Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Clayton, MO

Photo of Nadiia Petrenko, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nadiia Petrenko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105
Together, we will identify obstructing patterns, past trauma, and work towards your life full of fulfilment, meaning, joy, strength, and love.
As your therapist my goal is to help you work through whatever is in the way to the life you’ve always envisioned. The “work through” will incorporate EMDR, IFS (parts work), attachment theory (EFT), ACT, somatic approach - all of which attend to and address patterns on the physiological, emotional, and cognitive levels.
Together, we will identify obstructing patterns, past trauma, and work towards your life full of fulfilment, meaning, joy, strength, and love.
As your therapist my goal is to help you work through whatever is in the way to the life you’ve always envisioned. The “work through” will incorporate EMDR, IFS (parts work), attachment theory (EFT), ACT, somatic approach - all of which attend to and address patterns on the physiological, emotional, and cognitive levels.
View
Photo of Katy Stevener, MA, LPC, Counselor
Katy Stevener
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63105
I have experience working with teens and adults on a wide range of mental health concerns but I am most passionate about working with clients on anxiety, grief and trauma.
I am here to provide a safe therapeutic environment for you to be heard, valued and celebrated just as you are because you are worth it! My goal is to build a relationship with you to better understand your concerns, and partner with you to develop skills that manage stress and discomfort. I will walk beside you on your journey, provide support and discuss strategies that will foster change and personal growth. I understand change is hard and I will tailor each session to meet you where you are, allowing you to move at a pace you are most comfortable with. Together we can find your path to peace.
I have experience working with teens and adults on a wide range of mental health concerns but I am most passionate about working with clients on anxiety, grief and trauma.
I am here to provide a safe therapeutic environment for you to be heard, valued and celebrated just as you are because you are worth it! My goal is to build a relationship with you to better understand your concerns, and partner with you to develop skills that manage stress and discomfort. I will walk beside you on your journey, provide support and discuss strategies that will foster change and personal growth. I understand change is hard and I will tailor each session to meet you where you are, allowing you to move at a pace you are most comfortable with. Together we can find your path to peace.
(636) 389-4901 View (636) 389-4901
Photo of Amy Ziegler, LPC, JD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Ziegler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, JD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63105
Other times, I use EMDR to unlock the past's hold from previous trauma.
My clients are experiencing conflict, emotional abuse, anxiety, addiction, depression, or grief. I see individuals and couples who are ready to change or are looking for help sorting out what to do. Some have been hurt deeply by a breach of trust. Others are dealing with devastating adult or childhood trauma. Through my training and professional background as an attorney and counselor, I help them find a path to recovery. Clients gain clarity and insight, and learn to manage anxiety, depression, grief, fear and traumatic memories. I am formally trained in CBT, EMDR, DBT and have taught couples counseling at the graduate level.
Other times, I use EMDR to unlock the past's hold from previous trauma.
My clients are experiencing conflict, emotional abuse, anxiety, addiction, depression, or grief. I see individuals and couples who are ready to change or are looking for help sorting out what to do. Some have been hurt deeply by a breach of trust. Others are dealing with devastating adult or childhood trauma. Through my training and professional background as an attorney and counselor, I help them find a path to recovery. Clients gain clarity and insight, and learn to manage anxiety, depression, grief, fear and traumatic memories. I am formally trained in CBT, EMDR, DBT and have taught couples counseling at the graduate level.
(314) 441-7837 View (314) 441-7837
Photo of S Bellomy Iliff, MS, PLPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
S Bellomy Iliff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, PLPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63105
I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) an Evidence Based Treatment for PTSD and Complex PTSD.
I love to work with clients who are motivated to heal the trauma of their past. That trauma can be due to Family of Origin, abuse, neglect, LGBTQIA+ Struggles, medical trauma, religious trauma, sexual abuse, a single event, or a combination of these. Often this trauma contributes to or plays out as personality disorders or other difficult behaviors. Typically, my clients want to gain function in daily life as well as be able to relate to others in a way that works better than what they are currently doing. Together we use DBT skills, EMDR, and attachment work to gain that functioning they need.
I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) an Evidence Based Treatment for PTSD and Complex PTSD.
I love to work with clients who are motivated to heal the trauma of their past. That trauma can be due to Family of Origin, abuse, neglect, LGBTQIA+ Struggles, medical trauma, religious trauma, sexual abuse, a single event, or a combination of these. Often this trauma contributes to or plays out as personality disorders or other difficult behaviors. Typically, my clients want to gain function in daily life as well as be able to relate to others in a way that works better than what they are currently doing. Together we use DBT skills, EMDR, and attachment work to gain that functioning they need.
(314) 948-5525 View (314) 948-5525
Photo of Tina Villalobos, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tina Villalobos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63124
I work with teens, adults, and older adults who are facing challenges related to eating disorders and poor body image, as well as other issues such as alcoholism, substance abuse, trauma, depression, anxiety, and sexual concerns. I often receive referrals from weight loss management doctors when their patients are encountering emotional or psychological difficulties that are getting in the way of them losing weight. I also frequently work with adolescents for a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, eating issues, and concerns related to sexuality.
I work with teens, adults, and older adults who are facing challenges related to eating disorders and poor body image, as well as other issues such as alcoholism, substance abuse, trauma, depression, anxiety, and sexual concerns. I often receive referrals from weight loss management doctors when their patients are encountering emotional or psychological difficulties that are getting in the way of them losing weight. I also frequently work with adolescents for a variety of issues, including depression, anxiety, eating issues, and concerns related to sexuality.
(314) 328-5097 View (314) 328-5097
Photo of Gladys Smith, PsyD, LPC, NCC, MAC, CCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gladys Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LPC, NCC, MAC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105  (Online Only)
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as as foundation to address trauma and victimization.
I have extensive training in trauma, addiction, depression and anxiety, as well as stress and adjustment. I address the whole person in treatment planning. Individuals that work with me are empowered and encourages to meet their selected goal to achieve balance in their lives. We work together to form goals and I help you navigate the journey to wellness. We will use the body as a resource, as well as art, movement and poetry if a person chooses.This is a veteran owned business. I served 27 years in the United States Navy as a Hospital Corpsman (Medic), I work with first Responders and thrir families, veterans and MST.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy as as foundation to address trauma and victimization.
I have extensive training in trauma, addiction, depression and anxiety, as well as stress and adjustment. I address the whole person in treatment planning. Individuals that work with me are empowered and encourages to meet their selected goal to achieve balance in their lives. We work together to form goals and I help you navigate the journey to wellness. We will use the body as a resource, as well as art, movement and poetry if a person chooses.This is a veteran owned business. I served 27 years in the United States Navy as a Hospital Corpsman (Medic), I work with first Responders and thrir families, veterans and MST.
(314) 300-0370 View (314) 300-0370
Photo of Ashley Milne, LPC, CPC, CMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Milne
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPC, CMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105  (Online Only)
I have a strong passion for helping others heal from the pain and chaos that trauma can cause.
I have an extensive knowledge of the rehabilitation process of individuals with various physical, cognitive, psychosocial, and psychological impairments. I have experience working with individuals struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, trauma, addiction, PTSD, substance abuse/chemical dependency, eating disorders, dissociative disorders, and gender dysphoria. I find joy in helping others successfully navigate through difficult challenges and strive to assist my clients reach their highest personal potential and live their best lives possible.
I have a strong passion for helping others heal from the pain and chaos that trauma can cause.
I have an extensive knowledge of the rehabilitation process of individuals with various physical, cognitive, psychosocial, and psychological impairments. I have experience working with individuals struggling with anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, trauma, addiction, PTSD, substance abuse/chemical dependency, eating disorders, dissociative disorders, and gender dysphoria. I find joy in helping others successfully navigate through difficult challenges and strive to assist my clients reach their highest personal potential and live their best lives possible.
(314) 697-4943 View (314) 697-4943
Photo of Dena B Tranen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dena B Tranen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63105
I worked for 7 years at the Harvard-affiliated McLean Hospital specializing in the treatment of trauma related disorders, mood disorders and personality disorders.
Making the decision to seek therapy is a sign of strength, not weakness. Getting help during a difficult time can ease the burdens one carries during times of high stress and transition. Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Eating Disorders, Addiction and Self-Destructive Behaviors are real problems, yet with the right treatment you can expect to experience meaningful recovery and growth. In therapy, we work collaboratively to reduce the impact the symptoms or behaviors have on your life and build coping strategies and resiliency.
I worked for 7 years at the Harvard-affiliated McLean Hospital specializing in the treatment of trauma related disorders, mood disorders and personality disorders.
Making the decision to seek therapy is a sign of strength, not weakness. Getting help during a difficult time can ease the burdens one carries during times of high stress and transition. Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, Eating Disorders, Addiction and Self-Destructive Behaviors are real problems, yet with the right treatment you can expect to experience meaningful recovery and growth. In therapy, we work collaboratively to reduce the impact the symptoms or behaviors have on your life and build coping strategies and resiliency.
(314) 786-3430 View (314) 786-3430
Photo of Nadia Raza, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nadia Raza
Pre-Licensed Professional, PLPC
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105
I support people who are experiencing symptoms of chronic stress and trauma by utilizing EMDR and somatic work.
I believe that counseling is a collaborative process, so I hope to involve individuals in their goals and tools to overcome life difficulties with greater ease and self-awareness. Life experiences are a part of us whether they are good and bad and having support to understand them is the first step! My main focus is to provide a compassionate space for all who come into my office. The next part is we work through your thoughts, feelings, and emotions. In a way, I am holding a mirror for you to see your self in a different light and supporting you through every step.
I support people who are experiencing symptoms of chronic stress and trauma by utilizing EMDR and somatic work.
I believe that counseling is a collaborative process, so I hope to involve individuals in their goals and tools to overcome life difficulties with greater ease and self-awareness. Life experiences are a part of us whether they are good and bad and having support to understand them is the first step! My main focus is to provide a compassionate space for all who come into my office. The next part is we work through your thoughts, feelings, and emotions. In a way, I am holding a mirror for you to see your self in a different light and supporting you through every step.
(314) 948-5501 View (314) 948-5501
Photo of Brittni Johnson - Empowered Movement, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Empowered Movement
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63105  (Online Only)
Life is beautiful but often/sometimes challenging. Some days we feel confident and happy while other days we may feel alone or overwhelmed. The clients I work with are seeking new tools, skills, techniques and interventions to help them feel better, more in control and empowered on a daily basis. I work with adolescents, young adults, adults and elders experiencing life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, low self-esteem and more. Everyone deserves to have a safe space, with unconditional support that allows them to be authentically themselves, always.
Life is beautiful but often/sometimes challenging. Some days we feel confident and happy while other days we may feel alone or overwhelmed. The clients I work with are seeking new tools, skills, techniques and interventions to help them feel better, more in control and empowered on a daily basis. I work with adolescents, young adults, adults and elders experiencing life transitions, anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, low self-esteem and more. Everyone deserves to have a safe space, with unconditional support that allows them to be authentically themselves, always.
(314) 701-8184 View (314) 701-8184
Photo of Stephanie Malzahn, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie Malzahn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63124
I specialize in medical issues and trauma such as chronic illness/pain, TBI, reproductive health, and athletic injuries.
Welcome! Do you feel overwhelmed, dismissed, or undervalued? Are you looking for more meaningful connection? Persistent exposure to stress can show up in our bodies, our work ethic, our social interactions, sleep habits and so much more. What happens to us early in life influences our ability to cope with the stress and setbacks that life can throw at us. Whether it's a chronic health issue, recent or past trauma, grief, or relationship conflict, you don't have to experience it alone. I have an integrative and person-centered approach that uses the therapeutic relationship to rebuild connection to yourself, others and the world.
I specialize in medical issues and trauma such as chronic illness/pain, TBI, reproductive health, and athletic injuries.
Welcome! Do you feel overwhelmed, dismissed, or undervalued? Are you looking for more meaningful connection? Persistent exposure to stress can show up in our bodies, our work ethic, our social interactions, sleep habits and so much more. What happens to us early in life influences our ability to cope with the stress and setbacks that life can throw at us. Whether it's a chronic health issue, recent or past trauma, grief, or relationship conflict, you don't have to experience it alone. I have an integrative and person-centered approach that uses the therapeutic relationship to rebuild connection to yourself, others and the world.
(314) 886-5941 View (314) 886-5941
Photo of Nikki Karalekas, PhD, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nikki Karalekas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63105
I have worked with clients experiencing addiction, complex medical problems, trauma, guilt, low self-esteem, grief, depression, anxiety, and life transitions.
Do you notice that you struggle with the same kinds of problems, emotions, and relationships over and over again? Have you tried different coping skills without success? Do you turn to things like substances, unhealthy relationships, or mindless internet scrolling to take the edge off sadness, anger, fear, or loneliness? Explorative, insight-oriented, in-depth psychotherapy can help you understand and finally transform these dynamics, increasing your well-being and sense of self. This lasting change offers an opportunity to expand your world.
I have worked with clients experiencing addiction, complex medical problems, trauma, guilt, low self-esteem, grief, depression, anxiety, and life transitions.
Do you notice that you struggle with the same kinds of problems, emotions, and relationships over and over again? Have you tried different coping skills without success? Do you turn to things like substances, unhealthy relationships, or mindless internet scrolling to take the edge off sadness, anger, fear, or loneliness? Explorative, insight-oriented, in-depth psychotherapy can help you understand and finally transform these dynamics, increasing your well-being and sense of self. This lasting change offers an opportunity to expand your world.
(314) 370-1031 View (314) 370-1031
Photo of Kimberly Elder, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly Elder
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105  (Online Only)
Congratulations on making the decision to bring positive change into your life! I have experience working with a wide range of clinical issues including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, self-esteem, PTSD, first responder trauma, post-partum depression, family conflicts, pre-marital counseling, polyamorous relationships, domestic violence, multiple personality disorder (DID), Asperger’s Disorder, relationship issues, identity crisis, LGBT specific problems and concerns, grief and loss, as well as people struggling with bipolar disorder. I also have experience in paranormal psychology. All sessions are telehealth/online!
Congratulations on making the decision to bring positive change into your life! I have experience working with a wide range of clinical issues including but not limited to: depression, anxiety, self-esteem, PTSD, first responder trauma, post-partum depression, family conflicts, pre-marital counseling, polyamorous relationships, domestic violence, multiple personality disorder (DID), Asperger’s Disorder, relationship issues, identity crisis, LGBT specific problems and concerns, grief and loss, as well as people struggling with bipolar disorder. I also have experience in paranormal psychology. All sessions are telehealth/online!
(314) 925-2634 x720 View (314) 925-2634 x720
Photo of Francesca M Ferrentelli, PhD, LPC, BCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Francesca M Ferrentelli
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, BCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63105
EMDR therapy works quickly and effectively and helps to heal trauma, anxiety, stress, addictions, and depression.
My style is informed by EMDR therapy, psychodynamic therapy, Jungian and depth psychology, and positive psychology. I am a licensed professional counselor, a certified EMDR clinician, and a board certified coach. My training and experience has prepared me to help clients with trauma, anxiety, addictions, depression, disordered eating, body image dissatisfaction, life's additions, My approach helps people recognize and change counterproductive patterns in their lives. relationship issues, life transitions, anxiety, and depression. I want to assist people to develop newer, healthier patterns in their lives.
EMDR therapy works quickly and effectively and helps to heal trauma, anxiety, stress, addictions, and depression.
My style is informed by EMDR therapy, psychodynamic therapy, Jungian and depth psychology, and positive psychology. I am a licensed professional counselor, a certified EMDR clinician, and a board certified coach. My training and experience has prepared me to help clients with trauma, anxiety, addictions, depression, disordered eating, body image dissatisfaction, life's additions, My approach helps people recognize and change counterproductive patterns in their lives. relationship issues, life transitions, anxiety, and depression. I want to assist people to develop newer, healthier patterns in their lives.
(314) 283-5664 View (314) 283-5664
Photo of Holly Rivera, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Holly Rivera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105
Specializing in nature-based mental health therapy for adolescents and adults, my practice provides integrative treatment for addiction, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder ( PTSD)/ trauma, life transitions, and anxiety. We can meet for therapy in nature (sitting/walking/hiking outside) or virtually.
Specializing in nature-based mental health therapy for adolescents and adults, my practice provides integrative treatment for addiction, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder ( PTSD)/ trauma, life transitions, and anxiety. We can meet for therapy in nature (sitting/walking/hiking outside) or virtually.
(314) 876-6818 View (314) 876-6818
Photo of Hybrie Bishop - Akoma Healing & Consultation, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Akoma Healing & Consultation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105  (Online Only)
My clinical experience in the St. Louis area ranges from working with adults in inpatient treatment centers for mental health and substance abuse to non-profit community case management and trauma therapy. I specialize in working with survivors impacted by sexual, domestic, and community violence. As well as those diagnosed with mental illnesses such as anxiety, PTSD, and those impacted by grief.
My clinical experience in the St. Louis area ranges from working with adults in inpatient treatment centers for mental health and substance abuse to non-profit community case management and trauma therapy. I specialize in working with survivors impacted by sexual, domestic, and community violence. As well as those diagnosed with mental illnesses such as anxiety, PTSD, and those impacted by grief.
(314) 470-9286 View (314) 470-9286
Photo of Allison White, ACSW, LCSW, CCDP-D, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, LCSW, CCDP-D
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105
My specialty is trauma and resolving adverse life experiences.
Do you have long periods of low mood, sadness or anxiety that makes it difficult to face life challenges? Do you have trouble getting motivated? Do you have a history of adverse life experiences or trauma that makes it difficult to cope? There are reasons why you feel the way you do and together, we can discover what is keeping you feeling "stuck." I use a mind-body approach to help resolve issues so you can increase the quality of your life.
My specialty is trauma and resolving adverse life experiences.
Do you have long periods of low mood, sadness or anxiety that makes it difficult to face life challenges? Do you have trouble getting motivated? Do you have a history of adverse life experiences or trauma that makes it difficult to cope? There are reasons why you feel the way you do and together, we can discover what is keeping you feeling "stuck." I use a mind-body approach to help resolve issues so you can increase the quality of your life.
(314) 329-4705 View (314) 329-4705
Photo of Aya B Kawasaki, LCSW, MSW, LLM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aya B Kawasaki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, LLM
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105
Depression, anxiety, phobia, self injury, grief, adjustment, stress, relationship, anger, adoption, family, physical health, PTSD, bipolar.
I work with adolescents, adults, and seniors. In home, in school services are available. Clients are encouraged to have specific goals in order to have a personalized treatment plan. I also like to incorporate relaxation exercise.
Depression, anxiety, phobia, self injury, grief, adjustment, stress, relationship, anger, adoption, family, physical health, PTSD, bipolar.
I work with adolescents, adults, and seniors. In home, in school services are available. Clients are encouraged to have specific goals in order to have a personalized treatment plan. I also like to incorporate relaxation exercise.
(314) 932-2368 View (314) 932-2368
Photo of R. Renee McLaurine - SFC Cares, LLC - Renee McLaurine, LCSW, LCSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
SFC Cares, LLC - Renee McLaurine, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Clayton, MO 63105  (Online Only)
Embarking on the path to healing from trauma is a courageous and deeply personal journey. It requires individualized and compassionate support in a safe and confidential space that allows you to openly explore your emotions, thoughts, and concerns. Your journey is distinct, and together, we delve into the roots of trauma empowering you to process and integrate these experiences in a way that fosters lasting healing. Through our collaborative work, you will be awakened to your unique gifts and strengths so that you may face and overcome your fears and begin pursuing the life you want.
Embarking on the path to healing from trauma is a courageous and deeply personal journey. It requires individualized and compassionate support in a safe and confidential space that allows you to openly explore your emotions, thoughts, and concerns. Your journey is distinct, and together, we delve into the roots of trauma empowering you to process and integrate these experiences in a way that fosters lasting healing. Through our collaborative work, you will be awakened to your unique gifts and strengths so that you may face and overcome your fears and begin pursuing the life you want.
(314) 886-8748 View (314) 886-8748
Photo of Meg Meyers, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meg Meyers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Clayton, MO 63105
Surviving trauma can leave emotional burns that heal far better and faster with treatment.
Sexual Assault, Childhood Trauma, Intimate Partner Violence are as traumatic as warfare. Those who have experienced these things often battle through life, struggling to make sense of wounds that don't seem to heal even with time. There is hope! Trauma is treatable. Getting treatment can lead to a better quality of life. Many clients with PTSD no longer meet criteria for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder after two years of treatment.
Surviving trauma can leave emotional burns that heal far better and faster with treatment.
Sexual Assault, Childhood Trauma, Intimate Partner Violence are as traumatic as warfare. Those who have experienced these things often battle through life, struggling to make sense of wounds that don't seem to heal even with time. There is hope! Trauma is treatable. Getting treatment can lead to a better quality of life. Many clients with PTSD no longer meet criteria for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder after two years of treatment.
(314) 310-5723 View (314) 310-5723
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.