Trauma and PTSD Psychiatrists in Larkspur, CA

Photo of Mark Swoiskin - Mark H. Swoiskin, MD, MD, Psychiatrist
Mark H. Swoiskin, MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Larkspur, CA 94939
I specialize in: Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder; and difficulties such as: feeling inadequate, inhibited, full of shame or guilt; self-defeating behavior; difficulties feeling close to others; confusion, anxiety, or dissatisfaction regarding sex or sexuality; chronic feelings of aloneness, emptiness, or deadness; concerns about emotional stability, irritability, or restlessness.
My personal philosophy is that each of us has a basic need to be deeply understood by another human being. We all yearn, suffer, and celebrate, often privately, and often in ways that are not fully known even to ourselves. I strive to help each person feel safe enough that such private and unknown thoughts and feelings can emerge and be explored together. Whether you are looking for help through a crisis or with a long-standing illness or sense of discontent, my aim is to understand who you uniquely are and how I can help you heal and grow.
I specialize in: Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Bipolar Disorder; and difficulties such as: feeling inadequate, inhibited, full of shame or guilt; self-defeating behavior; difficulties feeling close to others; confusion, anxiety, or dissatisfaction regarding sex or sexuality; chronic feelings of aloneness, emptiness, or deadness; concerns about emotional stability, irritability, or restlessness.
My personal philosophy is that each of us has a basic need to be deeply understood by another human being. We all yearn, suffer, and celebrate, often privately, and often in ways that are not fully known even to ourselves. I strive to help each person feel safe enough that such private and unknown thoughts and feelings can emerge and be explored together. Whether you are looking for help through a crisis or with a long-standing illness or sense of discontent, my aim is to understand who you uniquely are and how I can help you heal and grow.
(415) 789-3757 View (415) 789-3757
Photo of Laura Rubenstein - Laura Rubenstein MD, MD, Psychiatrist
Laura Rubenstein MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Larkspur, CA 94939
I'm a psychiatrist who provides psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults as well as medication for older adolescents and adults when indicated. My areas of focus are relationship issues, life transitions, mood and anxiety issues, trauma, parent-child struggles and developmental issues. I work with you to bring forth your lesser known and understood thoughts, feelings and motivations that trip you up in life. The goal is to diminish their intensity and meaningfully change your most troublesome life patterns so that you can live, love, work and play more fully and freely.
I'm a psychiatrist who provides psychotherapy for children, adolescents and adults as well as medication for older adolescents and adults when indicated. My areas of focus are relationship issues, life transitions, mood and anxiety issues, trauma, parent-child struggles and developmental issues. I work with you to bring forth your lesser known and understood thoughts, feelings and motivations that trip you up in life. The goal is to diminish their intensity and meaningfully change your most troublesome life patterns so that you can live, love, work and play more fully and freely.
(415) 862-7799 View (415) 862-7799
Photo of Richard A. Bermudes, MD, Psychiatrist
Richard A. Bermudes
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Larkspur, CA 94939
With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Bermudes is a compassionate, collaborative board-certified psychiatrist specializing in treating teens and adults with Major Depression, Bipolar Depression, and Anxiety conditions such as Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. He has been at the forefront of numerous innovative treatments, including transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), Esketamine, and Ketamine. In his telehealth practice, he incorporates cutting-edge medication management and psychological treatments.
With over 20 years of experience, Dr. Bermudes is a compassionate, collaborative board-certified psychiatrist specializing in treating teens and adults with Major Depression, Bipolar Depression, and Anxiety conditions such as Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. He has been at the forefront of numerous innovative treatments, including transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), Esketamine, and Ketamine. In his telehealth practice, he incorporates cutting-edge medication management and psychological treatments.
(775) 403-5332 View (775) 403-5332
Photo of Zachary Schwab, MD, Psychiatrist
Zachary Schwab
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Larkspur, CA 94939
Welcome to my practice! I am a double board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of emotional, behavioral, and cognitive issues in individuals of all ages. I am committed to delivering exceptional patient care with a focus on personalized treatment. My approach is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and evidence-based medicine, ensuring that each individual receives the highest standard of care. I believe in treating the whole person, considering not only the symptoms but also understanding one's emotions, life framework, and cultural context.
Welcome to my practice! I am a double board-certified child, adolescent and adult psychiatrist. I specialize in the treatment of emotional, behavioral, and cognitive issues in individuals of all ages. I am committed to delivering exceptional patient care with a focus on personalized treatment. My approach is rooted in compassion, collaboration, and evidence-based medicine, ensuring that each individual receives the highest standard of care. I believe in treating the whole person, considering not only the symptoms but also understanding one's emotions, life framework, and cultural context.
(415) 909-3109 View (415) 909-3109
Photo of Judith Keins, MD, Psychiatrist
Judith Keins
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Larkspur, CA 94939
I have been a general adult psychiatrist for 30 years, practicing at the interface of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy as an in-depth generalist. I offer an integrated model of psychiatric and psychological treatment, emphasizing mind/body interface. My modal patient has one or more psychiatric diagnoses and has failed one or more trials of psychiatric medication in a split treatment model (in which the primary care physician or the psychiatrist has prescribed while a psychologist or MFT has overseen therapy). There was usually little to no collaboration among those two treatment providers. I believe that treatment outcome is optimized with a strong physician/patient alliance.
I have been a general adult psychiatrist for 30 years, practicing at the interface of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy as an in-depth generalist. I offer an integrated model of psychiatric and psychological treatment, emphasizing mind/body interface. My modal patient has one or more psychiatric diagnoses and has failed one or more trials of psychiatric medication in a split treatment model (in which the primary care physician or the psychiatrist has prescribed while a psychologist or MFT has overseen therapy). There was usually little to no collaboration among those two treatment providers. I believe that treatment outcome is optimized with a strong physician/patient alliance.
(415) 301-3911 View (415) 301-3911

More Psychiatrists Nearby

Photo of Walter E B Sipe - Walter E B Sipe MD, MD, Psychiatrist
Walter E B Sipe MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mill Valley, CA 94941
As a psychiatrist, I specialize in providing care and alleviating the suffering associated with trauma, depression, anxiety, and chronic pain states in young people and adults. I take an integrated approach to your care, combining mindfulness approaches based on meditative practices with more traditional psychotherapy and--where appropriate--careful use of medications and supplements. My commitment is that your therapy make a profound difference in the areas of your life that are most important to you.
As a psychiatrist, I specialize in providing care and alleviating the suffering associated with trauma, depression, anxiety, and chronic pain states in young people and adults. I take an integrated approach to your care, combining mindfulness approaches based on meditative practices with more traditional psychotherapy and--where appropriate--careful use of medications and supplements. My commitment is that your therapy make a profound difference in the areas of your life that are most important to you.
(415) 799-4161 View (415) 799-4161
Photo of Inna Zelikman - Inna Zelikman PMH-NP, PMH-NP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Inna Zelikman PMH-NP
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMH-NP
Verified Verified
Mill Valley, CA 94941
I hold a safe container and create nurturing environment during KAP session to allow for emergence of sensitive material that is needed to work through trauma and to tap into inner resources.
Inna Zelikman, PMH-NP, Ecotherapist and psychedelic integration therapist. I am Certified in Somatic Trauma Therapy and Internal Family Systems (IFS). I also hold a Certificate in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapies and Research through MAPS. I offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP). Are you someone who has been struggling with unresolved trauma or unprocessed grief? Do you feel stuck in old patterns despite years of therapy? Through somatic therapy and KAP I help clients get in touch with their feelings and to release any trapped emotions. These technics help with regulation of nervous system that is needed to process trauma.
I hold a safe container and create nurturing environment during KAP session to allow for emergence of sensitive material that is needed to work through trauma and to tap into inner resources.
Inna Zelikman, PMH-NP, Ecotherapist and psychedelic integration therapist. I am Certified in Somatic Trauma Therapy and Internal Family Systems (IFS). I also hold a Certificate in Psychedelic-Assisted Therapies and Research through MAPS. I offer Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP). Are you someone who has been struggling with unresolved trauma or unprocessed grief? Do you feel stuck in old patterns despite years of therapy? Through somatic therapy and KAP I help clients get in touch with their feelings and to release any trapped emotions. These technics help with regulation of nervous system that is needed to process trauma.
(628) 214-2296 View (628) 214-2296
Photo of Jeffrey Don Rediger, MD, MDiv, Psychiatrist
Jeffrey Don Rediger
Psychiatrist, MD, MDiv
Verified Verified
Mill Valley, CA 94942
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is a trauma-informed, person-centered approach, not the typical reductionist disease-centered model many psychiatrists use.
My name is Jeffrey Rediger, MD, MDiv. I welcome you, and hope I can help you find what you are looking for. I want to extend my warmest welcome to you. Reaching out for help is a courageous step, and I commend you for taking this important action towards your well-being. I understand that seeking psychiatric care can feel daunting, especially if you have experienced trauma or have faced significant challenges in your life. Please know that you are not alone, your feelings are valid, and it's my intention that you'll find a safe, supportive, and compassionate environment here, where your experiences will be respected and understood.
My approach is a trauma-informed, person-centered approach, not the typical reductionist disease-centered model many psychiatrists use.
My name is Jeffrey Rediger, MD, MDiv. I welcome you, and hope I can help you find what you are looking for. I want to extend my warmest welcome to you. Reaching out for help is a courageous step, and I commend you for taking this important action towards your well-being. I understand that seeking psychiatric care can feel daunting, especially if you have experienced trauma or have faced significant challenges in your life. Please know that you are not alone, your feelings are valid, and it's my intention that you'll find a safe, supportive, and compassionate environment here, where your experiences will be respected and understood.
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Photo of Brigitte Apfel, MD, Psychiatrist
Brigitte Apfel
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Mill Valley, CA 94942
As a dedicated and compassionate psychiatrist, I specialize in helping individuals navigate the complexities of emotional well-being and mental health. With 30 years of clinical experience, I offer personalized, evidence-based treatment for a range of conditions, including depression, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, and bipolar disorder. My approach is holistic, integrating psychotherapy with medication management to ensure the care is tailored to your unique needs.
As a dedicated and compassionate psychiatrist, I specialize in helping individuals navigate the complexities of emotional well-being and mental health. With 30 years of clinical experience, I offer personalized, evidence-based treatment for a range of conditions, including depression, anxiety, trauma-related disorders, and bipolar disorder. My approach is holistic, integrating psychotherapy with medication management to ensure the care is tailored to your unique needs.
(650) 551-9374 View (650) 551-9374
Photo of Michelle Guchereau, MD, Psychiatrist
Michelle Guchereau
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Corte Madera, CA 94925
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist for adults, adolescents and children. I currently lead a diverse team of psychiatry providers and therapists at Well Coast Medical Corporation. We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of Attention Deficient Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD), mood disorders, trauma and anxiety. We provide thorough psychiatric assessments, medications and/or psychotherapy for adults and youth. We also collaborate with other therapists to provide medication evaluations and treatment for patients who are actively in therapy elsewhere.
I am a Board-Certified Psychiatrist for adults, adolescents and children. I currently lead a diverse team of psychiatry providers and therapists at Well Coast Medical Corporation. We specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of Attention Deficient Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD/ADD), mood disorders, trauma and anxiety. We provide thorough psychiatric assessments, medications and/or psychotherapy for adults and youth. We also collaborate with other therapists to provide medication evaluations and treatment for patients who are actively in therapy elsewhere.
(415) 969-5396 View (415) 969-5396
Photo of Kim Schurman, MD, Psychiatrist
Kim Schurman
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
I am a psychiatrist with a focused interest in working with patients who struggle with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Anxiety. My style of psychiatry is a warm, curious, and empathic approach to working with my patients. I prefer to work collaboratively in order to help patients understand themselves and their treatment process.
I am a psychiatrist with a focused interest in working with patients who struggle with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Anxiety. My style of psychiatry is a warm, curious, and empathic approach to working with my patients. I prefer to work collaboratively in order to help patients understand themselves and their treatment process.
(415) 619-6211 View (415) 619-6211
Photo of Melanie de Luna MD, MD, Psychiatrist
Melanie de Luna MD
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Corte Madera, CA 94925
I offer a personalized approach in my practice, taking into account the many factors that influence ones sense of well-being. I have advanced training in psychodynamic psychotherapy, medication management and integrative psychiatry. My areas of expertise include the treatment of depression, anxiety, mood lability, women's mental health and hormonal issues, particularly during pregnancy and post-partum, trauma, and interpersonal issues. Finding the right psychiatrist is a very personal decision. I am happy to talk with you by telephone or schedule an initial consultation to provide you with a better sense of my style and approach.
I offer a personalized approach in my practice, taking into account the many factors that influence ones sense of well-being. I have advanced training in psychodynamic psychotherapy, medication management and integrative psychiatry. My areas of expertise include the treatment of depression, anxiety, mood lability, women's mental health and hormonal issues, particularly during pregnancy and post-partum, trauma, and interpersonal issues. Finding the right psychiatrist is a very personal decision. I am happy to talk with you by telephone or schedule an initial consultation to provide you with a better sense of my style and approach.
(628) 333-2148 View (628) 333-2148
Photo of Madison Buchanan, MD, Psychiatrist
Madison Buchanan
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Corte Madera, CA 94925
Some areas of particular interest include the treatment of depression and anxiety, of substance use disorders, caring for those who have experienced trauma or displacement, physician mental health, adoption issues, and relationship issues of all varieties.
I work well with individuals who want to understanding the deeper origins of recurrent life problems, and who are committed to meeting weekly or more frequently for therapy. If you are already in quality therapy with another provider, I can support that work with medication consultation at less frequent intervals.
Some areas of particular interest include the treatment of depression and anxiety, of substance use disorders, caring for those who have experienced trauma or displacement, physician mental health, adoption issues, and relationship issues of all varieties.
I work well with individuals who want to understanding the deeper origins of recurrent life problems, and who are committed to meeting weekly or more frequently for therapy. If you are already in quality therapy with another provider, I can support that work with medication consultation at less frequent intervals.
(628) 600-3285 View (628) 600-3285
Photo of Raghu Kiran Appasani, MD, Psychiatrist
Raghu Kiran Appasani
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mill Valley, CA 94941
Clinical interests lie in psychedelic therapy, mood disorders (depression, bipolar), addiction, chronic/autoimmune medical illness, anxiety disorders, OCD spectrum, eating disorders, trauma, and personality spectrum conditions.
Dr. Raghu Kiran Appasani is an Integrative Psychiatrist, Neuroscientist, and Social Entrepreneur focused on bridging the gap between western and eastern practices to create a wholesome society by taking a proactive approach to health. His current interests lie at the intersection of psychodynamic psychotherapy, integrative/nutritional psychiatry, mental health literacy, advocacy, wellness, entrepreneurship, and psychedelics.
Clinical interests lie in psychedelic therapy, mood disorders (depression, bipolar), addiction, chronic/autoimmune medical illness, anxiety disorders, OCD spectrum, eating disorders, trauma, and personality spectrum conditions.
Dr. Raghu Kiran Appasani is an Integrative Psychiatrist, Neuroscientist, and Social Entrepreneur focused on bridging the gap between western and eastern practices to create a wholesome society by taking a proactive approach to health. His current interests lie at the intersection of psychodynamic psychotherapy, integrative/nutritional psychiatry, mental health literacy, advocacy, wellness, entrepreneurship, and psychedelics.
(415) 426-2654 View (415) 426-2654
Katharine Ballinger
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Anselmo, CA 94960
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and I do both medication management and pyschotherapy. I treat adults and adolescents with multiple mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, attention deficit disorder (ADHD/ADD), post-traumatic stress disorder ( PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), insomnia, panic attacks, eating disorders, and relationship issues. I also have a special interest in women's health and treating women during pregnancy, post-partum, and pregnancy planning.
I am a board-certified psychiatrist and I do both medication management and pyschotherapy. I treat adults and adolescents with multiple mental health concerns including anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, attention deficit disorder (ADHD/ADD), post-traumatic stress disorder ( PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), insomnia, panic attacks, eating disorders, and relationship issues. I also have a special interest in women's health and treating women during pregnancy, post-partum, and pregnancy planning.
(415) 969-2211 View (415) 969-2211
Photo of Moushumi Mukerji, PMHNP, CNM, MSN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Moushumi Mukerji
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP, CNM, MSN
Verified Verified
Mill Valley, CA 94941
I believe that childhood and other traumas are either causative or contributory to the reasons people seek therapy and medication.
You are of the nature to heal and grow! Integrative and thoughtful use of medications, ketamine, & therapy. I treat most diagnoses-depression, bipolar, PTSD, complex traumas, ADHD, and OCD-but I am primarily interested in who you are and how I can help you, not in your diagnosis. As a former nurse-midwife I specialize in depression and anxiety during pregnancy and postpartum, perinatal loss, sexual trauma, PMS/PMDD, PCOS, and menopause. I offer help with the unique psychological issues affecting people identified as women, immigrants, and people of color. I work with teens and adults up to age 65. Telehealth and in-person
I believe that childhood and other traumas are either causative or contributory to the reasons people seek therapy and medication.
You are of the nature to heal and grow! Integrative and thoughtful use of medications, ketamine, & therapy. I treat most diagnoses-depression, bipolar, PTSD, complex traumas, ADHD, and OCD-but I am primarily interested in who you are and how I can help you, not in your diagnosis. As a former nurse-midwife I specialize in depression and anxiety during pregnancy and postpartum, perinatal loss, sexual trauma, PMS/PMDD, PCOS, and menopause. I offer help with the unique psychological issues affecting people identified as women, immigrants, and people of color. I work with teens and adults up to age 65. Telehealth and in-person
(530) 617-6032 View (530) 617-6032
Photo of Neha Nayyar, MD, Psychiatrist
Neha Nayyar
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901
My specific areas of focus within my practice are depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder ( PTSD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), as well as co-occurring substance use.
My main focus is connecting with people in order to best support them. My working style is compassionate, empathetic, easy-going, supportive, and communicative. I am always working in the best interest of the patient. My philosophy brought me to Mindful Health Solutions since we both insist on patient-first care. I am determined to help each patient find what works best for them. I will be doing in-person and telehealth appointments for those in the San Francisco area, and working with Medication Management, Psychotherapy, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy (TMS).
My specific areas of focus within my practice are depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder ( PTSD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), as well as co-occurring substance use.
My main focus is connecting with people in order to best support them. My working style is compassionate, empathetic, easy-going, supportive, and communicative. I am always working in the best interest of the patient. My philosophy brought me to Mindful Health Solutions since we both insist on patient-first care. I am determined to help each patient find what works best for them. I will be doing in-person and telehealth appointments for those in the San Francisco area, and working with Medication Management, Psychotherapy, and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy (TMS).
(628) 313-5919 View (628) 313-5919
Photo of Zachary D. Torry, MD, Psychiatrist
Zachary D. Torry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Mill Valley, CA 94941
I specialize in all mood and anxiety disorders: Depression, Bipolar disorders, Generalized Anxiety, Panic Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and phobias.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and provide medication management as well as psychotherapy to late teens and adults. My treatment philosophy incorporates a humanistic mind-body approach that appreciates the unique strengths and cultural background of each individual. My emphasis is on helping and not medicating. I strongly value the therapeutic relationship and make every effort to ensure that each patient's experience in treatment is comfortable and safe. And, importantly, I firmly believe in walking down the treatment path together.
I specialize in all mood and anxiety disorders: Depression, Bipolar disorders, Generalized Anxiety, Panic Disorders, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, and phobias.
I am a Board Certified Psychiatrist and provide medication management as well as psychotherapy to late teens and adults. My treatment philosophy incorporates a humanistic mind-body approach that appreciates the unique strengths and cultural background of each individual. My emphasis is on helping and not medicating. I strongly value the therapeutic relationship and make every effort to ensure that each patient's experience in treatment is comfortable and safe. And, importantly, I firmly believe in walking down the treatment path together.
(650) 204-3992 View (650) 204-3992
Photo of Michael J Broukhim - Hope Integrative Psychiatry, DO, Psychiatrist
Hope Integrative Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, DO
Verified Verified
Mill Valley, CA 94941
HOPE was founded to offer a more holistic and complete way of helping people recover from mental illness. We focus on shifting people’s consciousness from a disease model to one that empowers our innate capacity to heal and find meaning in our struggle towards wholeness and optimal health.
HOPE was founded to offer a more holistic and complete way of helping people recover from mental illness. We focus on shifting people’s consciousness from a disease model to one that empowers our innate capacity to heal and find meaning in our struggle towards wholeness and optimal health.
(747) 201-4189 View (747) 201-4189
Photo of Venita Ninemire, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner
Venita Ninemire
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, PMHNP
Verified Verified
San Rafael, CA 94901  (Online Only)
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family nurse practitioner. I am trained and experienced in helping you manage your mental health medication needs. I enjoy cooking, baking, laughing, and working with people. Like many of you, my house is messy, but my guests feel welcome, and my kids all know where to find the ice cream and snacks. Let me get to know and help you.
I am a board certified psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner with dual certification as a family nurse practitioner. I am trained and experienced in helping you manage your mental health medication needs. I enjoy cooking, baking, laughing, and working with people. Like many of you, my house is messy, but my guests feel welcome, and my kids all know where to find the ice cream and snacks. Let me get to know and help you.
(323) 508-2308 View (323) 508-2308
Trauma and PTSD Psychiatrists

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.