Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Belleville, IL

Photo of Lorilei Baker, LISW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lorilei Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Belleville, IL 62221
I am trained in EMDR, a technique to assist in helping to process trauma and anxiety, depression, uproot addictions and treat other mental health issues.
I am an attachment and trauma-informed therapist. Our first priority will be to establish trust, mutual respect, consistency, and predictability so that you begin to feel safe. We will help you discover your strengths and will create goals to help you become your "best self". I prefer to utilize a variety of approaches in therapy, including teaching about attachment, neuroscience, mindfulness, coping skills, and how the body and brain work together to process our emotions. Note: Taking clients in Illinois only. Iowa clients will be referred to clinicians within our agency- www.inclusiveinsight.net.
I am trained in EMDR, a technique to assist in helping to process trauma and anxiety, depression, uproot addictions and treat other mental health issues.
I am an attachment and trauma-informed therapist. Our first priority will be to establish trust, mutual respect, consistency, and predictability so that you begin to feel safe. We will help you discover your strengths and will create goals to help you become your "best self". I prefer to utilize a variety of approaches in therapy, including teaching about attachment, neuroscience, mindfulness, coping skills, and how the body and brain work together to process our emotions. Note: Taking clients in Illinois only. Iowa clients will be referred to clinicians within our agency- www.inclusiveinsight.net.
(618) 538-0996 View (618) 538-0996
Photo of Christopher Vollmer, LCSW, CSW-G, ACHP-SW, CDP, PEL, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Vollmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSW-G, ACHP-SW, CDP, PEL
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62223
Life can be difficult. It’s easy to become overwhelmed and to lose our sense of well-being and security. We look around each day and wonder why other people seem to have no trouble living life free from the sort of difficulties with which we struggle. We can begin to feel hopeless. But there is something inside each and every one of us, something beautiful and strong that cannot be touched by our trauma and recurring troubles, but can be obscured by them. Reconnecting with this part of ourselves in a safe, healing atmosphere can help us meet life’s challenges with a greater measure of peace with ourselves and the world.
Life can be difficult. It’s easy to become overwhelmed and to lose our sense of well-being and security. We look around each day and wonder why other people seem to have no trouble living life free from the sort of difficulties with which we struggle. We can begin to feel hopeless. But there is something inside each and every one of us, something beautiful and strong that cannot be touched by our trauma and recurring troubles, but can be obscured by them. Reconnecting with this part of ourselves in a safe, healing atmosphere can help us meet life’s challenges with a greater measure of peace with ourselves and the world.
(618) 230-4620 View (618) 230-4620
Photo of Tera Wilkes, LCPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Tera Wilkes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belleville, IL 62226  (Online Only)
I assist individuals who have experienced a wide variety of trauma, depression and other mental illnesses.
There are numerous reasons why people start therapy. Together we will work on what is important to you so that you can live a life that is meaningful and fulfilling. I have experience treating a wide variety of clients, including adults with mental illness, children, adolescents, and individuals who have experienced traumatic events. I use an eclectic approach to therapy with an emphasis on trauma-informed care and person-centered treatment.
I assist individuals who have experienced a wide variety of trauma, depression and other mental illnesses.
There are numerous reasons why people start therapy. Together we will work on what is important to you so that you can live a life that is meaningful and fulfilling. I have experience treating a wide variety of clients, including adults with mental illness, children, adolescents, and individuals who have experienced traumatic events. I use an eclectic approach to therapy with an emphasis on trauma-informed care and person-centered treatment.
(618) 496-6497 View (618) 496-6497
Photo of Yvonne Licavoli, MS, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Yvonne Licavoli
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Belleville, IL 62226
I have worked in the mental health field for over ten years, working with individuals suffering from addiction, trauma, and grief.
Life can sometimes take away bits and pieces of us, and make us forget who we are. We can sometimes feel lost and alone, and lose our drive to be our best selves. Have you found yourself in that position? Feeling as if you don’t know who you are, where you belong, and have no one to listen? I create a safe, confidential, non-judgmental space to allow you to find yourself again, whether it be in your family, your work, or your marriage.
I have worked in the mental health field for over ten years, working with individuals suffering from addiction, trauma, and grief.
Life can sometimes take away bits and pieces of us, and make us forget who we are. We can sometimes feel lost and alone, and lose our drive to be our best selves. Have you found yourself in that position? Feeling as if you don’t know who you are, where you belong, and have no one to listen? I create a safe, confidential, non-judgmental space to allow you to find yourself again, whether it be in your family, your work, or your marriage.
(618) 226-8928 View (618) 226-8928
Photo of April D Jones, MA, LCPC, NBCC
April D Jones
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62221
I specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) which is a therapy that can heal repressed complex trauma.
Are you feeling hopeless, tired, nervous, or struggling with uncertainty? Have your concerns fallen on deaf ears? I believe every client has the potential for change and that the first step in creating that change comes from within. I utilize brief solution-focused therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing for individuals, couples, and families. It is my goal to help you resolve your problems or concerns by working together as a team to uncover the solutions that will bring clarity to your life.
I specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) which is a therapy that can heal repressed complex trauma.
Are you feeling hopeless, tired, nervous, or struggling with uncertainty? Have your concerns fallen on deaf ears? I believe every client has the potential for change and that the first step in creating that change comes from within. I utilize brief solution-focused therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing for individuals, couples, and families. It is my goal to help you resolve your problems or concerns by working together as a team to uncover the solutions that will bring clarity to your life.
(618) 368-4940 View (618) 368-4940
Photo of Nicole Schaeffer, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Schaeffer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62221  (Online Only)
My areas of specialty include, but are not limited to: trauma, PTSD, sexual abuse, relationships, anxiety, and depression.
Therapy provides an opportunity to process, grow, and heal from various challenges in life. Everyone can benefit from support, especially during tough and trying times. Many individuals will prioritize other’s needs before their own. There is no better time to start therapy than today.
My areas of specialty include, but are not limited to: trauma, PTSD, sexual abuse, relationships, anxiety, and depression.
Therapy provides an opportunity to process, grow, and heal from various challenges in life. Everyone can benefit from support, especially during tough and trying times. Many individuals will prioritize other’s needs before their own. There is no better time to start therapy than today.
(618) 243-7665 View (618) 243-7665
Photo of Kelsey Quade, MA, LCPC, NCC, CTMH, Counselor
Kelsey Quade
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC, CTMH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Belleville, IL 62221
Not accepting new clients
I see clients 10+ years old, and I am skilled in treating anxiety, stress, trauma, eating disorders, grief, relationship problems, anger management, and a variety of other issues.
I believe one role of a therapist is to help clients find ways to become the version of themselves they truly desire to be. Every person already possesses a unique set of skills and base of knowledge stemming from their life experiences and personality. People are often more resilient and capable of change than they realize, and it is my goal to help clients identify personal strengths, learn new skills, and create meaning, peace, healing, and change. We all need help sometimes, and there is no shame in asking for guidance or seeking a safe space to process the many unexpected things life can bring.
I see clients 10+ years old, and I am skilled in treating anxiety, stress, trauma, eating disorders, grief, relationship problems, anger management, and a variety of other issues.
I believe one role of a therapist is to help clients find ways to become the version of themselves they truly desire to be. Every person already possesses a unique set of skills and base of knowledge stemming from their life experiences and personality. People are often more resilient and capable of change than they realize, and it is my goal to help clients identify personal strengths, learn new skills, and create meaning, peace, healing, and change. We all need help sometimes, and there is no shame in asking for guidance or seeking a safe space to process the many unexpected things life can bring.
(618) 887-6113 View (618) 887-6113
Photo of Terry Turner, MA,  LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Terry Turner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62221  (Online Only)
Cognitive Behavioral, Cognitive Processing, Family/Martial and Trauma Focused psychotherapies, all of which are proven treatments, allow me to provide realistic expectations of improvement.
I understand that change can be overwhelming and challenging at times, and it can be hard to know where to begin. If you are ready to make a change and learn new skills, I will be right here by your side, cheering you on. You can count on me to provide unwavering support and guidance throughout your journey. Let's work together to understand your needs and create a meaningful plan that can make a real difference in your life.
Cognitive Behavioral, Cognitive Processing, Family/Martial and Trauma Focused psychotherapies, all of which are proven treatments, allow me to provide realistic expectations of improvement.
I understand that change can be overwhelming and challenging at times, and it can be hard to know where to begin. If you are ready to make a change and learn new skills, I will be right here by your side, cheering you on. You can count on me to provide unwavering support and guidance throughout your journey. Let's work together to understand your needs and create a meaningful plan that can make a real difference in your life.
(618) 496-6925 View (618) 496-6925
Photo of Rakhi Shingala, LCPC, Counselor
Rakhi Shingala
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62221
My experience includes working with clients of all ages who have anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Hi, I am Rakhi, a therapist at Path Mental Health. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Therapist (LCPC) and Board Certified Dance/Movement Therapist (BC-DMT). I have more than 10 years of experience helping individuals harness their potential to move towards their desired goals, facilitating change and healing. I use a client-centered approach, focusing on empathy, open-mindedness, and unconditional positive regard. I also incorporate Dialectic Behaviors Therapy (DBT), to improve insight, resilience, mindfulness, and emotional regulation. I do psychosomatic work to strengthen mind-body connections.
My experience includes working with clients of all ages who have anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Hi, I am Rakhi, a therapist at Path Mental Health. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Therapist (LCPC) and Board Certified Dance/Movement Therapist (BC-DMT). I have more than 10 years of experience helping individuals harness their potential to move towards their desired goals, facilitating change and healing. I use a client-centered approach, focusing on empathy, open-mindedness, and unconditional positive regard. I also incorporate Dialectic Behaviors Therapy (DBT), to improve insight, resilience, mindfulness, and emotional regulation. I do psychosomatic work to strengthen mind-body connections.
(773) 694-1373 View (773) 694-1373
Photo of April Lacey, LCPC, Counselor
April Lacey
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belleville, IL 62223  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Often the clients I see are adult and teen populations that are working through life transition concerns, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, depression, relationship concerns, defiance issues, grief, and work stress.
Hi there, I’m April! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois and work with clients statewide via telehealth. There are times in life when we hit a rough patch, lose direction, or encounter difficulty adjusting and coping with changes that occur in life. These experiences can be overwhelming and often can cause us to doubt our ability to overcome them. I decided to become a therapist because I wanted to help people rediscover their strengths, and the tools they have within themselves to cope with life's challenges.
Often the clients I see are adult and teen populations that are working through life transition concerns, anxiety, self-esteem, trauma, depression, relationship concerns, defiance issues, grief, and work stress.
Hi there, I’m April! I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois and work with clients statewide via telehealth. There are times in life when we hit a rough patch, lose direction, or encounter difficulty adjusting and coping with changes that occur in life. These experiences can be overwhelming and often can cause us to doubt our ability to overcome them. I decided to become a therapist because I wanted to help people rediscover their strengths, and the tools they have within themselves to cope with life's challenges.
(224) 328-2636 View (224) 328-2636
Photo of Ebony Cheri Hutchinson - The Community Reach, LCSW, LMSW, LPC, PLPC, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Community Reach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW, LPC, PLPC, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belleville, IL 62226
We are a group of clinicians with mental health practitioners with a wealth of experience and knowledge in field. Our professionals are dedicated to supporting clients on their journey to wellness. Our areas of treatment include: trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, grief, relationships, life transitions, and more. Our services are client centered. We also provide therapy for individuals with limited financial resources through the sliding scale program. We offer free parenting, grief, postpartum, and social skills (Pre K-5th grade) groups
We are a group of clinicians with mental health practitioners with a wealth of experience and knowledge in field. Our professionals are dedicated to supporting clients on their journey to wellness. Our areas of treatment include: trauma, stress, anxiety, depression, grief, relationships, life transitions, and more. Our services are client centered. We also provide therapy for individuals with limited financial resources through the sliding scale program. We offer free parenting, grief, postpartum, and social skills (Pre K-5th grade) groups
(636) 389-8920 View (636) 389-8920
Photo of Diana L Appleton, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diana L Appleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62223
EMDR and DNMS therapy for treatment of PTSD from traumatic events and attachment issues.
I enjoy working with a variety of life stages( adolescent, adult, senior), with challenges that range from easily addressed life dilemmas to those who need longer term therapy for such issues as early abuse/neglect and PTSD. I believe that safety, trust, and time are necessary to help people to make significant movement toward wholeness, integration of self,and a more fulfilling life. Brain Body Research has proven that the body is adversely affected by Chronic/Severe Stress and Limiting Beliefs about self and one's life situation.
EMDR and DNMS therapy for treatment of PTSD from traumatic events and attachment issues.
I enjoy working with a variety of life stages( adolescent, adult, senior), with challenges that range from easily addressed life dilemmas to those who need longer term therapy for such issues as early abuse/neglect and PTSD. I believe that safety, trust, and time are necessary to help people to make significant movement toward wholeness, integration of self,and a more fulfilling life. Brain Body Research has proven that the body is adversely affected by Chronic/Severe Stress and Limiting Beliefs about self and one's life situation.
(618) 219-8271 View (618) 219-8271
Photo of Lori Beckwith, EdD, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Lori Beckwith
Counselor, EdD, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62223  (Online Only)
I treat depression, anxiety disorders, trauma/PTSD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, relationship problems, and grief-related issues.
Life is difficult. This is the first line from the book, The Road Less Travelled, by M. Scott Peck. Each of us is all too aware of this basic truth. Sometimes we need help navigating our journey, and therapy is a great place to start! Building strong relationships with my clients provides a safe space to explore their life experiences, thoughts, and feelings. I aim to create an understanding and respectful environment where we can discover the most effective means for positive change.
I treat depression, anxiety disorders, trauma/PTSD, obsessive-compulsive disorder, relationship problems, and grief-related issues.
Life is difficult. This is the first line from the book, The Road Less Travelled, by M. Scott Peck. Each of us is all too aware of this basic truth. Sometimes we need help navigating our journey, and therapy is a great place to start! Building strong relationships with my clients provides a safe space to explore their life experiences, thoughts, and feelings. I aim to create an understanding and respectful environment where we can discover the most effective means for positive change.
(618) 391-0076 View (618) 391-0076
Photo of Amanda Lewis, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62226
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in working with people impacted by trauma, especially complex childhood trauma.
Everyone at some point needs a helping hand in making sense of stressful events, finding ways to cope, and taking steps toward becoming the person he or she wants to be. When working with my clients, my goal is to be that helping hand. I tailor my approach to clients' strengths and needs, with the focus of assisting individuals in reaching their goals and becoming the best versions of themselves. I prefer working with adults struggling with PTSD, depression, anxiety, life changes, grief, emotion regulation, or stress management.
I specialize in working with people impacted by trauma, especially complex childhood trauma.
Everyone at some point needs a helping hand in making sense of stressful events, finding ways to cope, and taking steps toward becoming the person he or she wants to be. When working with my clients, my goal is to be that helping hand. I tailor my approach to clients' strengths and needs, with the focus of assisting individuals in reaching their goals and becoming the best versions of themselves. I prefer working with adults struggling with PTSD, depression, anxiety, life changes, grief, emotion regulation, or stress management.
(618) 576-6043 View (618) 576-6043
Photo of Liz Jeremiah, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Liz Jeremiah
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Belleville, IL 62220
trauma, domestic violence, substance use, LGBTQ, depression, PTSD, depression/anxiety regarding medical problems, eating disorders, psychosis, motivation, goal achievement.
I am currently welcoming new clients who are wishing to create and achieve goals while exploring his or her life's journey. Understanding and reprocessing traumatic experiences is a large part of the experience, and I believe that everyone has the potential to heal. Anger, sadness, joy, fear and so many other emotions add spice to our lives. I strive to help others master and accept the way emotions, thoughts, and behaviors impact our relationships. If you are looking to grow in a safe environment and find your niche, I would be honored to embark on that journey with you.
trauma, domestic violence, substance use, LGBTQ, depression, PTSD, depression/anxiety regarding medical problems, eating disorders, psychosis, motivation, goal achievement.
I am currently welcoming new clients who are wishing to create and achieve goals while exploring his or her life's journey. Understanding and reprocessing traumatic experiences is a large part of the experience, and I believe that everyone has the potential to heal. Anger, sadness, joy, fear and so many other emotions add spice to our lives. I strive to help others master and accept the way emotions, thoughts, and behaviors impact our relationships. If you are looking to grow in a safe environment and find your niche, I would be honored to embark on that journey with you.
(618) 476-5001 View (618) 476-5001
Photo of Amy Vallem, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Vallem
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Belleville, IL 62220
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in treating: trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and PTSD.
A positive and empathetic relationship between therapist and client is essential in resolving mental health concerns. I work well with clients ready to change but who are also fearful of that change. I will be your biggest cheerleader but I will also challenge you to reframe anxious thinking, learn to deal with uncomfortable feelings; use EMDR to treat trauma, and help you to accept yourself in a more compassionate way.
I specialize in treating: trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, and PTSD.
A positive and empathetic relationship between therapist and client is essential in resolving mental health concerns. I work well with clients ready to change but who are also fearful of that change. I will be your biggest cheerleader but I will also challenge you to reframe anxious thinking, learn to deal with uncomfortable feelings; use EMDR to treat trauma, and help you to accept yourself in a more compassionate way.
(618) 699-4106 View (618) 699-4106
Photo of Tina Kampwerth - Tina Kampwerth Counseling Inc, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Tina Kampwerth Counseling Inc
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62221
Specializing in: Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, ADD, Anger management, Trauma, and Addictions.
Take your first step to wellness. I believe in providing a place of compassion and confidentiality where you can share your personal concerns and struggles. I provide assistance to help you improve on those areas that seem to be holding you from living a fulfilled and happy life. With over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families, I will assist you in reaching your goals for a better future.
Specializing in: Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, ADHD, ADD, Anger management, Trauma, and Addictions.
Take your first step to wellness. I believe in providing a place of compassion and confidentiality where you can share your personal concerns and struggles. I provide assistance to help you improve on those areas that seem to be holding you from living a fulfilled and happy life. With over 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families, I will assist you in reaching your goals for a better future.
(618) 724-5043 View (618) 724-5043
Photo of Robin L Dalske, PsyD, RPsgt, Psychologist
Robin L Dalske
Psychologist, PsyD, RPsgt
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Belleville, IL 62221
I use Cognitive Behavioral, System's theory, Mindfulness & Relaxation to treat stress management, anxiety, panic, depression, chronic pain, trauma, sleep problems, and attention concerns.
"A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle." - James Keller Therapy is a process in which two or more people join their resources to create change, decrease suffering and improve their lives. A therapist does not FIX a client, but works together with the client to create change. I am honored to be a part of that process. If the solution was simple, or obvious, you would have already done it. I give perspective, understanding, introduce new information, resources to cope with your situation.
I use Cognitive Behavioral, System's theory, Mindfulness & Relaxation to treat stress management, anxiety, panic, depression, chronic pain, trauma, sleep problems, and attention concerns.
"A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle." - James Keller Therapy is a process in which two or more people join their resources to create change, decrease suffering and improve their lives. A therapist does not FIX a client, but works together with the client to create change. I am honored to be a part of that process. If the solution was simple, or obvious, you would have already done it. I give perspective, understanding, introduce new information, resources to cope with your situation.
(618) 427-8336 View (618) 427-8336
Photo of Annabelle 'tai' Lee, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Annabelle 'tai' Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Belleville, IL 62221
Do you feel stuck in your past trauma or overanalyze your feelings? Whether you have anxiety, depression, or PTSD, you don’t have to work through it alone. Through therapy, we can collaborate and achieve goals that are important to you. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in IL. I worked as a substance abuse counselor during my internship, and since then, I have been working with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. My goal is to provide you with the tools and resources to navigate and heal through life’s challenges.
Do you feel stuck in your past trauma or overanalyze your feelings? Whether you have anxiety, depression, or PTSD, you don’t have to work through it alone. Through therapy, we can collaborate and achieve goals that are important to you. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in IL. I worked as a substance abuse counselor during my internship, and since then, I have been working with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. My goal is to provide you with the tools and resources to navigate and heal through life’s challenges.
(618) 427-1511 View (618) 427-1511
Photo of Angela M Ingram, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Angela M Ingram
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Belleville, IL 62220  (Online Only)
Whether you've been to a counselor before or this is your first time seeking help, I offer acceptance, openness, and inclusion to everyone. Some concerns I've helped others with include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder and traits, trauma, abuse, sexuality, substance use, work stress, and caregiver stress.
Whether you've been to a counselor before or this is your first time seeking help, I offer acceptance, openness, and inclusion to everyone. Some concerns I've helped others with include but are not limited to depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder and traits, trauma, abuse, sexuality, substance use, work stress, and caregiver stress.
(618) 589-2880 View (618) 589-2880
1
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.