Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Champaign, IL

Photo of Lisa Graff, LSW
Lisa Graff
Licensed Social Worker, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61820
Through a trauma-informed approach, combined with EMDR, and acceptance and mindfulness-based therapies, we will explore and practice new ways for you to use your strengths to cope with difficult thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
Are you experiencing persistent feelings of unhappiness, anger, fear, or a sense of being stuck? No matter what you do, you feel like you are never good enough. I specialize in working with individuals that identify as neurodivergent, those struggling with body image, and new parents or those experiencing parenting transitions. I believe that everyone has the ability within themselves to heal and find empowerment in their own lives.
Through a trauma-informed approach, combined with EMDR, and acceptance and mindfulness-based therapies, we will explore and practice new ways for you to use your strengths to cope with difficult thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
Are you experiencing persistent feelings of unhappiness, anger, fear, or a sense of being stuck? No matter what you do, you feel like you are never good enough. I specialize in working with individuals that identify as neurodivergent, those struggling with body image, and new parents or those experiencing parenting transitions. I believe that everyone has the ability within themselves to heal and find empowerment in their own lives.
(217) 776-8548 View (217) 776-8548
Photo of Marilee Johnson, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Marilee Johnson
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61821
Waitlist for new clients
Are you worried your child may have depression, anxiety? Does your child need help managing feelings and behaviors at home or school? Are you concerned about your child's academic performance or ability to get along with others? Perhaps as an adult, does past trauma get in the way of you living your life? Do you want to feel like you can manage life's demands without anxiety or flashbacks? Are your relationships suffering? Do you struggle with mood issues or anxiety? I specialize in treating children, adolescents and adults with a background of trauma or mood disorders.
Are you worried your child may have depression, anxiety? Does your child need help managing feelings and behaviors at home or school? Are you concerned about your child's academic performance or ability to get along with others? Perhaps as an adult, does past trauma get in the way of you living your life? Do you want to feel like you can manage life's demands without anxiety or flashbacks? Are your relationships suffering? Do you struggle with mood issues or anxiety? I specialize in treating children, adolescents and adults with a background of trauma or mood disorders.
(217) 216-8534 View (217) 216-8534
Photo of Kate Maurer, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Kate Maurer
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61820
I work with depression, anxiety, trauma, and other concerns in adults, college students, and adolescents 14+.
There are times for many of us when life no longer feels workable. The stress of life changes, work, or study becomes overwhelming. You might feel unable to find connection, joy, or a sense of purpose in your life, frozen by the pain of your past or uncertainty about your future. You withdraw into numbness or despair, caught in patterns that you can’t seem to break and unable to fully connect with the people and the world around you. Perhaps anxious thoughts and behaviors nag and exhaust you, driving you further from the things that you value. It feels like your own mind has become an enemy.
I work with depression, anxiety, trauma, and other concerns in adults, college students, and adolescents 14+.
There are times for many of us when life no longer feels workable. The stress of life changes, work, or study becomes overwhelming. You might feel unable to find connection, joy, or a sense of purpose in your life, frozen by the pain of your past or uncertainty about your future. You withdraw into numbness or despair, caught in patterns that you can’t seem to break and unable to fully connect with the people and the world around you. Perhaps anxious thoughts and behaviors nag and exhaust you, driving you further from the things that you value. It feels like your own mind has become an enemy.
(217) 203-6303 View (217) 203-6303
Photo of Brittany M. Frost, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brittany M. Frost
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61821
I am an empathetic therapist who counsels adults, teens, and primarily couples. My counseling style uses attachment-focused and trauma-informed approaches. I also have a clinical focus on sex therapy and relational intimacy. I am dedicated to helping my clients navigate their emotional and relational struggles related to everyday life. My therapeutic approach is grounded in Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) and is influenced by parts work. I am a counselor with a master's degree in mental health counseling and a certificate in sex therapy.
I am an empathetic therapist who counsels adults, teens, and primarily couples. My counseling style uses attachment-focused and trauma-informed approaches. I also have a clinical focus on sex therapy and relational intimacy. I am dedicated to helping my clients navigate their emotional and relational struggles related to everyday life. My therapeutic approach is grounded in Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) and is influenced by parts work. I am a counselor with a master's degree in mental health counseling and a certificate in sex therapy.
(217) 269-8900 View (217) 269-8900
Photo of Heidi McGill, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Heidi McGill
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61821
In addition to working with adults with trauma, I specialize in working with adults experiencing life transition or who are simply seeking personal growth.
With over 25 years of experience as a LCPC, my commitment to walking alongside people through their healing process with the utmost care and respect has only deepened. Primarily working with adults who are healing from trauma, I understand the overwhelm and exhaustion that often comes with being stuck in the unsupportive, negative response loop of trauma. I leverage a number of highly effective therapeutic modalities to help people live in the now instead of the past.
In addition to working with adults with trauma, I specialize in working with adults experiencing life transition or who are simply seeking personal growth.
With over 25 years of experience as a LCPC, my commitment to walking alongside people through their healing process with the utmost care and respect has only deepened. Primarily working with adults who are healing from trauma, I understand the overwhelm and exhaustion that often comes with being stuck in the unsupportive, negative response loop of trauma. I leverage a number of highly effective therapeutic modalities to help people live in the now instead of the past.
(217) 645-6898 View (217) 645-6898
Photo of Lawisha Dulski, MS, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Lawisha Dulski
Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61822
I have experience working with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, substance abuse, addictions, psychosis, ADHD, PTSD, conduct disorders, incarcerated individuals, families, couples, and more.
I believe in a person centered and narrative approach, as you are the expert of your own life. You have your own story to tell. Talking to a stranger about issues you’re facing can be extremely difficult and challenging but it shows enormous amounts of strength and bravery. My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can express yourself, discuss challenges that you are facing, explore new ideas and new chapters, and to help promote growth and wellness. I want my clients to feel heard and understood.
I have experience working with depression, anxiety, personality disorders, substance abuse, addictions, psychosis, ADHD, PTSD, conduct disorders, incarcerated individuals, families, couples, and more.
I believe in a person centered and narrative approach, as you are the expert of your own life. You have your own story to tell. Talking to a stranger about issues you’re facing can be extremely difficult and challenging but it shows enormous amounts of strength and bravery. My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can express yourself, discuss challenges that you are facing, explore new ideas and new chapters, and to help promote growth and wellness. I want my clients to feel heard and understood.
(833) 659-1321 View (833) 659-1321
Photo of Anna Asplund, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Asplund
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
While I am comfortable using a variety of therapeutic modalities, I primarily draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), trauma-informed practices, and child-centered play therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, received in 2018. I have worked in social services since 2014 in a variety of settings, including residential treatment, community mental health, and private practice. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults as they cope with a variety of difficulties, including depression, anxiety, other mood disorders, trauma, grief, and religious transitions.
While I am comfortable using a variety of therapeutic modalities, I primarily draw from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), trauma-informed practices, and child-centered play therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Illinois Urbana Champaign, received in 2018. I have worked in social services since 2014 in a variety of settings, including residential treatment, community mental health, and private practice. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults as they cope with a variety of difficulties, including depression, anxiety, other mood disorders, trauma, grief, and religious transitions.
(217) 439-3983 View (217) 439-3983
Photo of Eden Sassaman, LCPC
Eden Sassaman
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
Recreating the trauma narrative using verbal and nonverbal forms of communication integrates adverse experiences in new ways to make them less vivid and to reduce the emotion associated with the experience.
I am a board-certified, Registered Art Therapist and Licensed Counselor with experience working with children, teens, and adults. Many of my clients need help dealing with feelings of anxiety, stress, depression, and low self-esteem. Using evidence-based practices, I help my clients gain understanding and develop skills to overcome a crisis or personal challenge. People develop assertive communication skills, self-regulation skills, and time-management skills and build self-confidence in the process. By guiding clients toward developing positive thoughts and behavior shifts, they can challenge old thought patterns and see results.
Recreating the trauma narrative using verbal and nonverbal forms of communication integrates adverse experiences in new ways to make them less vivid and to reduce the emotion associated with the experience.
I am a board-certified, Registered Art Therapist and Licensed Counselor with experience working with children, teens, and adults. Many of my clients need help dealing with feelings of anxiety, stress, depression, and low self-esteem. Using evidence-based practices, I help my clients gain understanding and develop skills to overcome a crisis or personal challenge. People develop assertive communication skills, self-regulation skills, and time-management skills and build self-confidence in the process. By guiding clients toward developing positive thoughts and behavior shifts, they can challenge old thought patterns and see results.
(217) 978-7237 View (217) 978-7237
Photo of Kelly Fein, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Fein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820  (Online Only)
I have over 12 years of experience in the field. Areas I like to address include, past trauma and abuse, depression, anxiety, relationships, eating disorders, personality disorders, self-esteem, bullying, social awareness, and parenting support among other issues. I have extensive training in therapeutic approaches with children and adolescents including art therapy and play-based approaches, however I enjoy working with all age groups.
I have over 12 years of experience in the field. Areas I like to address include, past trauma and abuse, depression, anxiety, relationships, eating disorders, personality disorders, self-esteem, bullying, social awareness, and parenting support among other issues. I have extensive training in therapeutic approaches with children and adolescents including art therapy and play-based approaches, however I enjoy working with all age groups.
(217) 742-6841 View (217) 742-6841
Photo of Caitlin D Schutz, MSW, LSW
Caitlin D Schutz
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61821
Hi, my name is Cat Schutz. I am a licensed social worker who is a compassionate counselor specializing in supporting children, families and individuals through challenging times. With a wealth of experience in working with those who have survived tremendous trauma, life changes, and who are struggling with well-being, I'm deeply committed to empowering you to navigate life's obstacles with resilience and strength. I bring a calm and reassuring presence to my therapeutic approach, and value creating a safe space for you to explore your emotions and experiences.
Hi, my name is Cat Schutz. I am a licensed social worker who is a compassionate counselor specializing in supporting children, families and individuals through challenging times. With a wealth of experience in working with those who have survived tremendous trauma, life changes, and who are struggling with well-being, I'm deeply committed to empowering you to navigate life's obstacles with resilience and strength. I bring a calm and reassuring presence to my therapeutic approach, and value creating a safe space for you to explore your emotions and experiences.
(217) 846-9361 View (217) 846-9361
Photo of Jessica Giroux, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Giroux
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
She specializes in people who are survivors of trauma, depression, and anxiety.
Jessica Runde, Licenced Professional Counselor, received her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Eastern Illinois University. She has foundational studies in neuroscience, which she feels gives her knowledge of psychology a scientific base about how the mind and the physical brain work together in regards to  trauma, stress, and other mental health challenges. She often incorporates this into her sessions with clients in an easy-to-understand manner to understand more about the unique challenges they are facing.
She specializes in people who are survivors of trauma, depression, and anxiety.
Jessica Runde, Licenced Professional Counselor, received her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Eastern Illinois University. She has foundational studies in neuroscience, which she feels gives her knowledge of psychology a scientific base about how the mind and the physical brain work together in regards to  trauma, stress, and other mental health challenges. She often incorporates this into her sessions with clients in an easy-to-understand manner to understand more about the unique challenges they are facing.
(833) 527-1041 View (833) 527-1041
Photo of Dr. Nancy Goodrich Mitts, PhD, LCP, Psychologist
Dr. Nancy Goodrich Mitts
Psychologist, PhD, LCP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61822  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with trauma and PTSD, anxiety, and self esteem in college students and young professionals.
You may be feeling lost and completely overwhelmed. You've been struggling to cope and feeling burnt out lately. You're tired of people pleasing and ready to heal from past trauma. It's possible you've been feeling on edge and out of control when things go wrong. You've noticed that you're extra hard on yourself and are struggling with the sense that deep down you're not good enough. Or maybe you're having a hard time in your relationships and wonder if you're the problem because you've always felt lonely, unwanted, and disconnected. If some of these statements resonate with you, I'm here to help figure things out together.
I specialize in working with trauma and PTSD, anxiety, and self esteem in college students and young professionals.
You may be feeling lost and completely overwhelmed. You've been struggling to cope and feeling burnt out lately. You're tired of people pleasing and ready to heal from past trauma. It's possible you've been feeling on edge and out of control when things go wrong. You've noticed that you're extra hard on yourself and are struggling with the sense that deep down you're not good enough. Or maybe you're having a hard time in your relationships and wonder if you're the problem because you've always felt lonely, unwanted, and disconnected. If some of these statements resonate with you, I'm here to help figure things out together.
(217) 387-3913 View (217) 387-3913
Photo of Jenn Aardsma, MA, LCPC, CST, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenn Aardsma
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, CST, NCC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61822
I believe deeply in the power of relationships for growth and healing. If we have the privilege of working together, I will listen attentively to understand your experiences. When applicable, I will seek to help you recognize and develop your strengths and skills to respond effectively to life’s many difficulties and opportunities. Areas of support include guidance for concerns with anxiety, depression, OCD, panic attacks, PTSD, anger, grief, mood disorders, personality disorders, impulse control, relationship challenges, sexual pain disorders and concerns regarding gender and sexuality.
I believe deeply in the power of relationships for growth and healing. If we have the privilege of working together, I will listen attentively to understand your experiences. When applicable, I will seek to help you recognize and develop your strengths and skills to respond effectively to life’s many difficulties and opportunities. Areas of support include guidance for concerns with anxiety, depression, OCD, panic attacks, PTSD, anger, grief, mood disorders, personality disorders, impulse control, relationship challenges, sexual pain disorders and concerns regarding gender and sexuality.
(217) 216-8325 View (217) 216-8325
Photo of David Payne Wolf - Soulbodyworks, LPC, SEPIT, LMT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Soulbodyworks
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, SEPIT, LMT
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
Most of us humans have experienced trauma or simply too much stress. Thoughts, body sensations, and images/memories/dreams can cause more emotional and physical pain--and vice versa. To get rid of these unwanted things completely may be expected goals; but to diminish and manage them with less pain or tension is more realistic. To be understood by others, to feel more safe, to feel supported, to receive usable feedback and new ideas--these are goals I will surely help any client experience. Somatic Experiencing facilitates clients in moving forward, at their own pace, building more resilience self-acceptance and confidence.
Most of us humans have experienced trauma or simply too much stress. Thoughts, body sensations, and images/memories/dreams can cause more emotional and physical pain--and vice versa. To get rid of these unwanted things completely may be expected goals; but to diminish and manage them with less pain or tension is more realistic. To be understood by others, to feel more safe, to feel supported, to receive usable feedback and new ideas--these are goals I will surely help any client experience. Somatic Experiencing facilitates clients in moving forward, at their own pace, building more resilience self-acceptance and confidence.
(217) 286-1333 View (217) 286-1333
Photo of Kim Baright, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Baright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Illinois with over 25 years of experience. I work with clients across the lifespan regarding a wide range of concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, acceptance, ADHD, and relationship issues, and am a strong ally of the LGBTQ+ community. I believe therapy is a client – centered time to focus on your personal concerns, needs, and goals, and am honored to partner with you in the process of personal growth and healing.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Illinois with over 25 years of experience. I work with clients across the lifespan regarding a wide range of concerns such as anxiety, depression, trauma, acceptance, ADHD, and relationship issues, and am a strong ally of the LGBTQ+ community. I believe therapy is a client – centered time to focus on your personal concerns, needs, and goals, and am honored to partner with you in the process of personal growth and healing.
(217) 712-3911 View (217) 712-3911
Photo of Brandon Carson, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brandon Carson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
I work with individual adults and couples, providing talk therapy from a Humanistic-strengths based perspective, while assisting clients in addressing issues related to their anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, substance use and abuse, self-regulation, wellness and growth.
I am a Licensed Social Worker with a Master’s degree in Social Work from the Metropolitan State University in Denver Colorado with over fourteen years of experience in social work, starting with organizing for labor and community campaigns, followed by working with veterans who were experiencing homelessness.
I work with individual adults and couples, providing talk therapy from a Humanistic-strengths based perspective, while assisting clients in addressing issues related to their anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, substance use and abuse, self-regulation, wellness and growth.
I am a Licensed Social Worker with a Master’s degree in Social Work from the Metropolitan State University in Denver Colorado with over fourteen years of experience in social work, starting with organizing for labor and community campaigns, followed by working with veterans who were experiencing homelessness.
(217) 284-2137 View (217) 284-2137
Photo of Ann Lucia Chan - Ann L. Chan Counseling Services, PC, LCPC, LCSW, Counselor
Ann L. Chan Counseling Services, PC
Counselor, LCPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61820
I have extensive training in individual, couple and family therapy, trauma, anger and stress management,mindfulness, child physical and sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship issues, pain and somatic related health problems.
Ann L. Chan provides a unique healing experience in a calm space. I have cutting-edge knowledge related to the mind, body, and brain. She understands the origins of the problems related to trauma and attachment. I apply Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Somatic Practice, Transforming the Experience-Based Brain (TEB), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Havening.
I have extensive training in individual, couple and family therapy, trauma, anger and stress management,mindfulness, child physical and sexual abuse, depression, anxiety, PTSD, relationship issues, pain and somatic related health problems.
Ann L. Chan provides a unique healing experience in a calm space. I have cutting-edge knowledge related to the mind, body, and brain. She understands the origins of the problems related to trauma and attachment. I apply Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Somatic Practice, Transforming the Experience-Based Brain (TEB), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Havening.
(217) 794-6121 View (217) 794-6121
Photo of Shelli Billingsley, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shelli Billingsley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820
I address issues with a strength-based and trauma-informed approach to help with your personal health and healing goals.
I am a licensed counselor and received my Master’s Degree in 2001 from the University of Illinois in Springfield. Prior to entering private practice, I worked as a junior high and high school counselor for 25 years. I have also worked in an inpatient psychiatric facility with both adults and adolescents. Most recently, I have been employed in child welfare with families involved with DCFS in foster care and reunification of families when appropriate. My employment experience in different fields has allowed me to see life from many perspectives and viewpoints.
I address issues with a strength-based and trauma-informed approach to help with your personal health and healing goals.
I am a licensed counselor and received my Master’s Degree in 2001 from the University of Illinois in Springfield. Prior to entering private practice, I worked as a junior high and high school counselor for 25 years. I have also worked in an inpatient psychiatric facility with both adults and adolescents. Most recently, I have been employed in child welfare with families involved with DCFS in foster care and reunification of families when appropriate. My employment experience in different fields has allowed me to see life from many perspectives and viewpoints.
(217) 393-6198 View (217) 393-6198
Photo of Cheron Allen, LCPC, Counselor
Cheron Allen
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61820  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor certified in CBT with over ten years of experience, I can treat most mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and obsessive-compulsive disorders.
At my core, I am an artist and believe in creating the sacred space necessary for intentional healing. My approach is strength-based and person-centered. I draw from evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Systems Theory and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to address individual and relational needs.
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor certified in CBT with over ten years of experience, I can treat most mental health concerns including depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, and obsessive-compulsive disorders.
At my core, I am an artist and believe in creating the sacred space necessary for intentional healing. My approach is strength-based and person-centered. I draw from evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Systems Theory and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to address individual and relational needs.
(773) 207-5400 View (773) 207-5400
Photo of Chase Griffin, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chase Griffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Champaign, IL 61821
My treatment approach is based around Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and is trauma focused.
I specialize in working with youth ages 12 and older, parents, and family dynamics. I also work with adults. The mental health issues I specialize in are: depression and suicidal thoughts/ideation, self-harming behaviors, anxiety, trauma history or disorders, oppositional defiance, ADHD, parenting, peer relationships, self-esteem, sexual abuse, and sexually problematic behaviors. I also specialize in family reintegration and boundary setting. Therapy should be about improving yourself and learning the tools to do that effectively.
My treatment approach is based around Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and is trauma focused.
I specialize in working with youth ages 12 and older, parents, and family dynamics. I also work with adults. The mental health issues I specialize in are: depression and suicidal thoughts/ideation, self-harming behaviors, anxiety, trauma history or disorders, oppositional defiance, ADHD, parenting, peer relationships, self-esteem, sexual abuse, and sexually problematic behaviors. I also specialize in family reintegration and boundary setting. Therapy should be about improving yourself and learning the tools to do that effectively.
(217) 292-6237 View (217) 292-6237
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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.