Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Surrey, BC

Photo of Jane Whitlaw, RCC, Counsellor
Jane Whitlaw
Counsellor, RCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3Z
Importantly, I want to note that maintaining a trauma-informed perspective is integral to my practice, and I approach every new client with a deep understanding of how early life experiences have the potential to impact current, day-to-day functioning.
Hi. I’m Jane. I’m a registered clinical counsellor, working with both youth and adults. I offer in-person, virtual, and telephone counselling services to individuals and groups, and I specialize in the areas of trauma, addictions, relationships, and managing difficult emotions. In-person sessions embrace the organic healing properties of nature and equine-Partnered Psychotherapy is available. When folks choose me as their counsellor, they’re often seeking something different; a new experience. Many are facing challenges or wanting something to change in their lives. Perhaps this sounds like you but you aren’t sure where to start…
Importantly, I want to note that maintaining a trauma-informed perspective is integral to my practice, and I approach every new client with a deep understanding of how early life experiences have the potential to impact current, day-to-day functioning.
Hi. I’m Jane. I’m a registered clinical counsellor, working with both youth and adults. I offer in-person, virtual, and telephone counselling services to individuals and groups, and I specialize in the areas of trauma, addictions, relationships, and managing difficult emotions. In-person sessions embrace the organic healing properties of nature and equine-Partnered Psychotherapy is available. When folks choose me as their counsellor, they’re often seeking something different; a new experience. Many are facing challenges or wanting something to change in their lives. Perhaps this sounds like you but you aren’t sure where to start…
(289) 799-3736 View (289) 799-3736
Photo of Josette Marie Steel, MA, DVATI, CertA&D, CCC
Josette Marie Steel
MA, DVATI, CertA&D, CCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V4A  (Online Only)
I'm really glad you're here. Over the past 30 years I've supported a wide variety of people on their healing journey. Together, we have worked through issues around trauma (current, historic & generational) PTSD, addiction & recovery (including alcohol, drugs, food, sex, gaming, porn, shopping, relationships & gambling), sexuality & sexual orientation, anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, and bipolar disorder. I have also supported people who live differently-abled lives, including those living on the autism spectrum and with Downs Syndrome. Please check out my website &/or call/text/email, to get to know me better.
I'm really glad you're here. Over the past 30 years I've supported a wide variety of people on their healing journey. Together, we have worked through issues around trauma (current, historic & generational) PTSD, addiction & recovery (including alcohol, drugs, food, sex, gaming, porn, shopping, relationships & gambling), sexuality & sexual orientation, anxiety, depression, borderline personality disorder, and bipolar disorder. I have also supported people who live differently-abled lives, including those living on the autism spectrum and with Downs Syndrome. Please check out my website &/or call/text/email, to get to know me better.
(778) 960-1899 View (778) 960-1899
Photo of Ruth Patta - Dignity Counselling - Ruth Patta, MA, MFT, Counsellor
Dignity Counselling - Ruth Patta
Counsellor, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3V
Ruth Patta believes that people need to stay connected in meaningful and supportive relationships in order to effect change. Trained in systemic therapy she works from the premise that when one member hurts, the whole system/family hurts. To this end, she walks alongside her clients and holds their hand as they collaboratively unravel hidden possibilities and opportunities inherent in their struggles, challenges and pain. She does this by providing a warm nonjudgmental and safe therapeutic space for clients to explore change and growth. Areas of specialization include: Couples, Marriage and family counselling • Trauma Counselling
Ruth Patta believes that people need to stay connected in meaningful and supportive relationships in order to effect change. Trained in systemic therapy she works from the premise that when one member hurts, the whole system/family hurts. To this end, she walks alongside her clients and holds their hand as they collaboratively unravel hidden possibilities and opportunities inherent in their struggles, challenges and pain. She does this by providing a warm nonjudgmental and safe therapeutic space for clients to explore change and growth. Areas of specialization include: Couples, Marriage and family counselling • Trauma Counselling
(778) 860-4557 View (778) 860-4557
Photo of Tracey Gramm - Tracey Gramm - Inner Wisdom Counselling, BA, RTC, EXat, CDP, Counsellor
Tracey Gramm - Inner Wisdom Counselling
Counsellor, BA, RTC, EXat, CDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3S
Hello! Are you struggling with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, stress, burn out, depression, grief/loss, self -esteem or life transitions? I offer talk, somatic and expressive arts therapy for adults, seniors, children and teens. Focusing on the mind-body-heart connection, I take an integrative approach that is trauma-informed and fosters greater self-awareness through curiosity, acceptance and self-expression. Tuning into your intuition to discover more of who you authentically are… feeling more present, grounded and centered. I offer a safe supportive space to help you move past life challenges with greater purpose, direction and clarity.
Hello! Are you struggling with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, stress, burn out, depression, grief/loss, self -esteem or life transitions? I offer talk, somatic and expressive arts therapy for adults, seniors, children and teens. Focusing on the mind-body-heart connection, I take an integrative approach that is trauma-informed and fosters greater self-awareness through curiosity, acceptance and self-expression. Tuning into your intuition to discover more of who you authentically are… feeling more present, grounded and centered. I offer a safe supportive space to help you move past life challenges with greater purpose, direction and clarity.
(604) 210-7104 View (604) 210-7104
Photo of Dr. Paulo Matos, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Dr. Paulo Matos
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3R  (Online Only)
I am a Registered Psychologist with a combined 25+ years of education and experience in psychotherapy. I have extensive experience helping with diverse concerns including anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and life transitions. I specialize in two areas: helping people overcome trauma/PTSD in individual therapy and improving relationships through couples therapy. I have a special interest in working with military veterans, first responders, public safety personnel, and health care professionals. I have a doctorate (Ph.D.) in Counselling Psychology and master’s degrees from Harvard University (Ed.M.) and UBC (M.A.).
I am a Registered Psychologist with a combined 25+ years of education and experience in psychotherapy. I have extensive experience helping with diverse concerns including anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and life transitions. I specialize in two areas: helping people overcome trauma/PTSD in individual therapy and improving relationships through couples therapy. I have a special interest in working with military veterans, first responders, public safety personnel, and health care professionals. I have a doctorate (Ph.D.) in Counselling Psychology and master’s degrees from Harvard University (Ed.M.) and UBC (M.A.).
(855) 910-8444 View (855) 910-8444
Photo of Trevor Olson, PhD, RPsych, Psychologist
Trevor Olson
Psychologist, PhD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V4A
I have training in person-centered, emotion-focused, trauma-informed, prolonged exposure (PE), EMDR, and cognitive-behavioural approaches to treatment.
I try to help individuals find their inner worth and strengths. I believe that people can continue to learn, grow and change. It is important for you to feel comfortable with the therapist you decide to see. One of the things that I value the most within therapy is the importance of building an honest and genuine relationship. I try to meet people where they are at and offer services from a strengths-based and positive approach.
I have training in person-centered, emotion-focused, trauma-informed, prolonged exposure (PE), EMDR, and cognitive-behavioural approaches to treatment.
I try to help individuals find their inner worth and strengths. I believe that people can continue to learn, grow and change. It is important for you to feel comfortable with the therapist you decide to see. One of the things that I value the most within therapy is the importance of building an honest and genuine relationship. I try to meet people where they are at and offer services from a strengths-based and positive approach.
(778) 828-0853 View (778) 828-0853
Photo of Kiran K. Sangha, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Kiran K. Sangha
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V4A
Kiran has a lively, warm and engaging personality and brings enthusiasm and passion to her work. She is committed to working with individuals who are facing difficulties in their lives, such as with anxiety, depression, trauma, immigration or cultural impacts, interpersonal relationships and bereavement. Kiran has over ten years of clinical experience in the mental health field working with children, adults and older adults from various cultural and religious backgrounds. She has a strong ability to put clients at ease very quickly through her gentle and transparent approach.
Kiran has a lively, warm and engaging personality and brings enthusiasm and passion to her work. She is committed to working with individuals who are facing difficulties in their lives, such as with anxiety, depression, trauma, immigration or cultural impacts, interpersonal relationships and bereavement. Kiran has over ten years of clinical experience in the mental health field working with children, adults and older adults from various cultural and religious backgrounds. She has a strong ability to put clients at ease very quickly through her gentle and transparent approach.
(431) 244-6230 View (431) 244-6230
Photo of Tidal Trauma Centre - Tidal Trauma Centre, MA, CCC, RCC, Counsellor
Tidal Trauma Centre
Counsellor, MA, CCC, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3S
We are a specialized team of mental health professionals providing high-quality counselling and trauma therapy to individuals and couples. We know that talk therapy is beneficial, but we realized that many of our clients’ problems require a deeper and more integrative approach. Stressful and traumatic experiences leave lasting impacts on peoples’ minds and their bodies, which can make them feel stuck in the same patterns. By integrating neurobiologically-based therapies such as EMDR, OEI and Somatic Experiencing into talk therapy (CBT, narrative), our team specializes in helping people break free from discouragement and overwhelm.
We are a specialized team of mental health professionals providing high-quality counselling and trauma therapy to individuals and couples. We know that talk therapy is beneficial, but we realized that many of our clients’ problems require a deeper and more integrative approach. Stressful and traumatic experiences leave lasting impacts on peoples’ minds and their bodies, which can make them feel stuck in the same patterns. By integrating neurobiologically-based therapies such as EMDR, OEI and Somatic Experiencing into talk therapy (CBT, narrative), our team specializes in helping people break free from discouragement and overwhelm.
(587) 818-6307 View (587) 818-6307
Photo of Katarina McCurdy, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Katarina McCurdy
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3S
I work primarily with first responders and professionals who have experienced work related trauma.
Things are not how they used to be and you don't know how to move forward. There is a reason that you feel the way that you do, and you're not alone. Trauma has a way of making us feel "stuck", heightened anxiety and stress can feel overwhelming, and navigating uncertainty can feel scary. I believe that we all have the capacity to experience healing when we are seen as we are in a trusting environment. My hope is that you not only develop a greater awareness within yourself, but that you truly feel heard, understood, and known.
I work primarily with first responders and professionals who have experienced work related trauma.
Things are not how they used to be and you don't know how to move forward. There is a reason that you feel the way that you do, and you're not alone. Trauma has a way of making us feel "stuck", heightened anxiety and stress can feel overwhelming, and navigating uncertainty can feel scary. I believe that we all have the capacity to experience healing when we are seen as we are in a trusting environment. My hope is that you not only develop a greater awareness within yourself, but that you truly feel heard, understood, and known.
(604) 239-4947 View (604) 239-4947
Photo of Merel Scheepens, MA, CCC, RCC, LMHCA, Counsellor
Merel Scheepens
Counsellor, MA, CCC, RCC, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3S  (Online Only)
If you want to find your own life back, I would love to be your guide. As a Canadian Certified Counsellor, I specialize in PTSD and Complex Trauma. I have done extensive training in working with trauma with adolescents and adults. I am trustworthy. I work with the newest trauma therapy modalities. I use a combination of parts work (Internal Family Systems), Somatic therapy, eye-brain techniques, Emotional Focused Therapy, and Attachment theory. I am certified in level 2 of Complex Trauma Certification Training (CCPT-2). I have lived in four countries and aim to be culturally informed, strength-based, and collaborative.
If you want to find your own life back, I would love to be your guide. As a Canadian Certified Counsellor, I specialize in PTSD and Complex Trauma. I have done extensive training in working with trauma with adolescents and adults. I am trustworthy. I work with the newest trauma therapy modalities. I use a combination of parts work (Internal Family Systems), Somatic therapy, eye-brain techniques, Emotional Focused Therapy, and Attachment theory. I am certified in level 2 of Complex Trauma Certification Training (CCPT-2). I have lived in four countries and aim to be culturally informed, strength-based, and collaborative.
(226) 400-4847 View (226) 400-4847
Photo of Shannon Wilcox - Heart & Soul Counselling, BA, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Heart & Soul Counselling
Counsellor, BA, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3S  (Online Only)
I work with women who have experienced trauma, abuse, and/or are struggling with symptoms of PTSD.
When you have experienced a lot of challenging life circumstances, you may feel out of touch with yourself and your life. You may frequently feel unworthy, find yourself in unhealthy relationships, or have an intense longing for something more. If you want contentment and peace with yourself, others, and your life, I can help you !
I work with women who have experienced trauma, abuse, and/or are struggling with symptoms of PTSD.
When you have experienced a lot of challenging life circumstances, you may feel out of touch with yourself and your life. You may frequently feel unworthy, find yourself in unhealthy relationships, or have an intense longing for something more. If you want contentment and peace with yourself, others, and your life, I can help you !
(819) 414-1240 View (819) 414-1240
Photo of Rhea Jacobs, EMDR, RCC, Counsellor
Rhea Jacobs
Counsellor, EMDR, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V4A
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor, EMDR Certified Therapist and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
Hello, have you experienced trauma, abuse and betrayal in your life which are impacting your work, health, happiness, relationship and connection with others. Are you feeling helpless due to getting stuck in anger, resentment, anxiety, or sadness. You might be knowing what to do but are unable to follow through. You feel frustrated due to self sabotage behaviors and repetitive negative patterns in life. I understand where you are. I can help you in overcoming all of these mental blocks.
I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor, EMDR Certified Therapist and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
Hello, have you experienced trauma, abuse and betrayal in your life which are impacting your work, health, happiness, relationship and connection with others. Are you feeling helpless due to getting stuck in anger, resentment, anxiety, or sadness. You might be knowing what to do but are unable to follow through. You feel frustrated due to self sabotage behaviors and repetitive negative patterns in life. I understand where you are. I can help you in overcoming all of these mental blocks.
(249) 503-3881 View (249) 503-3881
Photo of Charlotte Edwards, CD, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Charlotte Edwards
Counsellor, CD, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V4A  (Online Only)
With over 30 years of experience as a soldier with the Canadian Forces and eight years experience with a women’s trauma counselling program, my objectives are to utilize my education, career, and life experience to specialize in trauma as well as all the by products of life’s challenges. My goal is to help with understanding why you may feel the way you do and give you strategies to move forward. I am committed to providing non-judgmental and compassionate support to all so that you can explore change from a safe environment. Research says that healing happens in the relationship. So let’s have a chat and see if we’re a good fit.
With over 30 years of experience as a soldier with the Canadian Forces and eight years experience with a women’s trauma counselling program, my objectives are to utilize my education, career, and life experience to specialize in trauma as well as all the by products of life’s challenges. My goal is to help with understanding why you may feel the way you do and give you strategies to move forward. I am committed to providing non-judgmental and compassionate support to all so that you can explore change from a safe environment. Research says that healing happens in the relationship. So let’s have a chat and see if we’re a good fit.
(604) 245-3022 View (604) 245-3022
Photo of Leona Westra, MCP, RCC, Counsellor
Leona Westra
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3W
I will work with you to reduce the pain and distress you are experiencing in your life. I bring a vast knowledge of trauma, chronic pain and emotional neglect that comes from both a personal lived experience and professional education and expertise. We can work through the complexities of your struggles and find solutions to the barriers that are limiting your healing and preventing you from getting more out of your life.
I will work with you to reduce the pain and distress you are experiencing in your life. I bring a vast knowledge of trauma, chronic pain and emotional neglect that comes from both a personal lived experience and professional education and expertise. We can work through the complexities of your struggles and find solutions to the barriers that are limiting your healing and preventing you from getting more out of your life.
(587) 812-8903 View (587) 812-8903
Photo of Anita Thandi, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Anita Thandi
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3Z
Taking the first step to reach out for support can feel overwhelming. We often find we are repeating the same patterns, same conversations and want to find a way to move forward. I have worked as a therapist for over twenty years dealing with such diverse issues as relationship distress, depression and anxiety, self- development and life transitions. My practice also focuses on working through trauma and interpersonal conflict. Together in a safe, confidential and collaborative way you can explore concerns and attain a better understanding of your needs.
Taking the first step to reach out for support can feel overwhelming. We often find we are repeating the same patterns, same conversations and want to find a way to move forward. I have worked as a therapist for over twenty years dealing with such diverse issues as relationship distress, depression and anxiety, self- development and life transitions. My practice also focuses on working through trauma and interpersonal conflict. Together in a safe, confidential and collaborative way you can explore concerns and attain a better understanding of your needs.
(855) 906-4904 View (855) 906-4904
Photo of Robin Curry, MCP, RCC , Counsellor
Robin Curry
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3S
She has experience working with clients on anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues.
Sometimes it takes a lot out of a client to seek help for counselling. They feel uneasy and anxious about opening up and expressing their thoughts and feelings. They are unsure where to start and what to expect from the therapist. I encourage clients to be themselves in the therapy room and work alongside them to hear their worldviews and experiences. Clients will work with me to process and reprocess their experiences. This allows a client to work through their journey of healing and growth. Clients feel safe and comfortable when they receive compassion and validation through therapy.
She has experience working with clients on anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues.
Sometimes it takes a lot out of a client to seek help for counselling. They feel uneasy and anxious about opening up and expressing their thoughts and feelings. They are unsure where to start and what to expect from the therapist. I encourage clients to be themselves in the therapy room and work alongside them to hear their worldviews and experiences. Clients will work with me to process and reprocess their experiences. This allows a client to work through their journey of healing and growth. Clients feel safe and comfortable when they receive compassion and validation through therapy.
(548) 457-2283 View (548) 457-2283
Photo of Amber L Alexander-Huggins, MS, RCC, Counsellor
Amber L Alexander-Huggins
Counsellor, MS, RCC
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V4P
Hello! I’m Amber and I am a trauma-informed, strengths-based, Registered Clinical Counsellor who uses a relational-attachment-based approach in my work with individuals and couples coping with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, trauma, relationship, sexuality and communication/boundary challenges. I have been working in the field of counselling and mental health for 11 years and in private practice since 2014. I offer a free 15-minute confidential consultation via phone to determine whether my services and approach are a good fit for you. Feel free to reach out via phone or email anytime.
Hello! I’m Amber and I am a trauma-informed, strengths-based, Registered Clinical Counsellor who uses a relational-attachment-based approach in my work with individuals and couples coping with anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, trauma, relationship, sexuality and communication/boundary challenges. I have been working in the field of counselling and mental health for 11 years and in private practice since 2014. I offer a free 15-minute confidential consultation via phone to determine whether my services and approach are a good fit for you. Feel free to reach out via phone or email anytime.
(604) 409-8562 View (604) 409-8562
Photo of Annu Gill - Annu Gill Counselling, MSW, RSW, RCC-ACS, Registered Social Worker
Annu Gill Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW, RCC-ACS
Verified Verified
Surrey, BC V3X
My practice includes providing individual and relationship counselling for issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, interpersonal issues and parent-child conflict.
I am registered with both the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (RCC) and the British Columbia College of Social Workers (RSW). My work has included helping couples and individuals who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, interpersonal/family issues, difficulties due to change of life and grief and loss. We can work together to cultivate deeper understanding, experience growth and ultimately form stronger connections to yourself and others through transformative healing.
My practice includes providing individual and relationship counselling for issues such as trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, interpersonal issues and parent-child conflict.
I am registered with both the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors (RCC) and the British Columbia College of Social Workers (RSW). My work has included helping couples and individuals who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, interpersonal/family issues, difficulties due to change of life and grief and loss. We can work together to cultivate deeper understanding, experience growth and ultimately form stronger connections to yourself and others through transformative healing.
(604) 245-8614 View (604) 245-8614
Photo of Jermaine Kemp - Speakhopejk, MS, RCC, EMDR, Counsellor
Jermaine Kemp - Speakhopejk
Counsellor, MS, RCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3W
Hello and welcome to SpeakHope Counselling! My name is Jermaine. Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, or depression? Are you facing relationship issues, or having difficulty navigating a major life transition? If so, you are not alone. Many people experience these challenges at some point in their lives, and it can be difficult to know where to turn for help. That's where I come in. As a trained therapist with a focus on trauma, I am here to listen, support, and guide you through whatever difficulties you may be facing. Whether you prefer a listening ear (talk therapy) or a focused approach (EMDR) I may be the person to help.
Hello and welcome to SpeakHope Counselling! My name is Jermaine. Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, or depression? Are you facing relationship issues, or having difficulty navigating a major life transition? If so, you are not alone. Many people experience these challenges at some point in their lives, and it can be difficult to know where to turn for help. That's where I come in. As a trained therapist with a focus on trauma, I am here to listen, support, and guide you through whatever difficulties you may be facing. Whether you prefer a listening ear (talk therapy) or a focused approach (EMDR) I may be the person to help.
(587) 608-5803 View (587) 608-5803
Photo of Nikkol Adams, MA, RCC, EMDR, Somatic, 400-YTT, Counsellor
Nikkol Adams
Counsellor, MA, RCC, EMDR, Somatic, 400-YTT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Surrey, BC V3S
My professional journey involves guiding individuals in trauma processing, anxiety management, and experiencing personal growth for holistic well-being.
Feeling disconnected from yourself? Struggling to break free from patterns? Constantly overwhelmed? Managing emotions feels like a challenge? Seeking support and allowing space for self-reflection can be daunting. For that, I recognize the courage it has taken for you to get here and the willingness to be open. I believe understanding your human experience is the path towards healing. Therefore, wonder, acceptance, and compassion are core values of my approach. As we become more self-reflective towards our physical, emotional, and spiritual selves, we gain the ability to create lasting change in our lives.
My professional journey involves guiding individuals in trauma processing, anxiety management, and experiencing personal growth for holistic well-being.
Feeling disconnected from yourself? Struggling to break free from patterns? Constantly overwhelmed? Managing emotions feels like a challenge? Seeking support and allowing space for self-reflection can be daunting. For that, I recognize the courage it has taken for you to get here and the willingness to be open. I believe understanding your human experience is the path towards healing. Therefore, wonder, acceptance, and compassion are core values of my approach. As we become more self-reflective towards our physical, emotional, and spiritual selves, we gain the ability to create lasting change in our lives.
(672) 648-0577 View (672) 648-0577
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Trauma and PTSD Counsellors

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.