Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Cape Carteret, NC

Photo of Tamara Liaschenko - Sagestone PLLC, MA, LPCA, LCAS-A
Sagestone PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPCA, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Cape Carteret, NC 28584
I use my background in movement and art with my experiential, trauma, and substance use/abuse training.
At Sagestone, we respect and acknowledge the vital aspects of your life and take a "whole you" approach. We use empathy, compassion, and curiosity to better understand you and your needs. We listen. We share our experience, "know how", and provide thought-provoking, substantive, and practical process. We provide support that fosters safety, curiosity, and growth. We meet you where you are, in the here and now, allowing you to experience grounded vulnerability, presence, and acceptance, as you expand your way of being to embody inner peace, balance, and empowerment.
I use my background in movement and art with my experiential, trauma, and substance use/abuse training.
At Sagestone, we respect and acknowledge the vital aspects of your life and take a "whole you" approach. We use empathy, compassion, and curiosity to better understand you and your needs. We listen. We share our experience, "know how", and provide thought-provoking, substantive, and practical process. We provide support that fosters safety, curiosity, and growth. We meet you where you are, in the here and now, allowing you to experience grounded vulnerability, presence, and acceptance, as you expand your way of being to embody inner peace, balance, and empowerment.
(252) 674-1971 View (252) 674-1971
Photo of Jennifer Tremblay Pettee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Tremblay Pettee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cape Carteret, NC 28584  (Online Only)
Overwhelmed? We can be overwhelmed by many things; work/family demands, grief, romantic relationships, health, traumatic events, and so on. Sometimes, even when we feel like we SHOULD be happy, we are not. At Bonne Journée PLLC, I take a "Big Picture" approach to help empower clients to sort out what is meaningful and helpful in their lives.
Overwhelmed? We can be overwhelmed by many things; work/family demands, grief, romantic relationships, health, traumatic events, and so on. Sometimes, even when we feel like we SHOULD be happy, we are not. At Bonne Journée PLLC, I take a "Big Picture" approach to help empower clients to sort out what is meaningful and helpful in their lives.
(252) 542-2160 View (252) 542-2160
Mary Folger Summerlin
Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Cape Carteret, NC 28584
I enjoy working with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and with a wide array of presenting difficulties. I am person-centered and assist individuals with working towards their own personal goals. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups to assist with the achievement of these goals. While I feel comfortable addressing any issue, I am always willing to refer to another provider if needed.
I enjoy working with individuals from a variety of backgrounds and with a wide array of presenting difficulties. I am person-centered and assist individuals with working towards their own personal goals. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups to assist with the achievement of these goals. While I feel comfortable addressing any issue, I am always willing to refer to another provider if needed.
(252) 297-6201 View (252) 297-6201
Photo of Katie Drexler, LCMHCA, NCC, PLLC, Counselor
Katie Drexler
Counselor, LCMHCA, NCC, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cape Carteret, NC 28584
It is my priority to create a safe and interactive environment to tackle difficult subjects, traumas, or to simply say the things outloud that you never thought you would say.
How did that make you feel? I have heard that this is all that was asked during a counseling session. Although your feelings are meaningful and very valid, my approach will be supportive and goal oriented to make you feel heard and make progress towards a positive change in your life. We all have problems, thoughts, feelings, or experiences that can impact our well-being. I know first-hand how to find ways to cope or work through those. I will be here to support you and find the appropriate interventions or therapies for your specific journeys. I will use different techniques (CBT, DBT, etc) to help meet your goals.
It is my priority to create a safe and interactive environment to tackle difficult subjects, traumas, or to simply say the things outloud that you never thought you would say.
How did that make you feel? I have heard that this is all that was asked during a counseling session. Although your feelings are meaningful and very valid, my approach will be supportive and goal oriented to make you feel heard and make progress towards a positive change in your life. We all have problems, thoughts, feelings, or experiences that can impact our well-being. I know first-hand how to find ways to cope or work through those. I will be here to support you and find the appropriate interventions or therapies for your specific journeys. I will use different techniques (CBT, DBT, etc) to help meet your goals.
(252) 418-8443 View (252) 418-8443

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Maria Donaty-Gurba, LCSW, LCAS, RN, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria Donaty-Gurba
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Swansboro, NC 28584
Reaching out & asking for help can be really hard. If you are struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Medical issues, Relationship/Marital Issues, problem behaviors, maintaining sobriety, unwanted change or navigating & adjusting to difficult decisions it is important to seek help. Whether you're going through a painful transition like divorce, having difficulty in your relationships, self-medicating with substances, or have debilitating anxiety or depression- guidance from a qualified, objective person is necessary. I will help you gain insight into the root cause of what is keeping you stuck.
Reaching out & asking for help can be really hard. If you are struggling with Anxiety, Depression, Trauma, Medical issues, Relationship/Marital Issues, problem behaviors, maintaining sobriety, unwanted change or navigating & adjusting to difficult decisions it is important to seek help. Whether you're going through a painful transition like divorce, having difficulty in your relationships, self-medicating with substances, or have debilitating anxiety or depression- guidance from a qualified, objective person is necessary. I will help you gain insight into the root cause of what is keeping you stuck.
(910) 684-4626 View (910) 684-4626
Photo of Noella N. S Dowers, MS, CHAD, LCMHC, CCTP
Noella N. S Dowers
MS, CHAD, LCMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Swansboro, NC 28584
I am experienced in the areas of anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, grief, behavior issues and various issues pertaining to mental health & wellness.
Counseling for children, adolescents, adults, & couples. Professional, confidential support for Children, Adolescents and Adults, Families and Couples. If you are struggling with relationship challenges, depression, anxiety, parenting, issues at work or difficulty figuring out where you fit in. Does your child have behavior challenges? socialization struggles? Are you experiencing loss of a loved one or a broken relationship? Past traumatic event making life seem unbearable therapy provides you someone who will listen, offer guidance, and offer support as you learn new coping strategies and gain insight.
I am experienced in the areas of anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, grief, behavior issues and various issues pertaining to mental health & wellness.
Counseling for children, adolescents, adults, & couples. Professional, confidential support for Children, Adolescents and Adults, Families and Couples. If you are struggling with relationship challenges, depression, anxiety, parenting, issues at work or difficulty figuring out where you fit in. Does your child have behavior challenges? socialization struggles? Are you experiencing loss of a loved one or a broken relationship? Past traumatic event making life seem unbearable therapy provides you someone who will listen, offer guidance, and offer support as you learn new coping strategies and gain insight.
(910) 543-3483 View (910) 543-3483
Photo of Lydia Kerns, LCSW, LCAS-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lydia Kerns
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Swansboro, NC 28584
You'll find a safe, open, and welcoming space where you can freely explore stress, anxiety and trauma.
Are you tired of your thoughts going a mile a minute? Do social media posts trigger responses that hit a little too close to home? Feeling like you just can't handle it all, no matter how much you vent to your friends and how many memes you send? I get it! Anxiety and trauma can make everyday life feel overwhelming and exhausting, especially when you're going through major changes or the stress keeps adding up. I'm here to help you find balance, break unhealthy patterns, and gain control of your life so you can move forward without the burdens that aren't yours to carry.
You'll find a safe, open, and welcoming space where you can freely explore stress, anxiety and trauma.
Are you tired of your thoughts going a mile a minute? Do social media posts trigger responses that hit a little too close to home? Feeling like you just can't handle it all, no matter how much you vent to your friends and how many memes you send? I get it! Anxiety and trauma can make everyday life feel overwhelming and exhausting, especially when you're going through major changes or the stress keeps adding up. I'm here to help you find balance, break unhealthy patterns, and gain control of your life so you can move forward without the burdens that aren't yours to carry.
(910) 490-3523 View (910) 490-3523
Photo of Sarah J Roe, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah J Roe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hubert, NC 28539  (Online Only)
I tailor my approach to each person, using techniques taken from therapy models such as CBT, DBT and trauma informed approaches.
Life is beautiful, but it can be hard to face the challenges that come with it sometimes. Whether it be medical issues, family/relationship problems, or just common life stresses, all of us have challenges to overcome. Some challenges are short-lived and can be overcome with small adaptations of our mindset and/or coping strategies. Others, however, can be quite daunting and complex, such as trauma and addiction. I believe that regardless of the issues we face, we all want basically the same things - to feel safe and comfortable with ourselves, within our relationships, and in the world.
I tailor my approach to each person, using techniques taken from therapy models such as CBT, DBT and trauma informed approaches.
Life is beautiful, but it can be hard to face the challenges that come with it sometimes. Whether it be medical issues, family/relationship problems, or just common life stresses, all of us have challenges to overcome. Some challenges are short-lived and can be overcome with small adaptations of our mindset and/or coping strategies. Others, however, can be quite daunting and complex, such as trauma and addiction. I believe that regardless of the issues we face, we all want basically the same things - to feel safe and comfortable with ourselves, within our relationships, and in the world.
(252) 599-5224 View (252) 599-5224
Photo of Greta Enriquez - Sagestone, PLLC, PhD, LCMHC
Sagestone, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, PhD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Swansboro, NC 28584
My specialties include developmental trauma, nonheteronormative relationships and dynamics, work-life balance, and somatic touch therapy.
At Sagestone, we respect and acknowledge the vital aspects of your life and take a "whole you" approach. We use empathy, compassion, and curiosity to better understand you and your needs. We listen. We share our experience, "know how", and provide thought-provoking, substantive, and practical process. We provide support that fosters safety, curiosity, and growth. We meet you where you are, in the here and now, allowing you to experience grounded vulnerability, presence, and acceptance, as you expand your way of being to embody inner peace, balance, and empowerment.
My specialties include developmental trauma, nonheteronormative relationships and dynamics, work-life balance, and somatic touch therapy.
At Sagestone, we respect and acknowledge the vital aspects of your life and take a "whole you" approach. We use empathy, compassion, and curiosity to better understand you and your needs. We listen. We share our experience, "know how", and provide thought-provoking, substantive, and practical process. We provide support that fosters safety, curiosity, and growth. We meet you where you are, in the here and now, allowing you to experience grounded vulnerability, presence, and acceptance, as you expand your way of being to embody inner peace, balance, and empowerment.
(252) 377-4073 View (252) 377-4073
Photo of Kim Morris, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Morris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Swansboro, NC 28584
REEL therapy for REAL change. Would you like to transform the way you respond to life’s stress? Learn tactics that help you show up as the best REAL version of yourself at home and at work? It’s my mission to create a therapeutic space where you will leave feeling heard, understood, and empowered to take charge of your health, mental well-being, and achieve your goals. Let’s strengthen your capacity to manage stress, symptoms, or trauma that may be holding you back from pursuing a life that aligns with your REAL value, your core values.
REEL therapy for REAL change. Would you like to transform the way you respond to life’s stress? Learn tactics that help you show up as the best REAL version of yourself at home and at work? It’s my mission to create a therapeutic space where you will leave feeling heard, understood, and empowered to take charge of your health, mental well-being, and achieve your goals. Let’s strengthen your capacity to manage stress, symptoms, or trauma that may be holding you back from pursuing a life that aligns with your REAL value, your core values.
(252) 253-6105 View (252) 253-6105
Photo of Michelle Richmond, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Richmond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Swansboro, NC 28584
I look forward to working with you to identify areas of concern and develop goals to address those concerns. I will use various therapeutic techniques (CBT and Strength Focused Approach) as well as resources to assist in resolving issues to meet your goals. I am trained in the use of EMDR with adults and children to address trauma and anxiety, which I have observed to be effective and life changing for many. I am happy to incorporate Christian/Biblical principles in our work together if you so choose.
I look forward to working with you to identify areas of concern and develop goals to address those concerns. I will use various therapeutic techniques (CBT and Strength Focused Approach) as well as resources to assist in resolving issues to meet your goals. I am trained in the use of EMDR with adults and children to address trauma and anxiety, which I have observed to be effective and life changing for many. I am happy to incorporate Christian/Biblical principles in our work together if you so choose.
(252) 300-0362 View (252) 300-0362
Photo of Marie Francis, MA, LCMHC, NCC, DCC
Marie Francis
MA, LCMHC, NCC, DCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Swansboro, NC 28584
"Once upon a time..." is the beginning of many stories If you are seeking therapy, you have a story to tell. Perhaps your story is filtered through the lens of depression, anxiety, trauma or substance dependence. I will listen, and remain attentive to, and curious about the intricacies of your story. I will provide an atmosphere of safety without judgment so that enlightenment, healing and growth can take place. I use Solution-Focused approach to therapy and Motivational Interviewing techniques in my work with couples, families and individuals to help enhance and maintain rewarding relationships and manage life transitions.
"Once upon a time..." is the beginning of many stories If you are seeking therapy, you have a story to tell. Perhaps your story is filtered through the lens of depression, anxiety, trauma or substance dependence. I will listen, and remain attentive to, and curious about the intricacies of your story. I will provide an atmosphere of safety without judgment so that enlightenment, healing and growth can take place. I use Solution-Focused approach to therapy and Motivational Interviewing techniques in my work with couples, families and individuals to help enhance and maintain rewarding relationships and manage life transitions.
(910) 202-6110 View (910) 202-6110
Photo of Jacqueline Puz - Compassion Counseling Center ENC, PC, DMin, MAEd, LCMHCS, NBCC
Compassion Counseling Center ENC, PC
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, DMin, MAEd, LCMHCS, NBCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Swansboro, NC 28584
I have worked as a therapist for 25 years in various settings and have been licensed since 2006. As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor/Supervisor, I have provided family, couple and individual counseling for adults. I am EMDR trained. I address parenting skills, marital issues, trauma, mood disorders, behavior disorders, thought disorders, career concerns, and spiritual concerns. As a professional Christian counselor, I believe that the Lord has the power to heal marriages, families, and individuals using Jesus as our example of how to live life and find perfect peace.
I have worked as a therapist for 25 years in various settings and have been licensed since 2006. As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor/Supervisor, I have provided family, couple and individual counseling for adults. I am EMDR trained. I address parenting skills, marital issues, trauma, mood disorders, behavior disorders, thought disorders, career concerns, and spiritual concerns. As a professional Christian counselor, I believe that the Lord has the power to heal marriages, families, and individuals using Jesus as our example of how to live life and find perfect peace.
(252) 648-7175 View (252) 648-7175
Photo of Stefanie Anthenor, LCMHCA, MA, Counselor
Stefanie Anthenor
Counselor, LCMHCA, MA
Verified Verified
Swansboro, NC 28584  (Online Only)
I am EMDR-trained and help clients struggling with past traumas and PTSD.
Life can be extremely challenging and we could all use some help with navigation. I can work with you to provide a safe, relaxing environment where you can freely express yourself without judgment or bias. There is no "one size fits all" approach to therapy, and I treat each client as an individual. We will work together to create a treatment plan that best meets your needs and help you make sense of the difficulties you may be currently facing.
I am EMDR-trained and help clients struggling with past traumas and PTSD.
Life can be extremely challenging and we could all use some help with navigation. I can work with you to provide a safe, relaxing environment where you can freely express yourself without judgment or bias. There is no "one size fits all" approach to therapy, and I treat each client as an individual. We will work together to create a treatment plan that best meets your needs and help you make sense of the difficulties you may be currently facing.
(910) 541-9763 View (910) 541-9763
Photo of Dr. Suzan Douville, PhD, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Suzan Douville
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Swansboro, NC 28584
I am a general psychologist (PhD) and a licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC), originally from Berlin, Germany, with over 15 years of experience in individual and marriage counseling. I specialize in depression, anxiety, anger, bipolar disorder, deployment stress (for spouses), new mom, trauma ( PTSD), and marital conflict (communication issues, healing from any type of infidelity, etc.). I served as the Regional Director of the Licensed Clinical Counselor's of North Carolina (LCCNC 2009-2023) and occasionally also teach psychology courses to my wonderful students.
I am a general psychologist (PhD) and a licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC), originally from Berlin, Germany, with over 15 years of experience in individual and marriage counseling. I specialize in depression, anxiety, anger, bipolar disorder, deployment stress (for spouses), new mom, trauma ( PTSD), and marital conflict (communication issues, healing from any type of infidelity, etc.). I served as the Regional Director of the Licensed Clinical Counselor's of North Carolina (LCCNC 2009-2023) and occasionally also teach psychology courses to my wonderful students.
(910) 218-8994 View (910) 218-8994
Photo of Chrissy Napowsa Schlude - Chrissy's Empowering Counseling Services, PLLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chrissy's Empowering Counseling Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Swansboro, NC 28584
Ever felt like things are getting out of control in your life, and you're having trouble slowing things down? I have a passion to help people who are dealing with anxiety symptoms, whether they be from trauma related issues, including domestic violence or the ups and downs of dealing with life's expectations.
Now accepting new clients! Whether you are having a bad day or just need someone to talk to, finding the right therapist can be extremely difficult. Please take the time to take advantage of my 15 minute free consultation. During this consultation, we can take time to discuss and highlight the areas of concern and decide if we are a good fit to work together in order to gain the maximum benefit from your therapy. I take the time to actively listen so that education and empowerment can be used to assist in solving many of life’s challenges.
Ever felt like things are getting out of control in your life, and you're having trouble slowing things down? I have a passion to help people who are dealing with anxiety symptoms, whether they be from trauma related issues, including domestic violence or the ups and downs of dealing with life's expectations.
Now accepting new clients! Whether you are having a bad day or just need someone to talk to, finding the right therapist can be extremely difficult. Please take the time to take advantage of my 15 minute free consultation. During this consultation, we can take time to discuss and highlight the areas of concern and decide if we are a good fit to work together in order to gain the maximum benefit from your therapy. I take the time to actively listen so that education and empowerment can be used to assist in solving many of life’s challenges.
(910) 541-9052 View (910) 541-9052
Photo of Lisa Colella, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Colella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Swansboro, NC 28584
Sometimes we have difficulty turning life's lemons into lemonade. You could probably manage a bag of lemons but what happens when you're given a truck load? I imagine you'd reach out for help. Using therapy is a similar concept. Having difficulty turning life events into manageable situations. Especially when we're overwhelming negative thoughts, deep emotions, or traumatic experiences feel impossible to navigate. Feeling stuck is bound to happen when finances, relationship issues, disabilities, or caring for ourselves/others are added to our daily responsibilities, feeling stuck is bound to happen and it happens to all of us...
Sometimes we have difficulty turning life's lemons into lemonade. You could probably manage a bag of lemons but what happens when you're given a truck load? I imagine you'd reach out for help. Using therapy is a similar concept. Having difficulty turning life events into manageable situations. Especially when we're overwhelming negative thoughts, deep emotions, or traumatic experiences feel impossible to navigate. Feeling stuck is bound to happen when finances, relationship issues, disabilities, or caring for ourselves/others are added to our daily responsibilities, feeling stuck is bound to happen and it happens to all of us...
(910) 541-5593 View (910) 541-5593
Photo of Deb Bragg, MS, LMFT, LPN, Marriage & Family Therapist
Deb Bragg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPN
Verified Verified
Swansboro, NC 28584  (Online Only)
Making the decision to begin therapy is a healthy and courageous act that brings with it the potential for growth and healing. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist I will work with you to provide confidential and caring services. I have a passion to help individuals, couples and families overcome challenges, grow in their relationships and find meaning and purpose in life. I feel it is important to "meet each client where they are" in their journey.
Making the decision to begin therapy is a healthy and courageous act that brings with it the potential for growth and healing. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist I will work with you to provide confidential and caring services. I have a passion to help individuals, couples and families overcome challenges, grow in their relationships and find meaning and purpose in life. I feel it is important to "meet each client where they are" in their journey.
(910) 537-3143 View (910) 537-3143
Photo of Kathleen Ellers, MS, LCMHCS, NCC
Kathleen Ellers
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
Swansboro, NC 28584
Not accepting new clients
I am trained in Child Parent Psychotherapy, an evidence-based and trauma-informed therapy based on attachment theory.
Often chronic stress and unresolved trauma can be barriers to feeling successful at school, work, relationships and life in general. My training and experience includes working with children, adolescents and adults in the areas of trauma, life transitions, depression/anxiety and personal growth. I can help you and/or your child navigate through the stress, the difficult behaviors, and anxiety and come out on the other side feeling more calm, confident and focused on your life's purpose.
I am trained in Child Parent Psychotherapy, an evidence-based and trauma-informed therapy based on attachment theory.
Often chronic stress and unresolved trauma can be barriers to feeling successful at school, work, relationships and life in general. My training and experience includes working with children, adolescents and adults in the areas of trauma, life transitions, depression/anxiety and personal growth. I can help you and/or your child navigate through the stress, the difficult behaviors, and anxiety and come out on the other side feeling more calm, confident and focused on your life's purpose.
(252) 313-9092 View (252) 313-9092
Photo of Dr. Priscila Norris, DSW, RYT, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Priscila Norris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, RYT, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Swansboro, NC 28584
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in anxiety, depression, and trauma I also offer meditation and yoga-based interventions.
I believe that every person deserves to be free from suffering and emotional pain and deverves the chance to lead a life where they thrive. I provide Psychodynamic and Mindfulness-Based Psychotherapy and take a holistic ("whole person") and wellness-oriented approach to treatment. Our work together will bring you relief, help you grow, find meaning in your experiences, and build happiness.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, and trauma I also offer meditation and yoga-based interventions.
I believe that every person deserves to be free from suffering and emotional pain and deverves the chance to lead a life where they thrive. I provide Psychodynamic and Mindfulness-Based Psychotherapy and take a holistic ("whole person") and wellness-oriented approach to treatment. Our work together will bring you relief, help you grow, find meaning in your experiences, and build happiness.
(910) 294-5904 View (910) 294-5904

See more therapy options for Cape Carteret

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.