Trauma and PTSD Therapists in Sandown

Photo of Adhip Maharaj, HPCSA - Counsellor, Registered Counsellor
Adhip Maharaj
Registered Counsellor, HPCSA - Counsellor
Verified Verified
Sandown 2031
I offer my services to clients who have suffered a trauma and work with them to overcome rather than to bury their traumatic experiences.
Ideally the client knows that they are stuck but they wish to overcome the barriers and the struggles that keep them there. It can be due to trauma, work challenges or self-esteem challenges, there is always a treatment plan that will be made to help the client overcome their challenges and break through their barriers
I offer my services to clients who have suffered a trauma and work with them to overcome rather than to bury their traumatic experiences.
Ideally the client knows that they are stuck but they wish to overcome the barriers and the struggles that keep them there. It can be due to trauma, work challenges or self-esteem challenges, there is always a treatment plan that will be made to help the client overcome their challenges and break through their barriers
087 250 2389 x68 View 087 250 2389 x68
Photo of Tashwyn Sasha Mateman, General Counsellor
Tashwyn Sasha Mateman
General Counsellor
Verified Verified
Sandown 2031  (Online Only)
My interests include trauma, grief and loss, general life complications, child and adolescent counselling.
Life is tough enough to deal with without the added pains of past trauma, loss and grief, feelings of depression, anxiety and so much more. It is my passion to help you heal through these pains and empower you to continue on a lighter, happier path where these burdens no longer weigh you down. Going through therapy is a process, and you should be proud of yourself for taking the first step. I am here to start this process with you and facilitate your journey in a safe, non judgmental space.
My interests include trauma, grief and loss, general life complications, child and adolescent counselling.
Life is tough enough to deal with without the added pains of past trauma, loss and grief, feelings of depression, anxiety and so much more. It is my passion to help you heal through these pains and empower you to continue on a lighter, happier path where these burdens no longer weigh you down. Going through therapy is a process, and you should be proud of yourself for taking the first step. I am here to start this process with you and facilitate your journey in a safe, non judgmental space.
087 250 0049 x84 View 087 250 0049 x84
Photo of Ellen Tintswalo Baloyi - Tintswalo Healing and counselling centre, BSocSci Hons, Social Worker
Tintswalo Healing and counselling centre
Social Worker, BSocSci Hons
Verified Verified
Sandown 2031
Hello, Thank you for reading my profile. I want to welcome and compliment you to make a first step of looking for a person who can help you. I am a registered social worker in private practice and i am based in Bramley, North of Johannesburg. Respect, Confidentiality and Non-judgemental approach are guaranteed. I offer therapy to people with different life challenges and trauma. I assist people to have good quality of life after dealing with their different life challenges.Feel free to send a message through and together we can. Our relationship will be based in trust. Safe, warm environment will be provided.
Hello, Thank you for reading my profile. I want to welcome and compliment you to make a first step of looking for a person who can help you. I am a registered social worker in private practice and i am based in Bramley, North of Johannesburg. Respect, Confidentiality and Non-judgemental approach are guaranteed. I offer therapy to people with different life challenges and trauma. I assist people to have good quality of life after dealing with their different life challenges.Feel free to send a message through and together we can. Our relationship will be based in trust. Safe, warm environment will be provided.
087 250 0902 x20 View 087 250 0902 x20
Photo of Thandeka Thandi Mvakali, MSc, HPCSA - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Thandeka Thandi Mvakali
Psychologist, MSc, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Sandown 2031
I offer therapy and coaching to people in various life circumstances e.g. experiencing anxiety or sadness, experiencing grief from loss; experiencing stress from traumatic events ; transitioning to a new job or considering a different career; couples seeking to deepen their relationship or having challenges; professionals seeking to be effective in their work or lives.
I offer therapy and coaching to people in various life circumstances e.g. experiencing anxiety or sadness, experiencing grief from loss; experiencing stress from traumatic events ; transitioning to a new job or considering a different career; couples seeking to deepen their relationship or having challenges; professionals seeking to be effective in their work or lives.
087 250 0513 x59 View 087 250 0513 x59
Photo of Nasreen Saloojee, MA, HPCSA - Ed. Psych., Psychologist
Nasreen Saloojee
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Ed. Psych.
Verified Verified
Sandown 2031
A dedicated and knowledgable registered educational psychologist with experience working in pre-primary, primary, secondary as well as tertiary levels of education. I am committed to helping individuals through ongoing support, evaluation and establishing trusting relationships.
A dedicated and knowledgable registered educational psychologist with experience working in pre-primary, primary, secondary as well as tertiary levels of education. I am committed to helping individuals through ongoing support, evaluation and establishing trusting relationships.
087 250 0049 x47 View 087 250 0049 x47

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Carol Anne Nader, HPCSA - Counsellor, Psychologist
Carol Anne Nader
Psychologist, HPCSA - Counsellor
Verified Verified
Randburg 2193
I am a trained BWRT therapist and use this methodology to assist with trauma, anger management and bereavement.
Do you need - Strategies to overcome relationship conflicts in your personal or work life? - Couples or marriage counselling?- Assistance with changes taking place in your life ? Help in dealing with a loss? - Support with feeling of depression and loneliness? - Techniques to conquer feelings of shock after a traumatic event? I offer counselling at reasonable rates.
I am a trained BWRT therapist and use this methodology to assist with trauma, anger management and bereavement.
Do you need - Strategies to overcome relationship conflicts in your personal or work life? - Couples or marriage counselling?- Assistance with changes taking place in your life ? Help in dealing with a loss? - Support with feeling of depression and loneliness? - Techniques to conquer feelings of shock after a traumatic event? I offer counselling at reasonable rates.
087 250 0412 x10 View 087 250 0412 x10
Photo of Siphumulile (Phumi) Nqoko, MSocSci, HPCSA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Siphumulile (Phumi) Nqoko
Psychologist, MSocSci, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Sandton 2196
My interests are working with depression, anxiety, personality, trauma, and general life stressors.
In life, we face many challenges that affect us on different levels. These may include stress, chronic pain, depression, anxiety, trauma and many others. How we deal with these challenges is important so that we can be mentally and physically healthy and live fulfilling lives. Sometimes, we just need someone to lend an ear and other times we need a professional to guide us in our process of healing. When working with clients, I believe that each client has the internal resources that can facilitate change and that thorugh a safe and non - judgmental space this can be achieved.
My interests are working with depression, anxiety, personality, trauma, and general life stressors.
In life, we face many challenges that affect us on different levels. These may include stress, chronic pain, depression, anxiety, trauma and many others. How we deal with these challenges is important so that we can be mentally and physically healthy and live fulfilling lives. Sometimes, we just need someone to lend an ear and other times we need a professional to guide us in our process of healing. When working with clients, I believe that each client has the internal resources that can facilitate change and that thorugh a safe and non - judgmental space this can be achieved.
087 250 0412 x38 View 087 250 0412 x38
Photo of Ann O’Flaherty, MA, HPCSA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Ann O’Flaherty
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Sandton 2196
I specialize in Individual therapy, couples therapy, crisis and trauma work.
Experience Change with Ann O’Flaherty (Falkov) Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, anxiety, or major life changes? There comes a time when we need help from a certified professional to cope with life’s challenges. I’d love to help you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery. Since opening the doors of my practice in 1998, I have provided clients with a wide range of psychological services. I have also been teaching and educating students during the last 10 years and this has kept me up to date with the profession of psychology.
I specialize in Individual therapy, couples therapy, crisis and trauma work.
Experience Change with Ann O’Flaherty (Falkov) Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, grief, anxiety, or major life changes? There comes a time when we need help from a certified professional to cope with life’s challenges. I’d love to help you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery. Since opening the doors of my practice in 1998, I have provided clients with a wide range of psychological services. I have also been teaching and educating students during the last 10 years and this has kept me up to date with the profession of psychology.
087 250 0513 x90 View 087 250 0513 x90
Photo of Pfarelo Agreement Ndou, BSocSci Hons, HPCSA - Counsellor, Registered Counsellor
Pfarelo Agreement Ndou
Registered Counsellor, BSocSci Hons, HPCSA - Counsellor
Verified Verified
Alexandra 2090  (Online Only)
I specialize in Trauma Counselling, HIV/AIDS Counselling, Grief/Bereavement Counselling, Stress Management, Employee wellness, Relationship difficulties, and Career guidance.
I am an optimistic registered psychological counsellor passionate about helping people to solve their mental health challenges because i strongly believe on the power that therapy has on mental and psychological healing. I am empathetic, friendly and compassionate with good sense of humour. I believe that we all have the capacity and the resilience to deal with our daily life challenges but it requires therapy to realize such skills.
I specialize in Trauma Counselling, HIV/AIDS Counselling, Grief/Bereavement Counselling, Stress Management, Employee wellness, Relationship difficulties, and Career guidance.
I am an optimistic registered psychological counsellor passionate about helping people to solve their mental health challenges because i strongly believe on the power that therapy has on mental and psychological healing. I am empathetic, friendly and compassionate with good sense of humour. I believe that we all have the capacity and the resilience to deal with our daily life challenges but it requires therapy to realize such skills.
087 250 0536 x57 View 087 250 0536 x57
Photo of Alida Bonnet, MA, HPCSA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Alida Bonnet
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morningside 2057
Waitlist for new clients
Areas that I typically work with involve trauma, childhood abuse, bullying, migration or emigration, stress management and burnout, self-esteem, adjustment issues, relationships, anxiety, low mood, depression, bereavement, and health psychology.
I work with teenagers, young adults and adults. I believe that every person would benefit from seeing a psychologist, when they are ready. This is a warm and empathic space where you can come as you are to gain support for working through whatever challenges you may face. It is a safe, judgement-free environment. I strive to create a collaborative partnership with my clients that aims to empower them to gain insight, find their existing resilience and resources of strength, and take action toward their true desired change.
Areas that I typically work with involve trauma, childhood abuse, bullying, migration or emigration, stress management and burnout, self-esteem, adjustment issues, relationships, anxiety, low mood, depression, bereavement, and health psychology.
I work with teenagers, young adults and adults. I believe that every person would benefit from seeing a psychologist, when they are ready. This is a warm and empathic space where you can come as you are to gain support for working through whatever challenges you may face. It is a safe, judgement-free environment. I strive to create a collaborative partnership with my clients that aims to empower them to gain insight, find their existing resilience and resources of strength, and take action toward their true desired change.
087 250 2748 x20 View 087 250 2748 x20
Photo of Ivy Jane Mugambi, MA, HPCSA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Ivy Jane Mugambi
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morningside 2196
My areas of expertise include; anxiety, stress and burn-out, depression, relationships, couples counseling, grief, trauma, career assessment, career transition and employee wellness.
Growth is often uncomfortable and messy. That is why I commend my clients for showing great courage to own their journey to mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness. Growth is necessary.
My areas of expertise include; anxiety, stress and burn-out, depression, relationships, couples counseling, grief, trauma, career assessment, career transition and employee wellness.
Growth is often uncomfortable and messy. That is why I commend my clients for showing great courage to own their journey to mental, emotional, and spiritual wellness. Growth is necessary.
087 250 2389 x74 View 087 250 2389 x74
Photo of Camille Jessica Daligand, General Counsellor
Camille Jessica Daligand
General Counsellor
Verified Verified
Rosebank 2196
My areas of speciality are coping skills, trauma, autism, body image, family conflict, grief and loss Identity/role exploration, human development and life coaching, life transitions/adjustments, multicultural issues, neurodiversity understanding and coaching, relationship challenges, self-esteem, work and life stress and work-life balance.
I aim to create a safe and non-judgemental space that focuses on an individual's strengths in order to help them grow and promote their own wellbeing. I want to make counselling accessible and affordable to all. I am a passionate and caring counsellor who uses a person-centred, systems approach to counselling and a non-invasive strength-based approach to neurodiversity coaching. My counselling style uses various combinations of evidence-based approaches in order to provide effective and individualised support. I offer individual and couple counselling as well as neurodiversity coaching.
My areas of speciality are coping skills, trauma, autism, body image, family conflict, grief and loss Identity/role exploration, human development and life coaching, life transitions/adjustments, multicultural issues, neurodiversity understanding and coaching, relationship challenges, self-esteem, work and life stress and work-life balance.
I aim to create a safe and non-judgemental space that focuses on an individual's strengths in order to help them grow and promote their own wellbeing. I want to make counselling accessible and affordable to all. I am a passionate and caring counsellor who uses a person-centred, systems approach to counselling and a non-invasive strength-based approach to neurodiversity coaching. My counselling style uses various combinations of evidence-based approaches in order to provide effective and individualised support. I offer individual and couple counselling as well as neurodiversity coaching.
087 250 2748 x93 View 087 250 2748 x93
Photo of Nothando Willis, MPsych, HPCSA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Nothando Willis
Psychologist, MPsych, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sandton 2196
My training over the years has included working in disadvantaged communities and with a diverse range of clients with different presenting problems such as trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and adjustment difficulties in different scales, involving children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
I am a registered Counselling Psychologist with experience in helping clients with a variety of serious and daily mental health struggles. As an Integrative based Psychologist, I look forward to meeting my clients where they are at and assist in fostering a better connection with him/herself, relationships with others; and most importantly, to understand the dynamics with self and others. I am registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and my practice is registered with the Board of Healthcare Funders (BHF). Recently, I obtained certification and accreditation as a BrainWorking Recursive Therapy (BWRT).
My training over the years has included working in disadvantaged communities and with a diverse range of clients with different presenting problems such as trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and adjustment difficulties in different scales, involving children, adolescents, adults, couples and families.
I am a registered Counselling Psychologist with experience in helping clients with a variety of serious and daily mental health struggles. As an Integrative based Psychologist, I look forward to meeting my clients where they are at and assist in fostering a better connection with him/herself, relationships with others; and most importantly, to understand the dynamics with self and others. I am registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and my practice is registered with the Board of Healthcare Funders (BHF). Recently, I obtained certification and accreditation as a BrainWorking Recursive Therapy (BWRT).
087 250 0412 x33 View 087 250 0412 x33
Photo of Sarah Cohen-Schwarz, HPCSA - Counsellor, Registered Counsellor
Sarah Cohen-Schwarz
Registered Counsellor, HPCSA - Counsellor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Randburg 2193
I am a professional counsellor and work with adults, adolescents and children in many areas including trauma, bereavement, self-awareness, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties and personal growth, amongst others.
I am a professional counsellor and work with adults, adolescents and children in many areas including trauma, bereavement, self-awareness, anxiety, depression, relationship difficulties and personal growth, amongst others.
087 250 0412 x39 View 087 250 0412 x39
Photo of Dr. Christel Kieser-Muller, PhD, HPCSA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Dr. Christel Kieser-Muller
Psychologist, PhD, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Sandton 2146
Trust the process of healing: a Person’s life experiences directly impact on their overall wellbeing.  When we experience trauma or severe life stressors, it is not uncommon for our lives to unravel. Often underlying emotional problems need to be addressed before a lasting improvement in a person's quality of life can take place. Christel completed her internship at 1 Military Hospital where she was exposed to various aspects of psychodynamic imbalances and trauma-spectrum manifestations within a diverse demographic and cultural client base.
Trust the process of healing: a Person’s life experiences directly impact on their overall wellbeing.  When we experience trauma or severe life stressors, it is not uncommon for our lives to unravel. Often underlying emotional problems need to be addressed before a lasting improvement in a person's quality of life can take place. Christel completed her internship at 1 Military Hospital where she was exposed to various aspects of psychodynamic imbalances and trauma-spectrum manifestations within a diverse demographic and cultural client base.
087 250 0160 x76 View 087 250 0160 x76
Photo of Frans J van Staden, HPCSA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Frans J van Staden
Psychologist, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Sandton 2196
My therapeutic approach is very safe for clients, with minimal information/details to be shared, especially for sexual trauma.
I help adults, athletes, partners, couples, groups, teams, leaders, sports players and organisations to deal with significant life events and challenges to transcend these towards achieving their goals and living an optimal life. These may include: Abuse, Adjusting to Change/Life Transitions, Anxiety Disorders, Bereavement and Loss, Career Issues, Conflict, Forgiveness, Leadership Development, Performance Enhancement, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders, Restructuring/Lay-offs, Sexual Trauma and other trauma of all kinds.
My therapeutic approach is very safe for clients, with minimal information/details to be shared, especially for sexual trauma.
I help adults, athletes, partners, couples, groups, teams, leaders, sports players and organisations to deal with significant life events and challenges to transcend these towards achieving their goals and living an optimal life. These may include: Abuse, Adjusting to Change/Life Transitions, Anxiety Disorders, Bereavement and Loss, Career Issues, Conflict, Forgiveness, Leadership Development, Performance Enhancement, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders, Restructuring/Lay-offs, Sexual Trauma and other trauma of all kinds.
087 250 2748 x33 View 087 250 2748 x33
Photo of Rephael Perkel - Rephael Perkel - Lifestream Coaching & EFT Therapy
Rephael Perkel - Lifestream Coaching & EFT Therapy
Verified Verified
Highlands North 2192
If you are struggling with - • anxiety • trauma/ PTSD • depression • panic attacks • relationship issues • insomnia • stress • loss • addiction • anger • fear or phobia • chronic pain • digestive issues (IBS, etc.
Effective therapy offers us real healing and transformation. It happens through expanded awareness, as we learn how to awaken to our unconscious purposes and the internal blocks that hold us back. We let go of the instinctual coping mechanisms that have formed our identity and begin to access our authentic, Divine Self. We become empowered with a sense of freedom and confidence - able to see new possibilities. My holistic approach integrates Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy with EFT/Matrix Reimprinting energy healing to achieve the healing, growth and transformation you want in your life. See my website for client testimonials.
If you are struggling with - • anxiety • trauma/ PTSD • depression • panic attacks • relationship issues • insomnia • stress • loss • addiction • anger • fear or phobia • chronic pain • digestive issues (IBS, etc.
Effective therapy offers us real healing and transformation. It happens through expanded awareness, as we learn how to awaken to our unconscious purposes and the internal blocks that hold us back. We let go of the instinctual coping mechanisms that have formed our identity and begin to access our authentic, Divine Self. We become empowered with a sense of freedom and confidence - able to see new possibilities. My holistic approach integrates Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy with EFT/Matrix Reimprinting energy healing to achieve the healing, growth and transformation you want in your life. See my website for client testimonials.
087 250 0160 x40 View 087 250 0160 x40
Photo of Gizella Harding, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych., Psychologist
Gizella Harding
Psychologist, MA, HPCSA - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
Morningside 2196
I have a special interest in working with attachment, infant & child mental health, relational trauma, relationship difficulties, loss, personality and mood disorders.I assist and support people through their greatest suffering and the most painful moments of their lives through psychotherapy. I am passionate about assisting people, through the therapeutic journey to recognize their strength and resilience, and to step forward with grace and courage. I have found great fulfillment in my role as a psychotherapist, as I am permitted to carry in my heart and mind the stories of other people’s love, hurt, trauma, struggles and growth.
I have a special interest in working with attachment, infant & child mental health, relational trauma, relationship difficulties, loss, personality and mood disorders.I assist and support people through their greatest suffering and the most painful moments of their lives through psychotherapy. I am passionate about assisting people, through the therapeutic journey to recognize their strength and resilience, and to step forward with grace and courage. I have found great fulfillment in my role as a psychotherapist, as I am permitted to carry in my heart and mind the stories of other people’s love, hurt, trauma, struggles and growth.
087 250 0719 x25 View 087 250 0719 x25
Photo of Robbie Pearman, MPsych, HPCSA - Couns. Psych., Psychologist
Robbie Pearman
Psychologist, MPsych, HPCSA - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Sandton 2196
I am less focused on the 'label' a person may have acquired over time (such as depressed, stressed, traumatised), but rather help them build a picture of what life is like when they are overcoming their respective challenges, and in that process discover what makes them unique when they are at their best (or on their way to being their best).
I am a Counselling Psychologist situated in the northern suburbs of Johannesburg, in close proximity to the areas of Rosebank and Sandton. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families addressing current challenges with a Solution Focused approach. These challenges may include some more common complaints such as depression and anxiety, or those trying to come to terms with a trauma or bereavement. My approach is focused and therefore short-term in nature. As such long term time commitments is uncommon. I hope this can help people achieve significant change whilst offering them a more cost effective therapeutic approach.
I am less focused on the 'label' a person may have acquired over time (such as depressed, stressed, traumatised), but rather help them build a picture of what life is like when they are overcoming their respective challenges, and in that process discover what makes them unique when they are at their best (or on their way to being their best).
I am a Counselling Psychologist situated in the northern suburbs of Johannesburg, in close proximity to the areas of Rosebank and Sandton. I enjoy working with individuals, couples and families addressing current challenges with a Solution Focused approach. These challenges may include some more common complaints such as depression and anxiety, or those trying to come to terms with a trauma or bereavement. My approach is focused and therefore short-term in nature. As such long term time commitments is uncommon. I hope this can help people achieve significant change whilst offering them a more cost effective therapeutic approach.
087 250 0160 x44 View 087 250 0160 x44
Photo of Kirsten Michelle Pratt Wilson - Ukiyo Counselling And Life Skills Coaching , BSocSci Hons, General Counsellor
Ukiyo Counselling And Life Skills Coaching
General Counsellor, BSocSci Hons
Verified Verified
Roodepoort 2196
Management and Support of Mental Health related issues and Personal Crisis-Management and Support of Special Needs Individuals-Coping with Life Challenges (Coping Skills)-Counselling to assist with ones improvement of life and self- Individual (Adult & Child) and Group Counselling-Employee Wellness- Trauma Counselling-Couples counselling- Private Workshops.
My name is Kirsten and I am a Licensed Specialist Wellness Counsellor registered with the ASCHP and I am a Life Skills Coach. As much as I chose this career path, it also chose me. I love what I do and I love working with people. I have always had a huge passion for helping others and helping them understand their selves. We all deserve to live a life that we love, one where we are happy and I love helping my clients achieve that.
Management and Support of Mental Health related issues and Personal Crisis-Management and Support of Special Needs Individuals-Coping with Life Challenges (Coping Skills)-Counselling to assist with ones improvement of life and self- Individual (Adult & Child) and Group Counselling-Employee Wellness- Trauma Counselling-Couples counselling- Private Workshops.
My name is Kirsten and I am a Licensed Specialist Wellness Counsellor registered with the ASCHP and I am a Life Skills Coach. As much as I chose this career path, it also chose me. I love what I do and I love working with people. I have always had a huge passion for helping others and helping them understand their selves. We all deserve to live a life that we love, one where we are happy and I love helping my clients achieve that.
087 250 2962 x58 View 087 250 2962 x58

See more therapy options for Sandown

Trauma and PTSD Counsellors

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.