Trauma and PTSD Therapists in San Jose, CA

Photo of Dr. Debbie Francis, PsyD, MA, BSR, Psychologist
Dr. Debbie Francis
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, BSR
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95124
*CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW MEDICARE PATIENTS* I work with adults struggling with a wide range of challenges including loss of relationships, life transitions, and personal problems like anxiety, depression, addiction, or trauma. Life can be difficult but you don't have to figure it out all alone. I can help you. Together, we'll create a safe space where you'll gain insight and perspective into thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are no longer working for you. With these understandings, you'll be able to make better choices and positive life changes. By working through your pain, you'll gain a self-awareness you didn't have before.
*CURRENTLY ACCEPTING NEW MEDICARE PATIENTS* I work with adults struggling with a wide range of challenges including loss of relationships, life transitions, and personal problems like anxiety, depression, addiction, or trauma. Life can be difficult but you don't have to figure it out all alone. I can help you. Together, we'll create a safe space where you'll gain insight and perspective into thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that are no longer working for you. With these understandings, you'll be able to make better choices and positive life changes. By working through your pain, you'll gain a self-awareness you didn't have before.
(408) 207-4564 View (408) 207-4564
Photo of Sana Sarfaraz, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sana Sarfaraz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95130  (Online Only)
In my practice, I have helped adults, adolescents and children deal with a wide range of issues including grief, loss trauma, anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, multicultural issues, self-esteem issues, personal growth, and workplace growth.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my profile. Adversity is a part of life and we all experience it and feel isolated. However, I believe it can be an opportunity to grow stronger. I use strength-based supportive approaches that promote growth and healing. My approach focuses on deep care and respect for you. I value your experiences, thoughts and feelings and apply a non-judgmental stance making my sessions a comfortable experience. I focus on providing a collaborative and supportive environment where you can express yourself freely.
In my practice, I have helped adults, adolescents and children deal with a wide range of issues including grief, loss trauma, anxiety, depression, adjustment issues, multicultural issues, self-esteem issues, personal growth, and workplace growth.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my profile. Adversity is a part of life and we all experience it and feel isolated. However, I believe it can be an opportunity to grow stronger. I use strength-based supportive approaches that promote growth and healing. My approach focuses on deep care and respect for you. I value your experiences, thoughts and feelings and apply a non-judgmental stance making my sessions a comfortable experience. I focus on providing a collaborative and supportive environment where you can express yourself freely.
(408) 351-4053 View (408) 351-4053
Photo of Harmonie Stone, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Harmonie Stone
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95125
Harmonie holds certifications in EMDR, Tension and Trauma Releasing Exercises®, Nutrition, and is an affiliate of Integrated Listening Systems, a program to heal mild Traumatic Brain Injury and Sensory Processing in children and adults.
Harmonie Stone has been a student of the developmental and psychological wellness fields for over 9 years. She has a Bachelors of Science in Child and Adolescent Development and a Masters Degree in Psychology. Her work as a counselor has lead her to take a special interest in chronic stress and trauma and their influence on the nervous system's ability to communicate with the mind and body. Her desire is to take a more whole person approach in healing from chronic stress and trauma.
Harmonie holds certifications in EMDR, Tension and Trauma Releasing Exercises®, Nutrition, and is an affiliate of Integrated Listening Systems, a program to heal mild Traumatic Brain Injury and Sensory Processing in children and adults.
Harmonie Stone has been a student of the developmental and psychological wellness fields for over 9 years. She has a Bachelors of Science in Child and Adolescent Development and a Masters Degree in Psychology. Her work as a counselor has lead her to take a special interest in chronic stress and trauma and their influence on the nervous system's ability to communicate with the mind and body. Her desire is to take a more whole person approach in healing from chronic stress and trauma.
(669) 271-7241 View (669) 271-7241
Photo of undefined - Awake DBT, Inc., MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Awake DBT, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95125
We help individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, emotional ups and downs and trauma. We specialize in providing Dialectical Behavior Therapy and offer a comprehensive program. Please see our website: www.awakedbt.com. Our team offers weekly individual DBT, a skills training group and 24-hour skill coaching. We teach life skills in Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation and interpersonal Effectiveness. Our team lead is a Certified DBT Clinician from the Linehan Board of Certification. All members in the team are in track to certification.
We help individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, emotional ups and downs and trauma. We specialize in providing Dialectical Behavior Therapy and offer a comprehensive program. Please see our website: www.awakedbt.com. Our team offers weekly individual DBT, a skills training group and 24-hour skill coaching. We teach life skills in Mindfulness, Distress Tolerance, Emotion Regulation and interpersonal Effectiveness. Our team lead is a Certified DBT Clinician from the Linehan Board of Certification. All members in the team are in track to certification.
(408) 465-9929 View (408) 465-9929
Photo of Nicole Woolf, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Woolf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95125
My approach to therapy is tailored to your needs and may include body/mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Seeking help can be scary and exciting, and it takes a lot of bravery and courage to take the initial step. You may be feeling like you are depressed and anxious due to your trauma. I aim to meet you where you are mentally and emotionally and help you grow, learn skills, and adapt to new changes. We can work together to identify your goals and needs and address the emotional and behavioral challenges you experience.
My approach to therapy is tailored to your needs and may include body/mindfulness, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Seeking help can be scary and exciting, and it takes a lot of bravery and courage to take the initial step. You may be feeling like you are depressed and anxious due to your trauma. I aim to meet you where you are mentally and emotionally and help you grow, learn skills, and adapt to new changes. We can work together to identify your goals and needs and address the emotional and behavioral challenges you experience.
(408) 351-9912 View (408) 351-9912
Photo of Renée Behan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Renée Behan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95112  (Online Only)
I provide trauma-informed therapy grounded in principles of relational attachment, existential psychotherapy, feminist multicultural psychotherapy, and harm reduction. My practice is affirming of neuro-, sexual, gender, and relational (monogamy, non-monagamy/polyam, kink) diversity. I predominantly work with queer and neurodivergent adults.
I provide trauma-informed therapy grounded in principles of relational attachment, existential psychotherapy, feminist multicultural psychotherapy, and harm reduction. My practice is affirming of neuro-, sexual, gender, and relational (monogamy, non-monagamy/polyam, kink) diversity. I predominantly work with queer and neurodivergent adults.
(408) 869-1497 View (408) 869-1497
Photo of Nicole Wernimont, PsyD, Psychologist
Nicole Wernimont
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95112
Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD - or looking for support in developing your fullest self - I believe you have everything you need to move through what you are facing now. I am here to help you see what's blocking your natural capacity for healing and growth, so that you can free yourself from whatever is holding you back.
Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD - or looking for support in developing your fullest self - I believe you have everything you need to move through what you are facing now. I am here to help you see what's blocking your natural capacity for healing and growth, so that you can free yourself from whatever is holding you back.
(650) 899-6550 View (650) 899-6550
Photo of Rey Lockwood, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rey Lockwood
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95127  (Online Only)
I specialize in work with people who are neurodivergent, including autism, psychosis, ADHD and complex trauma.
I provide you with a place to speak freely, so that through this unique experience you can become yourself in a new way. I work with individuals, couples and children, with a focus on survivors, trans and queer people, neurodivergent people, and people in recovery. We may strategize together to address crises or life transitions, and we may speak on an existential plane with close attention to the unconscious. In any case, we will raise questions together, we will challenge normativity, and we will prioritize new connection. In our work together nothing is assumed, and in our speaking together new and old things become possible.
I specialize in work with people who are neurodivergent, including autism, psychosis, ADHD and complex trauma.
I provide you with a place to speak freely, so that through this unique experience you can become yourself in a new way. I work with individuals, couples and children, with a focus on survivors, trans and queer people, neurodivergent people, and people in recovery. We may strategize together to address crises or life transitions, and we may speak on an existential plane with close attention to the unconscious. In any case, we will raise questions together, we will challenge normativity, and we will prioritize new connection. In our work together nothing is assumed, and in our speaking together new and old things become possible.
View
Photo of Carly Rushton, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Carly Rushton
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95128
My approach to therapy enlists complementary techniques rooted in a holistic, trauma-informed, strength-based, culturally sensitive, and evidence based approaches.
At Relucent Psychology Group I bring my background in college settings, art, and nonprofits to work with people from diverse backgrounds using a compassionate, collaborative, and non-judgmental approach. I'm passionate about helping others navigate trauma, mood and anxiety disorders, child/teen behavioral issues, complex grief, self-esteem, work-life balance, spirituality and life transitions. I believe in being authentic and approaching our work together authentically. I have been told my approach allows others to feel comfortable, welcome, and safe to explore and release anger, sadness, fear, even joy and humor.
My approach to therapy enlists complementary techniques rooted in a holistic, trauma-informed, strength-based, culturally sensitive, and evidence based approaches.
At Relucent Psychology Group I bring my background in college settings, art, and nonprofits to work with people from diverse backgrounds using a compassionate, collaborative, and non-judgmental approach. I'm passionate about helping others navigate trauma, mood and anxiety disorders, child/teen behavioral issues, complex grief, self-esteem, work-life balance, spirituality and life transitions. I believe in being authentic and approaching our work together authentically. I have been told my approach allows others to feel comfortable, welcome, and safe to explore and release anger, sadness, fear, even joy and humor.
(408) 539-4901 View (408) 539-4901
Photo of Alyss Marie Swanson, LMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alyss Marie Swanson
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95126
Sudden and dramatic life transitions can rock our world, causing us to frequently feel disoriented and unsettled. Whether such moments are encountered through loss of a loved one, divorce, trauma, substance recovery or something equally profound, ones faith, meaning, purpose, and direction is often called on as a means to sustain us. I welcome the opportunity to work with you to heuristically discover and strengthen your inner-self and potentiality.
Sudden and dramatic life transitions can rock our world, causing us to frequently feel disoriented and unsettled. Whether such moments are encountered through loss of a loved one, divorce, trauma, substance recovery or something equally profound, ones faith, meaning, purpose, and direction is often called on as a means to sustain us. I welcome the opportunity to work with you to heuristically discover and strengthen your inner-self and potentiality.
(650) 383-3664 View (650) 383-3664
Photo of Namhee Lim, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Namhee Lim
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95118
She is certified in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and has worked with parents and children with trauma, ADHD, or autism.
Life is a challenge and people feel stuck and endure so much struggle and pain. However, everyone has inner strengths and desire to reach one’s full potential and she can help clients explore which changes could be helpful to reach their goals. Namhee considers that all people are responsible for their choices and can create and reshape themselves by moving toward their goals. Namhee’s therapeutic approach is based on Adlerian therapy that is humanistic and goal-oriented and emphasizes the individual’s strivings for success, connectedness with others, and contributions to society.
She is certified in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) and has worked with parents and children with trauma, ADHD, or autism.
Life is a challenge and people feel stuck and endure so much struggle and pain. However, everyone has inner strengths and desire to reach one’s full potential and she can help clients explore which changes could be helpful to reach their goals. Namhee considers that all people are responsible for their choices and can create and reshape themselves by moving toward their goals. Namhee’s therapeutic approach is based on Adlerian therapy that is humanistic and goal-oriented and emphasizes the individual’s strivings for success, connectedness with others, and contributions to society.
(408) 692-6780 View (408) 692-6780
Photo of undefined - Angela Li: Brainspotting Anxiety Trauma Therapist, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Angela Li: Brainspotting Anxiety Trauma Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95124
Are trauma, anxiety and insecurity controlling your life, preventing you from pursuing your dreams and living life to the fullest? Do you relive the past as if it were happening right now? Your head knows better, but it fails to convince your heart otherwise. As horrible as those experiences were in the past, they continue to zap away your joy and confidence today. You might even avoid situations that trigger the feelings. Are there any lost part of you that you'd like to return to? Do others believe in your competence more than you believe in yourself? What would it be like if life was driven by passion and joy, not fear or shame?
Are trauma, anxiety and insecurity controlling your life, preventing you from pursuing your dreams and living life to the fullest? Do you relive the past as if it were happening right now? Your head knows better, but it fails to convince your heart otherwise. As horrible as those experiences were in the past, they continue to zap away your joy and confidence today. You might even avoid situations that trigger the feelings. Are there any lost part of you that you'd like to return to? Do others believe in your competence more than you believe in yourself? What would it be like if life was driven by passion and joy, not fear or shame?
(669) 232-8177 View (669) 232-8177
Photo of Patty Marsette, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patty Marsette
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95130  (Online Only)
My training as a licensed MFT has taught me to treat a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, parenting issues, relationship problems and trauma. I also have advanced training and experience working with PTSD, past trauma, panic and phobias. My goal and passion is to provide you with the tools to create and maintain life-affirming change in order to lead a more balanced and empowered life. I am EMDR trained, which is a powerful method for releasing past trauma and the depression and anxieties that go with it.
My training as a licensed MFT has taught me to treat a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, parenting issues, relationship problems and trauma. I also have advanced training and experience working with PTSD, past trauma, panic and phobias. My goal and passion is to provide you with the tools to create and maintain life-affirming change in order to lead a more balanced and empowered life. I am EMDR trained, which is a powerful method for releasing past trauma and the depression and anxieties that go with it.
(408) 882-1521 View (408) 882-1521
Photo of Forest Benedict, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Forest Benedict
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95124  (Online Only)
To heal trauma, clients need more than talk therapy alone.
When we have too much emotional pain, we can't truly live free. Our brains are wired to avoid pain at all costs. We will do anything in our power to prevent pain or run from pain when it is activated. The countless strategies we create to avoid pain include distraction, addiction, people-pleasing, self-criticism, perfectionism, & performance. All of our strategies work for awhile but not long-term. Living a life with the sole purpose of avoiding pain is not freedom. It's not the life most people want to live. What if the key to freedom was not in finding new ways to prevent or cope with the pain but to actually heal the pain?
To heal trauma, clients need more than talk therapy alone.
When we have too much emotional pain, we can't truly live free. Our brains are wired to avoid pain at all costs. We will do anything in our power to prevent pain or run from pain when it is activated. The countless strategies we create to avoid pain include distraction, addiction, people-pleasing, self-criticism, perfectionism, & performance. All of our strategies work for awhile but not long-term. Living a life with the sole purpose of avoiding pain is not freedom. It's not the life most people want to live. What if the key to freedom was not in finding new ways to prevent or cope with the pain but to actually heal the pain?
(916) 702-3528 View (916) 702-3528
Photo of Debbie Denise Hanson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Debbie Denise Hanson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95126
I help people learn skills and strategies to more effectively cope with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, life-transitions, stress, health, grief/loss, infertility, adoption, and a healthy work-life balance.
I believe all people have innate abilities and strengths that can help us lead meaningful and satisfying lives. Engaging in therapy allows us the possibility of gaining insight and clarification about ourselves and our relationships. In a warm and supportive environment, my goal is to help you connect with your authentic self, find solutions to on-going issues, work through emotional difficulties, cultivate resilience, and most importantly, to create the life you want to live.
I help people learn skills and strategies to more effectively cope with relationship issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, life-transitions, stress, health, grief/loss, infertility, adoption, and a healthy work-life balance.
I believe all people have innate abilities and strengths that can help us lead meaningful and satisfying lives. Engaging in therapy allows us the possibility of gaining insight and clarification about ourselves and our relationships. In a warm and supportive environment, my goal is to help you connect with your authentic self, find solutions to on-going issues, work through emotional difficulties, cultivate resilience, and most importantly, to create the life you want to live.
(408) 837-4598 View (408) 837-4598
Photo of Lana Shatil, MA, APCC, AMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lana Shatil
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, APCC, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
If you stay awake at night with troubling thoughts, feel lonely even when in a relationship, and use distractions of substances, media, sex, or work, I invite you to take ownership of your life. Relational issues in private or professional life, parenting, career decisions, unpleasant symptoms of depression or anxiety, moods preventing enjoyment of life, identity concerns, and problematic behavior patterns are all welcome here. I believe in a holistic approach to healing with the mind, heart, body, and spirit integrated. I use the Internal Family System (IFS), Trauma processing with CBT, and Emotional and Somatic Experiencing.
If you stay awake at night with troubling thoughts, feel lonely even when in a relationship, and use distractions of substances, media, sex, or work, I invite you to take ownership of your life. Relational issues in private or professional life, parenting, career decisions, unpleasant symptoms of depression or anxiety, moods preventing enjoyment of life, identity concerns, and problematic behavior patterns are all welcome here. I believe in a holistic approach to healing with the mind, heart, body, and spirit integrated. I use the Internal Family System (IFS), Trauma processing with CBT, and Emotional and Somatic Experiencing.
(408) 351-8078 View (408) 351-8078
Photo of Hilleary Cummings, MEd, MA, LCPC, LPCC
Hilleary Cummings
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, MA, LCPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95129
I utilize a Somatic Therapy framework to treat trauma.
The diagnosis, the accident, the loss, the family dysfunction —these experiences can leave us feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, and unsure of how to move forward. The weight of these experiences feel like it's seeping into every aspect of your life affecting your relationships, self-esteem, ability to find joy. You imagine waking up with a renewed sense of vitality, fully present in the relationships that matter most to you. The scenes that once haunted you are replaced by a sense of calm and resilience. You now embrace your truth, boundaries intact, and confidently making decision that align with your well-being.
I utilize a Somatic Therapy framework to treat trauma.
The diagnosis, the accident, the loss, the family dysfunction —these experiences can leave us feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, and unsure of how to move forward. The weight of these experiences feel like it's seeping into every aspect of your life affecting your relationships, self-esteem, ability to find joy. You imagine waking up with a renewed sense of vitality, fully present in the relationships that matter most to you. The scenes that once haunted you are replaced by a sense of calm and resilience. You now embrace your truth, boundaries intact, and confidently making decision that align with your well-being.
(408) 874-8904 View (408) 874-8904
Photo of undefined - Sanctuary Counseling & Psychotherapy, MSW, LCSW, CCM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sanctuary Counseling & Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCM
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95124  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, addictions and emotional challenges can disrupt our lives and everything we hold dear. I will work with you to develop a plan and set reachable goals to improve your quality of life.
Depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic illness, addictions and emotional challenges can disrupt our lives and everything we hold dear. I will work with you to develop a plan and set reachable goals to improve your quality of life.
(669) 273-1905 View (669) 273-1905
Photo of Jordan Flores
Jordan Flores
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95118
I have had the privilege of working with diverse individuals facing a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, and personal growth.
Welcome to Your Journey Towards Healing and Growth! Life can be a challenging and unpredictable journey, filled with moments of joy, love, and success, but also with moments of pain, sadness, and uncertainty. I am here to walk with you on this path, helping you navigate the complexities of your emotional and mental well-being. I understand that seeking therapy is a courageous step, and am committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, respect, and a deep appreciation for the unique journey each person undertakes.
I have had the privilege of working with diverse individuals facing a wide range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma, and personal growth.
Welcome to Your Journey Towards Healing and Growth! Life can be a challenging and unpredictable journey, filled with moments of joy, love, and success, but also with moments of pain, sadness, and uncertainty. I am here to walk with you on this path, helping you navigate the complexities of your emotional and mental well-being. I understand that seeking therapy is a courageous step, and am committed to providing a safe, non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My approach to therapy is rooted in empathy, respect, and a deep appreciation for the unique journey each person undertakes.
(408) 763-8297 View (408) 763-8297
Photo of Jill Pittman, MA, LMFT, 52017, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jill Pittman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, 52017
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95117  (Online Only)
While I am able to work with a number of mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, work stress, trauma, and more, my primary focus of practice is with clients 18+ who have felt "othered" by mainstream society.
This life of ours can be really f-cking hard! My goal as your therapist is to show up as my authentic self so that I can be a source of support as you navigate the many twists and turns of life. Therapy can be really tough and I believe that it takes honesty, authenticity, transparency, and connection to create the dynamic required for making change. My style is collaborative, relational, and non-shaming. Let us deconstruct the messages you have received from society so that healing can begin.
While I am able to work with a number of mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, work stress, trauma, and more, my primary focus of practice is with clients 18+ who have felt "othered" by mainstream society.
This life of ours can be really f-cking hard! My goal as your therapist is to show up as my authentic self so that I can be a source of support as you navigate the many twists and turns of life. Therapy can be really tough and I believe that it takes honesty, authenticity, transparency, and connection to create the dynamic required for making change. My style is collaborative, relational, and non-shaming. Let us deconstruct the messages you have received from society so that healing can begin.
(408) 341-6911 View (408) 341-6911
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.