Trauma and PTSD Therapists in O Fallon, IL

Photo of Katie Turek Stanart, LCPC, ATR-BC, PMH-C, NCC, Counselor
Katie Turek Stanart
Counselor, LCPC, ATR-BC, PMH-C, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
O Fallon, IL 62269
I believe that whether you're needing support with a current challenge, a past trauma, or navigating a life transition, you deserve a space that is welcoming and free of judgment. My goal as your therapist is to help you feel empowered and in control. I do not claim to be the expert on your life, and consider therapy a collaborative process where your voice matters. Common issues I address include coping and self-regulation skills, anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting support, self-esteem, safe expression of feelings, grief, psycho-education, safety planning, healthy relationships, boundaries, and pregnancy/postpartum support.
I believe that whether you're needing support with a current challenge, a past trauma, or navigating a life transition, you deserve a space that is welcoming and free of judgment. My goal as your therapist is to help you feel empowered and in control. I do not claim to be the expert on your life, and consider therapy a collaborative process where your voice matters. Common issues I address include coping and self-regulation skills, anxiety, depression, trauma, parenting support, self-esteem, safe expression of feelings, grief, psycho-education, safety planning, healthy relationships, boundaries, and pregnancy/postpartum support.
(618) 787-1805 View (618) 787-1805
Photo of Stephanie Thomas, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Stephanie Thomas
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
O Fallon, IL 62269
Waitlist for new clients
I help adults and adolescents who experience anxiety, depression, and challenges with communication reduce symptoms by improving upon current strengths and coping skills to build insight into symptoms experienced. My specialty areas include anxiety, PTSD, depression, grief, communication issues, and work-life balance. I offer openness and collaboration to those I work with and believe that a collaborative effort has a direct impact on benefits gained from counseling services.
I help adults and adolescents who experience anxiety, depression, and challenges with communication reduce symptoms by improving upon current strengths and coping skills to build insight into symptoms experienced. My specialty areas include anxiety, PTSD, depression, grief, communication issues, and work-life balance. I offer openness and collaboration to those I work with and believe that a collaborative effort has a direct impact on benefits gained from counseling services.
(833) 922-1518 View (833) 922-1518
Photo of Jessie Giese - Renewing Minds Therapy, PC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renewing Minds Therapy, PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
O Fallon, IL 62269
Do you have a history of trauma or abuse, anxiety or depression? Are you struggling to live out life in your family that you know that God has for you? We strongly believe that God has a "good, pleasing, and perfect will" (Romans 12:2) for your life. We believe that God has called us to "be continually renewed in the spirit of your mind" (Ephesians 4:23), and at Renewing Minds Therapy, we would be honored to walk with you on your journey of freedom, healing, and wholeness from a Christian counseling worldview.
Do you have a history of trauma or abuse, anxiety or depression? Are you struggling to live out life in your family that you know that God has for you? We strongly believe that God has a "good, pleasing, and perfect will" (Romans 12:2) for your life. We believe that God has called us to "be continually renewed in the spirit of your mind" (Ephesians 4:23), and at Renewing Minds Therapy, we would be honored to walk with you on your journey of freedom, healing, and wholeness from a Christian counseling worldview.
(618) 591-1135 View (618) 591-1135
Photo of Mysti Westhoff, MA, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mysti Westhoff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
O Fallon, IL 62269
Hello, I am the founder of Wevolve Wellness and Counseling. I have a strong passion for working with teens, young adults, and women who struggle with various life challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, family issues, self-harm, low self-esteem, and grief. It's important to me to foster a non-judgmental and safe space for you to explore your feelings and the impact that feelings and emotions have on you. It is my hope that we can work together as a team to help you heal, grow, and evolve.
Hello, I am the founder of Wevolve Wellness and Counseling. I have a strong passion for working with teens, young adults, and women who struggle with various life challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, ADHD, family issues, self-harm, low self-esteem, and grief. It's important to me to foster a non-judgmental and safe space for you to explore your feelings and the impact that feelings and emotions have on you. It is my hope that we can work together as a team to help you heal, grow, and evolve.
(618) 745-2632 View (618) 745-2632
Photo of Amy Vallem, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Vallem
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
O Fallon, IL 62269
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 James Carroll, LCPC, RPT-S, ACS
James Carroll
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, RPT-S, ACS
Verified Verified
O Fallon, IL 62269
I have several areas of specialization: younger children, adoption/attachment, neurodivergent individuals, and individuals dealing with stress and trauma.
You or your child may be having difficulty at work, school, home, with friends, or with family members and you are not sure what to do about it! These difficulties may include difficulty managing emotions, worrying about things, problems with attention, and/or getting along and connecting with other people. You may feel that you have tried everything to help yourself and/or your child and nothing seems to work. There is a ton of information available-friends, social media, etc. All this information can be conflicting and make things even more overwhelming. You don't have to do this alone. Therapy can help you or your child!
I have several areas of specialization: younger children, adoption/attachment, neurodivergent individuals, and individuals dealing with stress and trauma.
You or your child may be having difficulty at work, school, home, with friends, or with family members and you are not sure what to do about it! These difficulties may include difficulty managing emotions, worrying about things, problems with attention, and/or getting along and connecting with other people. You may feel that you have tried everything to help yourself and/or your child and nothing seems to work. There is a ton of information available-friends, social media, etc. All this information can be conflicting and make things even more overwhelming. You don't have to do this alone. Therapy can help you or your child!
(618) 693-2650 View (618) 693-2650
Photo of Dominique Wilson, MA, LCPC
Dominique Wilson
Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
O Fallon, IL 62269
Have you tried everything to feel “normal” and still feel wounded, damaged, or out of control? If this is you, it’s time to step out of the solitary confinement of your mind and allow a healer to guide you. After all, being with a therapist is a relationship that can go beyond any other. For your therapist may know every secret and dark thought you've had, and hold trust that you've never gifted to anyone. When you ask for help, you’re expecting skills, processing, for "it" not to hurt so bad. Being gifted to heal people from their trauma creates a sense of owing the world my best effort at the work I love.
Have you tried everything to feel “normal” and still feel wounded, damaged, or out of control? If this is you, it’s time to step out of the solitary confinement of your mind and allow a healer to guide you. After all, being with a therapist is a relationship that can go beyond any other. For your therapist may know every secret and dark thought you've had, and hold trust that you've never gifted to anyone. When you ask for help, you’re expecting skills, processing, for "it" not to hurt so bad. Being gifted to heal people from their trauma creates a sense of owing the world my best effort at the work I love.
(618) 762-3343 View (618) 762-3343
Photo of Janel Morey-Sassano, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janel Morey-Sassano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
O Fallon, IL 62269  (Online Only)
March openings availabIe! EMDR certified, women centered therapist who specializes in maternal mental health and post-traumatic stress disorder. I teach women to take care of themselves first so they can better care for others. Trained during my work at The Postpartum Stress Center, I treat women who struggle with trauma, postpartum adjustment, infertility, birth trauma, infant loss/miscarriage and adoption struggles. We strengthen the relationship to self, build a sense of emotional safety with others. We will shift the lens on the mommy myths, cultural expectations and perfectionistic standards which can cause overwhelm/shame.
March openings availabIe! EMDR certified, women centered therapist who specializes in maternal mental health and post-traumatic stress disorder. I teach women to take care of themselves first so they can better care for others. Trained during my work at The Postpartum Stress Center, I treat women who struggle with trauma, postpartum adjustment, infertility, birth trauma, infant loss/miscarriage and adoption struggles. We strengthen the relationship to self, build a sense of emotional safety with others. We will shift the lens on the mommy myths, cultural expectations and perfectionistic standards which can cause overwhelm/shame.
(618) 437-8487 View (618) 437-8487
Photo of Jessica Crunkleton, LMFT, LCPC, LPC, CADAC, EMDR, Counselor
Jessica Crunkleton
Counselor, LMFT, LCPC, LPC, CADAC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
O Fallon, IL 62269
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in trauma-informed therapy for kids, teens, adults, couples, families, & groups.
My mission is to provide clients of all ages with a safe, nonjudgmental space where they can truly feel heard, respected, & empowered. I'm a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Mental Health Counselor, Certified EMDR Therapist, & Sandtray Therapist. I treat a variety of issues. I believe clients want a therapist who is genuine, compassionate, trustworthy, smart, & funny. They want a therapist who cares about them, wants to hear their story, supports them through the "hard" stuff, teaches them tools to solve problems on their own, celebrates their wins, & helps with accountablity when needed. If this sounds like you, let's talk.
I specialize in trauma-informed therapy for kids, teens, adults, couples, families, & groups.
My mission is to provide clients of all ages with a safe, nonjudgmental space where they can truly feel heard, respected, & empowered. I'm a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, Mental Health Counselor, Certified EMDR Therapist, & Sandtray Therapist. I treat a variety of issues. I believe clients want a therapist who is genuine, compassionate, trustworthy, smart, & funny. They want a therapist who cares about them, wants to hear their story, supports them through the "hard" stuff, teaches them tools to solve problems on their own, celebrates their wins, & helps with accountablity when needed. If this sounds like you, let's talk.
(618) 423-8279 View (618) 423-8279
Photo of Mindy Harms-Coleman, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Mindy Harms-Coleman
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
O Fallon, IL 62269
I specialize in trauma recovery, PTSD, addictions, unhealthy relationships, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, phase of life issues, burnout, compassion fatigue and secondary trauma.
Do you often feel alone, like no one understands you or 'gets' you? Do you struggle with healthy, meaningful relationships? Do you feel like something "isn't quite right" or is missing in your life? Have you tried therapy before and it didn't work out? For every client that walks through my door I help feel less alone and ease emotional burdens. I help you navigate the most difficult hardships in your life by providing a safe and supportive healing space. I help you establish healthy, fulfilling and meaningful relationships, starting with YOU. I look forward to meeting you and walking this healing journey together!
I specialize in trauma recovery, PTSD, addictions, unhealthy relationships, depression, anxiety, chronic pain, phase of life issues, burnout, compassion fatigue and secondary trauma.
Do you often feel alone, like no one understands you or 'gets' you? Do you struggle with healthy, meaningful relationships? Do you feel like something "isn't quite right" or is missing in your life? Have you tried therapy before and it didn't work out? For every client that walks through my door I help feel less alone and ease emotional burdens. I help you navigate the most difficult hardships in your life by providing a safe and supportive healing space. I help you establish healthy, fulfilling and meaningful relationships, starting with YOU. I look forward to meeting you and walking this healing journey together!
(708) 295-3166 View (708) 295-3166
Photo of Felicia K Ewing, NCC, CCMHC, LCPC, LSOTP, LSOE, Licensed Professional Counselor
Felicia K Ewing
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, CCMHC, LCPC, LSOTP, LSOE
Verified Verified
O Fallon, IL 62269
The path to healing after a trauma is unique to each individual. I believe in helping you discover the best path for you. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor within a private practice setting. I graduated in 2018 from Wake Forest University with a MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Since then, I have had the opportunity to serve a diverse range of clients in community and private practice settings. I have provided individual, family and group therapy to adults and children. I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma in their life to include children, adolescents, and veterans.
The path to healing after a trauma is unique to each individual. I believe in helping you discover the best path for you. I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor within a private practice setting. I graduated in 2018 from Wake Forest University with a MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Since then, I have had the opportunity to serve a diverse range of clients in community and private practice settings. I have provided individual, family and group therapy to adults and children. I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma in their life to include children, adolescents, and veterans.
(618) 212-8012 View (618) 212-8012
Photo of April D Jones, MA, LCPC, NBCC
April D Jones
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
O Fallon, IL 62269
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 Angela M Ingram, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Angela M Ingram
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
O Fallon, IL 62269  (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
Photo of Nadiah Sabrah, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nadiah Sabrah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
O Fallon, IL 62269
My Experience Enables Me To Provide Outpatient, Individualized, & Psychological Care For Ages 6+. I Have Been Providing Direct Care Including Individual, Group, Family, & Couple Counseling In Variety Of Settings To Children, Adolescents, & Adults. I Have Experience In Assessing & Treating Several Mental Health Disorders & Behavioral Health Needs Including Anger, Grief, Depression, Anxiety, Mood, Trauma Related, Co-occurring & Personality Disorders. I Utilize A Holistic Approach With Focus On Your Goals & What You Need. I Am Trained In Client Centered Counseling, TF-CBT, CBT, Mindfulness, SPARCS, CBITS, & Supervision.
My Experience Enables Me To Provide Outpatient, Individualized, & Psychological Care For Ages 6+. I Have Been Providing Direct Care Including Individual, Group, Family, & Couple Counseling In Variety Of Settings To Children, Adolescents, & Adults. I Have Experience In Assessing & Treating Several Mental Health Disorders & Behavioral Health Needs Including Anger, Grief, Depression, Anxiety, Mood, Trauma Related, Co-occurring & Personality Disorders. I Utilize A Holistic Approach With Focus On Your Goals & What You Need. I Am Trained In Client Centered Counseling, TF-CBT, CBT, Mindfulness, SPARCS, CBITS, & Supervision.
(618) 205-9493 View (618) 205-9493
Photo of Jay Greenberger - Illinois Healing Center for Trauma and Addiction, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Illinois Healing Center for Trauma and Addiction
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
O Fallon, IL 62269
Living with an unresolved or unprocessed trauma, whether it be physical, sexual, emotional, or even relational, can make life seem heavy. Yet, there's hope to transform yourself from a victim to a survivor. Our therapeutic journey will explore the interweaves between negative/deviant compulsive behaviors, unhealthy attachments, as well as general life areas where you find yourself highly anxious or stuck. The goal is to ultimately be able to look yourself in the mirror, smile and say, "I'm OK." You won't be alone in this journey to a healthier more positive life. We will be supporting you as you get to a more satisfying place.
Living with an unresolved or unprocessed trauma, whether it be physical, sexual, emotional, or even relational, can make life seem heavy. Yet, there's hope to transform yourself from a victim to a survivor. Our therapeutic journey will explore the interweaves between negative/deviant compulsive behaviors, unhealthy attachments, as well as general life areas where you find yourself highly anxious or stuck. The goal is to ultimately be able to look yourself in the mirror, smile and say, "I'm OK." You won't be alone in this journey to a healthier more positive life. We will be supporting you as you get to a more satisfying place.
(224) 212-1699 View (224) 212-1699
Photo of Jessica Biffar, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Jessica Biffar
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
O Fallon, IL 62269
Are you experiencing fear, anxiety, overwhelming despair or uncertainty? Are you struggling with navigating life after experiencing trauma, life transitions, or unhealthy relationships? I want you to feel safe and seen, and learn to trust your instincts/ body to know how to heal.
Are you experiencing fear, anxiety, overwhelming despair or uncertainty? Are you struggling with navigating life after experiencing trauma, life transitions, or unhealthy relationships? I want you to feel safe and seen, and learn to trust your instincts/ body to know how to heal.
(708) 295-3803 View (708) 295-3803
Photo of Diana L Appleton, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diana L Appleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
O Fallon, IL 62269
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 Shelby Reece, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Shelby Reece
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
O Fallon, IL 62269
My main passions are nested in anxiety, depression, trauma, and perinatal.
You can’t pour from an empty cup.” That’s why I help people do the important work of refilling their owns cups, reclaiming their lives, and healing with a renewed sense of purpose.
My main passions are nested in anxiety, depression, trauma, and perinatal.
You can’t pour from an empty cup.” That’s why I help people do the important work of refilling their owns cups, reclaiming their lives, and healing with a renewed sense of purpose.
(618) 226-4865 View (618) 226-4865
Photo of Kim Washburn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Washburn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
O Fallon, IL 62269
I have experience with adolescents through senior adults in a multitude of areas including anxiety, depression, body-image/eating disorders, various life changes/transitions, relationships, as well as trauma and PTSD.
Let's face it, life gets bumpy sometimes. I understand that we may struggle during these "bumpy" times. When helping client's experiencing various mental, emotional and/or life stressors, I take a compassionate approach, yet I am also open and forthright with clients to provide a safe, non-judgemental space to facilitate the helping process. Therapy is a give-and-take relationship between client and therapist and I will use an array of methods including Talk Therapy, Motivational Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, as well as, Mindfulness-Based and Relaxation techniques to support clients in reaching their full potential.
I have experience with adolescents through senior adults in a multitude of areas including anxiety, depression, body-image/eating disorders, various life changes/transitions, relationships, as well as trauma and PTSD.
Let's face it, life gets bumpy sometimes. I understand that we may struggle during these "bumpy" times. When helping client's experiencing various mental, emotional and/or life stressors, I take a compassionate approach, yet I am also open and forthright with clients to provide a safe, non-judgemental space to facilitate the helping process. Therapy is a give-and-take relationship between client and therapist and I will use an array of methods including Talk Therapy, Motivational Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, as well as, Mindfulness-Based and Relaxation techniques to support clients in reaching their full potential.
(618) 342-7413 View (618) 342-7413
Photo of Ella M Duncan, PhD, BCD, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ella M Duncan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, BCD, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
O Fallon, IL 62269
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in healthy couples, child, and family relationships; separation/divorce; parenting/behavioral issues; anxiety and depression; and trauma/PTSD. I am a Registered Play Therapist with a fully-equipped play therapy room. I also have extensive Sandtray therapy training which I utilize with school-age children, teens, adults, and families. Additionally, I have 27 years of experience working with military members, retirees, and their families. My approach is collaborative, client-centered, strengths-oriented, and solution-focused as I strive to assist you in making the journey toward achieving your goals to improve your life, marriage, and/or family.
I specialize in healthy couples, child, and family relationships; separation/divorce; parenting/behavioral issues; anxiety and depression; and trauma/PTSD. I am a Registered Play Therapist with a fully-equipped play therapy room. I also have extensive Sandtray therapy training which I utilize with school-age children, teens, adults, and families. Additionally, I have 27 years of experience working with military members, retirees, and their families. My approach is collaborative, client-centered, strengths-oriented, and solution-focused as I strive to assist you in making the journey toward achieving your goals to improve your life, marriage, and/or family.
(618) 421-4025 View (618) 421-4025
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.