Photo of Lanika Wilson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bel Air, MD
Lanika Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21014
I specialize in working with preteens, teens and adults using traditional talk therapy and incorporating a variety of treatments when needed, including CBT, DBT, mindfulness and trauma-focused CBT.
Have you been feeling stuck with emotional pain from traumatic experiences or life stressors/transitions and keep ignoring the signs? The difficult thoughts, feelings, and unexplained behaviors (frequent crying, difficulty sleeping, nightmares, poor appetite, self-harm, trouble concentrating, isolation, etc...) that are keeping you from becoming the best version of yourself. This may seem difficult but you are not alone. I have experience working in a school-based and outpatient clinical setting. I welcome you and will support you in this journey of choosing YOU! It is never too late for change!
I specialize in working with preteens, teens and adults using traditional talk therapy and incorporating a variety of treatments when needed, including CBT, DBT, mindfulness and trauma-focused CBT.
Have you been feeling stuck with emotional pain from traumatic experiences or life stressors/transitions and keep ignoring the signs? The difficult thoughts, feelings, and unexplained behaviors (frequent crying, difficulty sleeping, nightmares, poor appetite, self-harm, trouble concentrating, isolation, etc...) that are keeping you from becoming the best version of yourself. This may seem difficult but you are not alone. I have experience working in a school-based and outpatient clinical setting. I welcome you and will support you in this journey of choosing YOU! It is never too late for change!
(410) 453-8995 View (410) 453-8995
Photo of Tylethea Mathis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bel Air, MD
Tylethea Mathis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CTP
Verified Verified
Bel Air, MD 21014  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have a passion to advocate for adolescence/adults who find it difficult to articulate their needs due to c-PTSD, PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
Every day we have a choice in life, do we repeat or evolve? Working together, we will create a treatment plan to help you live your best life. A motivated adolescent or adult can successfully change their perceptions regarding their trauma, anxiety, and/or depression through detailed, science-based exercises that will help them create attainable goals and master techniques to create lasting behavioral change. An ideal client will commit to and engage in consistent therapy and is willing to identify what is important to them for growth and life success.
I have a passion to advocate for adolescence/adults who find it difficult to articulate their needs due to c-PTSD, PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
Every day we have a choice in life, do we repeat or evolve? Working together, we will create a treatment plan to help you live your best life. A motivated adolescent or adult can successfully change their perceptions regarding their trauma, anxiety, and/or depression through detailed, science-based exercises that will help them create attainable goals and master techniques to create lasting behavioral change. An ideal client will commit to and engage in consistent therapy and is willing to identify what is important to them for growth and life success.
(410) 498-8160 View (410) 498-8160
Photo of Michelle A. Perry, Psychologist in Bel Air, MD
Michelle A. Perry
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21014
Today is the day to start your journey towards greater fulfillment! I have exceptional experience with trauma, anxiety, as well as chronic pain & grief with military and civilian populations.
My approach to therapy emphasizes insight, healing, and empowerment to help individuals reach their highest potential and lead more gratifying lives. Through an alliance of trust and collaboration, we will work together to disentangle confusing thoughts, feelings and behaviors in order to re-discover your capacity to make meaningful choices that are right for you and your relationships. My work focuses on facilitating change, transformation, and personal growth in a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental environment. I believe that we each have the innate capacity to heal and reach our true potential.
Today is the day to start your journey towards greater fulfillment! I have exceptional experience with trauma, anxiety, as well as chronic pain & grief with military and civilian populations.
My approach to therapy emphasizes insight, healing, and empowerment to help individuals reach their highest potential and lead more gratifying lives. Through an alliance of trust and collaboration, we will work together to disentangle confusing thoughts, feelings and behaviors in order to re-discover your capacity to make meaningful choices that are right for you and your relationships. My work focuses on facilitating change, transformation, and personal growth in a safe, confidential, and non-judgmental environment. I believe that we each have the innate capacity to heal and reach our true potential.
(410) 618-0825 View (410) 618-0825
Photo of Monika E Preston, Counselor in Bel Air, MD
Monika E Preston
Counselor, LCPC, CCTP, CCTHP, NCC
Verified Verified
Bel Air, MD 21014  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In addition to my Masters degree in Counseling Psychology, I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional CCTP.
Hello! You are here, looking for a therapist, you are taking the first important step towards healing! "The wound is where the light enters you" - Rumi. I believe that there is always hope, even in the most difficult circumstances. I compassionately will support your journey as you work towards self-understanding, healing and growth; focusing on living your life with purpose, meaning, and fulfillment.
In addition to my Masters degree in Counseling Psychology, I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional CCTP.
Hello! You are here, looking for a therapist, you are taking the first important step towards healing! "The wound is where the light enters you" - Rumi. I believe that there is always hope, even in the most difficult circumstances. I compassionately will support your journey as you work towards self-understanding, healing and growth; focusing on living your life with purpose, meaning, and fulfillment.
(410) 609-9571 View (410) 609-9571
Photo of Karen Jean Albright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bel Air, MD
Karen Jean Albright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bel Air, MD 21014  (Online Only)
Much of my work includes treating, addiction, trauma, PSTD, anxiety, depression, developmental, and behavioral issues.
Hello, I understand that while the idea therapy can be scary and overwhelming, the reality is, it does not have to be. I believe counseling is a partnership where the ultimate goal is improving one's quality of life.
Much of my work includes treating, addiction, trauma, PSTD, anxiety, depression, developmental, and behavioral issues.
Hello, I understand that while the idea therapy can be scary and overwhelming, the reality is, it does not have to be. I believe counseling is a partnership where the ultimate goal is improving one's quality of life.
(443) 417-1834 View (443) 417-1834
Photo of Donica Harper, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Bel Air, MD
Donica Harper
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21015
My clinical interests include trauma/grief counseling, PTSD, racial disparities and conflict, sexual identity, couples counseling, and attachment issues.
Are you feeling invisible? Angry about a breakup? Have you recently experienced a loss/death? Do you feel misunderstood? Are you experiencing more pain, burnout, and/or fatigue than normal? Does your adolescent need extra support? Is your family/relationship falling apart? If your answer to any of these questions is "Yes," or even if you have questions of your own, it may be time to reach out and talk through those thoughts and feelings. I would be delighted to be the person you reach out to.
My clinical interests include trauma/grief counseling, PTSD, racial disparities and conflict, sexual identity, couples counseling, and attachment issues.
Are you feeling invisible? Angry about a breakup? Have you recently experienced a loss/death? Do you feel misunderstood? Are you experiencing more pain, burnout, and/or fatigue than normal? Does your adolescent need extra support? Is your family/relationship falling apart? If your answer to any of these questions is "Yes," or even if you have questions of your own, it may be time to reach out and talk through those thoughts and feelings. I would be delighted to be the person you reach out to.
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Photo of Randi Robbins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bel Air, MD
Randi Robbins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21014  (Online Only)
“It wasn’t that bad. I should get over it.” Does that sound familiar? Many people shame themselves for being hurt by the past. Shame doesn’t stop the suffering, regardless of what caused that pain. I am a therapist committed to helping people overcome stressful or traumatic experiences so that they can live better lives. Working with me involves finding the root of the problem, like when your inner critic first took hold, and weeding it out. I primarily use EMDR for this, which allows people to process the trauma without having to give details about it.
“It wasn’t that bad. I should get over it.” Does that sound familiar? Many people shame themselves for being hurt by the past. Shame doesn’t stop the suffering, regardless of what caused that pain. I am a therapist committed to helping people overcome stressful or traumatic experiences so that they can live better lives. Working with me involves finding the root of the problem, like when your inner critic first took hold, and weeding it out. I primarily use EMDR for this, which allows people to process the trauma without having to give details about it.
(667) 201-6225 View (667) 201-6225
Photo of Jennifer Stachowiak, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Bel Air, MD
Jennifer Stachowiak
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21014
Historically, I have seen clients from diverse populations and have had experience working with anxiety, trauma, and depression.
As a client-centered EMDR therapist, my approach to psychotherapy emphasizes the importance of empathy, understanding and acceptance. Every person deserves time to better understand themselves, with the help of a judgment free environment. I help to identify thoughts, feelings, and emotions that are experienced and work collaboratively to better understand and manage them. Together, we will make a commitment to strive for healing as well as personal growth and development.
Historically, I have seen clients from diverse populations and have had experience working with anxiety, trauma, and depression.
As a client-centered EMDR therapist, my approach to psychotherapy emphasizes the importance of empathy, understanding and acceptance. Every person deserves time to better understand themselves, with the help of a judgment free environment. I help to identify thoughts, feelings, and emotions that are experienced and work collaboratively to better understand and manage them. Together, we will make a commitment to strive for healing as well as personal growth and development.
(410) 469-8804 View (410) 469-8804
Photo of Mara Swan, Counselor in Bel Air, MD
Mara Swan
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21014
My specialties include PTSD, ADHD (6yrs old - adults) and Diagnostics.
This has been a very trying time for everyone. Taking the journey to improve selfcare can be a complex task but necessary for all of us. Reaching out takes courage. I provide a 15 minute phone consult of you would like to explore the counseling process. I look forward to assisting you in your journey toward balance and wellness.
My specialties include PTSD, ADHD (6yrs old - adults) and Diagnostics.
This has been a very trying time for everyone. Taking the journey to improve selfcare can be a complex task but necessary for all of us. Reaching out takes courage. I provide a 15 minute phone consult of you would like to explore the counseling process. I look forward to assisting you in your journey toward balance and wellness.
(443) 879-9941 View (443) 879-9941
Photo of Guided Hope Counseling, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bel Air, MD
Guided Hope Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21014
Guided Hope Counseling is dedicated to providing exceptional quality and highly accessible trauma-informed outpatient mental health care. At Guided Hope, we have therapists who specialize in the treatment of mental health issues such as Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, PTSD, Grief & Loss, Trauma, and more. Guided Hope also offers support and solutions for families working on marital issues, peaceful co-parenting, blended families, managing challenging behaviors in children, and supporting loved ones through challenging life transitions. We support all varieties of families and are sensitive to the needs of the LGBTQ community.
Guided Hope Counseling is dedicated to providing exceptional quality and highly accessible trauma-informed outpatient mental health care. At Guided Hope, we have therapists who specialize in the treatment of mental health issues such as Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, PTSD, Grief & Loss, Trauma, and more. Guided Hope also offers support and solutions for families working on marital issues, peaceful co-parenting, blended families, managing challenging behaviors in children, and supporting loved ones through challenging life transitions. We support all varieties of families and are sensitive to the needs of the LGBTQ community.
(410) 567-0279 View (410) 567-0279
Photo of The Center for Trauma Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bel Air, MD
The Center for Trauma Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21014
Feeling like your emotions have you instead of you having emotions? Always criticizing yourself? Snapping at your partner or your kids? Finding yourself people-pleasing? Can’t stop thinking about the bad things that have happened? Trying to ignore your suffering, shoving it down and bottling up the pain until you burst? Welcome. We’re here to help. “But it wasn’t that bad. It’s not trauma.” Whether or not anyone calls it trauma, pain is pain. If something happened that caused you stress or emotional harm, you may benefit from trauma therapy. No matter what happened, you deserve to heal. You deserve happiness.
Feeling like your emotions have you instead of you having emotions? Always criticizing yourself? Snapping at your partner or your kids? Finding yourself people-pleasing? Can’t stop thinking about the bad things that have happened? Trying to ignore your suffering, shoving it down and bottling up the pain until you burst? Welcome. We’re here to help. “But it wasn’t that bad. It’s not trauma.” Whether or not anyone calls it trauma, pain is pain. If something happened that caused you stress or emotional harm, you may benefit from trauma therapy. No matter what happened, you deserve to heal. You deserve happiness.
(443) 201-7737 View (443) 201-7737
Photo of Lindsey Weller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bel Air, MD
Lindsey Weller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Bel Air, MD 21014  (Online Only)
I specialize in treating individuals or couples, adults and adolescents 16+ with anxiety, OCD, trauma, depression, substance abuse, relationship issues, and PTSD but, I treat and work with many others.
Do you feel like you are not living your life to its full potential? Are you utilizing unhealthy coping strategies? If you are feeling unsure, worried, or not like yourself, you've come to the right place. I work with my clients to help them reach their optimal wellness. Together we reduce anxieties, build and mend relationships, and tackle anything life can throw at you. I use a strengths-based and solution-focused approach as well as a verity of techniques to meet each of my clients’ unique needs. www.Mindfulrecoverymd.com
I specialize in treating individuals or couples, adults and adolescents 16+ with anxiety, OCD, trauma, depression, substance abuse, relationship issues, and PTSD but, I treat and work with many others.
Do you feel like you are not living your life to its full potential? Are you utilizing unhealthy coping strategies? If you are feeling unsure, worried, or not like yourself, you've come to the right place. I work with my clients to help them reach their optimal wellness. Together we reduce anxieties, build and mend relationships, and tackle anything life can throw at you. I use a strengths-based and solution-focused approach as well as a verity of techniques to meet each of my clients’ unique needs. www.Mindfulrecoverymd.com
(410) 695-4355 View (410) 695-4355
Photo of Renee Bonifacio Richberg, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Bel Air, MD
Renee Bonifacio Richberg
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CMDP, CCATP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21015
Together, we will work collaboratively to deconstruct these behaviors using a solutions-focused, systems-based approach combined with a trauma-informed, humanistic perspective that will help you rediscover your purpose and become the best version of yourself!.
As we journey through life, we encounter obstacles and challenges through the interactions we have with our family, our friends, and our environment that shape our reactions to the world around us and impact our self-perception. We may be unaware of how these behaviors negatively impact our day to day interactions and functioning that may be hindering our potential, leading to existential crises and feelings of aimlessness and hopelessness.
Together, we will work collaboratively to deconstruct these behaviors using a solutions-focused, systems-based approach combined with a trauma-informed, humanistic perspective that will help you rediscover your purpose and become the best version of yourself!.
As we journey through life, we encounter obstacles and challenges through the interactions we have with our family, our friends, and our environment that shape our reactions to the world around us and impact our self-perception. We may be unaware of how these behaviors negatively impact our day to day interactions and functioning that may be hindering our potential, leading to existential crises and feelings of aimlessness and hopelessness.
(410) 226-7818 View (410) 226-7818
Photo of Madison Elie-Thompson, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Bel Air, MD
Madison Elie-Thompson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC, C-DBT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Bel Air, MD 21014  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Madison Elie-Thompson specializes in trauma informed care for first responders, veterans, health care professionals and adults (18+). Madison focuses on creating a safe space for you to grow, learn new skills, process trauma, and reach your goals. While trauma is Madison’s specialty, she is also well versed in a variety of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety and substance use. She is passionate about her work and values growth in all areas of her practice.
Madison Elie-Thompson specializes in trauma informed care for first responders, veterans, health care professionals and adults (18+). Madison focuses on creating a safe space for you to grow, learn new skills, process trauma, and reach your goals. While trauma is Madison’s specialty, she is also well versed in a variety of mental health concerns including depression, anxiety and substance use. She is passionate about her work and values growth in all areas of her practice.
(443) 300-8879 View (443) 300-8879
Photo of Jessica Sautter, Counselor in Bel Air, MD
Jessica Sautter
Counselor, LGPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bel Air, MD 21014
Waitlist for new clients
With more than 10 years of counseling experience, I have acquired extensive knowledge in assisting children, adolescents, and adults with issues related to anxiety/depression, PTSD, mood, and trauma-related disorders. I also have extensive experience working with older and disabled adults, including those with Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia and Veterans. I can help with an array of concerns, including but not limited to: improving coping skills, decreasing stressors, improving self-esteem, assistance with relationship issues, peer relationships, parenting skills, and family conflict.
With more than 10 years of counseling experience, I have acquired extensive knowledge in assisting children, adolescents, and adults with issues related to anxiety/depression, PTSD, mood, and trauma-related disorders. I also have extensive experience working with older and disabled adults, including those with Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia and Veterans. I can help with an array of concerns, including but not limited to: improving coping skills, decreasing stressors, improving self-esteem, assistance with relationship issues, peer relationships, parenting skills, and family conflict.
(443) 331-9385 View (443) 331-9385
Photo of Jessica Magrath, Counselor in Bel Air, MD
Jessica Magrath
Counselor, LGPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21014
Clients come to me looking for a therapist who understands the complexities of trauma and its lasting impact.
Do memories of the past keep you from living in the present moment? When we try to bury the past, it continues to show up in our relationships and deteriorates our mental health. When we carefully reprocess the memories with a skilled EMDR therapist, we can finally let go and truly live our authentic lives. You can learn to heal deep rooted trauma and shame and finally live the life you deserve. Through EMDR, we can heal trauma at its root in the nervous system and disengage the triggering response of traumatic memories. You deserve resolution. The life you want is ready for you to grab hold of it, and I can help you get there.
Clients come to me looking for a therapist who understands the complexities of trauma and its lasting impact.
Do memories of the past keep you from living in the present moment? When we try to bury the past, it continues to show up in our relationships and deteriorates our mental health. When we carefully reprocess the memories with a skilled EMDR therapist, we can finally let go and truly live our authentic lives. You can learn to heal deep rooted trauma and shame and finally live the life you deserve. Through EMDR, we can heal trauma at its root in the nervous system and disengage the triggering response of traumatic memories. You deserve resolution. The life you want is ready for you to grab hold of it, and I can help you get there.
(443) 360-5895 View (443) 360-5895
Photo of Gerrie Ann Stancik-Bender, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bel Air, MD
Gerrie Ann Stancik-Bender
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21015
I am experienced working with individuals who face challenges with anxiety, unresolved grief, trauma, perfectionism, infertility and life transitions.
I have a genuine belief in the power of therapy. It is both a privilege and an honor, to sit with people and hear their life stories because every person's story deserves to be heard. I believe in empowering, educating, challenging and supporting with empathy, compassion and understanding. Together we will explore the negative thoughts, perceptions and behaviors that are holding you back while we build on your strengths to help you attain the personal growth you envision. Our partnership is an opportunity to gain new insights and master skills that will provide the foundation for lasting transformative change
I am experienced working with individuals who face challenges with anxiety, unresolved grief, trauma, perfectionism, infertility and life transitions.
I have a genuine belief in the power of therapy. It is both a privilege and an honor, to sit with people and hear their life stories because every person's story deserves to be heard. I believe in empowering, educating, challenging and supporting with empathy, compassion and understanding. Together we will explore the negative thoughts, perceptions and behaviors that are holding you back while we build on your strengths to help you attain the personal growth you envision. Our partnership is an opportunity to gain new insights and master skills that will provide the foundation for lasting transformative change
(667) 201-6267 View (667) 201-6267
Photo of Premier Wellness Healthcare, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Bel Air, MD
Premier Wellness Healthcare
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW-C, LMSW
Verified Verified
Bel Air, MD 21014
Premier Wellness Healthcare has been serving patients since 2017 and has helped hundreds of individuals overcome various challenges such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD/ADD, life transitions, and postpartum depression.
Premier Wellness Healthcare has been serving patients since 2017 and has helped hundreds of individuals overcome various challenges such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD/ADD, life transitions, and postpartum depression.
(410) 401-1049 View (410) 401-1049
Photo of Gisele R Thompson, Counselor in Bel Air, MD
Gisele R Thompson
Counselor, CAC-AD, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bel Air, MD 21014
As a professional who has been working with people for over twenty years, it is my goal to help each client achieve their goals, not my way but in a way that is comfortable for the client so that success can be achieved. Are you someone who is concerned with anxiety and depression? Addictions? Grief? Issues of acceptance with gender preferences? Infidelity? Abuse and trauma? Parents? Kids? Spouse? We can work through this together. You are not alone in facing any of these issues. It is how you move forward that will be the key to your healing and wholeness. I look forward to meeting with you.
As a professional who has been working with people for over twenty years, it is my goal to help each client achieve their goals, not my way but in a way that is comfortable for the client so that success can be achieved. Are you someone who is concerned with anxiety and depression? Addictions? Grief? Issues of acceptance with gender preferences? Infidelity? Abuse and trauma? Parents? Kids? Spouse? We can work through this together. You are not alone in facing any of these issues. It is how you move forward that will be the key to your healing and wholeness. I look forward to meeting with you.
(410) 505-7304 View (410) 505-7304
Jennifer Kraus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bel Air, MD 21015
She has worked with individuals who have experienced challenges from ADHD, anxiety, ASD Alzheimer’s Disease, depression, Non-Verbal Learning disorder, and trauma.
Jennifer Kraus LCSW-C specializes in helping children and adults through numerous modalities. She sees the positives and strengths in all her clients. Jennifer takes a unique approach to support clients through their journey. She will incorporate a hands-on experiential technique which can include nature and animals. Strategies are often practiced in sessions and then applied outside of therapy. Jennifer has been certified through Natural Lifemanship and Equine Growth and Assisted Learning Association since 2014, and holds their Military Service Designation.
She has worked with individuals who have experienced challenges from ADHD, anxiety, ASD Alzheimer’s Disease, depression, Non-Verbal Learning disorder, and trauma.
Jennifer Kraus LCSW-C specializes in helping children and adults through numerous modalities. She sees the positives and strengths in all her clients. Jennifer takes a unique approach to support clients through their journey. She will incorporate a hands-on experiential technique which can include nature and animals. Strategies are often practiced in sessions and then applied outside of therapy. Jennifer has been certified through Natural Lifemanship and Equine Growth and Assisted Learning Association since 2014, and holds their Military Service Designation.
(410) 650-6315 View (410) 650-6315
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.