Photo of Allen Shamon, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allen Shamon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114  (Online Only)
Hello, and welcome! I am an individual and couples therapist licensed in Massachusetts. I specialize in helping individuals working through difficult trauma, sex therapy (sexual dysfunction, intimacy issues, pornography addiction, etc), complex relationship issues, and the LGBTQ+ community. I work closely with individuals struggling with different forms of mental disorders and help my clients forge a new path forward toward healing and wholeness. My passion is in therapy, and I am humbled and grateful when people invite me to play a meaningful role in their lives.
Hello, and welcome! I am an individual and couples therapist licensed in Massachusetts. I specialize in helping individuals working through difficult trauma, sex therapy (sexual dysfunction, intimacy issues, pornography addiction, etc), complex relationship issues, and the LGBTQ+ community. I work closely with individuals struggling with different forms of mental disorders and help my clients forge a new path forward toward healing and wholeness. My passion is in therapy, and I am humbled and grateful when people invite me to play a meaningful role in their lives.
(339) 217-5900 View (339) 217-5900
Photo of Kyle A Faust, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Kyle A Faust
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02114  (Online Only)
I specialize in gaming disorder and PTSD.
Hi there! I’m a psychologist at MGH and instructor at Harvard Medical School. I have expertise in a wide variety of treatment approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, Cognitive Processing Therapy, the Unified Protocol, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, and existential approaches. These evidence based approaches can be used to provide top quality care for you. Further, I’ve worked in a wide variety of treatment settings and have provided services for clients of many different backgrounds, ages, and diagnoses/various life difficulties.
I specialize in gaming disorder and PTSD.
Hi there! I’m a psychologist at MGH and instructor at Harvard Medical School. I have expertise in a wide variety of treatment approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Prolonged Exposure, Cognitive Processing Therapy, the Unified Protocol, Motivational Interviewing, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Exposure and Response Prevention, and existential approaches. These evidence based approaches can be used to provide top quality care for you. Further, I’ve worked in a wide variety of treatment settings and have provided services for clients of many different backgrounds, ages, and diagnoses/various life difficulties.
(617) 915-3049 View (617) 915-3049
Photo of Martin R. Pierre, PhD, Psychologist
Martin R. Pierre
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02124
Not accepting new clients
I have the privilege of accompanying clients as they go through some of the most painful and some of the most joyous times of their lives. I see therapy as a journey that the client and therapist take together with the therapist playing the role of a traveling companion, guide, and interpreter. I have extensive experience providing counseling services to adolescents, adults and families in the various clinical settings. The focus of treatment includes improving self-image, changing negative self-talk, and working through trauma. My approach is collaborative, working together to define and achieve therapy goals.
I have the privilege of accompanying clients as they go through some of the most painful and some of the most joyous times of their lives. I see therapy as a journey that the client and therapist take together with the therapist playing the role of a traveling companion, guide, and interpreter. I have extensive experience providing counseling services to adolescents, adults and families in the various clinical settings. The focus of treatment includes improving self-image, changing negative self-talk, and working through trauma. My approach is collaborative, working together to define and achieve therapy goals.
(857) 308-0099 View (857) 308-0099
Photo of Leslie Bowman, MA, LPC
Leslie Bowman
MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02118
Feel lost, stuck, lonely? Having a hard time coping with a recent trauma? Going through a life transition? Open to a more holistic approach to therapy? Unlike regular talk therapy sessions, which may focus on surface issues and provide short term comfort, my holistic approach dives deeper for longer-term healing. My unique approach addresses the body, mind, and soul as they are all connected in the healing process.
Feel lost, stuck, lonely? Having a hard time coping with a recent trauma? Going through a life transition? Open to a more holistic approach to therapy? Unlike regular talk therapy sessions, which may focus on surface issues and provide short term comfort, my holistic approach dives deeper for longer-term healing. My unique approach addresses the body, mind, and soul as they are all connected in the healing process.
(984) 266-3894 View (984) 266-3894
Photo of Suzanne M Gable, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, CSCT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzanne M Gable
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, CSCT
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02108  (Online Only)
I specialize in Compulsive Sexual Behavior as well as Betrayal Trauma.
Has the compulsive use of pornography gotten in the way of having the connections you want to achieve in your life? Has your relationship been affected by adult content or infidelity? Nowadays many people use adult content and may not understand how it impacts your relationship or they may have tried to unsuccessfully limit their use. Many people are simply just trying to escape from depression, anxiety or boredom to find that it is affecting their relationships. You may feel stuck, ashamed and embarrassed keeping this secret. Seeking help is the first step towards wellness.
I specialize in Compulsive Sexual Behavior as well as Betrayal Trauma.
Has the compulsive use of pornography gotten in the way of having the connections you want to achieve in your life? Has your relationship been affected by adult content or infidelity? Nowadays many people use adult content and may not understand how it impacts your relationship or they may have tried to unsuccessfully limit their use. Many people are simply just trying to escape from depression, anxiety or boredom to find that it is affecting their relationships. You may feel stuck, ashamed and embarrassed keeping this secret. Seeking help is the first step towards wellness.
(857) 597-7028 View (857) 597-7028
Photo of Charles Tyson, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charles Tyson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109  (Online Only)
I have worked with folks across a wide array of presenting concerns, including managing symptoms of anxiety, mood dysregulation, and depression, healing with/from trauma, managing grief and loss, recovery from substance abuse and addiction, chronic illness, & LGBT issues.
Deeply passionate about social justice and facilitating and guiding positive change and development in the lives of others, I am thrilled to connect with you as you begin your journey inward. Healing is truly the risk of showing up for yourself and your resistance to temptation to go back to unsilenced needs, numbing out, disconnection, and erasure. As a black, gender non-binary Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I have a personal stake and insight into the work I do. My clinical practice aims to empower and heal individuals, families & communities through therapy, consulting, case management, training, & community outreach.
I have worked with folks across a wide array of presenting concerns, including managing symptoms of anxiety, mood dysregulation, and depression, healing with/from trauma, managing grief and loss, recovery from substance abuse and addiction, chronic illness, & LGBT issues.
Deeply passionate about social justice and facilitating and guiding positive change and development in the lives of others, I am thrilled to connect with you as you begin your journey inward. Healing is truly the risk of showing up for yourself and your resistance to temptation to go back to unsilenced needs, numbing out, disconnection, and erasure. As a black, gender non-binary Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I have a personal stake and insight into the work I do. My clinical practice aims to empower and heal individuals, families & communities through therapy, consulting, case management, training, & community outreach.
(267) 323-4833 View (267) 323-4833
Photo of Linda Marks, MSM
Linda Marks
MSM
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02135  (Online Only)
Embrace the power of your heart: the heart's electical field is 60 times/magnetic field is 5000 times more powerful than the brain's. When our hearts are wounded through trauma, neglect or deprivation, we lose touch with the heart's power. Depression, anxiety, fear of intimacy, addiction, stuckness may follow. Building on a foundation of emotional safety, my work incorporates meditation, attending to emotional currents/body sensations and touch with permission to facilitate emotional work. Results include greater self-esteem, self-care, reduced stress/anxiety, authentic communication, healthier relationships, empowerment, healing. Intimacy/sexuality, money issues, parenting, GLBTP. Life coaching. Emotional for creative artists.
Embrace the power of your heart: the heart's electical field is 60 times/magnetic field is 5000 times more powerful than the brain's. When our hearts are wounded through trauma, neglect or deprivation, we lose touch with the heart's power. Depression, anxiety, fear of intimacy, addiction, stuckness may follow. Building on a foundation of emotional safety, my work incorporates meditation, attending to emotional currents/body sensations and touch with permission to facilitate emotional work. Results include greater self-esteem, self-care, reduced stress/anxiety, authentic communication, healthier relationships, empowerment, healing. Intimacy/sexuality, money issues, parenting, GLBTP. Life coaching. Emotional for creative artists.
(857) 239-0063 View (857) 239-0063
Photo of Mikele Rauch - Brookline Psychological Services, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brookline Psychological Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02222
Not accepting new clients
Since 1986, I have specialized in working with male and female survivors of sexual abuse and trauma, as well as addiction . I am Executive Director of TakingBackOurselves. (www.takingbackourselves.org) , a resource for survivors of sexual abuse and assault dedicated to empowering survivors of sexual trauma. I work in the therapy process to provide the challenge, balance, and support for men and women to do their work with courage and dignity, with hope and a sense of humor..
Since 1986, I have specialized in working with male and female survivors of sexual abuse and trauma, as well as addiction . I am Executive Director of TakingBackOurselves. (www.takingbackourselves.org) , a resource for survivors of sexual abuse and assault dedicated to empowering survivors of sexual trauma. I work in the therapy process to provide the challenge, balance, and support for men and women to do their work with courage and dignity, with hope and a sense of humor..
(617) 932-5878 View (617) 932-5878
Photo of Sarah Donohue, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Donohue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
I specialize in relationship support, trauma and attachment work, parenting, and pregnancy/postpartum support.
Do you feel overwhelmed, disconnected, and insecure? Has your relationship been wounded or lost its spark? Are you feeling dissatisfied or stuck with some aspect of your life and not sure how to make a shift? Has becoming or being a parent turned your world upside down? Life is full of transitions and stressors and it’s hard to stay in tune with ourselves, our partners, and our family members as we grow, change, and deal with stress. Sometimes we all need a safe space to process, reconnect, and heal – to speak our pain, communicate what we need, and be supported as we tap back into love and connection.
I specialize in relationship support, trauma and attachment work, parenting, and pregnancy/postpartum support.
Do you feel overwhelmed, disconnected, and insecure? Has your relationship been wounded or lost its spark? Are you feeling dissatisfied or stuck with some aspect of your life and not sure how to make a shift? Has becoming or being a parent turned your world upside down? Life is full of transitions and stressors and it’s hard to stay in tune with ourselves, our partners, and our family members as we grow, change, and deal with stress. Sometimes we all need a safe space to process, reconnect, and heal – to speak our pain, communicate what we need, and be supported as we tap back into love and connection.
(774) 217-7608 View (774) 217-7608
Photo of Dr. Neil Hadfield, MD
Dr. Neil Hadfield
MD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02101
Connection is wellness. Stress and trauma causes us to (DYS)connect. We help people find their way back to connection so you can be whole again and be well. Most of what we call ‘psychiatric disorders’ are a form of Dis(DYS)connection. Dis(DYS)connection from our sense of self, our bodies, our beliefs, our values, our families, our social groups, our culture, our sense of purpose, our ancestry, our society. Everything is interconnected - how we connect and what we connect to will shape our experience because our nervous systems long to be connected at a fundamental level.
Connection is wellness. Stress and trauma causes us to (DYS)connect. We help people find their way back to connection so you can be whole again and be well. Most of what we call ‘psychiatric disorders’ are a form of Dis(DYS)connection. Dis(DYS)connection from our sense of self, our bodies, our beliefs, our values, our families, our social groups, our culture, our sense of purpose, our ancestry, our society. Everything is interconnected - how we connect and what we connect to will shape our experience because our nervous systems long to be connected at a fundamental level.
(508) 682-5532 View (508) 682-5532
Photo of Dr. Peg Hurley Dawson - Peg Hurley Dawson, Ph.D., PhD, Counselor
Peg Hurley Dawson, Ph.D.
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02105
Specializing in treatment of sex and relationship issues, "sex addiction", problematic sexual behavior, complex trauma, PTSD, sexual pain, mismatched desire, non-traditional relationships. I utilize the following modalities: EMDR, IFS, Transforming the Experienced-Based Brain (TEB) for developmental trauma, Safe and Sound protocol (SSP), somatic psychotherapy, sandplay & sandtray. I am also informed by the Polyvagal theory and neuroscience. I offer a unique multifaceted, sex positive approach and supervisor. In addition, author of Sand Therapy for Out of Control Sexual Behavior, Shame, and Trauma: Treatment Approaches Beyond Words.
Specializing in treatment of sex and relationship issues, "sex addiction", problematic sexual behavior, complex trauma, PTSD, sexual pain, mismatched desire, non-traditional relationships. I utilize the following modalities: EMDR, IFS, Transforming the Experienced-Based Brain (TEB) for developmental trauma, Safe and Sound protocol (SSP), somatic psychotherapy, sandplay & sandtray. I am also informed by the Polyvagal theory and neuroscience. I offer a unique multifaceted, sex positive approach and supervisor. In addition, author of Sand Therapy for Out of Control Sexual Behavior, Shame, and Trauma: Treatment Approaches Beyond Words.
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Photo of Rodnnie Santiago-Díaz, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Rodnnie Santiago-Díaz
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02101  (Online Only)
We all have wounds to heal. Trauma is universal and each person has their own unique journey of healing and reintegration. Having learned this universal truth, I have chosen empathy, openness, and heart-centered care as key elements of my approach as a therapist and life coach.
We all have wounds to heal. Trauma is universal and each person has their own unique journey of healing and reintegration. Having learned this universal truth, I have chosen empathy, openness, and heart-centered care as key elements of my approach as a therapist and life coach.
(413) 343-4680 View (413) 343-4680
Photo of Caroline Mary Corrigan, LICSW, CADC, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caroline Mary Corrigan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02127
Everyone will eventually come upon an issue that they are struggling to process. Whether it is addiction, loss, depression, anxiety, trauma or recently being diagnosed with a serious illness, we all sometimes need the help of a professional to navigate personal challenges in life. Often we are hoping to facilitate change in our journey and are unsure on where to begin. I am a licensed independent clinical social worker and a certified alcohol and drug counselor. I specialize in helping those whose primary goal is to overcome life obstacles, recover from mental health issues, dual diagnosis and have the willingness to do so.
Everyone will eventually come upon an issue that they are struggling to process. Whether it is addiction, loss, depression, anxiety, trauma or recently being diagnosed with a serious illness, we all sometimes need the help of a professional to navigate personal challenges in life. Often we are hoping to facilitate change in our journey and are unsure on where to begin. I am a licensed independent clinical social worker and a certified alcohol and drug counselor. I specialize in helping those whose primary goal is to overcome life obstacles, recover from mental health issues, dual diagnosis and have the willingness to do so.
(774) 208-0631 View (774) 208-0631
Photo of Aline P Zoldbrod, PhD, AASECT, Psychologist
Aline P Zoldbrod
Psychologist, PhD, AASECT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02111
I am a well known, respected psychologist and sex therapist with a national and international reputation, AASECT certified since 1996. Clinically, I am warm, innovative, active, and effective. Multiple certifications in types of therapy, including EMDR, Sensorimotor therapy for trauma. Training in Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy, hypnosis, and AEDP for couples. Author of 3 commercially published books, I have been cited by my peers in the literature on sexuality and relationships since 1992. You will know if I am right for you in one session, promise! See website for a wealth of information and articles. SexSmart.com
I am a well known, respected psychologist and sex therapist with a national and international reputation, AASECT certified since 1996. Clinically, I am warm, innovative, active, and effective. Multiple certifications in types of therapy, including EMDR, Sensorimotor therapy for trauma. Training in Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy, hypnosis, and AEDP for couples. Author of 3 commercially published books, I have been cited by my peers in the literature on sexuality and relationships since 1992. You will know if I am right for you in one session, promise! See website for a wealth of information and articles. SexSmart.com
(781) 350-4454 View (781) 350-4454
Photo of Susan Scheufele, EdM, LPC, LP, Licensed Psychoanalyst
Susan Scheufele
Licensed Psychoanalyst, EdM, LPC, LP
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
Not accepting new clients
I am a psychotherapist and psychoanalyst with over 25 years experience in private practice. Individuals come to see me about anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, eating disorders, gender identity, parenting, and life transitions. I will help you understand the causes of your stress and anxieties as we explore your thoughts, feelings and past and present day experiences. Together we will develop strategies for healing and pathways to personal change so that you may move forward and grow.
I am a psychotherapist and psychoanalyst with over 25 years experience in private practice. Individuals come to see me about anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, eating disorders, gender identity, parenting, and life transitions. I will help you understand the causes of your stress and anxieties as we explore your thoughts, feelings and past and present day experiences. Together we will develop strategies for healing and pathways to personal change so that you may move forward and grow.
(781) 243-5133 View (781) 243-5133
Photo of Juan Colon-Torres, Pre-Licensed Professional
Juan Colon-Torres
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02114  (Online Only)
My therapeutic approaches encompass cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, trauma therapy, grief therapy, and behavior management skills.
Hi, my name is Juan! I am a proud member of Trust Therapeutics, LLC, dedicated to offering my support to a diverse range of individuals, including young adults, professionals, the Latino/a community, and individuals from all backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ and those with disabilities My focus has been on enhancing their behavior and functioning in various life domains, be it at home, in school or their careers, or within their communities.
My therapeutic approaches encompass cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, trauma therapy, grief therapy, and behavior management skills.
Hi, my name is Juan! I am a proud member of Trust Therapeutics, LLC, dedicated to offering my support to a diverse range of individuals, including young adults, professionals, the Latino/a community, and individuals from all backgrounds, including LGBTQ+ and those with disabilities My focus has been on enhancing their behavior and functioning in various life domains, be it at home, in school or their careers, or within their communities.
(888) 454-2439 View (888) 454-2439
Photo of Paola Scardino, LMHC, CRC
Paola Scardino
LMHC, CRC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
I believe that we all have the innate ability to thrive and be well in mind, given the right guidance, support and tools. To that goal, I provide individual psychotherapy to adults, couples, adolescents and families in a safe and supportive environment. Some of my specialty areas include anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, relational issues, family conflict, adjusting to life transitions, trauma, multicultural issues and LGBTQ clients.
I believe that we all have the innate ability to thrive and be well in mind, given the right guidance, support and tools. To that goal, I provide individual psychotherapy to adults, couples, adolescents and families in a safe and supportive environment. Some of my specialty areas include anxiety disorders, depression and mood disorders, relational issues, family conflict, adjusting to life transitions, trauma, multicultural issues and LGBTQ clients.
(617) 336-8840 View (617) 336-8840
Photo of Paul Edward Keating - Boston Evening Therapy Associates, MS, CAGS, LMHC, Counselor
Boston Evening Therapy Associates
Counselor, MS, CAGS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02135  (Online Only)
I have had the privilege of successfully helping people with a broad range of mental health issues: Addiction Treatment Depression Anxiety Co-Occurring Mental Health and Substance Use Gender Identity (LGTB) PTSD Grief and Loss.
You are in charge of your life changes. My role is to help you achieve your emotional/spiritual/mental health goals and to be with you as we work on these goals together. The therapeutic alliance is most important in our work. We will determine which approach serves your needs: Rogerian, CBT, Gestalt, Psycho-dynamic, spirituality based, Mindfulness and/or a combination of these.
I have had the privilege of successfully helping people with a broad range of mental health issues: Addiction Treatment Depression Anxiety Co-Occurring Mental Health and Substance Use Gender Identity (LGTB) PTSD Grief and Loss.
You are in charge of your life changes. My role is to help you achieve your emotional/spiritual/mental health goals and to be with you as we work on these goals together. The therapeutic alliance is most important in our work. We will determine which approach serves your needs: Rogerian, CBT, Gestalt, Psycho-dynamic, spirituality based, Mindfulness and/or a combination of these.
(857) 342-4364 View (857) 342-4364
Photo of Hasim Senel, MEd
Hasim Senel
MEd
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02118  (Online Only)
My specialization in mental health counseling focuses on a diverse range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, family issues, substance use, academic difficulties due to adjustment issues, trauma, self-esteem concerns, couples' issues, and dedicated support for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Ideally, I would like to support my clients who seek help for managing stress and anxiety, building self-confidence, and improving interpersonal relationships. They want to regain control, find inner peace, and live a happier, more fulfilling life.
My specialization in mental health counseling focuses on a diverse range of challenges, including depression, anxiety, family issues, substance use, academic difficulties due to adjustment issues, trauma, self-esteem concerns, couples' issues, and dedicated support for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Ideally, I would like to support my clients who seek help for managing stress and anxiety, building self-confidence, and improving interpersonal relationships. They want to regain control, find inner peace, and live a happier, more fulfilling life.
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Photo of Mirabela Osadci, MA
Mirabela Osadci
MA
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02108  (Online Only)
IFS therapy looks at our inner world as a family system of sub-personalities which all have their own needs, it helps us talk to them, solve inner conflicts, remove blocks and limiting beliefs, heal trauma so that our internal system becomes balanced and functions smoothly.
IFS Therapist with an eclectic and inventive approach. Practicing Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). I believe that people already have within themselves what they need in order to overcome their struggles. All it takes is a bit of guidance and someone to ask the right questions. My wish for my clients is that they find the inner freedom to live the life that they want. I mostly work with expats, travelers, digital nomads, burners - I can relate to the lifestyle and can appreciate the need for flexibility and rescheduling sessions when necessary, however, anyone is welcome.
IFS therapy looks at our inner world as a family system of sub-personalities which all have their own needs, it helps us talk to them, solve inner conflicts, remove blocks and limiting beliefs, heal trauma so that our internal system becomes balanced and functions smoothly.
IFS Therapist with an eclectic and inventive approach. Practicing Internal Family Systems Therapy (IFS) and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). I believe that people already have within themselves what they need in order to overcome their struggles. All it takes is a bit of guidance and someone to ask the right questions. My wish for my clients is that they find the inner freedom to live the life that they want. I mostly work with expats, travelers, digital nomads, burners - I can relate to the lifestyle and can appreciate the need for flexibility and rescheduling sessions when necessary, however, anyone is welcome.
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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.