Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Shrewsbury, MA

Photo of Rollins Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rollins Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
We treat depression, anxiety, substance use, stress-related issues, trauma, self-esteem issues, mood disorders, grief and loss, LGBTQ, and first responders.
Rollins Counseling Center offers individual and family counseling to adolescents and adults. We offer Telehealth! In-person visits are available in our Westford location and will be available in our Marlborough location in December, 2021. We have a team of licensed clinicians that utilize evidenced based therapies to effectively treat a wide range of issues that affect one’s quality of life. Treatment modalities include psychodynamic therapy, CBT, family systems, mind-body approaches, hypnotherapy and EMDR.
We treat depression, anxiety, substance use, stress-related issues, trauma, self-esteem issues, mood disorders, grief and loss, LGBTQ, and first responders.
Rollins Counseling Center offers individual and family counseling to adolescents and adults. We offer Telehealth! In-person visits are available in our Westford location and will be available in our Marlborough location in December, 2021. We have a team of licensed clinicians that utilize evidenced based therapies to effectively treat a wide range of issues that affect one’s quality of life. Treatment modalities include psychodynamic therapy, CBT, family systems, mind-body approaches, hypnotherapy and EMDR.
(978) 999-2165 View (978) 999-2165
Photo of Shannon Russell, LMHC, Counselor
Shannon Russell
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
Shannon Russell is a licensed mental health counselor with over 10 years of experience treating children, adolescents, and adults. Shannon is passionate about working with those who struggle with anxiety, depression, low self esteem, self harm, trauma, and existential crises. Shannon utilizes a person centered, trauma informed, holistic approach to treatment. Shannon takes time to create a safe and healing space with focus on the therapeutic relationship.
Shannon Russell is a licensed mental health counselor with over 10 years of experience treating children, adolescents, and adults. Shannon is passionate about working with those who struggle with anxiety, depression, low self esteem, self harm, trauma, and existential crises. Shannon utilizes a person centered, trauma informed, holistic approach to treatment. Shannon takes time to create a safe and healing space with focus on the therapeutic relationship.
(978) 999-2165 View (978) 999-2165
Photo of Sarah Bogoian, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Sarah Bogoian
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
We all have the power to heal from hard times - even from trauma - it's within us, it's human. Sometimes we need another person to support us in our journey to move on from hard times. I believe growth and change are always possible outcomes. I provide thoughtful attention and gentle encouragement to support hope, healing, and most importantly, a relationship with yourself that is loving. My goal is to help you increase self-awareness, self-compassion, and self agency - skills that help you understand yourself and your unique value in the world.
We all have the power to heal from hard times - even from trauma - it's within us, it's human. Sometimes we need another person to support us in our journey to move on from hard times. I believe growth and change are always possible outcomes. I provide thoughtful attention and gentle encouragement to support hope, healing, and most importantly, a relationship with yourself that is loving. My goal is to help you increase self-awareness, self-compassion, and self agency - skills that help you understand yourself and your unique value in the world.
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Photo of Margo McGann, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margo McGann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
Welcome, I’m glad you’re here! Initiating change may be one of the hardest and strongest steps you can take. I work with people facing an array of mental health concerns, and have a specialty in helping people heal from relational trauma. I find we are most often hurt in the context of relationships - a break-up, infidelity, emotional, physical or sexual abuse, being made to feel you are unloved. You may feel overwhelmingly anxious, disconnected or over-attached to loved-ones, or unable to trust. Maybe you begin isolating yourself from friendships or engaging in relationships you know aren’t healthy for you.
Welcome, I’m glad you’re here! Initiating change may be one of the hardest and strongest steps you can take. I work with people facing an array of mental health concerns, and have a specialty in helping people heal from relational trauma. I find we are most often hurt in the context of relationships - a break-up, infidelity, emotional, physical or sexual abuse, being made to feel you are unloved. You may feel overwhelmingly anxious, disconnected or over-attached to loved-ones, or unable to trust. Maybe you begin isolating yourself from friendships or engaging in relationships you know aren’t healthy for you.
(508) 348-7099 View (508) 348-7099
Photo of Martina Crane, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Martina Crane
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545  (Online Only)
Schedule a session today! I am passionate about and experienced in working with survivors of abuse and complex trauma, the LGBTQ+ community, and issues related to oppression and activism. My work is deeply grounded in anti-oppression and equity, and the belief that therapy is about empowerment, permission to be and celebration of our authentic selves, and ultimately turning our pain into our purpose.
Schedule a session today! I am passionate about and experienced in working with survivors of abuse and complex trauma, the LGBTQ+ community, and issues related to oppression and activism. My work is deeply grounded in anti-oppression and equity, and the belief that therapy is about empowerment, permission to be and celebration of our authentic selves, and ultimately turning our pain into our purpose.
(508) 306-8799 View (508) 306-8799
Photo of Kerry Rollins - Rollins Counseling Center , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rollins Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
We treat a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, relationship issues, OCD, mood disorders and more.
Rollins Counseling Center offers individual and family counseling to children, adolescents, and adults. We offer Telehealth or in-person visits in our Westford and Shrewsbury locations. Our clinicians utilize evidence-based therapies to effectively treat a wide range of issues that affect one’s quality of life. Treatment modalities include psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems, mind-body approaches, animal-assisted therapy, EMDR and trauma-focused therapies.
We treat a wide range of issues including depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, ADHD, substance use, relationship issues, OCD, mood disorders and more.
Rollins Counseling Center offers individual and family counseling to children, adolescents, and adults. We offer Telehealth or in-person visits in our Westford and Shrewsbury locations. Our clinicians utilize evidence-based therapies to effectively treat a wide range of issues that affect one’s quality of life. Treatment modalities include psychodynamic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, family systems, mind-body approaches, animal-assisted therapy, EMDR and trauma-focused therapies.
(978) 999-2165 View (978) 999-2165
Photo of Zaza S Sakhat - Chrysalis Therapy and Wellness, LICSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chrysalis Therapy and Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
Like a butterfly emerging into life, a child requires safety, care, and attunement. I believe in supporting child and adolescent emotional growth and developmental processes throughout the life cycle especially when hardships are faced, such as, trauma, bullying, anxiety, and other concerns. My approach is collaborative as I work closely with the parents, schools, and other collaterals involved to enhance over all well-being in every capacity of the child's environment. Always stemming from a strength-based perspective, using Play and Expressive Art Therapies, Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies, and Somatic Experiencing.
Like a butterfly emerging into life, a child requires safety, care, and attunement. I believe in supporting child and adolescent emotional growth and developmental processes throughout the life cycle especially when hardships are faced, such as, trauma, bullying, anxiety, and other concerns. My approach is collaborative as I work closely with the parents, schools, and other collaterals involved to enhance over all well-being in every capacity of the child's environment. Always stemming from a strength-based perspective, using Play and Expressive Art Therapies, Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapies, and Somatic Experiencing.
(508) 659-5057 View (508) 659-5057
Photo of Kate Lally - Kate Lally, LMHC, MA, LMHC
Kate Lally, LMHC
MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
Are you a highly motivated individual who is ready to do the work to be the conscious creator of your life, work and relationships? I offer an empowered approach to healing. While trauma happens to all of us, healing from it is a choice that benefits not only ourselves, but everyone around us. I use a holistic and trauma-informed lens that gets to the root and sets you free from past trauma and shame cycles. I help you connect the dots from the past to your present. As a result, you step into your power and start to create a ripple effect in your work, life and relationships. Reach out to schedule a brief initial consult.
Are you a highly motivated individual who is ready to do the work to be the conscious creator of your life, work and relationships? I offer an empowered approach to healing. While trauma happens to all of us, healing from it is a choice that benefits not only ourselves, but everyone around us. I use a holistic and trauma-informed lens that gets to the root and sets you free from past trauma and shame cycles. I help you connect the dots from the past to your present. As a result, you step into your power and start to create a ripple effect in your work, life and relationships. Reach out to schedule a brief initial consult.
(508) 625-9205 View (508) 625-9205
Photo of Barbara Lord, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barbara Lord
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
Not accepting new clients
I see clients struggling with issues including anxiety, depression, PTSD, loss and stressful life transitions.
As a licensed therapist I enjoy helping a wide range of individuals facing a variety of challenges make meaningful life changes. I have worked with a culturally diverse population of all ages and most enjoy working with adults, ages 19-90. My style combines empathy, warmth, humor and compassion in a judgment-free, strengths-based environment. I believe a strong and collaborative client-therapist relationship is essential in creating a safe space for change.
I see clients struggling with issues including anxiety, depression, PTSD, loss and stressful life transitions.
As a licensed therapist I enjoy helping a wide range of individuals facing a variety of challenges make meaningful life changes. I have worked with a culturally diverse population of all ages and most enjoy working with adults, ages 19-90. My style combines empathy, warmth, humor and compassion in a judgment-free, strengths-based environment. I believe a strong and collaborative client-therapist relationship is essential in creating a safe space for change.
(508) 709-7118 View (508) 709-7118
Photo of Kasey Pendexter, LMHC, CCTP-II, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kasey Pendexter
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMHC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
Not accepting new clients
With an extensive history of working with trauma-impacted youth and adults, I look to bring peace and healing using a multi-faceted approach. Most of us go through life with our bodies and minds disengaged from one another; I believe we must bridge that gap in order to build & protect our internal peace. As an RPCV in West Africa to working with Deaf youth, I have been humbled to to align and ally myself with beautiful populations and cultures and believe that therapeutic rapport is the key to working towards goals set by my clients.
With an extensive history of working with trauma-impacted youth and adults, I look to bring peace and healing using a multi-faceted approach. Most of us go through life with our bodies and minds disengaged from one another; I believe we must bridge that gap in order to build & protect our internal peace. As an RPCV in West Africa to working with Deaf youth, I have been humbled to to align and ally myself with beautiful populations and cultures and believe that therapeutic rapport is the key to working towards goals set by my clients.
(774) 425-7451 View (774) 425-7451
Photo of Julie Y Winnick - Julie Y Winnick, MA LMHC, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Julie Y Winnick, MA LMHC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545  (Online Only)
I also have extensive experience working with Depressive Disorders, trauma and transitional conflicts.
My empathic and supportive nature allows me to build productive therapeutic relationships in which clients discover paths to surpass their obstacles. I coordinate my expertise with clients' style of coping in order to create action strategies that best suit their needs. I find it important for my clients to feel they are empowered in their treatment, in turn feeling a sense of pride and renewal in their lives. I work with clients to find a balance in their lives by focusing on themselves, emotionally, physically and intellectually.
I also have extensive experience working with Depressive Disorders, trauma and transitional conflicts.
My empathic and supportive nature allows me to build productive therapeutic relationships in which clients discover paths to surpass their obstacles. I coordinate my expertise with clients' style of coping in order to create action strategies that best suit their needs. I find it important for my clients to feel they are empowered in their treatment, in turn feeling a sense of pride and renewal in their lives. I work with clients to find a balance in their lives by focusing on themselves, emotionally, physically and intellectually.
(978) 956-0990 View (978) 956-0990
Photo of Laura Polvino, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Laura Polvino
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
Not accepting new clients
With 20+ years of experience in the field, I work holistically from a collaborative, strength based approach. I apply specific therapeutic techniques and approaches based on identified client needs including, but not limited to, supportive talk therapy, individual therapy, family therapy, wellness strategies, psychoeducation around systems and mental health issues, parental guidance/support work, narrative therapy, and trauma work. I am specifically trained and certified in EFT/tapping, EMDR, and CBT. In practice, I meet you where you are, and use my experience to help guide you to where you want to be.
With 20+ years of experience in the field, I work holistically from a collaborative, strength based approach. I apply specific therapeutic techniques and approaches based on identified client needs including, but not limited to, supportive talk therapy, individual therapy, family therapy, wellness strategies, psychoeducation around systems and mental health issues, parental guidance/support work, narrative therapy, and trauma work. I am specifically trained and certified in EFT/tapping, EMDR, and CBT. In practice, I meet you where you are, and use my experience to help guide you to where you want to be.
(508) 300-9662 View (508) 300-9662
Photo of Christina Dono, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Dono
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
Feeling overwhelmed or burnt out? Struggling with boundaries or people-pleasing? Need balance amidst life changes? Whether it's a recent loss, family addition, career shift, or relationship challenges, I offer a warm, welcoming space where you can explore and grow. I tailor the process to your needs, making it interactive and transparent. Therapy isn't one-size-fits-all; it's about guiding you to your own insights and decisions. Whether it's new stressors, mental health conditions, trauma, or focus issues, everyone can benefit at different life stages.
Feeling overwhelmed or burnt out? Struggling with boundaries or people-pleasing? Need balance amidst life changes? Whether it's a recent loss, family addition, career shift, or relationship challenges, I offer a warm, welcoming space where you can explore and grow. I tailor the process to your needs, making it interactive and transparent. Therapy isn't one-size-fits-all; it's about guiding you to your own insights and decisions. Whether it's new stressors, mental health conditions, trauma, or focus issues, everyone can benefit at different life stages.
(774) 484-1643 View (774) 484-1643
Photo of Maggie Platt, LMHC, Counselor
Maggie Platt
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
Not accepting new clients
I have a trauma specialization and further training in TF-CBT (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and Exposure Therapy.
Are you looking for a coachy therapist? or a therapisty coach? Are you feeling not heard or seen in your relationships? Have you not accomplished your goals - personally or professionally? I enjoy working collaboratively with motivated adults looking to understand the barriers to full expression and fulfillment in their lives. I tend to be direct and engage in lots of active dialogue in order to provide alternative viewpoints from which people gain insight and grow to achieve their goals. I believe we are all perfect, and life events interrupt our belief of that. We can heal this belief through exploration and understanding.
I have a trauma specialization and further training in TF-CBT (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and Exposure Therapy.
Are you looking for a coachy therapist? or a therapisty coach? Are you feeling not heard or seen in your relationships? Have you not accomplished your goals - personally or professionally? I enjoy working collaboratively with motivated adults looking to understand the barriers to full expression and fulfillment in their lives. I tend to be direct and engage in lots of active dialogue in order to provide alternative viewpoints from which people gain insight and grow to achieve their goals. I believe we are all perfect, and life events interrupt our belief of that. We can heal this belief through exploration and understanding.
(774) 206-9656 View (774) 206-9656
Photo of Kimberly K Elbirt, LMHC, LMT, PhD, Counselor
Kimberly K Elbirt
Counselor, LMHC, LMT, PhD
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
Not accepting new clients
I engage with individuals by meeting them where they are. My practice focuses on clients with a history of trauma, or with problems related to mood or anxiety. I aim to help clients learn about themselves, and how to respond to life rather than react to it.
I engage with individuals by meeting them where they are. My practice focuses on clients with a history of trauma, or with problems related to mood or anxiety. I aim to help clients learn about themselves, and how to respond to life rather than react to it.
(774) 670-5714 View (774) 670-5714
Photo of Jared Manteuffel, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Jared Manteuffel
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
Waitlist for new clients
I'm also trained in trauma-focused CBT and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) for trauma.
I'm passionate about working with people who are finding life to be overwhelming and exhausting. Maybe you're heartbroken over loss, burdened with guilt, feeling you'll never be good enough, are scared, or at wits' end. Or maybe something happened to you, and it sticks with you giving you no rest. When we feel this way, we tend to isolate, berate ourselves, and spiral in our thinking or distract ourselves from these debilitating feelings. You're not alone. These feelings and responses are common, and there are evidence-based treatments to help you take the helm and steer your own ship in life.
I'm also trained in trauma-focused CBT and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) for trauma.
I'm passionate about working with people who are finding life to be overwhelming and exhausting. Maybe you're heartbroken over loss, burdened with guilt, feeling you'll never be good enough, are scared, or at wits' end. Or maybe something happened to you, and it sticks with you giving you no rest. When we feel this way, we tend to isolate, berate ourselves, and spiral in our thinking or distract ourselves from these debilitating feelings. You're not alone. These feelings and responses are common, and there are evidence-based treatments to help you take the helm and steer your own ship in life.
(508) 618-5736 View (508) 618-5736
Photo of Sarah Wintman, RPT, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Wintman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RPT, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01546
Waitlist for new clients
I’ve dedicated my professional career to working with trauma-impacted youth, and their resilience never ceases to amaze me.
“I don’t want to talk about it!” “You wouldn't understand!”...sound familiar? Sometimes your children don’t understand what may be happening either, and communicating that can feel impossible. As a Registered Play Therapist, I help children, teens, and adults ages 3-25 explore, understand, and gain confidence around who they are, how they feel, and what they think. I am a hearing therapist fluent in ASL and also specialize in working with deaf youth using play. Play therapy utilizes a variety of interventions, including playing with toys and miniatures or using more expressive art and movement.
I’ve dedicated my professional career to working with trauma-impacted youth, and their resilience never ceases to amaze me.
“I don’t want to talk about it!” “You wouldn't understand!”...sound familiar? Sometimes your children don’t understand what may be happening either, and communicating that can feel impossible. As a Registered Play Therapist, I help children, teens, and adults ages 3-25 explore, understand, and gain confidence around who they are, how they feel, and what they think. I am a hearing therapist fluent in ASL and also specialize in working with deaf youth using play. Play therapy utilizes a variety of interventions, including playing with toys and miniatures or using more expressive art and movement.
(508) 374-9035 View (508) 374-9035
Photo of Lauren Ineson, MA CMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lauren Ineson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA CMHC
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety and phobias, mood disorders, personality disorders, and trauma/PTSD. I have experience working with adolescents and adults and specialize in late adolescence/young adulthood. I believe that every person deserves a space where they can be heard, understood, and appreciated and I hope to offer an environment that will allow client's to grow and build confidence. I have a background in sports and coaching which has taught me effective communication styles and the ability to adapt to every situation.
I specialize in the treatment of eating disorders, anxiety and phobias, mood disorders, personality disorders, and trauma/PTSD. I have experience working with adolescents and adults and specialize in late adolescence/young adulthood. I believe that every person deserves a space where they can be heard, understood, and appreciated and I hope to offer an environment that will allow client's to grow and build confidence. I have a background in sports and coaching which has taught me effective communication styles and the ability to adapt to every situation.
(508) 680-0048 View (508) 680-0048
Photo of Nadine Lucas, CAGS, LMHC, RPT, Counselor
Nadine Lucas
Counselor, CAGS, LMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
Waitlist for new clients
When we are burdened by depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, fear, doubt, or insecurity, our ability to connect to the Authentic Self may become blocked.
The Authentic Self radiates divine, healing energy, and innate wisdom. It is our source of loving, compassionate energy that heals all dis-ease in our bodies, minds, and emotions. Some aspects of your Authentic Self include compassion, clarity, confidence, courage, patience, persistence, perspective, playfulness, gratitude, and curiosity. My intention, with profound curiosity, is to help you reconnect to your Authentic Self and rediscover the answers already within you, which may help ease your pain and suffering. This is called Internal Family Systems Therapy. I also offer group therapy for Eating Disorders and Women.
When we are burdened by depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, fear, doubt, or insecurity, our ability to connect to the Authentic Self may become blocked.
The Authentic Self radiates divine, healing energy, and innate wisdom. It is our source of loving, compassionate energy that heals all dis-ease in our bodies, minds, and emotions. Some aspects of your Authentic Self include compassion, clarity, confidence, courage, patience, persistence, perspective, playfulness, gratitude, and curiosity. My intention, with profound curiosity, is to help you reconnect to your Authentic Self and rediscover the answers already within you, which may help ease your pain and suffering. This is called Internal Family Systems Therapy. I also offer group therapy for Eating Disorders and Women.
(774) 757-6134 View (774) 757-6134
Photo of Julia Brooklyn Brouillard, MEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Julia Brooklyn Brouillard
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
I specialize in creating a supportive environment where individuals like you can work through challenges such as trauma, depression, and anxiety, building upon your unique strengths.
Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by your emotions or circumstances? Have you been feeling frustrated or dissatisfied with how things are currently going in your life? Are you hopeful that therapy can offer relief and support in navigating your difficulties? Or a little uncertain? Maybe you're feeling ready to engage in the therapeutic process, open to exploring new perspectives and strategies, and committed to improving your mental well-being. It's natural to have mixed emotions when thinking about change, and I'm here to hold space for you to begin your journey toward healing and growth.
I specialize in creating a supportive environment where individuals like you can work through challenges such as trauma, depression, and anxiety, building upon your unique strengths.
Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by your emotions or circumstances? Have you been feeling frustrated or dissatisfied with how things are currently going in your life? Are you hopeful that therapy can offer relief and support in navigating your difficulties? Or a little uncertain? Maybe you're feeling ready to engage in the therapeutic process, open to exploring new perspectives and strategies, and committed to improving your mental well-being. It's natural to have mixed emotions when thinking about change, and I'm here to hold space for you to begin your journey toward healing and growth.
(774) 355-3567 View (774) 355-3567
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.