Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Waterville, ME

Photo of Dianne M Howard (Morand) - Waters Edge Therapy, Inc., LCSW, CADC, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Waters Edge Therapy, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CCS
Verified Verified
Waterville, ME 04901
Waitlist for new clients
It is my belief that each of us can heal from emotional, physical and sexual trauma. In the presence of compassion, kindness and non-judgment, I listen to, and witness the suffering and profound pain shared during therapy. In therapy, the healing power of compassion; sense of being understood by and cared for by another human being is offered. Each of us has the same needs when we are suffering; to feel validated, safe and understood for the duration of our journey. In our work together, I will offer support, encouragement, and honesty, tempered with compassion.
It is my belief that each of us can heal from emotional, physical and sexual trauma. In the presence of compassion, kindness and non-judgment, I listen to, and witness the suffering and profound pain shared during therapy. In therapy, the healing power of compassion; sense of being understood by and cared for by another human being is offered. Each of us has the same needs when we are suffering; to feel validated, safe and understood for the duration of our journey. In our work together, I will offer support, encouragement, and honesty, tempered with compassion.
(207) 405-0610 View (207) 405-0610
Photo of Tamara Mello, MEd, LCPC, CCTP, CCATP, CTMH, Counselor
Tamara Mello
Counselor, MEd, LCPC, CCTP, CCATP, CTMH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterville, ME 04903  (Online Only)
I am trained in Traumatic Incident Reduction (TIR) & Life Stress Reduction (LSR), which is are evidence-based treatments in the DSM-5 for PTSD and Anxiety and other disorders.
The style I use is eclectic and offers compassionate understanding in a relaxed environment that supports growth and personal exploration for adult individuals over age 18. I offer traditional talk therapies designed for clients to develop solution-focused ideas to their own concerns as the goal is for each client to become their own best expert. With talk therapy combined with evidence based modalities, I am able to help people discover their personal truth.
I am trained in Traumatic Incident Reduction (TIR) & Life Stress Reduction (LSR), which is are evidence-based treatments in the DSM-5 for PTSD and Anxiety and other disorders.
The style I use is eclectic and offers compassionate understanding in a relaxed environment that supports growth and personal exploration for adult individuals over age 18. I offer traditional talk therapies designed for clients to develop solution-focused ideas to their own concerns as the goal is for each client to become their own best expert. With talk therapy combined with evidence based modalities, I am able to help people discover their personal truth.
(207) 209-1661 View (207) 209-1661
Photo of Bonny Dodson - UCP of Maine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
UCP of Maine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Not Verified Not Verified
Waterville, ME 04901  (Online Only)
Our team has expertise in working with a broad range of mental health issues and life stressors including trauma, grief and loss, parent-child relationship problems, attachment, relationship issues, challenges at home and employment, LGBTQ issues, substance use, domestic violence, intellectual disabilities, and physical disabilities to name a few.
In person and telehealth counseling is available to adults, teens and children seeking individual or family therapy in a respectful, safe, and supportive environment. We want to work with you to understand your goals and help you develop plans and skills to achieve your goals that utilize your strengths. Our clinicians provide a broad spectrum of quality, evidence-based care . We help you resolve life stressors such as relationship issues, grief and loss, the effects of trauma, problems at home, school or work, behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, attachment, anger issues, and other mental health challenges.
Our team has expertise in working with a broad range of mental health issues and life stressors including trauma, grief and loss, parent-child relationship problems, attachment, relationship issues, challenges at home and employment, LGBTQ issues, substance use, domestic violence, intellectual disabilities, and physical disabilities to name a few.
In person and telehealth counseling is available to adults, teens and children seeking individual or family therapy in a respectful, safe, and supportive environment. We want to work with you to understand your goals and help you develop plans and skills to achieve your goals that utilize your strengths. Our clinicians provide a broad spectrum of quality, evidence-based care . We help you resolve life stressors such as relationship issues, grief and loss, the effects of trauma, problems at home, school or work, behavioral problems, anxiety, depression, attachment, anger issues, and other mental health challenges.
(207) 656-1962 x333 View (207) 656-1962 x333
Photo of Jeanie Rogers - Healing Tree Therapy LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Healing Tree Therapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waterville, ME 04901  (Online Only)
Welcome to the start of your healing journey! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in psychotherapy for adults in Maine and New Hampshire. I offer evidenced-based practices to include cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, acceptance and commitment therapy, and trauma focused therapy. Additionally, I provide supervision for fully and conditionally licensed counselors.
Welcome to the start of your healing journey! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in psychotherapy for adults in Maine and New Hampshire. I offer evidenced-based practices to include cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, motivational interviewing, acceptance and commitment therapy, and trauma focused therapy. Additionally, I provide supervision for fully and conditionally licensed counselors.
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Photo of Diana J Bowen, PhD, LCPC, Counselor
Diana J Bowen
Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Waterville, ME 04901  (Online Only)
Life experience (and the thoughts and beliefs we hold), can control how we feel and directly impacts struggles such as grief, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and trauma. I combine psychotherapy with holistic counseling to help you see a bigger picture for your life, and to help you change emotional, physical, and psychological upsets that interrupt the life you prefer to live.
Life experience (and the thoughts and beliefs we hold), can control how we feel and directly impacts struggles such as grief, depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and trauma. I combine psychotherapy with holistic counseling to help you see a bigger picture for your life, and to help you change emotional, physical, and psychological upsets that interrupt the life you prefer to live.
(207) 877-4931 View (207) 877-4931
Photo of Joel Lavenson -  Advanced Counseling and Therapy  Ctr, MA, NCC, LCPC, LPC, BCPC, Counselor
Advanced Counseling and Therapy Ctr
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC, LPC, BCPC
Verified Verified
Waterville, ME 04901
Caring, competent and effective counseling, A Trauma Relief Center for Couples and Individuals with Anxiety, PTSD, Performance Anxiety, depression, couples power struggles & alienation; career and business issues. Feeling Lost? I can help you meet your most challenging issues. Feel connected and joyful again. Manage stress from PTSD, trauma, anxiety, unresolvedcircular issues, depression, anger infidelity. As your coach / therapist we work together to help you find Your way back to loving your life again. "With courage and new skills you CAN do anything!" Wonderful help for couples, families, individuals, veterans. Confidential
Caring, competent and effective counseling, A Trauma Relief Center for Couples and Individuals with Anxiety, PTSD, Performance Anxiety, depression, couples power struggles & alienation; career and business issues. Feeling Lost? I can help you meet your most challenging issues. Feel connected and joyful again. Manage stress from PTSD, trauma, anxiety, unresolvedcircular issues, depression, anger infidelity. As your coach / therapist we work together to help you find Your way back to loving your life again. "With courage and new skills you CAN do anything!" Wonderful help for couples, families, individuals, veterans. Confidential
(207) 358-4004 View (207) 358-4004
Photo of Kaleigh Dupuis, MEd, LCPC, Counselor
Kaleigh Dupuis
Counselor, MEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waterville, ME 04901
Waitlist for new clients
I practice trauma-informed care that involves understanding, recognizing, and responding to the effects of most types of trauma and/or adversity. I bring a functional approach that is person-centered to target your individual needs within your relationship and/or self that surround the human experience. Together, we will explore what is important to you and/or your relationship. Clients that tend to fit well with me are individuals/couples who are self-motivated, witty, can enjoy healthy, light-hearted humor, and may have high empathy.
I practice trauma-informed care that involves understanding, recognizing, and responding to the effects of most types of trauma and/or adversity. I bring a functional approach that is person-centered to target your individual needs within your relationship and/or self that surround the human experience. Together, we will explore what is important to you and/or your relationship. Clients that tend to fit well with me are individuals/couples who are self-motivated, witty, can enjoy healthy, light-hearted humor, and may have high empathy.
(207) 292-7521 View (207) 292-7521
Photo of Sandy Boone, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, BC-TMHP, CMHIMP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandy Boone
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, BC-TMHP, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Waterville, ME 04901  (Online Only)
You help others to create better lives for themselves, but what about you — where do you turn when you need support while caring for others? You may experience compassion fatigue, burnout, and secondary trauma in helping professions, and the only way you can continue to show up for your patients is to make space to heal for yourself. You are probably a Type-A personality who puts everyone else's needs above your own. I'm here to tell you it's okay to take time for yourself. I'm here to provide a space to heal from old trauma wounds and workplace stressors that have created difficulty in work/life balance.
You help others to create better lives for themselves, but what about you — where do you turn when you need support while caring for others? You may experience compassion fatigue, burnout, and secondary trauma in helping professions, and the only way you can continue to show up for your patients is to make space to heal for yourself. You are probably a Type-A personality who puts everyone else's needs above your own. I'm here to tell you it's okay to take time for yourself. I'm here to provide a space to heal from old trauma wounds and workplace stressors that have created difficulty in work/life balance.
(803) 721-3394 View (803) 721-3394
Photo of Dennis Baker, LCPC
Dennis Baker
Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Waterville, ME 04901
Whether you’re living with trauma, dealing with depression, struggling with anger, or just searching for something you know is missing, therapy can help.
Now Accepting New Clients - There’s no denying it, sometimes life can be really hard. And in addition to the many things happening outside ourselves, we all tend to get in our own way as well. We all sometimes think, feel, or do things that aren’t consistent with the person we want to be. This is completely normal, but it doesn’t have to be that way, and I’d like to help you make it better.
Whether you’re living with trauma, dealing with depression, struggling with anger, or just searching for something you know is missing, therapy can help.
Now Accepting New Clients - There’s no denying it, sometimes life can be really hard. And in addition to the many things happening outside ourselves, we all tend to get in our own way as well. We all sometimes think, feel, or do things that aren’t consistent with the person we want to be. This is completely normal, but it doesn’t have to be that way, and I’d like to help you make it better.
(207) 994-8632 View (207) 994-8632
Photo of Margaret Munsell, LCPC, Counselor
Margaret Munsell
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterville, ME 04903  (Online Only)
I often uses a hybrid of multiple theoretical orientations, primarily drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Trauma-focused therapy, and Person-centered therapy.
Opening up to another individual about your mental health concerns and the pain you’ve experienced throughout your life is never easy. Stepping forward and admitting that you’re struggling is such a difficult step, so kudos to you for considering counseling. I work from a person centered perspective to meet you where you are in life, while keeping your mental health goals in mind. I’m a strong believer that our wellness is rooted not only in our experiences, but in our physical, spiritual, and emotional health as well.I approach every therapeutic relationship with an open mind and tailor my therapeutic approach to each client.
I often uses a hybrid of multiple theoretical orientations, primarily drawing from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Trauma-focused therapy, and Person-centered therapy.
Opening up to another individual about your mental health concerns and the pain you’ve experienced throughout your life is never easy. Stepping forward and admitting that you’re struggling is such a difficult step, so kudos to you for considering counseling. I work from a person centered perspective to meet you where you are in life, while keeping your mental health goals in mind. I’m a strong believer that our wellness is rooted not only in our experiences, but in our physical, spiritual, and emotional health as well.I approach every therapeutic relationship with an open mind and tailor my therapeutic approach to each client.
(207) 481-4515 View (207) 481-4515
Photo of Amy Tardy, PhD, LCPC, CCS, LADC, Counselor
Amy Tardy
Counselor, PhD, LCPC, CCS, LADC
Verified Verified
Waterville, ME 04901
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that every individual is the expert unto themselves, and therefore have an inner capacity to cope and heal from mental health challenges and trauma. As a licensed clinical professional counselor, it is my role to be a guide, sounding board, and someone to help encourage further inner exploration.
I believe that every individual is the expert unto themselves, and therefore have an inner capacity to cope and heal from mental health challenges and trauma. As a licensed clinical professional counselor, it is my role to be a guide, sounding board, and someone to help encourage further inner exploration.
(207) 509-9599 View (207) 509-9599
Photo of Monica L Kelly, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monica L Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waterville, ME 04901
Please contact me by email. If you call me, you MUST leave me a message with a phone number. I have 30 + years of experience working with people of all ages dealing with every possible issue, including trauma such as childhood abuse, sexual assault, and accidents. Though not a veteran myself, I was an Air Force "brat" and know how hard it is to be uprooted every 2 years. I have traveled widely and appreciate cultural diversity. I like to help people make the right decisions for themselves regarding issues like staying in or leaving a marriage or college, coming out, career change, transitioning, etc.
Please contact me by email. If you call me, you MUST leave me a message with a phone number. I have 30 + years of experience working with people of all ages dealing with every possible issue, including trauma such as childhood abuse, sexual assault, and accidents. Though not a veteran myself, I was an Air Force "brat" and know how hard it is to be uprooted every 2 years. I have traveled widely and appreciate cultural diversity. I like to help people make the right decisions for themselves regarding issues like staying in or leaving a marriage or college, coming out, career change, transitioning, etc.
(207) 389-3277 View (207) 389-3277
Photo of Janet Anderson-Murch, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet Anderson-Murch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waterville, ME 04901  (Online Only)
Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness, I assist adolescents and adults with trauma, divorce, adoption, depression, anxiety, grief and loss and domestic violence issues.
Current Openings for Telehealth. Engage in counseling in the privacy of your home or office. It has been a challenging few years. Asking for help is the first step toward healing. I provide individuals with a personalized, strength-based, and supportive environment to manage life changes, conflicts, and past issues. I believe every person holds the key to their success and happiness. Sometimes everyday stressors overwhelm us. In sessions, I hope to assist you in finding peace, joy, and fulfillment again.
Utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Mindfulness, I assist adolescents and adults with trauma, divorce, adoption, depression, anxiety, grief and loss and domestic violence issues.
Current Openings for Telehealth. Engage in counseling in the privacy of your home or office. It has been a challenging few years. Asking for help is the first step toward healing. I provide individuals with a personalized, strength-based, and supportive environment to manage life changes, conflicts, and past issues. I believe every person holds the key to their success and happiness. Sometimes everyday stressors overwhelm us. In sessions, I hope to assist you in finding peace, joy, and fulfillment again.
(207) 417-4705 View (207) 417-4705
Photo of Daniel Pierce - Counseling For Trauma And Anxiety, MEd, Registered Psychotherapist
Daniel Pierce - Counseling For Trauma And Anxiety
Registered Psychotherapist, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterville, ME 04901
With a history in school counseling, I have transitioned to allow for individual and group counseling through both a virtual platform and in nature-based settings. My years as a percussionist have taught me that everyone has rhythm build into their bodies. Once people find their rhythm, positive life changes and natural healing can take place. I work from a trauma-focused lens using Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) and Therapeutic Fly-Fishing with EMDR (TF-EMDR) for treating trauma.
With a history in school counseling, I have transitioned to allow for individual and group counseling through both a virtual platform and in nature-based settings. My years as a percussionist have taught me that everyone has rhythm build into their bodies. Once people find their rhythm, positive life changes and natural healing can take place. I work from a trauma-focused lens using Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) and Therapeutic Fly-Fishing with EMDR (TF-EMDR) for treating trauma.
(207) 819-8724 View (207) 819-8724
Photo of Rochelle Williams - Rochelle- Healthy Minds Counseling, Inc, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rochelle- Healthy Minds Counseling, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waterville, ME 04901  (Online Only)
My passion is working with families and individuals affected by grief, trauma, and other life-changing situations.
Hello, my name is Rochelle Williams. I am a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Master’s Social Worker (LMSW) with a wealth of experience in counseling and social services. I am trained in various therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, person-centered therapy, narrative therapy, relationship counseling, structural family therapy, and psychoeducational. My professional journey is marked by a commitment to providing high-quality care to my clients and a drive to continuously improve my skills and knowledge.
My passion is working with families and individuals affected by grief, trauma, and other life-changing situations.
Hello, my name is Rochelle Williams. I am a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Master’s Social Worker (LMSW) with a wealth of experience in counseling and social services. I am trained in various therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, person-centered therapy, narrative therapy, relationship counseling, structural family therapy, and psychoeducational. My professional journey is marked by a commitment to providing high-quality care to my clients and a drive to continuously improve my skills and knowledge.
(207) 306-2608 View (207) 306-2608
Photo of Jonelle Calle - Jonelle- Healthy Minds Counseling, Inc. , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jonelle- Healthy Minds Counseling, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waterville, ME 04901  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Jonelle. I am a Licensed Master Social Worker passionate about empowering you to improve your mental health and make positive behavior changes. I graduated with my Master of Social Work from Adelphi University, with a degree specialization in Mental Health, Substance Abuse, and Trauma in Context.
Hi, my name is Jonelle. I am a Licensed Master Social Worker passionate about empowering you to improve your mental health and make positive behavior changes. I graduated with my Master of Social Work from Adelphi University, with a degree specialization in Mental Health, Substance Abuse, and Trauma in Context.
(207) 687-1156 View (207) 687-1156
Photo of Karen Klein, LCP, Psychologist
Karen Klein
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Waterville, ME 04901
Hi! I'm Dr. Karen Klein. I'm a licensed Psychologist in Maine. I've been working in Maine for 38 years and have a variety of experiences working in Mental health Centers, nursing homes, and private practice. I've also worked with many different types of people but mostly see individuals who are depressed or anxious or experiencing significant trauma from some past event. I enjoy working with all individuals, especially with couples. When I worked at the Mental Health Center I developed the Marriage and Family Clinic where I trained doctoral students from all over the country in ways to do therapy with couples.
Hi! I'm Dr. Karen Klein. I'm a licensed Psychologist in Maine. I've been working in Maine for 38 years and have a variety of experiences working in Mental health Centers, nursing homes, and private practice. I've also worked with many different types of people but mostly see individuals who are depressed or anxious or experiencing significant trauma from some past event. I enjoy working with all individuals, especially with couples. When I worked at the Mental Health Center I developed the Marriage and Family Clinic where I trained doctoral students from all over the country in ways to do therapy with couples.
(844) 452-1048 View (844) 452-1048
Photo of Shannon Trainor, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Trainor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Waterville, ME 04901
My name is Shannon Trainor, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW. I have over 20 years working with substance use/addiction, trauma, anxiety/depression, relationship issues and eating disorders. I utilize CBT, solution focused therapy and DBT skills in my practice and have extensively with adults, adolescents, families and women. I have worked with adults, adolescents and families throughout my career. I see clients who struggle with substance use and/or addiction, current or past traumas, anxiety and depression, eating disorders as well as family systems work with substance use disorders.
My name is Shannon Trainor, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, LCSW. I have over 20 years working with substance use/addiction, trauma, anxiety/depression, relationship issues and eating disorders. I utilize CBT, solution focused therapy and DBT skills in my practice and have extensively with adults, adolescents, families and women. I have worked with adults, adolescents and families throughout my career. I see clients who struggle with substance use and/or addiction, current or past traumas, anxiety and depression, eating disorders as well as family systems work with substance use disorders.
(207) 492-7017 View (207) 492-7017
Photo of Akamin Nkengaka - Healthy Minds Counseling, Inc, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Healthy Minds Counseling, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waterville, ME 04903
I'm Dr. Akamin Nkengaka, a License Clinical Social Worker and a License Advanced Alcohol & Drugs Counselor with 15 years of evidence based clinical experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma informed care, suicidal ideation, abuse, self-esteem, and relationships. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you to overcome negative challenges in your life.
I'm Dr. Akamin Nkengaka, a License Clinical Social Worker and a License Advanced Alcohol & Drugs Counselor with 15 years of evidence based clinical experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with addictions, trauma informed care, suicidal ideation, abuse, self-esteem, and relationships. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you to overcome negative challenges in your life.
(207) 598-4958 View (207) 598-4958
Photo of Jon Boschen, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jon Boschen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Waterville, ME 04901  (Online Only)
My experience focuses on relational issues, divorce, low self-esteem/mood disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief/loss and substance abuse issues.
Hi there! I am glad you've made the choice to work on yourself! My practice focuses on relational issues, divorce, low self-esteem/mood disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief/loss and substance abuse issues. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maine with more than 15 years of experience in the mental health & substance abuse fields in both community-based and hospital settings. I have worked extensively with adolescents/teens and adults ranging in acuity during this time, in both an inpatient and an outpatient setting.
My experience focuses on relational issues, divorce, low self-esteem/mood disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief/loss and substance abuse issues.
Hi there! I am glad you've made the choice to work on yourself! My practice focuses on relational issues, divorce, low self-esteem/mood disorders, depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief/loss and substance abuse issues. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Maine with more than 15 years of experience in the mental health & substance abuse fields in both community-based and hospital settings. I have worked extensively with adolescents/teens and adults ranging in acuity during this time, in both an inpatient and an outpatient setting.
(207) 808-7844 View (207) 808-7844
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.