Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Scranton, PA

Photo of Katie Graziano, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Graziano
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scranton, PA 18510  (Online Only)
I work with a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, PTSD, stress, and self-esteem.
Welcome! Finding a counselor with whom you can feel safe and vulnerable is so important, so let me share a bit about myself. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor serving clients in PA via telehealth. My counseling style is empathetic, caring, genuine, strengths-based, and holistic. My work includes the use of evidence-base approaches, as well as mindfulness and respect of clients’ diverse backgrounds. I strive to help clients grow by working with them in a collaborative, validating, supportive manner. My aim is to help clients feel centered, comfortable being their authentic selves, and empowered to cope with life’s challenges.
I work with a variety of concerns including anxiety, depression, PTSD, stress, and self-esteem.
Welcome! Finding a counselor with whom you can feel safe and vulnerable is so important, so let me share a bit about myself. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor serving clients in PA via telehealth. My counseling style is empathetic, caring, genuine, strengths-based, and holistic. My work includes the use of evidence-base approaches, as well as mindfulness and respect of clients’ diverse backgrounds. I strive to help clients grow by working with them in a collaborative, validating, supportive manner. My aim is to help clients feel centered, comfortable being their authentic selves, and empowered to cope with life’s challenges.
(570) 487-3700 View (570) 487-3700
Photo of Brenda S Staerker, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brenda S Staerker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scranton, PA 18504
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience treating individuals, couples and families negatively impacted by generational trauma and serious mental illnesses. My goal is to help you access and understand your emotions, thoughts and behaviors; putting them into a narrative that will help you develop a stronger, healthier sense of self!
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience treating individuals, couples and families negatively impacted by generational trauma and serious mental illnesses. My goal is to help you access and understand your emotions, thoughts and behaviors; putting them into a narrative that will help you develop a stronger, healthier sense of self!
(272) 268-7495 View (272) 268-7495
Photo of Brandon Puglisi - Puglisi Counseling, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Puglisi Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scranton, PA 18503
At Puglisi Counseling, we specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ issues, and everyday stressors.
Are you finding it harder to manage daily life, feeling like something is off? In today's world, uncertainties are driving up anxiety and deepening depression. For many, intense emotions are straining relationships, both at work and home. It may feel impossible to navigate, but there's hope! Imagine facing a life stressor, pausing, thinking, reframing, and responding with clarity. Change is possible, and you deserve the support to make it happen.
At Puglisi Counseling, we specialize in treating trauma, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ issues, and everyday stressors.
Are you finding it harder to manage daily life, feeling like something is off? In today's world, uncertainties are driving up anxiety and deepening depression. For many, intense emotions are straining relationships, both at work and home. It may feel impossible to navigate, but there's hope! Imagine facing a life stressor, pausing, thinking, reframing, and responding with clarity. Change is possible, and you deserve the support to make it happen.
(272) 227-2613 View (272) 227-2613
Photo of Matthew Schaffer, Psychologist
Matthew Schaffer
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Scranton, PA 18509
For those who have perpetrated intimate partner violence I operate from a Trauma-Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy lens.
It takes a great deal of courage to seek out psychological services. I admire anyone who seeks out services with me. I wholeheartedly believe that if I had the same biology and the same life experiences, I would be in the exact same position. While I offer general psychotherapy in my office on the grounds of Marywood University where I am an Assistant Professor, I specialize in treatment of intimate partner violence; a pervasive and destructive force in our culture. It is my passion to treat both offenders and those who have been impacted by violence.
For those who have perpetrated intimate partner violence I operate from a Trauma-Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy lens.
It takes a great deal of courage to seek out psychological services. I admire anyone who seeks out services with me. I wholeheartedly believe that if I had the same biology and the same life experiences, I would be in the exact same position. While I offer general psychotherapy in my office on the grounds of Marywood University where I am an Assistant Professor, I specialize in treatment of intimate partner violence; a pervasive and destructive force in our culture. It is my passion to treat both offenders and those who have been impacted by violence.
(272) 225-5556 View (272) 225-5556
Photo of Carrie Johanson, PhD, MS, MA, Psychologist
Carrie Johanson
Psychologist, PhD, MS, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scranton, PA 18505
My work is typically about making changes from topics like relationships, work, and trauma.
I work with individuals and couples that are burdened with unprecedented responsibility right now. Impossible expectations often lead to isolation and discourse, hiding our fears and doubts, and resentments. Hiding our true selves can increase negative coping skills, like over or under eating/drinking/sleeping. Therapy can become a place to process and share your inner thoughts and concerns, find balance, and find some new tools to feeling more grounded. I work with folks to feel confident to be transparent to loved ones and seek changes to improve their daily lives. My couples leave empowered to have the tough talks without fear.
My work is typically about making changes from topics like relationships, work, and trauma.
I work with individuals and couples that are burdened with unprecedented responsibility right now. Impossible expectations often lead to isolation and discourse, hiding our fears and doubts, and resentments. Hiding our true selves can increase negative coping skills, like over or under eating/drinking/sleeping. Therapy can become a place to process and share your inner thoughts and concerns, find balance, and find some new tools to feeling more grounded. I work with folks to feel confident to be transparent to loved ones and seek changes to improve their daily lives. My couples leave empowered to have the tough talks without fear.
(570) 209-9898 View (570) 209-9898
Photo of Cheryl Pappa, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cheryl Pappa
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scranton, PA 18503
Trained in EMDR, and with over ten years of experience of trauma treatment Cheryl is a highly skilled licensed professional counselor.
Are you an adult or adolescent who feels stuck, or unmotivated as a result of trauma? You are not alone, and I can help. I use a holistic approach and provide an atmosphere of unconditional positive regard where you can discover your strengths, and develop insight into presenting issues and roadblocks to change. The ultimate goal is for my clients to emerge with an increased sense of self-worth, personal empowerment and the ability to engage fully in the life of their choosing.
Trained in EMDR, and with over ten years of experience of trauma treatment Cheryl is a highly skilled licensed professional counselor.
Are you an adult or adolescent who feels stuck, or unmotivated as a result of trauma? You are not alone, and I can help. I use a holistic approach and provide an atmosphere of unconditional positive regard where you can discover your strengths, and develop insight into presenting issues and roadblocks to change. The ultimate goal is for my clients to emerge with an increased sense of self-worth, personal empowerment and the ability to engage fully in the life of their choosing.
(272) 808-1042 View (272) 808-1042
Photo of Deana Tigue, LSW, MSW, MEd, CAMS-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deana Tigue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW, MEd, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scranton, PA 18503  (Online Only)
Facing challenges like trauma, anger, or other personal struggles can feel isolating, but you're not alone.
Do overwhelming emotions disrupt your daily life? Whether it’s unshakeable sadness, relentless anxiety, or the echoes of past trauma, you might feel like you're carrying a weight that’s just too heavy to bear alone. You're not meant to carry this burden by yourself. It’s perfectly okay to seek support—doing so is a brave step toward healing. Let’s walk this path to recovery together, so you can start feeling like yourself again. Together, we'll find ways to make things a little easier and help you regain your inner strength.
Facing challenges like trauma, anger, or other personal struggles can feel isolating, but you're not alone.
Do overwhelming emotions disrupt your daily life? Whether it’s unshakeable sadness, relentless anxiety, or the echoes of past trauma, you might feel like you're carrying a weight that’s just too heavy to bear alone. You're not meant to carry this burden by yourself. It’s perfectly okay to seek support—doing so is a brave step toward healing. Let’s walk this path to recovery together, so you can start feeling like yourself again. Together, we'll find ways to make things a little easier and help you regain your inner strength.
(272) 206-2632 View (272) 206-2632
Photo of Trish Filipski, Licensed Professional Counselor
Trish Filipski
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scranton, PA 18505
Are you experiencing challenges or hardships? Feeling stuck, anxious, or depressed? Counseling can help! At times we may not know how to manage or cope with life stressors or internal struggles. My approach to counseling is to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive space to help you work through the challenges life may bring. I work with adolescents and adults and have experience in areas such as mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, parent-child conflict, and self-esteem. I am here to support you with developing your strengths and to achieve your goals.
Are you experiencing challenges or hardships? Feeling stuck, anxious, or depressed? Counseling can help! At times we may not know how to manage or cope with life stressors or internal struggles. My approach to counseling is to provide you with a safe, non-judgmental, and supportive space to help you work through the challenges life may bring. I work with adolescents and adults and have experience in areas such as mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, parent-child conflict, and self-esteem. I am here to support you with developing your strengths and to achieve your goals.
(570) 676-2042 View (570) 676-2042
Photo of Heather Stuart, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heather Stuart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Scranton, PA 18503
I am good at reconnecting the mind with the body and working with issues such as disordered eating, body image, physical & sexual trauma.
My approach to counseling is from a humanistic perspective which places importance on looking at the whole person. By creating an atmosphere of safety and security, I assist the person in examining current difficulties, reconnecting to forgotten strengths and discovering their full potential. I believe that this is best achieved through understanding an individual's relationship to persons, places, things and events and how those relationships affect the person mentally, emotionally and physically.
I am good at reconnecting the mind with the body and working with issues such as disordered eating, body image, physical & sexual trauma.
My approach to counseling is from a humanistic perspective which places importance on looking at the whole person. By creating an atmosphere of safety and security, I assist the person in examining current difficulties, reconnecting to forgotten strengths and discovering their full potential. I believe that this is best achieved through understanding an individual's relationship to persons, places, things and events and how those relationships affect the person mentally, emotionally and physically.
(570) 279-4560 View (570) 279-4560
Photo of Kiersten Murrin, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kiersten Murrin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Scranton, PA 18503
My experiences include working with survivors of violence or trauma, but certainly is not limited there.
You may be seeking therapy for a wide variety of reasons. Perhaps you are facing a tough time, feeling overwhelmed, or even lost? Has someone else taken the power from your own life? Therapy can be a powerful healing tool to help us all reach our full potential and establish control where it may be missing.
My experiences include working with survivors of violence or trauma, but certainly is not limited there.
You may be seeking therapy for a wide variety of reasons. Perhaps you are facing a tough time, feeling overwhelmed, or even lost? Has someone else taken the power from your own life? Therapy can be a powerful healing tool to help us all reach our full potential and establish control where it may be missing.
(272) 268-3603 View (272) 268-3603
Photo of Brandon Puglisi, LCSW, CAMS-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brandon Puglisi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CAMS-II
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Scranton, PA 18503
If you’re struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, or other emotional hurdles, know that there is hope and support.
Are you finding it harder to manage daily life, feeling like something is off? In today's world, uncertainties are driving up anxiety and deepening depression. For many, intense emotions are straining relationships, both at work and home. It may feel impossible to navigate, but there's hope! Imagine facing a life stressor, pausing, thinking, reframing, and responding with clarity. Change is possible, and you deserve the support to make it happen. Together, we can work towards the life you envision.
If you’re struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, or other emotional hurdles, know that there is hope and support.
Are you finding it harder to manage daily life, feeling like something is off? In today's world, uncertainties are driving up anxiety and deepening depression. For many, intense emotions are straining relationships, both at work and home. It may feel impossible to navigate, but there's hope! Imagine facing a life stressor, pausing, thinking, reframing, and responding with clarity. Change is possible, and you deserve the support to make it happen. Together, we can work towards the life you envision.
(570) 260-9129 View (570) 260-9129
Photo of James Roberts, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
James Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scranton, PA 18505
I have experience working with a variety of therapeutic concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma/ PTSD, anger, impulsivity, and life transitions.
Anxious? Depressed? Lacking motivation or direction? You're not alone. I believe that each of us possesses the ability to change, grow and live happier, healthier, more fulfilling lives. Sometimes we just need a little help along the way. I work with persons of all ages and incorporate a variety of evidence-based treatment modalities into my practice, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all model for counseling and take special care to honor the unique lived experiences of those I work with.
I have experience working with a variety of therapeutic concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma/ PTSD, anger, impulsivity, and life transitions.
Anxious? Depressed? Lacking motivation or direction? You're not alone. I believe that each of us possesses the ability to change, grow and live happier, healthier, more fulfilling lives. Sometimes we just need a little help along the way. I work with persons of all ages and incorporate a variety of evidence-based treatment modalities into my practice, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT). I do not believe in a one-size-fits-all model for counseling and take special care to honor the unique lived experiences of those I work with.
(570) 405-9909 View (570) 405-9909
Photo of Annmarie Kopec, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Annmarie Kopec
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scranton, PA 18503  (Online Only)
As a therapist specializing in trauma, anxiety, personality disorders, anger management, and grief, I provide tailored, compassionate support.
Do you ever catch yourself thinking, “Anxiety has taken over my life,” or feeling like the weight of past traumas is too heavy to bear? It’s those sleepless nights, that constant unease, and the haunting memories that just won’t let go. You’re longing for a way to break free, to step out from the shadows of your past, and finally find peace. You know something needs to change, but you’re unsure how to make it happen. Let’s work together to turn that hope into reality.
As a therapist specializing in trauma, anxiety, personality disorders, anger management, and grief, I provide tailored, compassionate support.
Do you ever catch yourself thinking, “Anxiety has taken over my life,” or feeling like the weight of past traumas is too heavy to bear? It’s those sleepless nights, that constant unease, and the haunting memories that just won’t let go. You’re longing for a way to break free, to step out from the shadows of your past, and finally find peace. You know something needs to change, but you’re unsure how to make it happen. Let’s work together to turn that hope into reality.
(272) 225-6711 View (272) 225-6711
Photo of Leah Losavich, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leah Losavich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scranton, PA 18503
I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults who have experienced trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, cultural issues.
Life can become overwhelming, sometimes we forget it is a work in progress. The last few years have been a wild ride! Detours can happen making it easy to forget that the detours may be necessary to help us move forward. I enjoy having the privilege of helping individuals reach their full potential by helping to recognize their strengths through therapeutic intervention, self care, identifying coping strategies and learning to stay in the moment. The work can be difficult but that does not mean there may not be laughter, tears and progress.
I have experience working with children, adolescents and adults who have experienced trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, cultural issues.
Life can become overwhelming, sometimes we forget it is a work in progress. The last few years have been a wild ride! Detours can happen making it easy to forget that the detours may be necessary to help us move forward. I enjoy having the privilege of helping individuals reach their full potential by helping to recognize their strengths through therapeutic intervention, self care, identifying coping strategies and learning to stay in the moment. The work can be difficult but that does not mean there may not be laughter, tears and progress.
(272) 268-7453 View (272) 268-7453
Photo of Jessica Volzone, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Volzone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Scranton, PA 18503  (Online Only)
Therapy with me is person-centered, strengths based, and trauma informed.
Life can feel overwhelming and confusing at times. Daily stressors can be further complicated by worry, frustration, or trauma from our past; even contributing to feelings of hopelessness or depression. When life gets difficult, it’s okay to ask for help. By showing up in this space you have taken the first step in your therapy journey, and I’m so glad you’re here. Let’s work together to get you where you want to be, starting right where you are today. I would love to show you some great tools that can help you take your life back. My approach to therapy is conversational, down to earth, and empathetic.
Therapy with me is person-centered, strengths based, and trauma informed.
Life can feel overwhelming and confusing at times. Daily stressors can be further complicated by worry, frustration, or trauma from our past; even contributing to feelings of hopelessness or depression. When life gets difficult, it’s okay to ask for help. By showing up in this space you have taken the first step in your therapy journey, and I’m so glad you’re here. Let’s work together to get you where you want to be, starting right where you are today. I would love to show you some great tools that can help you take your life back. My approach to therapy is conversational, down to earth, and empathetic.
(272) 444-3813 View (272) 444-3813
Photo of Hannah McMinn, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hannah McMinn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Scranton, PA 18504
Many people who have a history of trauma or adversity are looking to move on, or to move past, what they've been through, but find that there are certain "right now problems" that are interfering with where they want to be.
Hello! My name is Hannah McMinn, and I hold a Master of Science in Community and Trauma Counseling. My area of focus is trauma and helping people to find peace and balance, despite early experiences of adversity and hardship. I've worked with people of all ages and have an affinity for working with adolescents, young adults, and parents who's children are struggling with behavioral health and/or trauma. I also have experience working with adolescents who do not traditionally like therapy or who have been mandated to therapy by Children and Youth or Juvenile Probation.
Many people who have a history of trauma or adversity are looking to move on, or to move past, what they've been through, but find that there are certain "right now problems" that are interfering with where they want to be.
Hello! My name is Hannah McMinn, and I hold a Master of Science in Community and Trauma Counseling. My area of focus is trauma and helping people to find peace and balance, despite early experiences of adversity and hardship. I've worked with people of all ages and have an affinity for working with adolescents, young adults, and parents who's children are struggling with behavioral health and/or trauma. I also have experience working with adolescents who do not traditionally like therapy or who have been mandated to therapy by Children and Youth or Juvenile Probation.
(272) 203-7535 View (272) 203-7535
Photo of Kendra Sampson, MS, NCC, LAPC, Counselor
Kendra Sampson
Counselor, MS, NCC, LAPC
Verified Verified
Scranton, PA 18503  (Online Only)
Life can get in the way and often time lead to stressors that induce anxiety and depression. Whether this comes from past trauma or your current situation, it can be a sign that your mind and body are asking for help. You’re not alone. Stepping into your therapeutic journey can be the start of your growth and healing process to establish the boundaries and goals needed to start to live the life YOU want! Together, we can create a plan personalized for you, that can include skill building techniques by focusing on your strengths and abilities to take control over your thoughts and emotions. I am so happy that you found your way here!
Life can get in the way and often time lead to stressors that induce anxiety and depression. Whether this comes from past trauma or your current situation, it can be a sign that your mind and body are asking for help. You’re not alone. Stepping into your therapeutic journey can be the start of your growth and healing process to establish the boundaries and goals needed to start to live the life YOU want! Together, we can create a plan personalized for you, that can include skill building techniques by focusing on your strengths and abilities to take control over your thoughts and emotions. I am so happy that you found your way here!
(272) 203-1831 View (272) 203-1831
Photo of Justine Andrews, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Justine Andrews
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Scranton, PA 18505
I have experience in treating trauma and PTSD symptoms in many different settings.
Hello! I enjoy working with a wide variety of individuals and have a wide variety of experience in the field. I have worked in the home, in residential and in outpatient agencies in the past. I enjoy assisting others in overcoming what holds them back from being the best person they want to be.
I have experience in treating trauma and PTSD symptoms in many different settings.
Hello! I enjoy working with a wide variety of individuals and have a wide variety of experience in the field. I have worked in the home, in residential and in outpatient agencies in the past. I enjoy assisting others in overcoming what holds them back from being the best person they want to be.
(272) 435-8115 View (272) 435-8115
Photo of Kelli Anne Marie Cali, LPC, MS, NCC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelli Anne Marie Cali
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, NCC, CRC
Verified Verified
Scranton, PA 18505
My work experience spans a range of areas, including trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, eating disorders, spirituality, and life transitions.
I work from an eclectic and integrated approach, offering a supportive presence as clients grow and access their inner resources. I believe that each person holds the answers they seek within themselves; sometimes, they just need a little guidance to recognize them.
My work experience spans a range of areas, including trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, eating disorders, spirituality, and life transitions.
I work from an eclectic and integrated approach, offering a supportive presence as clients grow and access their inner resources. I believe that each person holds the answers they seek within themselves; sometimes, they just need a little guidance to recognize them.
(843) 258-5212 View (843) 258-5212
Photo of Alishia Allegrucci - Change of Heart Counseling and Consultation Inc. , MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Change of Heart Counseling and Consultation Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Scranton, PA 18501
I am trained in EMDR therapy which focuses on healing trauma, negative core beliefs, fears, maladaptive behaviors, and anxieties resulting from difficult life experiences.
Hello and Welcome to Change of Heart Counseling! I am emotionally focused with a "bottom up" approach to therapy. My experience and passion is centered in healing trauma, regulating emotions, and building healthy relationships with yourself and others. I work with children and adults, varying my approach to individual needs. Therapy needs to take place in a safe and trusting environment in order to allow the growth and learning process needed to optimize healthy change. I will compassionately guide, support, and encourage skill development to practice in difficult situations resulting from past, present, and future life obstacles.
I am trained in EMDR therapy which focuses on healing trauma, negative core beliefs, fears, maladaptive behaviors, and anxieties resulting from difficult life experiences.
Hello and Welcome to Change of Heart Counseling! I am emotionally focused with a "bottom up" approach to therapy. My experience and passion is centered in healing trauma, regulating emotions, and building healthy relationships with yourself and others. I work with children and adults, varying my approach to individual needs. Therapy needs to take place in a safe and trusting environment in order to allow the growth and learning process needed to optimize healthy change. I will compassionately guide, support, and encourage skill development to practice in difficult situations resulting from past, present, and future life obstacles.
(570) 798-4572 View (570) 798-4572
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.