Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Seattle, WA

Photo of Dr. Katherine Skillestad Winans (Psypact Discernment Counseling), PhD, PSYPACT, CSTIP, CFRC, Psychologist
Dr. Katherine Skillestad Winans (Psypact Discernment Counseling)
Psychologist, PhD, PSYPACT, CSTIP, CFRC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98118  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm a licensed clinical psychologist with 30 years of experience. I have extensive clinical, research, and academic experience working with people who have experienced trauma and serious mental illness. I work with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, perfectionism, and relationship concerns, helping them discover deeper fulfillment through healing and building healthier relationships. I'm relationally focused and can hold space for those in need. I am skilled at getting to the heart of the matter and working at a pace that feels right to you. Let today be day one of your healing journey instead of someday.
Hello, I'm a licensed clinical psychologist with 30 years of experience. I have extensive clinical, research, and academic experience working with people who have experienced trauma and serious mental illness. I work with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, perfectionism, and relationship concerns, helping them discover deeper fulfillment through healing and building healthier relationships. I'm relationally focused and can hold space for those in need. I am skilled at getting to the heart of the matter and working at a pace that feels right to you. Let today be day one of your healing journey instead of someday.
(206) 502-4573 View (206) 502-4573
Photo of Adam Haynes-LaMotte, PhD, Psychologist
Adam Haynes-LaMotte
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98133  (Online Only)
I also have specialized training in two evidence-based trauma treatments designed to help people take their power back from traumatic memories.
Whether you’re looking to free yourself from the weight of anxiety, set healthy boundaries, better understand your reactions, or improve your relationship, quality therapy can make all the difference. I strive to create a therapy environment that is authentic, warm, and free of judgment so that you can get right to the important work of self-discovery and self-improvement. I provide both individual and couple therapy for adults, operating a fully Telehealth practice (all sessions are done via secure video calls).
I also have specialized training in two evidence-based trauma treatments designed to help people take their power back from traumatic memories.
Whether you’re looking to free yourself from the weight of anxiety, set healthy boundaries, better understand your reactions, or improve your relationship, quality therapy can make all the difference. I strive to create a therapy environment that is authentic, warm, and free of judgment so that you can get right to the important work of self-discovery and self-improvement. I provide both individual and couple therapy for adults, operating a fully Telehealth practice (all sessions are done via secure video calls).
(206) 984-5967 View (206) 984-5967
Photo of Samantha Cohen, LMHCA, Counselor
Samantha Cohen
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
I am also trained in and utilize EMDR, an evidence-based treatment that can be helpful in treating many issues that include trauma, anxiety, depression, and panic.
Life is wild, beautiful, messy, and a struggle at times. I believe the world can stand to be more compassionate, understanding, curious, and hopeful. That is why I chose to pursue counseling, and I strive to bring this into the therapeutic space. Therapy is a space for growth and healing, and I am here to explore that with you. If you want more out of life, I want to help you get there. I am a big believer in living an intentional life, whether that looks like setting goals or creating an abstract path to help move you forward. If you're looking for a therapist with a direct and collaborative approach, let's chat.
I am also trained in and utilize EMDR, an evidence-based treatment that can be helpful in treating many issues that include trauma, anxiety, depression, and panic.
Life is wild, beautiful, messy, and a struggle at times. I believe the world can stand to be more compassionate, understanding, curious, and hopeful. That is why I chose to pursue counseling, and I strive to bring this into the therapeutic space. Therapy is a space for growth and healing, and I am here to explore that with you. If you want more out of life, I want to help you get there. I am a big believer in living an intentional life, whether that looks like setting goals or creating an abstract path to help move you forward. If you're looking for a therapist with a direct and collaborative approach, let's chat.
(206) 518-9971 View (206) 518-9971
Photo of Minjoo Bayers, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Minjoo Bayers
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98104  (Online Only)
I work in long-term, relational, trauma-focused therapy and EMDR (EMDRIA approved training).
If any relational or behavioral patterns are keeping you from living your best life, therapy may be able to help you experience greater freedom and healing. Whether it’s the pandemic, everyday stresses, or childhood trauma, I would be honored to join you in your therapeutic journey. I believe therapy is one of the best self-care practices you can have for yourself. It’s time dedicated just for you. 고민, 스트레스, 이민 생활, 트라우마 대해서 서로 이야기를 나눌 수 있는 자리를 준비해 드리겠습니다.
I work in long-term, relational, trauma-focused therapy and EMDR (EMDRIA approved training).
If any relational or behavioral patterns are keeping you from living your best life, therapy may be able to help you experience greater freedom and healing. Whether it’s the pandemic, everyday stresses, or childhood trauma, I would be honored to join you in your therapeutic journey. I believe therapy is one of the best self-care practices you can have for yourself. It’s time dedicated just for you. 고민, 스트레스, 이민 생활, 트라우마 대해서 서로 이야기를 나눌 수 있는 자리를 준비해 드리겠습니다.
(502) 461-1762 View (502) 461-1762
Photo of Caitlin Bauermeister Vincent, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Caitlin Bauermeister Vincent
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98108
I hold a two-year certification in Medical Family Therapy, which I use to treat burnout and trauma responses in medical professionals.
Whether you feel deeply stuck in a dark place, or just need a boost to get back to enjoying life again, I will provide focused, caring attention, utilize my expertise to respectfully offer suggestions, and make a step-by-step plan. I specialize in treating trauma (with a range of proven approaches); most commonly with sexual assault survivors, childhood abuse, and vicarious trauma. I also work with most anxiety and mood disorders, stress management, and life transitions.
I hold a two-year certification in Medical Family Therapy, which I use to treat burnout and trauma responses in medical professionals.
Whether you feel deeply stuck in a dark place, or just need a boost to get back to enjoying life again, I will provide focused, caring attention, utilize my expertise to respectfully offer suggestions, and make a step-by-step plan. I specialize in treating trauma (with a range of proven approaches); most commonly with sexual assault survivors, childhood abuse, and vicarious trauma. I also work with most anxiety and mood disorders, stress management, and life transitions.
(206) 929-2223 View (206) 929-2223
Photo of Anabel Reynolds, MSW, LSWAIC
Anabel Reynolds
Licensed Social Worker Associate, MSW, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98119  (Online Only)
Telehealth trauma therapist helping navigate this crazy thing called life. I am licensed in both TX and WA with diverse experiences working with populations in many settings including private practice, psychiatric offices, crisis hotlines, therapeutic riding, schools, and a military inpatient unit.
Telehealth trauma therapist helping navigate this crazy thing called life. I am licensed in both TX and WA with diverse experiences working with populations in many settings including private practice, psychiatric offices, crisis hotlines, therapeutic riding, schools, and a military inpatient unit.
(206) 785-3332 View (206) 785-3332
Photo of Nicole Ahn, LMHCA, Counselor
Nicole Ahn
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98121  (Online Only)
Much of my practice addresses individuals with multicultural identities who have been impacted by childhood trauma and other complex traumas.
Much of my practice addresses individuals with multicultural identities who have been impacted by childhood trauma and other complex traumas.
(206) 759-3486 View (206) 759-3486
Photo of Devin McCabe, LMHC, MHP, CMHS, Counselor
Devin McCabe
Counselor, LMHC, MHP, CMHS
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98107
I work with individuals and families who need assistance in processing issues related to trauma, grief and loss, family conflict, mood disorders, and other mental health issues.
I specialize in working with children, teens, and adults who might be struggling to make sense of the complicated world that we live in. Despite our connectivity, it seems that we live in a time in which individuals and families are more isolated than ever before. I truly believe that we all need and desire a village — a network of support and care to help us when needed. It is my aim to be that extra form of support. I am here to help individuals and families navigate the more difficult hurdles and to find ways to work towards creating more peaceful, authentic, and connected lives.
I work with individuals and families who need assistance in processing issues related to trauma, grief and loss, family conflict, mood disorders, and other mental health issues.
I specialize in working with children, teens, and adults who might be struggling to make sense of the complicated world that we live in. Despite our connectivity, it seems that we live in a time in which individuals and families are more isolated than ever before. I truly believe that we all need and desire a village — a network of support and care to help us when needed. It is my aim to be that extra form of support. I am here to help individuals and families navigate the more difficult hurdles and to find ways to work towards creating more peaceful, authentic, and connected lives.
(206) 489-0728 View (206) 489-0728
Photo of Sara Hiatt, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sara Hiatt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98133  (Online Only)
This happens without having to talk much about the trauma or dwell on the related feelings.
I have 30 years experience offering compassionate and goal-oriented therapy for adults with trauma/abuse histories and/or depression that are causing current mood problems, frequent upsetting memories, relationship problems, poor choices, self esteem issues, shame, numbness, sleep problems and anxiety. I specialize in EMDR and Lifespan Integration, two rapid trauma resolution techniques. Both can often quickly and effectively resolve past issues that are causing current life problems without re-traumatizing. I also use Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, which helps in gaining emotion regulation skills that will last a lifetime.
This happens without having to talk much about the trauma or dwell on the related feelings.
I have 30 years experience offering compassionate and goal-oriented therapy for adults with trauma/abuse histories and/or depression that are causing current mood problems, frequent upsetting memories, relationship problems, poor choices, self esteem issues, shame, numbness, sleep problems and anxiety. I specialize in EMDR and Lifespan Integration, two rapid trauma resolution techniques. Both can often quickly and effectively resolve past issues that are causing current life problems without re-traumatizing. I also use Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy, which helps in gaining emotion regulation skills that will last a lifetime.
(253) 248-4320 View (253) 248-4320
Photo of Hailey Clum, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Hailey Clum
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
20 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109  (Online Only)
I am devoted to working with humans processing life changes or transitions, as well as familial issues and generational trauma.
Accepting new clients via telehealth! Therapy can be a challenging and fulfilling experience that caters to each person’s needs. Knowing that there may be a variety of influences and obstacles you are navigating, it is my hope and aspiration to collaborate with you. I intend to provide a brave space that fosters a supportive and welcoming environment for you to share experiences, thoughts, and emotions. Leading with empathy, affirmation, and earnest listening are my goals when working with clients. My hope is you walk away feeling understood and encouraged.
I am devoted to working with humans processing life changes or transitions, as well as familial issues and generational trauma.
Accepting new clients via telehealth! Therapy can be a challenging and fulfilling experience that caters to each person’s needs. Knowing that there may be a variety of influences and obstacles you are navigating, it is my hope and aspiration to collaborate with you. I intend to provide a brave space that fosters a supportive and welcoming environment for you to share experiences, thoughts, and emotions. Leading with empathy, affirmation, and earnest listening are my goals when working with clients. My hope is you walk away feeling understood and encouraged.
(206) 758-5435 View (206) 758-5435
Photo of Elza Boycheva, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Elza Boycheva
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98121  (Online Only)
I help clients from critical, rejecting, or dysfunctional families overcome current struggles with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, trauma, or eating concerns. Your past experiences may have left you feeling rejected, alone, unworthy, inadequate, not good enough, ashamed, unlovable, or traumatized. Perhaps your parents were critical, judgmental, controlling, narcissistic, abusive, alcoholic, overly demanding, or made you feel like a disappointment. Or perhaps your parents were distant, detached, and not around.
I help clients from critical, rejecting, or dysfunctional families overcome current struggles with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship difficulties, trauma, or eating concerns. Your past experiences may have left you feeling rejected, alone, unworthy, inadequate, not good enough, ashamed, unlovable, or traumatized. Perhaps your parents were critical, judgmental, controlling, narcissistic, abusive, alcoholic, overly demanding, or made you feel like a disappointment. Or perhaps your parents were distant, detached, and not around.
(206) 578-5689 View (206) 578-5689
Photo of Marisa McCann, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Marisa McCann
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
Please email me for a faster response- I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who specializes in working with children, adolescents, students and young adults. My approach is to serve client needs through the holistic and innovative services that foster hope and recovery through evidenced-based treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, trauma-focused behavior therapy, play therapy and behavioral activation. I have devoted time to families and have learned to effectively collaborate with them to help my client reach their goals and lead meaningful and purposeful lives.
Please email me for a faster response- I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who specializes in working with children, adolescents, students and young adults. My approach is to serve client needs through the holistic and innovative services that foster hope and recovery through evidenced-based treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, trauma-focused behavior therapy, play therapy and behavioral activation. I have devoted time to families and have learned to effectively collaborate with them to help my client reach their goals and lead meaningful and purposeful lives.
(360) 743-3225 View (360) 743-3225
Photo of Laura May Bruco, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura May Bruco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98115  (Online Only)
I understand what it's like to experience complex trauma in the childhood environment C- PTSD, and I am both neurodivergent and gender non-conforming / queer.
You are an adult at a crossroads in your life and are looking for more intensive therapy than someone to talk to. You have experienced mis-attunements and/or trauma in your early life and have struggled to untangle the coping mechanisms that no longer work for you. Perhaps you don't know yourself or even know how to know yourself. Perhaps you just keep ending up in relationships that repeat past patterns no matter how hard you try not to. The idea of spending years in weekly therapy to get anywhere feels like too little. You need dynamic, change-oriented therapy that makes a difference quickly and offers more than just talking.
I understand what it's like to experience complex trauma in the childhood environment C- PTSD, and I am both neurodivergent and gender non-conforming / queer.
You are an adult at a crossroads in your life and are looking for more intensive therapy than someone to talk to. You have experienced mis-attunements and/or trauma in your early life and have struggled to untangle the coping mechanisms that no longer work for you. Perhaps you don't know yourself or even know how to know yourself. Perhaps you just keep ending up in relationships that repeat past patterns no matter how hard you try not to. The idea of spending years in weekly therapy to get anywhere feels like too little. You need dynamic, change-oriented therapy that makes a difference quickly and offers more than just talking.
(206) 651-4369 View (206) 651-4369
Photo of Natalia Garcia Gonzalez - Natalia Garcia , PhD, Psychologist
Natalia Garcia
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98126
My areas of expertise include PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, suicidal thoughts, relationship challenges, and general life stress/transitions.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience providing individual and group therapy services. My therapy style is one that balances acceptance and change. This means accepting and understanding you exactly as you are and collaboratively identifying areas you want to change. We will work together to identify your treatment goals and assess what’s currently getting in the way of reaching those goals.
My areas of expertise include PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, suicidal thoughts, relationship challenges, and general life stress/transitions.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist with over 10 years of experience providing individual and group therapy services. My therapy style is one that balances acceptance and change. This means accepting and understanding you exactly as you are and collaboratively identifying areas you want to change. We will work together to identify your treatment goals and assess what’s currently getting in the way of reaching those goals.
(206) 558-0052 View (206) 558-0052
Heather Vargas-Lyon
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98109
EMDR is my primary therapy when treating trauma.
Being human can be really difficult sometimes. I believe that most of us have experienced trauma in some form. Trauma can show up in our bodies and effect how we feel about ourselves. Whether your goals are around relationships, self-esteem or symptoms that are getting in way, I believe I can offer you skills to heal. Creating a safe space that is supportive and nonjudgemental and collaborative is the therapeutic approach that I know fosters healing.
EMDR is my primary therapy when treating trauma.
Being human can be really difficult sometimes. I believe that most of us have experienced trauma in some form. Trauma can show up in our bodies and effect how we feel about ourselves. Whether your goals are around relationships, self-esteem or symptoms that are getting in way, I believe I can offer you skills to heal. Creating a safe space that is supportive and nonjudgemental and collaborative is the therapeutic approach that I know fosters healing.
(425) 364-5646 View (425) 364-5646
Photo of Sauda Porter, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sauda Porter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98178  (Online Only)
You are not your trauma and your symptoms are not your personality.
You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, racialized trauma or generational trauma that make it harder to function. For too long, the idea of mental wellness was viewed as a luxury only allotted to the few. Someone was considered “strong” if they endured a traumatic or life-changing event, regardless of functionality. We are now beginning to understand that those events can change the way we relate to everything. You may continue to engage in your day to day expectations like taking care of children, going to work, going to school, but you may not be sleeping well, may no longer enjoy things that brought you peace or happiness.
You are not your trauma and your symptoms are not your personality.
You may be dealing with anxiety, depression, racialized trauma or generational trauma that make it harder to function. For too long, the idea of mental wellness was viewed as a luxury only allotted to the few. Someone was considered “strong” if they endured a traumatic or life-changing event, regardless of functionality. We are now beginning to understand that those events can change the way we relate to everything. You may continue to engage in your day to day expectations like taking care of children, going to work, going to school, but you may not be sleeping well, may no longer enjoy things that brought you peace or happiness.
(206) 278-3509 View (206) 278-3509
Photo of Monique Brown, PsyD, Psychologist
Monique Brown
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98103
Sometimes feelings and behaviors become obstacles to accessing your strength. If you don't accept yourself as you are, you can't change--a paradox, but true. Self-acceptance can be difficult, especially with history of abuse, trauma, or opression in which shame/guilt become integral to your sense of self. Destructive behavior, in whatever form, has its own logic, but is understandable given your history. We cope in ways that serve to protect ourselves in childhood--serving a useful purpose back then. But now, they prevent you from having stable, close relationships and feeling an empowered sense of self.
Sometimes feelings and behaviors become obstacles to accessing your strength. If you don't accept yourself as you are, you can't change--a paradox, but true. Self-acceptance can be difficult, especially with history of abuse, trauma, or opression in which shame/guilt become integral to your sense of self. Destructive behavior, in whatever form, has its own logic, but is understandable given your history. We cope in ways that serve to protect ourselves in childhood--serving a useful purpose back then. But now, they prevent you from having stable, close relationships and feeling an empowered sense of self.
(206) 538-2876 View (206) 538-2876
Photo of Pindy Dhesi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pindy Dhesi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98105  (Online Only)
I understand how overwhelming and challenging unprocessed trauma and relationship struggles can be.
Are you coping with the aftermath of trauma, such as sleepless nights, ruminating thoughts, feeling alone, or strained relationships? You long for a safe place to work through these issues. My clients, whether alone or as a couple, want therapy in a safe and non-judgmental environment to address trauma-related difficulties and relationship challenges. Their goals include overcoming childhood and relationship traumas, improving self-esteem, and developing healthy relationships. Together, we navigate this journey, promoting individual growth and restoring relationship harmony. They seek peace, harmony, and a meaningful life.
I understand how overwhelming and challenging unprocessed trauma and relationship struggles can be.
Are you coping with the aftermath of trauma, such as sleepless nights, ruminating thoughts, feeling alone, or strained relationships? You long for a safe place to work through these issues. My clients, whether alone or as a couple, want therapy in a safe and non-judgmental environment to address trauma-related difficulties and relationship challenges. Their goals include overcoming childhood and relationship traumas, improving self-esteem, and developing healthy relationships. Together, we navigate this journey, promoting individual growth and restoring relationship harmony. They seek peace, harmony, and a meaningful life.
(206) 502-4601 View (206) 502-4601
Photo of Kelly Allred, PhD, Psychologist
Kelly Allred
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Seattle, WA 98126
I offer treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, sleep, ADHD, chronic pain, interpersonal concerns, general life stress, and race-based stress.
Immediate openings available. As a therapist, my goal is to help you lead a meaningful, fulfilling life. I firmly believe that you are the expert on your experience and that your values, beliefs, and background have a powerful impact on your life and worldview. I view therapy as a collaboration where we will work together to identify what matters most to you and to develop a treatment plan that meets your needs. To do this, we will define specific treatment goals and targets as we begin to work together. We will also check in throughout the process to ensure that therapy continues to be helpful and enriching for you.
I offer treatment for anxiety, depression, trauma, OCD, sleep, ADHD, chronic pain, interpersonal concerns, general life stress, and race-based stress.
Immediate openings available. As a therapist, my goal is to help you lead a meaningful, fulfilling life. I firmly believe that you are the expert on your experience and that your values, beliefs, and background have a powerful impact on your life and worldview. I view therapy as a collaboration where we will work together to identify what matters most to you and to develop a treatment plan that meets your needs. To do this, we will define specific treatment goals and targets as we begin to work together. We will also check in throughout the process to ensure that therapy continues to be helpful and enriching for you.
(206) 260-2304 View (206) 260-2304
Photo of Dr. Megan Kloep, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Megan Kloep
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98102  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have training in treatments to target PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders, general and relationship stress/life transitions and insomnia.
Everyone experiences challenges to varying degrees in their lives, and it takes strength and sometimes trying different strategies to manage them effectively. Therapy can offer a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to work through the difficulties of life. As a Clinical Psychologist I work to help identify the elements contributing to your suffering and then provide tools and strategies to help overcome that suffering. I aim to help you to move forward in your life in the direction of your choosing. I provide services via Telehealth (Zoom) during this time in Washington, Tennessee, Florida, and all 39 PsyPact participating states.
I have training in treatments to target PTSD, depression, anxiety disorders, general and relationship stress/life transitions and insomnia.
Everyone experiences challenges to varying degrees in their lives, and it takes strength and sometimes trying different strategies to manage them effectively. Therapy can offer a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to work through the difficulties of life. As a Clinical Psychologist I work to help identify the elements contributing to your suffering and then provide tools and strategies to help overcome that suffering. I aim to help you to move forward in your life in the direction of your choosing. I provide services via Telehealth (Zoom) during this time in Washington, Tennessee, Florida, and all 39 PsyPact participating states.
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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.