Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Brockton, MA

Photo of Elise Leinaweaver, Pre-Licensed Professional
Elise Leinaweaver
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brockton, MA 02301
Through her extensive work with all age groups addressing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, disabilities, and neurodivergence, Elise is compassionate in understanding and supporting those with many different kinds of lived experience. She has a specific interest in helping clients who are living with grief, as it was her introduction into the mental health field. It has since become her passion because of how grief is a universal experience that needs an intricate amount of attention and care to aid individuals experiencing it and ultimately find resilience.
Through her extensive work with all age groups addressing anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, disabilities, and neurodivergence, Elise is compassionate in understanding and supporting those with many different kinds of lived experience. She has a specific interest in helping clients who are living with grief, as it was her introduction into the mental health field. It has since become her passion because of how grief is a universal experience that needs an intricate amount of attention and care to aid individuals experiencing it and ultimately find resilience.
(508) 682-5594 View (508) 682-5594
Photo of Kassmin Williams, LMHC, Counselor
Kassmin Williams
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brockton, MA 02301  (Online Only)
I take a holistic and trauma-informed approach to therapy with a mission to join with you on your journey of personal growth.
Now Accepting New Clients! In my practice, I support individuals who experience race-based and identity-based trauma, have complex family relationships, and/or experience struggles with anxiety and self-esteem. I have a special interest in working with Black and Brown people who have complicated relationships with their parents that affect how they feel about themselves. They may also be parents navigating their personal growth while trying to create a healthy relationship dynamic with their child/children.
I take a holistic and trauma-informed approach to therapy with a mission to join with you on your journey of personal growth.
Now Accepting New Clients! In my practice, I support individuals who experience race-based and identity-based trauma, have complex family relationships, and/or experience struggles with anxiety and self-esteem. I have a special interest in working with Black and Brown people who have complicated relationships with their parents that affect how they feel about themselves. They may also be parents navigating their personal growth while trying to create a healthy relationship dynamic with their child/children.
(508) 571-6649 View (508) 571-6649
Photo of Laura Ciccolo, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Laura Ciccolo
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Brockton, MA 02301
Specializing in Gentle Reprocessing to reduce symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression; as well as Brainspotting to help process unresolved issues, heal pain, forgive, and release hurts, regulate your nervous system, and let go of unwanted patterns.
I am a master’s-level clinician with 7 years of experience working in various mental health settings including outpatient therapy, residential settings, inpatient, group therapy, and addiction. My specialty is working with adults who have experienced trauma, grief and loss, depression, relationship conflicts, life transitions, struggles with self-esteem, and everyday life stressors.
Specializing in Gentle Reprocessing to reduce symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression; as well as Brainspotting to help process unresolved issues, heal pain, forgive, and release hurts, regulate your nervous system, and let go of unwanted patterns.
I am a master’s-level clinician with 7 years of experience working in various mental health settings including outpatient therapy, residential settings, inpatient, group therapy, and addiction. My specialty is working with adults who have experienced trauma, grief and loss, depression, relationship conflicts, life transitions, struggles with self-esteem, and everyday life stressors.
(508) 301-1005 View (508) 301-1005
Photo of Adonna Ferrell, MA , Pre-Licensed Professional
Adonna Ferrell
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Brockton, MA 02301  (Online Only)
I am expressive arts therapist and master’s level clinician who works with adolescents and young adults. I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, relationships conflicts, and life transitions. With over three years of experience, I have found that the most powerful seed sown, regardless of age, is sometimes simply an “alternative conversation,” where a variety of artistic or expressive modalities may be utilized to increase personal insight or growth.
I am expressive arts therapist and master’s level clinician who works with adolescents and young adults. I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, relationships conflicts, and life transitions. With over three years of experience, I have found that the most powerful seed sown, regardless of age, is sometimes simply an “alternative conversation,” where a variety of artistic or expressive modalities may be utilized to increase personal insight or growth.
(781) 527-4937 View (781) 527-4937
Photo of Sherry Ranjbar, LMHC, Counselor
Sherry Ranjbar
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brockton, MA 02301  (Online Only)
Are you looking for support in this complex journey called life? I am here for you. My ideal client is someone seeking meaning, clarity, and growth amidst the challenges of relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma, or anger. Together, we'll embark on a collaborative therapeutic journey towards empowerment, self-discovery, and a more fulfilling life. I believe in the power of our connection and will guide you through psychodynamic principles, exploring relationships and existential aspects along the way.
Are you looking for support in this complex journey called life? I am here for you. My ideal client is someone seeking meaning, clarity, and growth amidst the challenges of relationships, anxiety, depression, trauma, or anger. Together, we'll embark on a collaborative therapeutic journey towards empowerment, self-discovery, and a more fulfilling life. I believe in the power of our connection and will guide you through psychodynamic principles, exploring relationships and existential aspects along the way.
(978) 613-1254 View (978) 613-1254
Photo of Karen L Peabody, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen L Peabody
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brockton, MA 02301
I work with a wide range of people struggling with many issues, including depression, anxiety, other mental health disorders, unresolved emotional issues, self-esteem/self-empowerment, grief and loss, relationship/family concerns, and trauma.
I have a client-centered treatment approach for all clients. My goal is to provide a warm and attentive environment that produces personal growth and wholeness. I specialize in treating Addiction, Trauma, Anxiety, Grief/Loss, Self Esteem Issues and Depression. Everybody has a time in their lives when they need additional support. I understand asking for help is a very difficult. However, making the decision that you will not live in emotional pain for another day is the best decision you can make for yourself. I can help you learning the skills you need to free yourself from this pain.
I work with a wide range of people struggling with many issues, including depression, anxiety, other mental health disorders, unresolved emotional issues, self-esteem/self-empowerment, grief and loss, relationship/family concerns, and trauma.
I have a client-centered treatment approach for all clients. My goal is to provide a warm and attentive environment that produces personal growth and wholeness. I specialize in treating Addiction, Trauma, Anxiety, Grief/Loss, Self Esteem Issues and Depression. Everybody has a time in their lives when they need additional support. I understand asking for help is a very difficult. However, making the decision that you will not live in emotional pain for another day is the best decision you can make for yourself. I can help you learning the skills you need to free yourself from this pain.
(774) 413-7136 View (774) 413-7136
Photo of Deborah Lee Jennings, MEd, LMHC, FT, Counselor
Deborah Lee Jennings
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, FT
Verified Verified
Brockton, MA 02301
I completed postgraduate certificate programs in Psychological Trauma, Advanced Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy, and EMDR at Boston University School of Social Work.
I work with clients of various ages across the life span. People who seek my services include individuals, families, and couples. My specialties are children and adolescents, psychological trauma, and grief. I have experience providing treatment for adult and child victims of physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, child witnesses to violence, and survivors of suicide and homicide with traumatic and complicated grief issues. My clients often are struggling with anxiety and mood disorders. Children may have ADHD and other disruptive behavior disorders. Some may have developmental delays and other special needs.
I completed postgraduate certificate programs in Psychological Trauma, Advanced Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy, and EMDR at Boston University School of Social Work.
I work with clients of various ages across the life span. People who seek my services include individuals, families, and couples. My specialties are children and adolescents, psychological trauma, and grief. I have experience providing treatment for adult and child victims of physical abuse, sexual abuse, neglect, child witnesses to violence, and survivors of suicide and homicide with traumatic and complicated grief issues. My clients often are struggling with anxiety and mood disorders. Children may have ADHD and other disruptive behavior disorders. Some may have developmental delays and other special needs.
(508) 455-5032 View (508) 455-5032
Photo of Kat Nelson (Maiden Name: Frumin), MSW, LICSW, RYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kat Nelson (Maiden Name: Frumin)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Brockton, MA 02301
I am certified in EMDR and am trained in trauma-informed yoga, Internal Family Systems, and DBT.
My career started as a volunteer at a suicide prevention lifeline providing support for individuals in distress, and I learned that being present for people in their most vulnerable times of need is one of the most humbling yet fulfilling services I could provide. I have also worked in residential care, university, and hospital settings. I am here to guide clients who are ready to produce dynamic change in their lives. I work with clients experiencing various challenges including trauma, challenging relationships, and life transitions to name a few, and how these factors affected the client and family systems.
I am certified in EMDR and am trained in trauma-informed yoga, Internal Family Systems, and DBT.
My career started as a volunteer at a suicide prevention lifeline providing support for individuals in distress, and I learned that being present for people in their most vulnerable times of need is one of the most humbling yet fulfilling services I could provide. I have also worked in residential care, university, and hospital settings. I am here to guide clients who are ready to produce dynamic change in their lives. I work with clients experiencing various challenges including trauma, challenging relationships, and life transitions to name a few, and how these factors affected the client and family systems.
(617) 764-9633 View (617) 764-9633
Photo of Keri-Ann Wagner, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Keri-Ann Wagner
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brockton, MA 02301
I guide you through techniques such as Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) to help lessen, and in some cases, eliminate trauma responses.
Do you need to take better care of yourself? Manage stress better? Improve your relationships? Are you struggling with PTSD or trauma symptoms (repeated childhood experiences, military or first responder, etc.)?
I guide you through techniques such as Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) to help lessen, and in some cases, eliminate trauma responses.
Do you need to take better care of yourself? Manage stress better? Improve your relationships? Are you struggling with PTSD or trauma symptoms (repeated childhood experiences, military or first responder, etc.)?
(508) 809-3286 View (508) 809-3286
Photo of Tracy Lynn Rosen, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Tracy Lynn Rosen
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brockton, MA 02301
I am experienced and trained in TF-CBT and therefore can help individuals to understand, explore and manage their trauma symptoms as well as develop their own trauma narrative.
As of 8/1/24 I am accepting In-Person clients in my new Colorado Springs office for Aetna, United (or other Optum), Medicare, and Cigna clients. I am a LMHC (in Massachusetts) / LPC (in Colorado), accepting new clients for AM/PM for either Telehealth or In-Person for Colorado or for Telehealth for Massachusetts. I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, and adults to find their voice, enhance their coping behaviors, and achieve their full potential. We are resilient and with help, guidance, and tools we can learn to better manage our emotions, behaviors, trauma, and life experiences with greater confidence and ease.
I am experienced and trained in TF-CBT and therefore can help individuals to understand, explore and manage their trauma symptoms as well as develop their own trauma narrative.
As of 8/1/24 I am accepting In-Person clients in my new Colorado Springs office for Aetna, United (or other Optum), Medicare, and Cigna clients. I am a LMHC (in Massachusetts) / LPC (in Colorado), accepting new clients for AM/PM for either Telehealth or In-Person for Colorado or for Telehealth for Massachusetts. I am passionate about helping children, adolescents, and adults to find their voice, enhance their coping behaviors, and achieve their full potential. We are resilient and with help, guidance, and tools we can learn to better manage our emotions, behaviors, trauma, and life experiences with greater confidence and ease.
(508) 286-7602 View (508) 286-7602
Photo of Matthew Krieger, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Krieger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brockton, MA 02301  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Imagine a life in which your painful memories no longer keep you stuck, but instead give you power and strength - a life in which you're able to do the things you want to do, and work towards achieving your aspirations. This is the goal of many of my clients and I have been fortunate enough to see many of them succeed. Many of the clients that I work with have gone through overwhelming experiences that they feel still have control over their lives. Many of them are dealing with anxiety, depression, and PTSD, and some just need a little help through a difficult change in their life.
Imagine a life in which your painful memories no longer keep you stuck, but instead give you power and strength - a life in which you're able to do the things you want to do, and work towards achieving your aspirations. This is the goal of many of my clients and I have been fortunate enough to see many of them succeed. Many of the clients that I work with have gone through overwhelming experiences that they feel still have control over their lives. Many of them are dealing with anxiety, depression, and PTSD, and some just need a little help through a difficult change in their life.
(413) 307-8604 View (413) 307-8604
Photo of Helder Alves, LMHC, Counselor
Helder Alves
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Brockton, MA 02301  (Online Only)
By bringing unconsciousness into consciousness, we can understand why we do what we do. I want to help you have a safe space and time to gain skills, insight, and encouragement to be your true self. I am passionate about helping people achieve their potential and assisting them along the process. Some of my areas of particular interest include anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, autism spectrum, relationship/marital issues, grief, understanding sexuality, open/ Poly relationships, and transgender/gender non-conforming individuals.
By bringing unconsciousness into consciousness, we can understand why we do what we do. I want to help you have a safe space and time to gain skills, insight, and encouragement to be your true self. I am passionate about helping people achieve their potential and assisting them along the process. Some of my areas of particular interest include anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, autism spectrum, relationship/marital issues, grief, understanding sexuality, open/ Poly relationships, and transgender/gender non-conforming individuals.
(508) 501-3838 View (508) 501-3838
Photo of Jocelynn MacGregor - Renewal Counseling and Wellness, LICSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renewal Counseling and Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brockton, MA 02302
We utilize a strengths-based and solution focused approach, and provide person-centered, cognitive behavioral, and trauma focused interventions to address concerns with depression, anxiety, trauma, and other mental health needs.
Oftentimes, life circumstances and human biology becomes a barrier to an individual’s ability to transform their lives. Some barriers are bigger than others, and can be challenging to conquer alone. The therapeutic process is sacred. It recognizes that growth isn’t always accessible when an individual acknowledges a need for change. People do well when they have the means to do so, and for some, change requires a safe and nurturing space in which a person can be truly heard, where barriers can be identified, and creative and collaborative problem solving can occur.
We utilize a strengths-based and solution focused approach, and provide person-centered, cognitive behavioral, and trauma focused interventions to address concerns with depression, anxiety, trauma, and other mental health needs.
Oftentimes, life circumstances and human biology becomes a barrier to an individual’s ability to transform their lives. Some barriers are bigger than others, and can be challenging to conquer alone. The therapeutic process is sacred. It recognizes that growth isn’t always accessible when an individual acknowledges a need for change. People do well when they have the means to do so, and for some, change requires a safe and nurturing space in which a person can be truly heard, where barriers can be identified, and creative and collaborative problem solving can occur.
(781) 208-5905 View (781) 208-5905
Photo of Sarah Rumeau, LMHC, MFT, MDiv, Counselor
Sarah Rumeau
Counselor, LMHC, MFT, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brockton, MA 02301  (Online Only)
If you have come here to find a counselor, please know I consider it an honor and privilege to hear your story. As a licensed mental health counselor, I bring experience with college age, adult and senior populations in order to provide a supportive, encouraging and safe confidential space. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, relationship conflict, grief, infertility, separation/divorce, codependency, boundaries work, life transitions, career development, work-place challenges, sport-related issues, obsessive thoughts, unwanted ruminating thoughts, peer relationships, spirituality and more.
If you have come here to find a counselor, please know I consider it an honor and privilege to hear your story. As a licensed mental health counselor, I bring experience with college age, adult and senior populations in order to provide a supportive, encouraging and safe confidential space. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, relationship conflict, grief, infertility, separation/divorce, codependency, boundaries work, life transitions, career development, work-place challenges, sport-related issues, obsessive thoughts, unwanted ruminating thoughts, peer relationships, spirituality and more.
(978) 678-3924 View (978) 678-3924
Photo of Shenay Brown, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shenay Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brockton, MA 02301  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Much of my career has been trauma-focused, to help build self-awareness and understand the mind, body connection.
Just about everything in life ebbs and flows which at times can leave you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed and defeated. It is important to remember that although life may feel heavy at this moment, it does get better and you don’t have to feel ashamed of your emotions. You are entitled to recognize and accept the individual that you are right now, while also feeling inspired and motivated by the individual you envision yourself to be in the future.
Much of my career has been trauma-focused, to help build self-awareness and understand the mind, body connection.
Just about everything in life ebbs and flows which at times can leave you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed and defeated. It is important to remember that although life may feel heavy at this moment, it does get better and you don’t have to feel ashamed of your emotions. You are entitled to recognize and accept the individual that you are right now, while also feeling inspired and motivated by the individual you envision yourself to be in the future.
(617) 622-5513 View (617) 622-5513
Photo of Stephanie Witt, MA, LCPC, LMHC
Stephanie Witt
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brockton, MA 02301
You feel like you aren't living your best life and are ready to find out why. You're struggling to let go of the past, you are anxious, depressed, or suffering with symptoms related to trauma, low self-worth, addiction, or relationship problems. Maybe you feel like you are living your life on autopilot, just going through the motions. You want to prioritize yourself and are willing to make an investment in your mental health and wellness because deep down you know there must be more to life than just struggling and existing. It's time to (re) claim your authentic, resilient self!
You feel like you aren't living your best life and are ready to find out why. You're struggling to let go of the past, you are anxious, depressed, or suffering with symptoms related to trauma, low self-worth, addiction, or relationship problems. Maybe you feel like you are living your life on autopilot, just going through the motions. You want to prioritize yourself and are willing to make an investment in your mental health and wellness because deep down you know there must be more to life than just struggling and existing. It's time to (re) claim your authentic, resilient self!
(208) 203-7275 View (208) 203-7275
Photo of Carol Patricia Hodson, LPC, LMHC, SEP
Carol Patricia Hodson
LPC, LMHC, SEP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Brockton, MA 02301  (Online Only)
I can help you gently release stuck trauma from your nervous system and introduce creative options for change.
The fact that you have survived so far and that you are here on this website is proof that you have enormous life force within you. I approach each client from a strengths based perspective. I applaud the part of you that is reaching out for therapy now! You have lived with your pain and are tired of hurting, but you are also brave enough to know you need some support. I promise unconditional respect and attuned dialogue within a safe virtual platform.
I can help you gently release stuck trauma from your nervous system and introduce creative options for change.
The fact that you have survived so far and that you are here on this website is proof that you have enormous life force within you. I approach each client from a strengths based perspective. I applaud the part of you that is reaching out for therapy now! You have lived with your pain and are tired of hurting, but you are also brave enough to know you need some support. I promise unconditional respect and attuned dialogue within a safe virtual platform.
(508) 501-1601 View (508) 501-1601
Photo of Kevin Stewart, PsyD, CADACII, LADC-I, CCT, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Kevin Stewart
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PsyD, CADACII, LADC-I, CCT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brockton, MA 02301  (Online Only)
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Rational Behavioral Therapy (REBT), Seeking Safety & Trauma Focused Therapy, Matrix Model and 12-Step Therapy (Dr.
Hello and welcome! For over 30 years I have specialized in treating individuals and families who are experiencing underlying anxiety, depression, grief/loss, stress, addictions and difficulties with anger/rage. Each moment as you journey through life, a part of you is trying to help you move forward. Together we will work to empower that part of you to move you forward and live a healthy, mentally balanced life.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Rational Behavioral Therapy (REBT), Seeking Safety & Trauma Focused Therapy, Matrix Model and 12-Step Therapy (Dr.
Hello and welcome! For over 30 years I have specialized in treating individuals and families who are experiencing underlying anxiety, depression, grief/loss, stress, addictions and difficulties with anger/rage. Each moment as you journey through life, a part of you is trying to help you move forward. Together we will work to empower that part of you to move you forward and live a healthy, mentally balanced life.
(508) 978-2305 View (508) 978-2305
Photo of Ranu Aeron, LICSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ranu Aeron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Brockton, MA 02301  (Online Only)
I specialize in the areas of Trauma, and I am EMDR certified.
Before we begin our therapy sessions, I want to express my commitment to you. My promise is to ALWAYS put forth my best effort and ALWAYS show up present during our sessions. This dedication reflects my respect for your time and my intention to effectively support your personal growth. My aim is to equip myself with the necessary knowledge and skills that will enable me to provide you with the highest level of support throughout our therapeutic journey. I am a graduate of Boston University with 20+ years of experience in the mental health field. I enjoy working with kids, Preteens, Teenager, Young Adult , Adult - (ages 10 to 50)
I specialize in the areas of Trauma, and I am EMDR certified.
Before we begin our therapy sessions, I want to express my commitment to you. My promise is to ALWAYS put forth my best effort and ALWAYS show up present during our sessions. This dedication reflects my respect for your time and my intention to effectively support your personal growth. My aim is to equip myself with the necessary knowledge and skills that will enable me to provide you with the highest level of support throughout our therapeutic journey. I am a graduate of Boston University with 20+ years of experience in the mental health field. I enjoy working with kids, Preteens, Teenager, Young Adult , Adult - (ages 10 to 50)
(508) 456-5939 View (508) 456-5939
Photo of Dr. Vinisha Rana, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Vinisha Rana
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brockton, MA 02301  (Online Only)
I hold additional training in trauma-informed care, compassion-focused treatment, and mindfulness.
Imagine feeling confident, seen, and empowered. Therapy can help make this a reality. I create a warm, affirming, and culturally sensitive environment where you can explore your unique experiences without judgment. In this space, you can process complex emotions related to societal pressures, cultural expectations, and personal identity. Together, we can help you live a happy life of authenticity and resilience. I have specialized training in working with LGBTQ+, transgender/non-binary folks, ethnic minorities, and immigrants.
I hold additional training in trauma-informed care, compassion-focused treatment, and mindfulness.
Imagine feeling confident, seen, and empowered. Therapy can help make this a reality. I create a warm, affirming, and culturally sensitive environment where you can explore your unique experiences without judgment. In this space, you can process complex emotions related to societal pressures, cultural expectations, and personal identity. Together, we can help you live a happy life of authenticity and resilience. I have specialized training in working with LGBTQ+, transgender/non-binary folks, ethnic minorities, and immigrants.
(781) 782-2128 View (781) 782-2128
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.