Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Puyallup, WA

Photo of James 'Rick' Crozier - Crozier Counseling, LLC, LMHC, GMHS, Counselor
Crozier Counseling, LLC
Counselor, LMHC, GMHS
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98373
I work with adult men and women of any age who are ready and motivated to change. I especially enjoy working with folks struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, challenges associated with change, grief and loss and those struggling with relationships both at home and in the work place.
I work with adult men and women of any age who are ready and motivated to change. I especially enjoy working with folks struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, challenges associated with change, grief and loss and those struggling with relationships both at home and in the work place.
(253) 299-2319 View (253) 299-2319
Photo of Karen Beth Acheson, PhD, Psychologist
Karen Beth Acheson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98374  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Greetings and welcome. I'm Dr. Karen Beth Acheson, Ph.D., and I have over 20 years of experience bringing warmth, compassion, and a sense of humor to help empower people to make healthy changes in their lives. My primary focus is adult psychotherapy. My style is down-to-earth; I draw from humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral & mindfulness-based therapies. My specialty areas include: Depression; Bipolar (manic) Depression; Anxiety; Trauma (including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder); and Emotional/Sexual/physical Abuse. Also, I am now blending my lifelong passion for animals, including a B.S. in Animal Science, with
Greetings and welcome. I'm Dr. Karen Beth Acheson, Ph.D., and I have over 20 years of experience bringing warmth, compassion, and a sense of humor to help empower people to make healthy changes in their lives. My primary focus is adult psychotherapy. My style is down-to-earth; I draw from humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral & mindfulness-based therapies. My specialty areas include: Depression; Bipolar (manic) Depression; Anxiety; Trauma (including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder); and Emotional/Sexual/physical Abuse. Also, I am now blending my lifelong passion for animals, including a B.S. in Animal Science, with
(253) 215-6726 View (253) 215-6726
Photo of Angela Edwards, MA, LMHCA, Counselor
Angela Edwards
Counselor, MA, LMHCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98373  (Online Only)
I have experience working with those in the queer community, those who are neurodivergent, those with chronic illness, and those who are starting to unpack childhood trauma.
“There is no standard normal. Normal is subjective. There are seven billion versions of normal on this planet.” - Matt Haig. So very often, we find ourselves facing the word "should". Who I "should" be, where in life I "should" be, what I "should" be able to do. Whether you are just learning who you are for the first time, or are in a place of transition in your life, the process can be very difficult and can often leave us feeling isolated, alone, misunderstood, and in the need of support.
I have experience working with those in the queer community, those who are neurodivergent, those with chronic illness, and those who are starting to unpack childhood trauma.
“There is no standard normal. Normal is subjective. There are seven billion versions of normal on this planet.” - Matt Haig. So very often, we find ourselves facing the word "should". Who I "should" be, where in life I "should" be, what I "should" be able to do. Whether you are just learning who you are for the first time, or are in a place of transition in your life, the process can be very difficult and can often leave us feeling isolated, alone, misunderstood, and in the need of support.
(253) 446-7176 View (253) 446-7176
Photo of Yvonne Le, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Yvonne Le
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98374  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Pull up a bean bag chair, grab your favorite fidget, and let's talk. Maybe you describe your life as "a lot," and struggle to find the spoons to get all your stuff done as well as make meaningful change. Maybe anxiety takes up so much space in your day that it leaves little room for the things you want. Maybe your story includes trauma, and that burden is getting so heavy, it hurts. You want to pursue fulfillment, satisfaction, meaning, and peace in your world. If any of these or other painful places in your heart are true, I would love to get a chance to walk alongside you and find what you're looking for together.
Pull up a bean bag chair, grab your favorite fidget, and let's talk. Maybe you describe your life as "a lot," and struggle to find the spoons to get all your stuff done as well as make meaningful change. Maybe anxiety takes up so much space in your day that it leaves little room for the things you want. Maybe your story includes trauma, and that burden is getting so heavy, it hurts. You want to pursue fulfillment, satisfaction, meaning, and peace in your world. If any of these or other painful places in your heart are true, I would love to get a chance to walk alongside you and find what you're looking for together.
(425) 243-7203 View (425) 243-7203
Photo of Racheal Stuth Reichel - Racheal Stuth Reichel LICSW, LICSW, MHP, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Racheal Stuth Reichel LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MHP, MSW
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98372  (Online Only)
I primarily focus on healing the wounds of the past which have become the wounds of the present My specialty is Complex PTSD and it's accompanying overlayment of co-occuring diagnoses, neurodiverse/sensory experiences, and diverse populations & communities LGBTQI+/BIPOC.
Sometimes in life we find ourselves dealing with issues we never imagined would happen. We struggle in relationships or we struggle at work. Sometimes we don't know why we're feeling the way we are- and that's ok too. Throughout life we face a variety of struggles psychotherapy helps you know you're not alone. My goal is to help you find hope, your direction to authenticity and healing beyond the struggles you're holding.
I primarily focus on healing the wounds of the past which have become the wounds of the present My specialty is Complex PTSD and it's accompanying overlayment of co-occuring diagnoses, neurodiverse/sensory experiences, and diverse populations & communities LGBTQI+/BIPOC.
Sometimes in life we find ourselves dealing with issues we never imagined would happen. We struggle in relationships or we struggle at work. Sometimes we don't know why we're feeling the way we are- and that's ok too. Throughout life we face a variety of struggles psychotherapy helps you know you're not alone. My goal is to help you find hope, your direction to authenticity and healing beyond the struggles you're holding.
(253) 338-8788 View (253) 338-8788
Photo of Lee Severson, LMHC, Counselor
Lee Severson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
I’m a licensed therapist who works with clients who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, grief & loss, chronic pain and relational stressors.
Maybe you came here because you’re feeling anxious, feeling down or feeling stuck. Maybe you’ve had a recent loss, struggling in your job, or experiencing stress in your relationship. Maybe you struggle to find time for yourself. Maybe you’re a therapist or a first responder who gives so much and now it’s time to focus on your own wellness. Maybe you’ve had a recent life transition and you need support. Maybe you know exactly what you want and all you need is the validation and support to make a change. Maybe you don’t know what you’re feeling at the moment, but you know it’s time to seek support. You’re not alone.
I’m a licensed therapist who works with clients who experience anxiety, depression, trauma, grief & loss, chronic pain and relational stressors.
Maybe you came here because you’re feeling anxious, feeling down or feeling stuck. Maybe you’ve had a recent loss, struggling in your job, or experiencing stress in your relationship. Maybe you struggle to find time for yourself. Maybe you’re a therapist or a first responder who gives so much and now it’s time to focus on your own wellness. Maybe you’ve had a recent life transition and you need support. Maybe you know exactly what you want and all you need is the validation and support to make a change. Maybe you don’t know what you’re feeling at the moment, but you know it’s time to seek support. You’re not alone.
(253) 648-0124 x516 View (253) 648-0124 x516
Photo of Michelle Baker, LMHC, CMHS, MHP, Counselor
Michelle Baker
Counselor, LMHC, CMHS, MHP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98373
My focus has been on supporting clients experiencing depression, anxiety, domestic violence, and complex trauma. I believe that the therapeutic process looks different for each individual, and I believe in finding a unique, individualized approach for each client. I specialize in working with women, adolescents, children, and those in the queer community. I have a specialized background in art and play therapy.
My focus has been on supporting clients experiencing depression, anxiety, domestic violence, and complex trauma. I believe that the therapeutic process looks different for each individual, and I believe in finding a unique, individualized approach for each client. I specialize in working with women, adolescents, children, and those in the queer community. I have a specialized background in art and play therapy.
(253) 446-7176 View (253) 446-7176
Photo of Russell E Peters, DMin, MDiv, LMHC, Counselor
Russell E Peters
Counselor, DMin, MDiv, LMHC
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98373
You have served your community, patients, and faith groups, for many years. The excellent care that you provide you deserve. I have 25 years experience serving first responders, military, and faith group leaders. My focus is on individuals exposed to repetitive traumatic experiences in service focus occupations and faith group leadership. Providing tools to cope with various traumas, I am client centered, trained in EMDR and skilled in experiences that provoke trauma. My therapeutic approach is to journey with clients during dark times and support them as they discover the life they deserve.
You have served your community, patients, and faith groups, for many years. The excellent care that you provide you deserve. I have 25 years experience serving first responders, military, and faith group leaders. My focus is on individuals exposed to repetitive traumatic experiences in service focus occupations and faith group leadership. Providing tools to cope with various traumas, I am client centered, trained in EMDR and skilled in experiences that provoke trauma. My therapeutic approach is to journey with clients during dark times and support them as they discover the life they deserve.
(253) 393-9337 View (253) 393-9337
Photo of Mauricio Perez, MSW, MHP, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mauricio Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MHP, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98374  (Online Only)
I offer support with work/life balance, trauma processing, addiction counseling, and mindfulness training.
I’ve counseled people in some form or fashion for most of my life. When I was younger, friends came to me with their problems and left our conversation feeling better. Seeing the change in them was moving and made me realize I wanted to do this professionally. However, my journey to becoming a therapist was an unusual one. I was a monk for more than a decade and worked abroad. During that time, I gained a deeper understanding of the human experience and struggle. It shaped me as a therapist and has since helped me identify people’s deeper issues as well as give concrete and practical advice.
I offer support with work/life balance, trauma processing, addiction counseling, and mindfulness training.
I’ve counseled people in some form or fashion for most of my life. When I was younger, friends came to me with their problems and left our conversation feeling better. Seeing the change in them was moving and made me realize I wanted to do this professionally. However, my journey to becoming a therapist was an unusual one. I was a monk for more than a decade and worked abroad. During that time, I gained a deeper understanding of the human experience and struggle. It shaped me as a therapist and has since helped me identify people’s deeper issues as well as give concrete and practical advice.
(253) 387-1175 View (253) 387-1175
Photo of Linda Skinner - Pathway to Change Counseling Services, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pathway to Change Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98371
We provide individual, couples, group, and family counseling specializing in treatment for: depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, sexual abuse, ADHD/ADD, anger, mood disorder, behavioral problems, conflict resolution, OCD, grief counseling, parenting support, LGBTQ, gender identity, stress management and more.
We have immediate openings for new clients! Today is your first step on the pathway to change and together we will make the transformation you are seeking in your life. Pathway to Change is unique in that we offer several therapists to choose from who can work collaboratively with you to accomplish the change you want to see. With over 40 years of combined therapy experience each therapist offers a different approach within the therapeutic relationship. We are excited to now offer Life Coaching through our partnership with Simply You LLC. To schedule life coaching sessions please visit the following website: www.simply-you-llc.com.
We provide individual, couples, group, and family counseling specializing in treatment for: depression, anxiety, trauma and PTSD, sexual abuse, ADHD/ADD, anger, mood disorder, behavioral problems, conflict resolution, OCD, grief counseling, parenting support, LGBTQ, gender identity, stress management and more.
We have immediate openings for new clients! Today is your first step on the pathway to change and together we will make the transformation you are seeking in your life. Pathway to Change is unique in that we offer several therapists to choose from who can work collaboratively with you to accomplish the change you want to see. With over 40 years of combined therapy experience each therapist offers a different approach within the therapeutic relationship. We are excited to now offer Life Coaching through our partnership with Simply You LLC. To schedule life coaching sessions please visit the following website: www.simply-you-llc.com.
(253) 218-4176 View (253) 218-4176
Photo of Kassandrea E Manuele, LMHC, Counselor
Kassandrea E Manuele
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
In a world that can often feel heavy with forces pushing and pulling us downward in so many directions it can feel all too easy to lose track of your true self. Feeling confused and asking how did I get here? Or why me? Or, I just want to get back to myself, but I don’t even know who I am anymore. You are not alone and there is a way. I work with individuals who struggle with these same questions. Questions that arise from the struggles with trauma, anxiety, depression, attention, autism, and others. My counseling services focus on addressing the integrated person.
In a world that can often feel heavy with forces pushing and pulling us downward in so many directions it can feel all too easy to lose track of your true self. Feeling confused and asking how did I get here? Or why me? Or, I just want to get back to myself, but I don’t even know who I am anymore. You are not alone and there is a way. I work with individuals who struggle with these same questions. Questions that arise from the struggles with trauma, anxiety, depression, attention, autism, and others. My counseling services focus on addressing the integrated person.
(253) 900-2430 View (253) 900-2430
Photo of Alexandra Molleston Luke - The Salish Sea Collective, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Salish Sea Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or strained relationships we're here to help.
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, we need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Everyone has hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you or your child struggle with anxiety, depression, or unhelpful behaviors, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. The Salish Sea Collective understands that our clients deserve care encompassing physical, mental, emotional, sexual and spiritual health. These human aspects are intrinsically intertwined and require a holistic approach. Our multidisciplinary team create a cohesive atmosphere where clinicians work together for our clients.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or strained relationships we're here to help.
Life isn’t always easy. Sometimes, we need a little bit of help to work through some of life’s more challenging problems. Everyone has hurdles to overcome at some point. Whether you or your child struggle with anxiety, depression, or unhelpful behaviors, you should know that there is hope for a better tomorrow. The Salish Sea Collective understands that our clients deserve care encompassing physical, mental, emotional, sexual and spiritual health. These human aspects are intrinsically intertwined and require a holistic approach. Our multidisciplinary team create a cohesive atmosphere where clinicians work together for our clients.
(253) 655-2757 View (253) 655-2757
Photo of Piya Banerjee, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Piya Banerjee
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98373  (Online Only)
I employ a systems-oriented, relational, and trauma-informed approach to my work and enjoy working with folks (especially Queer, Trans, Black, Indigenous, People Of Color) looking to heal and thrive in the face of trauma and oppression.
"Pain is important: how we evade it, how we succumb to it, how we deal with it, how we transcend it" - Audre Lorde. I hope to build healing relationships with people who would like to create more connection, ease and freedom in their lives. I work relationally and through the body by building self awareness, and doing standing and seated embodiment practices.
I employ a systems-oriented, relational, and trauma-informed approach to my work and enjoy working with folks (especially Queer, Trans, Black, Indigenous, People Of Color) looking to heal and thrive in the face of trauma and oppression.
"Pain is important: how we evade it, how we succumb to it, how we deal with it, how we transcend it" - Audre Lorde. I hope to build healing relationships with people who would like to create more connection, ease and freedom in their lives. I work relationally and through the body by building self awareness, and doing standing and seated embodiment practices.
(253) 446-7176 View (253) 446-7176
Photo of Jay Brooksby, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Jay Brooksby
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98375
Therapy Rocks! This is what I was meant to do. I specialize in treating men's trauma, all types of addiction, ADHD, relationships, and career satisfaction. My main tools consist of my own personality, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), and interpersonal process. I want my clients to know me, know that they have an advocate, and see themselves get traction.
Therapy Rocks! This is what I was meant to do. I specialize in treating men's trauma, all types of addiction, ADHD, relationships, and career satisfaction. My main tools consist of my own personality, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), and interpersonal process. I want my clients to know me, know that they have an advocate, and see themselves get traction.
(253) 204-2186 View (253) 204-2186
Photo of Kate Konzelman, MS, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kate Konzelman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98371
Waitlist for new clients
We all experience difficulties and have barriers in our lives that keep us from experiencing the fullness of freedom we desire. Whether you are having difficulties with a relationship, wrestling through identity and family of origin questions, or healing from a trauma or painful loss, I want WELL Counseling to be a safe and peaceful place for you to process and begin your healing.
We all experience difficulties and have barriers in our lives that keep us from experiencing the fullness of freedom we desire. Whether you are having difficulties with a relationship, wrestling through identity and family of origin questions, or healing from a trauma or painful loss, I want WELL Counseling to be a safe and peaceful place for you to process and begin your healing.
(253) 650-1510 View (253) 650-1510
Photo of Jessica Stearns, LMHC, Counselor
Jessica Stearns
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98373
I specialize in treating trauma using EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing) therapy but also use a variety of other treatment methods that I integrate to ensure you get the best possible care.
I am currently accepting new clients! When we accept ourselves we can more fully connect with others and enjoy being present in our daily lives. Would you like to treat yourself with loving kindness? To respond thoughtfully to others instead of reacting based on past experiences? I enjoy working with adult abuse survivors to develop self-compassion and explore issues related to childhood and relational trauma. If you would like to learn to nurture and care for yourself, to find acceptance and peace I can help!
I specialize in treating trauma using EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing) therapy but also use a variety of other treatment methods that I integrate to ensure you get the best possible care.
I am currently accepting new clients! When we accept ourselves we can more fully connect with others and enjoy being present in our daily lives. Would you like to treat yourself with loving kindness? To respond thoughtfully to others instead of reacting based on past experiences? I enjoy working with adult abuse survivors to develop self-compassion and explore issues related to childhood and relational trauma. If you would like to learn to nurture and care for yourself, to find acceptance and peace I can help!
(253) 487-0374 View (253) 487-0374
Photo of Bethany Sutton, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bethany Sutton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98371
Waitlist for new clients
I have clinical experience treating anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and trauma.
Everyone is worthy of love and belonging. I am committed to creating a safe space for my clients no matter their background, story, or identity. I believe that each client is unique and deserves to be heard. Therapy is a collaborative process. My role is to meet you where you are and guide you toward healing. I will respect and honor your story and help you move through the pain to find new beginnings.
I have clinical experience treating anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and trauma.
Everyone is worthy of love and belonging. I am committed to creating a safe space for my clients no matter their background, story, or identity. I believe that each client is unique and deserves to be heard. Therapy is a collaborative process. My role is to meet you where you are and guide you toward healing. I will respect and honor your story and help you move through the pain to find new beginnings.
(253) 499-8871 View (253) 499-8871
Photo of Stephanie N. D'Cruz, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Stephanie N. D'Cruz
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98374
I utilize a variety of techniques from Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Emotions and significant life stressors can leave a person feeling stuck or helpless. Finding a safe place to process emotions and address questions of shame, normalcy, and acceptance can be challenging. Without being able to process emotions and trauma, we can get stuck while the emotions stay in our bodies. Processing emotions not only provides mental relief, but can also transform a person’s connectedness to their bodies and relieve some physical manifestations of stressors. I hope to help people find hope which allows space for life to be messy and things to still be okay.
I utilize a variety of techniques from Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Emotions and significant life stressors can leave a person feeling stuck or helpless. Finding a safe place to process emotions and address questions of shame, normalcy, and acceptance can be challenging. Without being able to process emotions and trauma, we can get stuck while the emotions stay in our bodies. Processing emotions not only provides mental relief, but can also transform a person’s connectedness to their bodies and relieve some physical manifestations of stressors. I hope to help people find hope which allows space for life to be messy and things to still be okay.
(253) 446-7176 View (253) 446-7176
Photo of Marie Rule, LSWAIC, MSW , MHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marie Rule
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC, MSW , MHP
Verified Verified
Puyallup, WA 98375
I work with CBT, DBT, Trauma focused CBT to name a few.
I work with clients who are dealing with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, challenges with self-worth and unhelpful thinking, trauma, PTSD, relationships and feeling stuck. I help clients realize their innate wisdom, achieve their goals - whatever they may be, and find new ways of being in a world that is constantly full of challenges. I also work with parents who are struggling with their roles as parents, dealing with guilt and shame that oftentimes comes with parenting and help to find positive solutions with childrearing.
I work with CBT, DBT, Trauma focused CBT to name a few.
I work with clients who are dealing with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, challenges with self-worth and unhelpful thinking, trauma, PTSD, relationships and feeling stuck. I help clients realize their innate wisdom, achieve their goals - whatever they may be, and find new ways of being in a world that is constantly full of challenges. I also work with parents who are struggling with their roles as parents, dealing with guilt and shame that oftentimes comes with parenting and help to find positive solutions with childrearing.
(253) 243-3930 View (253) 243-3930
Photo of Amee Respicio, LICSW, CMHS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amee Respicio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CMHS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98371
I help kids and teens navigate tough times like family changes or trauma by understanding their unique experiences.
Is your child struggling with withdrawal, frequent emotional outbursts, or school anxiety? They might be dealing with challenges like family changes, trauma, or other stressful experiences. These behaviors often signal deeper issues, and it’s important to understand what they’re going through. I'm here to help you uncover and address these underlying problems, guiding your child towards feeling safe and supported again.
I help kids and teens navigate tough times like family changes or trauma by understanding their unique experiences.
Is your child struggling with withdrawal, frequent emotional outbursts, or school anxiety? They might be dealing with challenges like family changes, trauma, or other stressful experiences. These behaviors often signal deeper issues, and it’s important to understand what they’re going through. I'm here to help you uncover and address these underlying problems, guiding your child towards feeling safe and supported again.
(253) 201-2728 View (253) 201-2728
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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.