to assist you in positive changes and life outcomes. I truly believe everyone can find happiness in their lives through vulnerability and connection. I strive to create a safe space where you can tell me anything without fear of shame or judgement. I am here to listen so you can feel seen and heard.
(385) 483-3265 View (385) 483-3265
Photo of Ana Lia Borges, Marriage & Family Therapist in Utah
Ana Lia Borges
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Murray, UT 84121
Ana grew up in Mendoza, Argentina in a city with a landscape and four seasons, just like Utah. This came with a gift, she speaks Spanish, and is trying very hard to learn Portuguese (for now she can understand it very well). Ana earned her bachelor’s degree at the Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, in Argentina and her master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) at Argosy University, the Draper, Utah campus. Before becoming a therapist, Ana was a music teacher and she loved working with children and teenagers. Ana’s therapeutic approaches are rooted in Solution-Focused Therapy and Trauma Focused-CBT (TF-CBT).
Ana grew up in Mendoza, Argentina in a city with a landscape and four seasons, just like Utah. This came with a gift, she speaks Spanish, and is trying very hard to learn Portuguese (for now she can understand it very well). Ana earned her bachelor’s degree at the Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, in Argentina and her master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT) at Argosy University, the Draper, Utah campus. Before becoming a therapist, Ana was a music teacher and she loved working with children and teenagers. Ana’s therapeutic approaches are rooted in Solution-Focused Therapy and Trauma Focused-CBT (TF-CBT).
(385) 247-0199 View (385) 247-0199
Photo of Kathleen Fitzwilliam Lakey, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Utah
Kathleen Fitzwilliam Lakey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
I identify as a trauma specialist but also a generalist working with anxiety and depression based challenges and relational difficulties.
Therapy can be a significant help in finding relief from difficult feelings such as anger, grief, or sadness. Therapy is also an effective tool in finding solutions and confidence in difficult relationships, or with behaviors that you or a loved one may be struggling with. I acknowledge the courage it can take to seek assistance, as a therapist I always focus on clients strengths. I often work with adults coping with anxiety and depression, relationship difficulties, or various types of PTSD. I take a special interest in working with various types of trauma, dissociation, and dissociative disorders in adults.
I identify as a trauma specialist but also a generalist working with anxiety and depression based challenges and relational difficulties.
Therapy can be a significant help in finding relief from difficult feelings such as anger, grief, or sadness. Therapy is also an effective tool in finding solutions and confidence in difficult relationships, or with behaviors that you or a loved one may be struggling with. I acknowledge the courage it can take to seek assistance, as a therapist I always focus on clients strengths. I often work with adults coping with anxiety and depression, relationship difficulties, or various types of PTSD. I take a special interest in working with various types of trauma, dissociation, and dissociative disorders in adults.
(385) 207-2117 View (385) 207-2117
Photo of Lisa Renda, Marriage & Family Therapist in Utah
Lisa Renda
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hurricane, UT 84737
I have personal experience living in relationships affected by PTSD, ADHD and problematic sexual behavior concerns.
Do you need hope that your life can improve? Are you having the same go no-where arguments with the ones you love? Are those arguments with yourself? I help clients feel hopeful as they discover greater satisfaction in their personal and sexual relationships. I can help you to find and use your strengths to get un-stuck. My work and training for last 17 years has focused on complex PTSD, attachment, neurobiology and addiction. I am trained in Somatic Experiencing, a unique and evidenced based form of psychotherapy to treat trauma. If you have tried EMDR and found it minimally helpful, this may be a good approach for you.
I have personal experience living in relationships affected by PTSD, ADHD and problematic sexual behavior concerns.
Do you need hope that your life can improve? Are you having the same go no-where arguments with the ones you love? Are those arguments with yourself? I help clients feel hopeful as they discover greater satisfaction in their personal and sexual relationships. I can help you to find and use your strengths to get un-stuck. My work and training for last 17 years has focused on complex PTSD, attachment, neurobiology and addiction. I am trained in Somatic Experiencing, a unique and evidenced based form of psychotherapy to treat trauma. If you have tried EMDR and found it minimally helpful, this may be a good approach for you.
(435) 244-6129 View (435) 244-6129
Photo of True Self Counseling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Utah
True Self Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Life is hard. It just is. At some point, you may have felt like you've lost sight of who you are and what you want. Whether that's due to mental illness, trauma, low self-worth, relationship challenges, or unexpected life changes, sometimes you just need someone to help guide and be present with you through the struggle. At True Self Counseling, we work with children, teens, and adults, and specialize in working with trauma, life transitions, mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety disorders, faith transitions, and LGBTQ+ issues. We believe each individual has within them the ability to heal, grow, thrive, and embrace their true selves.
Life is hard. It just is. At some point, you may have felt like you've lost sight of who you are and what you want. Whether that's due to mental illness, trauma, low self-worth, relationship challenges, or unexpected life changes, sometimes you just need someone to help guide and be present with you through the struggle. At True Self Counseling, we work with children, teens, and adults, and specialize in working with trauma, life transitions, mood disorders, ADHD, anxiety disorders, faith transitions, and LGBTQ+ issues. We believe each individual has within them the ability to heal, grow, thrive, and embrace their true selves.
(385) 412-8335 View (385) 412-8335
Photo of Melissa Larson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Utah
Melissa Larson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LAMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint George, UT 84790
My areas of interest include anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relational conflict, parenting struggles, and trauma.
I commend you on taking this courageous step towards change. Life is meant to be enjoyed, not just endured. I am a strength-based, client-centered therapist who looks forward to seeing what you bring to the table. I love to help clients rediscover their strengths and skills as they overcome their challenges in life. I strive to provide a comfortable, safe, and secure space where you can feel cared for and empowered while utilizing your existing skills, as well as learning new skills to help build your self-confidence and increase your emotional well-being.
My areas of interest include anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relational conflict, parenting struggles, and trauma.
I commend you on taking this courageous step towards change. Life is meant to be enjoyed, not just endured. I am a strength-based, client-centered therapist who looks forward to seeing what you bring to the table. I love to help clients rediscover their strengths and skills as they overcome their challenges in life. I strive to provide a comfortable, safe, and secure space where you can feel cared for and empowered while utilizing your existing skills, as well as learning new skills to help build your self-confidence and increase your emotional well-being.
(435) 334-2019 View (435) 334-2019
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.