Therapists in Ashland County, OH
![Photo of Richard Hoffmann - Rich Hoffmann MA, LICDC, LPC. at Soulace Group , MA, LICDC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b23c548c-2fb4-4bdd-ad2e-891c21fcd2c2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rich Hoffmann MA, LICDC, LPC. at Soulace Group
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LICDC, LPC
Verified Verified
Ashland, OH 44805
Anxiety, Depression, Trauma and Addiction - We help you uncover causes of your problem, and journey with you to find new ways to make positive changes.
At Soulace Group LLC., our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan with realistic and relevant objectives you help develop. We will do our best to help you improve your behaviors, relationships and overall daily functioning.
Anxiety, Depression, Trauma and Addiction - We help you uncover causes of your problem, and journey with you to find new ways to make positive changes.
At Soulace Group LLC., our focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan with realistic and relevant objectives you help develop. We will do our best to help you improve your behaviors, relationships and overall daily functioning.
Online Therapists
![Photo of Rebecca Joanis, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33ad5c20-86a7-4ba3-9717-a07cf538a39c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Joanis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Willoughby Hills, OH 44094
Becka has experience working with various mental health concerns including but not limited to anxiety, depression, sexual abuse trauma, low self esteem, self harm, relationship concerns, transitional stressors, grief, infertility, and postpartum struggles.
Becka Joanis is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Behavioral Psychology and a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health from Western Michigan University. She has experience working with at risk youth and adolescents in a nonprofit providing respite for families. Her most recent role provided her experience in working with children, adolescents, and adults individually and in groups in a community mental health setting.
Becka has experience working with various mental health concerns including but not limited to anxiety, depression, sexual abuse trauma, low self esteem, self harm, relationship concerns, transitional stressors, grief, infertility, and postpartum struggles.
Becka Joanis is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Behavioral Psychology and a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health from Western Michigan University. She has experience working with at risk youth and adolescents in a nonprofit providing respite for families. Her most recent role provided her experience in working with children, adolescents, and adults individually and in groups in a community mental health setting.
![Photo of Brady Mertens, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/33f299b8-5001-45ef-8db3-36e64f7bd215/1/320x400.jpeg)
His main areas of focus include Trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and relationship conflict, across late adolescence and adultood.
Brady Mertens is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Supervisor, who has been practicing since 2015. He graduated from Franciscan University of Steubenville with a Masters in Clinical Mental Health counseling. Brady practices a blend of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy with a sensitivity to trauma, LGBTQ+, and neurodivergence. He takes a holistic approach, believing that the more one knows about how the brain, body, spirit, and physical and social environments interact, the more one can do to create effective change.
His main areas of focus include Trauma, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and relationship conflict, across late adolescence and adultood.
Brady Mertens is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor and Supervisor, who has been practicing since 2015. He graduated from Franciscan University of Steubenville with a Masters in Clinical Mental Health counseling. Brady practices a blend of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy with a sensitivity to trauma, LGBTQ+, and neurodivergence. He takes a holistic approach, believing that the more one knows about how the brain, body, spirit, and physical and social environments interact, the more one can do to create effective change.
![Photo of William Hamilton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51139d1e-6848-4eef-8644-ae4c7143cb79/1/320x400.jpeg)
His areas of specialty interest include treatment for childhood trauma, men's issues, domestic violence, bipolar disorder, learning disability management, stress, depression and relationship issues, using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing.
Bill Hamilton received his master's degree in social work from Case Western Reserve University and his bachelor's degree from Baldwin-Wallace College. He served in supervisory and investigation positions with the Cuyahoga County Department of Children and Family Services for 20 years. He is a member of the International Dyslexia Association and on the Board of Directors with the Lutheran Metropolitan Ministries START program, which serves at-risk youth. He also serves as an adjunct instructor for Case Western Reserve and Cleveland State Universities.
His areas of specialty interest include treatment for childhood trauma, men's issues, domestic violence, bipolar disorder, learning disability management, stress, depression and relationship issues, using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing.
Bill Hamilton received his master's degree in social work from Case Western Reserve University and his bachelor's degree from Baldwin-Wallace College. He served in supervisory and investigation positions with the Cuyahoga County Department of Children and Family Services for 20 years. He is a member of the International Dyslexia Association and on the Board of Directors with the Lutheran Metropolitan Ministries START program, which serves at-risk youth. He also serves as an adjunct instructor for Case Western Reserve and Cleveland State Universities.
![Photo of Bridget Verma, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d4eb08d0-710d-4fad-8d31-3c0bb6424304/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bridget Verma received her master's degree in Marriage and Family Counseling from Adler School of Professional Psychology and her bachelor's degree in Arts/Social Work from University of Akron. Bridget has worked at both community mental health agencies and private practice settings since 2004. She is experienced in working with children, adolescents, and adults providing individual, family, and couples/marital counseling. She specializes in couples counseling and trauma but also has experience in working with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, grief/loss and mood disorders.
Bridget Verma received her master's degree in Marriage and Family Counseling from Adler School of Professional Psychology and her bachelor's degree in Arts/Social Work from University of Akron. Bridget has worked at both community mental health agencies and private practice settings since 2004. She is experienced in working with children, adolescents, and adults providing individual, family, and couples/marital counseling. She specializes in couples counseling and trauma but also has experience in working with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, grief/loss and mood disorders.
![Photo of Kristin Hilfer, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5eb9ab94-17da-42c3-a275-f2a3064422e2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Hilfer sees patients ages 12 and up. She conceptualizes cases using CBT and family systems theory. She treats patients struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, panic disorder, PTSD, addiction issues, relationship difficulties, eating disorders, and body dysmorphia.
Dr. Hilfer sees patients ages 12 and up. She conceptualizes cases using CBT and family systems theory. She treats patients struggling with depression, anxiety, OCD, panic disorder, PTSD, addiction issues, relationship difficulties, eating disorders, and body dysmorphia.
I have a lot of experience working with individuals who have experienced trauma, be it physical, sexual, or emotional.
It can be scary to reach out and make that first call; but, I will try to reduce those fears. My experience is diverse; but specialized in particular areas. I have extensive work in child welfare and working with physically and sexually abused children and their families, inpatient psychiatric units at Crisis Center and Geriatric Unit, been in private practice for over 20 years, and started working with Transgender persons 24 years ago as part of treatment team. I continue the same integrated process for a referral to physicians/surgerons for HRT or GRS while abiding to WPATH-7 standards.
I have a lot of experience working with individuals who have experienced trauma, be it physical, sexual, or emotional.
It can be scary to reach out and make that first call; but, I will try to reduce those fears. My experience is diverse; but specialized in particular areas. I have extensive work in child welfare and working with physically and sexually abused children and their families, inpatient psychiatric units at Crisis Center and Geriatric Unit, been in private practice for over 20 years, and started working with Transgender persons 24 years ago as part of treatment team. I continue the same integrated process for a referral to physicians/surgerons for HRT or GRS while abiding to WPATH-7 standards.
![Photo of Chantelle Butler, MA, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0b829e32-b597-466d-8945-52149522e417/1/320x400.jpeg)
Chantelle Butler (pronouns: she/her) is a licensed social worker who works with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Her specialty interests include: girls’ and women’s issues, perinatal and postpartum issues, geriatric and aging issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, and personality disorders. She is passionate about integrating creativity and positive psychology into counseling practice, as well as treatment approaches that are evidence-based and uniquely tailored to each client.
Chantelle Butler (pronouns: she/her) is a licensed social worker who works with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Her specialty interests include: girls’ and women’s issues, perinatal and postpartum issues, geriatric and aging issues, anxiety, depression, trauma, and personality disorders. She is passionate about integrating creativity and positive psychology into counseling practice, as well as treatment approaches that are evidence-based and uniquely tailored to each client.
![Photo of Kate Yingst, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b5787248-992f-4ccf-8c41-04303dfba39f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kate Yingst
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cleveland Heights, OH 44106
Hi there! My name is Kate and currently, I am taking Children, Teenagers, and Adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, school issues, ADHD, behavioral concerns, bullying, self-esteem, trauma, social issues, experimenting with drugs or alcohol, relationships, career stressors, and adjustment to change. I work well with LGBTQ+ populations, young girls and women, and teenage boys who are interested in making a change, looking for accountability, and helping achieve their goals. Check out my website to learn more about me!
Hi there! My name is Kate and currently, I am taking Children, Teenagers, and Adults who are struggling with depression, anxiety, school issues, ADHD, behavioral concerns, bullying, self-esteem, trauma, social issues, experimenting with drugs or alcohol, relationships, career stressors, and adjustment to change. I work well with LGBTQ+ populations, young girls and women, and teenage boys who are interested in making a change, looking for accountability, and helping achieve their goals. Check out my website to learn more about me!
![Photo of Ross Fiorello, LPCC-S](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d1622d7-1a16-4379-933c-110482d28a18/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ross has been trained in both Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
Ross Fiorello is a Licensed Clinical Counselor with his supervisory designation (LPCC-S). He worked in the mental health field for over 10 years, including the past eight as a licensed therapist. Ross earned his Master of Arts degree in Clinical Counseling from Malone University. He has experience working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, trauma and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD). Most of Ross' experience has been working in community mental health settings with individuals across the lifespan, both outpatient and community based.
Ross has been trained in both Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
Ross Fiorello is a Licensed Clinical Counselor with his supervisory designation (LPCC-S). He worked in the mental health field for over 10 years, including the past eight as a licensed therapist. Ross earned his Master of Arts degree in Clinical Counseling from Malone University. He has experience working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, trauma and attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (ADHD). Most of Ross' experience has been working in community mental health settings with individuals across the lifespan, both outpatient and community based.
![Photo of Joan Freeman, RN, MA, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c0a96d5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a certified EMDR therapist and Approved Consultant specializing in treating trauma and PTSD in children and adults.
As a child and family therapist I work with children, adolescents and adults conducting individual, couples, and family counseling for persons experiencing a wide range of issues-from transitions and losses (job loss, illness, divorce, death), relationship issues, depression, fears and anxiety, to trauma and PTSD. I approach the counseling relationship in an interactive and respectful manner by assisting you to find the solution that is best for you in a safe and trusting environment.
I am a certified EMDR therapist and Approved Consultant specializing in treating trauma and PTSD in children and adults.
As a child and family therapist I work with children, adolescents and adults conducting individual, couples, and family counseling for persons experiencing a wide range of issues-from transitions and losses (job loss, illness, divorce, death), relationship issues, depression, fears and anxiety, to trauma and PTSD. I approach the counseling relationship in an interactive and respectful manner by assisting you to find the solution that is best for you in a safe and trusting environment.
![Photo of Matthew S Harmon, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/234b5fa4-da39-4a35-a54f-8783e15f86fd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Matthew S Harmon
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43212
Matt utilizes a blend of treatment approaches such as dialectal behavior therapy, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), EMDR, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic therapy, and solution-focused therapy,.
Matthew Harmon is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with 5 years of experience in the mental health field. He is passionate about helping adolescents and adults find healing, improve their mental well-being, and navigate challenges in life. Matt specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, life transitions, self-exploration, ADHD, and self-injury. He is also trained to use EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing) for treating trauma, anxiety, panic disorder, depression, and self-injury. Matt completed his Master of Arts in Counseling at Huntington University.
Matt utilizes a blend of treatment approaches such as dialectal behavior therapy, mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), EMDR, motivational interviewing, psychodynamic therapy, and solution-focused therapy,.
Matthew Harmon is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with 5 years of experience in the mental health field. He is passionate about helping adolescents and adults find healing, improve their mental well-being, and navigate challenges in life. Matt specializes in depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, life transitions, self-exploration, ADHD, and self-injury. He is also trained to use EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing) for treating trauma, anxiety, panic disorder, depression, and self-injury. Matt completed his Master of Arts in Counseling at Huntington University.
![Photo of Jessica Lieberth, LPCC-S, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ee570d6c-7fb4-44af-975c-184c9236911c/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jessica Lieberth specializes in clinical treatment for mental health issues in adults, particularly anxiety and depression, relationship/family issues, OCD, grief, postpartum issues and Christian counseling. She has some training in treating trauma, and has extensive personal interest and learning in healthy diet, exercise, & lifestyle, and the benefits of such on one's mental health. She has worked in both community mental health and private practice, and helped form a counseling agency from the ground up.
Jessica Lieberth specializes in clinical treatment for mental health issues in adults, particularly anxiety and depression, relationship/family issues, OCD, grief, postpartum issues and Christian counseling. She has some training in treating trauma, and has extensive personal interest and learning in healthy diet, exercise, & lifestyle, and the benefits of such on one's mental health. She has worked in both community mental health and private practice, and helped form a counseling agency from the ground up.
![Photo of Kylee Little, MA, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/70d72fd3-9c0f-44d2-8312-dd0391623f88/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kylee Little
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LSW
Verified Verified
Canton, OH 44718 (Online Only)
Kylee Little (pronouns: she/her) is an experienced licensed social worker who works with adults and couples. Her specialty interests include: severe and persistent mental health issues, LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer) issues, gender issues, women’s issues, gerontology, trauma informed care, and positive psychology. She utilizes treatment approaches that are evidence-based and uniquely tailored to each client.
Kylee Little (pronouns: she/her) is an experienced licensed social worker who works with adults and couples. Her specialty interests include: severe and persistent mental health issues, LGBTQ+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer) issues, gender issues, women’s issues, gerontology, trauma informed care, and positive psychology. She utilizes treatment approaches that are evidence-based and uniquely tailored to each client.
![Photo of Sandra Elizabeth Perrotta, MSEd, NCC, LPCC, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/214dbef1-1b7c-401f-bc86-e617a48f45cf/1/320x400.jpeg)
Specialty areas through my career have been individual, couple, family therapy, and working with the Military Population in trauma Focused therapy and suicide assessment.
I am a very seasoned therapist, wisdom through the learning and training and experiences I have created. I am trained in both evidenced therapies of EMDR I and II and Prolonged Exposure Therapy as well as Cognitive Processing for Insomnia. My early training is combining psychodynamic therapy and existential roots to look at the entire person and work with you from where you are and where you would like help getting. I had much work with adolescents and families as well as couples and LGBT community. My want is to create a trusting relationship with you to foster growth.
Specialty areas through my career have been individual, couple, family therapy, and working with the Military Population in trauma Focused therapy and suicide assessment.
I am a very seasoned therapist, wisdom through the learning and training and experiences I have created. I am trained in both evidenced therapies of EMDR I and II and Prolonged Exposure Therapy as well as Cognitive Processing for Insomnia. My early training is combining psychodynamic therapy and existential roots to look at the entire person and work with you from where you are and where you would like help getting. I had much work with adolescents and families as well as couples and LGBT community. My want is to create a trusting relationship with you to foster growth.
![Photo of Christine Dessoffy, LPCC-S](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3843570d-b4b7-4fd1-ab4a-fda46e5cf41a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christine Dessoffy
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Brecksville, OH 44141
She uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to treat trauma, stress and interpersonal related issues.
Christine Dessoffy is a licensed professional clinical counselor with supervisory designation and an independent chemical dependency counselor. She has more than 20 years of clinical experience including senior clinical director positions at community mental health centers. She also served as division manager for the Cuyahoga County Department of Justice Affairs. She earned her bachelor's and master's degrees at Kent State University. She sees adolescents and adults, specializing in treatment of anxiety, depression and substance abuse disorders.
She uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to treat trauma, stress and interpersonal related issues.
Christine Dessoffy is a licensed professional clinical counselor with supervisory designation and an independent chemical dependency counselor. She has more than 20 years of clinical experience including senior clinical director positions at community mental health centers. She also served as division manager for the Cuyahoga County Department of Justice Affairs. She earned her bachelor's and master's degrees at Kent State University. She sees adolescents and adults, specializing in treatment of anxiety, depression and substance abuse disorders.
![Photo of Jodi Walters, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b1cb5346-b50c-4b04-8a47-9a2418a44dbb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jodi has received advanced training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT) and Mindfulness CBT.
Jodi Walters attained her master's degree in clinical social work from Case Western Reserve University and her bachelor's from Cleveland State University. She has over 25 years of experience. Jodi previously worked in community mental health care at Catholic Charities and Positive Education Program (PEP) providing in home and school-based therapy to children, at risk teens and families. She has facilitated groups and intense in-home family/individual therapy.
Jodi has received advanced training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT) and Mindfulness CBT.
Jodi Walters attained her master's degree in clinical social work from Case Western Reserve University and her bachelor's from Cleveland State University. She has over 25 years of experience. Jodi previously worked in community mental health care at Catholic Charities and Positive Education Program (PEP) providing in home and school-based therapy to children, at risk teens and families. She has facilitated groups and intense in-home family/individual therapy.
![Photo of Abigail Holaus, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/970ea252-c740-4f49-bc48-cc6f457adf54/1/320x400.jpeg)
I primarily utilize cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, person-centered techniques, and trauma focused techniques in sessions.
Everyone we meet is walking a unique path, which is why I work to meet you where you are regardless of what path you are on. I strive to create a safe, warm, and welcoming environment where I am honored to walk alongside you in your journey. Whether you are facing anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, stress of daily life, or unresolved trauma, together, we will work to find solutions to help life feel more manageable and enjoyable!
I primarily utilize cognitive behavioral therapy techniques, person-centered techniques, and trauma focused techniques in sessions.
Everyone we meet is walking a unique path, which is why I work to meet you where you are regardless of what path you are on. I strive to create a safe, warm, and welcoming environment where I am honored to walk alongside you in your journey. Whether you are facing anxiety, depression, self-harm, suicidal thoughts, stress of daily life, or unresolved trauma, together, we will work to find solutions to help life feel more manageable and enjoyable!
![Photo of John Hollis, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f68f223-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I have over 20 years of diverse therapy experience. I am an expert in relaxation therapy, meditation, and hypnosis, and I work in individual, couples, and family therapy settings. I believe in free will choice and your right to self determine your pathways in therapy and in life. I skillfully blend relaxation therapy with eye movement therapy for comfort and clearing the inner barriers from trauma.
I have over 20 years of diverse therapy experience. I am an expert in relaxation therapy, meditation, and hypnosis, and I work in individual, couples, and family therapy settings. I believe in free will choice and your right to self determine your pathways in therapy and in life. I skillfully blend relaxation therapy with eye movement therapy for comfort and clearing the inner barriers from trauma.
![Photo of Cianna Dorando, MA, LPCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/da41359b-99cf-471c-a281-f44d96fc934e/1/320x400.jpeg)
She earned her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Human Development in 2020 where she took specialized course work in eating disorders and trauma.
Cianna Dorando (pronouns: she/they) is an experienced licensed professional clinical counselor who works with teenagers, adults, and couples. Her specialty interests include: gender and sexuality issues, trauma-informed care, recovery from substance use issues, personality disorders, anxiety, and depression. She utilizes treatment approaches that are evidence-based, affirming, and uniquely tailored to each client.
She earned her master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and Human Development in 2020 where she took specialized course work in eating disorders and trauma.
Cianna Dorando (pronouns: she/they) is an experienced licensed professional clinical counselor who works with teenagers, adults, and couples. Her specialty interests include: gender and sexuality issues, trauma-informed care, recovery from substance use issues, personality disorders, anxiety, and depression. She utilizes treatment approaches that are evidence-based, affirming, and uniquely tailored to each client.
See more therapy options for Ashland County
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.